Small-business owners, you deserve a moment in the spotlight. In this regular column, we'll highlight entrepreneurs from all over the U.S., in any number of industries, who can answer the question, "What makes you stand out from the crowd?" We know you're proud of your accomplishments — now you can tell the world about them, too.

Rebecca Boenigk, owner of Neutral Posture, answers our questions:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

Being able to "make the ask." My mom always told me that you won't get anything unless you ask for it. I think there are a lot of people who think the job, the invitation and the order will just magically appear if you do the right things. Even doing all the right things does not get you what you need unless you ask.

My name is: Rebecca Boenigk
My business is: Neutral Posture
Industry: Ergonomic chair manufacturing
Location: Bryan, Texas
Year founded: 1989
Number of employees: 82
Web address: NeutralPosture.com

What's the best part about owning your own business?

The best part about owning your own business is being the master of your time. I get to choose how many hours I work, how many hours I dedicate to charity and especially how many hours my family gets.

What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?

Being a small fish in a big pond. Even with more than $20 million in annual sales, our company has less than 1% market share in our industry. The major competitors have the standard distribution channel tied up so we have to use the secondary channel, which obviously is working out OK.

What's the best business advice you can offer?

Talk to other business owners and learn from them. Even if you don't have an official mentor, find someone and ask questions. I would love for others to learn from my mistakes so they don't have to make them.

Which organization referred you to smSmallBiz's Stand Out?

Women's Business Enterprise National Council or WBENC.

Are You a Stand Out?
To be considered for this column, please send an email (and a digital headshot!) to Editors@smSmallBiz.com , answering these questions:

My name is:
My business is: (name of business, plus description)
Location:
Year founded:
Number of employees:
Web address:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?
What's the best part about owning your own business?
What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?
What's the best business advice you can offer?
If a business organization referred you to us, please tell us which one.