Haikel says his career has gone through ups and downs, including parental rejection and empty bank accounts, but he attributed his survival and ongoing success to family, friends and a circle of trusted advisers.
Investing in good people, who are loyal, is key for any entrepreneur, he said.
But the commitment goes both ways.
“I am loyal to my people, I don’t screw anyone over,” he explained, using the example of his sports talent management agency. “If one of my athletes wants $1,000 for an Instagram post, and the client only gives me $1,020, then the athlete still gets his $1,000.”
Doing right by people and running a business honestly may delay success, but it’s a guaranteed result, he said.
