In a twist of fate that could rival the most dramatic of novels, Andrew Abramson’s life took an unexpected turn that would redefine his future. Imagine waking up to find yourself in a hospital bed, doctors baffled by your survival. You’ve been in a coma for a month, the result of a serious health scare, and now you face the daunting challenge of relearning how to walk, talk, and even drive. For Andrew, this wasn’t a plotline from a thriller—it was his reality.
At 42, Andrew was an accomplished Of Counsel at a prestigious international law firm, immersed in the complexities of patent law. But after some analysis of what he wanted in his second chance to be, he decided to work for himself.
After a grueling year of physical therapy, where he painstakingly relearned the basics of walking, talking, and driving, he found himself at a crossroads. He could either accept the limitations imposed on him or seize the opportunity presented by his new lease on life. Driven by an unyielding spirit and a profound appreciation for his second chance, he chose the latter.
In 2018, with a blend of resilience and audacity, Andrew ventured into the unknown and founded Patent Profiler, LLC from scratch. With no clients, no prior experience in running a firm, and his speech not being clear but improved through sheer determination, he boldly stepped into this entrepreneurial journey.
Now, as the founder and CEO of Patent Profiler, LLC, Andrew’s story exemplifies a relentless uphill climb, a testament to resilience and determination. Every day, he channels his passion for intellectual property into helping his clients achieve their goals. In his words: “I have no plan B, so I need to make my firm profitable.” Life is an inexorable storm, but Andrew knows how to thrive against all odds and embrace the opportunity to make every moment count.
A Phoenix Rising: Andrew’s Triumph Over Adversity
For Andrew, the path to effective leadership has been anything but smooth. One of his most significant challenges as a CEO emerged after waking from a coma—a life-altering experience that reshaped his outlook. The physical aftermath remains a hurdle, particularly the struggle with speech clarity. Speaking on the phone, especially with clients, has tested his patience and tenacity. But his indomitable fighting spirit prevents him from dwelling on the negatives. Instead, he channels a deeper appreciation for the world and the people around him—a sensitivity that influences every interaction.
This journey through adversity has not only made this sedulous executive more self-aware but has also sparked a vision: expanding his intellectual property firm to serve clients with disabilities better, reflecting his newfound empathy.
Yet, the doubt from those close to him has been even more challenging than physical recovery. People suggested he leave his entrepreneurial dream for a “safer” career. But Andrew’s tireless resolve shines through. He has learned to silence the naysayers, trusting in his own vision and proving that the toughest impediments often fuel the strongest leadership.
Overcoming Initial Challenges in Establishing Patent Profiler
Starting Patent Profiler wasn’t a walk in the park for Andrew. While his command of patent law was solid, trademark law was an uncharted territory. To bridge this gap, he dived into books and reached out to trademark attorneys he knew from previous firms.
Then came a major blow: his business partner decided to exit, forcing him into a whirlwind of restructuring and negotiation. To manage the workload, he hired contractors for digital ads and specialized IP tasks, especially when he was too busy or lacked expertise in the specific technology of a patent application.
Despite making strides in selling IP services, Andrew admits it’s still a work in progress. Yet, through every hurdle, this sagacious entrepreneur leans on his previous experiences and the network he’s built. These pillars of knowledge and connection have been instrumental in guiding him through the field’s ever-evolving demands.
“I recently had the opportunity to work with Andrew for filing my IP, and I am extremely impressed with the service he provided. Andrew is highly skilled and dedicated, and his commitment to his work sets an example for everyone.
As a foreigner, I had limited knowledge of US trademark law, but with Andrew’s assistance, I was able to navigate through the entire process with ease. It is evident that he is not only running a business but genuinely cares about his client’s success and the quality of service he provides.
Andrew’s reliability is remarkable, and his communication and business approach are outstanding. He provided us with all the necessary information concisely and clearly, and he was prompt and supportive throughout the lengthy process of obtaining an IP. Moreover, his pricing was reasonable and fair. Thank you!”
by Izi, School of Humanity
Defining Success: A Path Less Traveled
Andrew isn’t one to follow the beaten path. Success, for him, isn’t just about ticking boxes. Instead, it’s about finding joy in the journey. Resolute in his principles, he refuses to compromise his morals or be swayed by critics. While he acknowledges past mistakes and learning from them, he finds fulfillment in continuing to do work he enjoys.
