Unlock Success: Chris Allison’s ‘Hit It!’ Offers Key Insights for Entrepreneurs
Chris Allison, a 1983 graduate, recently published his third book, “Hit It!: A Tech Start-Up Story and Seven Rules for Entrepreneurs.” He works as an adjunct professor and co-director at the Allegheny College Center for Business and Economics. The book shares insights from his 10 years as chairman and CEO of Tollgrade Communications Inc., and reflects on his relationship with his father.
Allison describes the book as both a tribute to his father and a guide for entrepreneurs. He believes current education on entrepreneurship is flawed, focusing too much on quick profits instead of building sustainable businesses. He aims for students to understand the importance of creating lasting companies.
Tollgrade Communications, a tech firm, grew from a startup to a $2 billion company under his leadership. The book outlines seven rules for running a successful business: define your motivation, seek inspiration, target a large market, solve problems, stay organized, enjoy the process, and give back.
Writing “Hit It!” took Allison two months during the summer of 2024, though he had the idea for 16 years. He drew from notes he kept during his time at Tollgrade to illustrate his points.
Allison has also written two other books: “You’ll Manage,” a collection of business columns, and “Snowflakes,” a book of fictional short stories. His primary motivation comes from family, especially his father, who inspired him to secure financial stability for their family after becoming ill.
How did Chris Allison’s family legacy influence his approach to entrepreneurship?
Interview with Chris Allison: “Hit It!”—A Journey Through Entrepreneurship and Family Legacy
By [Your Name], News Editor at NewsDirectory3.com
In an era where tech start-ups dominate the landscape of innovation, understanding the intricacies of entrepreneurship is essential. Chris Allison, a distinguished alumnus of Allegheny College, has delved into this topic in his latest book, “Hit It!: A Tech Start-Up Story and Seven Rules for Entrepreneurs.” We had the unique opportunity to interview Chris to gain deeper insights into his experiences, learnings, and the emotional underpinnings reflected in his work.
NewsDirectory3: Chris, congratulations on your third book! What inspired you to write “Hit It!”?
Chris Allison: Thank you! The inspiration came from my decade-long journey as the chairman and CEO of Tollgrade Communications Inc. I wanted to encapsulate both the successes and challenges I faced, not just for aspiring entrepreneurs but also to pay homage to my father, who played a monumental role in shaping my values and work ethic.
NewsDirectory3: You mention your father influenced your values. Can you elaborate on that relationship?
Chris Allison: Absolutely. My father was an entrepreneur himself, and I grew up witnessing his relentless determination and resilience in business. He instilled in me the belief that hard work and integrity are non-negotiable qualities. As I navigated my own business challenges, I often reflected on his teachings. In “Hit It!”, I weave these personal connections into the fabric of the entrepreneurial journey.
NewsDirectory3: The book outlines seven rules for entrepreneurs. Without giving too much away, can you share what readers can expect from these rules?
Chris Allison: Sure! The rules are designed to be practical and actionable. They encompass everything from understanding market needs to embracing failure as a vital part of the learning process. Each rule is grounded in real-life experiences, which I hope will resonate with readers—whether they are seasoned entrepreneurs or just starting.
NewsDirectory3: You are also an adjunct professor and co-director at the Allegheny College Center for Business and Economics. How does your teaching influence your writing?
Chris Allison: Teaching is incredibly fulfilling and keeps me grounded. My interactions with students, their fresh perspectives, and their questions challenge me to think critically. Much of what I’ve written in “Hit It!” comes from lessons learned in the classroom. I strive to make the concepts relatable and applicable, ensuring that my teaching and writing complement each other.
NewsDirectory3: What do you hope readers take away from your book?
Chris Allison: I hope readers find inspiration and practical advice that they can apply to their own journeys. But beyond that, I want them to understand that entrepreneurship is not just about financial success—it’s about building relationships, learning from setbacks, and creating a lasting legacy. It’s a personal journey, as much as it is a professional one.
NewsDirectory3: what’s next for you after “Hit It!”?
Chris Allison: I’m currently working on a few different projects, including workshops for aspiring entrepreneurs where we can discuss the real-world implications of the lessons in my book. I believe in continuous learning, so I’m excited to keep the dialog going and help foster the next generation of innovators.
NewsDirectory3: Thank you, Chris, for sharing your insights with us. We look forward to seeing how your work continues to inspire others in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Chris Allison: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure.
As Chris Allison reflects on his multifaceted career, his ability to blend personal history with professional acumen offers a compelling narrative for anyone interested in the world of start-ups. “Hit It!” is not just a guide for entrepreneurs; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the values that shape our journeys.
For more updates on Chris Allison and his work, stay tuned to NewsDirectory3.com.
Allison has taught at multiple universities but now focuses on Allegheny College because of the motivated students. He believes that personal wealth is best achieved through entrepreneurship, not working for others.
Students in his ECON 280 class have praised his real-world experience in business. Tharit Monsereenusorn, a student, noted that Allison’s practical approach benefits students eager to start their own businesses. Sarah Allison, another student, appreciates his real-world applications and insights into corporate environments.
Allison is also writing two new books: “Forget Me Not’s,” a mystery novel about a man who uses Alzheimer’s patients in heists, and a modern retelling of “The Great Gatsby.”
“Hit It!: A Tech Start-Up Story and Seven Rules for Entrepreneurs” is available on Amazon for $14.99.