Profitability is just the beginning for Andrew. He’s got big plans! He’s aiming to increase revenue, find a strategic partner, and build a talented team to take his business to the next level. But the real milestone? A pivotal moment in his journey was securing a loyal client who repeatedly entrusted his firm, Patent Profiler, with intellectual property projects.
Andrew’s resolve to quality and client satisfaction has not gone unnoticed. Another client, Dr. Barry Gorlitsky, CEO of KidneyAide, recently praised his firm’s work, stating, “6/5 stars!! Andrew and his team were extremely helpful with getting our trademarks done quickly and professionally all at a fair and transparent price.” Such brilliant endorsements highlight the firm’s dedication to exceptional service, adding another layer to Andrew’s growing reputation for excellence.
A Typical Day in the Life of a Founder and CEO
This compassionate executive’s mornings start with a mission to craft the finest intellectual property solutions for his clients. He designs patent and trademark applications precisely, ensuring every detail is meticulously addressed. His next step is to review filings at the US Patent and Trademark Office, checking off deadlines like a maestro conducting a symphony of schedules.
Once no due date slips through the cracks, he shifts gears. His inbox and video pitches become tools to reel in new clients, a dance of outreach that keeps the firm’s momentum alive.
The workday continues with a flurry of emails and website tweaks. Always looking for ways to enhance Andrew’s online presence and the value he offers, he engages in reading or brainstorming new products. His latest venture—IP video courses—promises a cost-effective alternative to traditional services, reflecting his determination to innovate and meet clients’ evolving needs.
Approach to Managing Work-Life Integration
As a dedicated entrepreneur, his resolute commitment to his firm often keeps him on his toes. Andrew understands the complexities of managing a demanding career alongside a fulfilling personal life, candidly admitting, “I am not great at balancing work and life.” However, to counterbalance the stress of his work, he carves out time for daily walks with his dog and exercise. These moments of respite during a period of intense client servicing, website enhancements, and sales refinements are fleeting pauses in his broader focus on continuous business improvement.
Perspective on Essential Leadership Qualities
A revolutionary iconoclast, Andrew offers a fresh perspective on modern leadership. His three-pronged philosophy is both inspiring and actionable. First, he stresses an unrelenting work ethic or drive, acknowledging that remarkable achievements demand relentless effort, including late nights and weekend work. Next, he underscores the significance of genuine care—about one’s work, the environment, and the team. Finally, this values-driven trailblazer believes that being a good person is non-negotiable. Such an approach means that if someone needs help, offer it. Avoid wishing ill on others and refrain from doing anything harmful.
Andrew reflects on his journey with a lesson he wishes he’d learned sooner: the power of self-belief. As a sensitive soul, he often let others’ words and actions shake his confidence. He discovered that kindness doesn’t always equate to genuine support. Over time, his leadership and business perspective shifted, underlining the importance of persistence and self-assurance. Today, Andrew champions resolute confidence as the cornerstone of effective leadership, a principle he now views as vital to navigating the complexities of success.
Unwavering Dedication to Empowering Minds
Being named one of “The 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders of the Year in 2024,” exemplifies Andrew’s persistent pursuit of innovation, transformative leadership, and indefatigable determination to nurture talent, cultivating a compassionate corporate culture. Yet, despite the accolade, he reveals that it hasn’t affected his approach to leadership or business strategy.
While Andrew is grateful for this recognition, he remains grounded and focused on his continued quest for excellence. He asserts with resolute clarity, “I will act and do what I always do.”
Vision for Patent Profiler: Aligning Daily Operations with Long-Term Goals
Andrew is familiar with the grind—working weekends, burning the midnight oil, and pushing through skepticism, even from loved ones. For him, confidence is non-negotiable. His vision? It is to catapult Patent Profiler to the forefront of the intellectual property (IP) management and set novel benchmarks as a trailblazer in this sector.
This tenacious achiever is meticulously crafting a dynamic team to transform this vision into reality. He’s not merely hiring; he’s curating a powerhouse of diverse talents; each person is a vital piece in pushing the firm’s success. Every strategic hire, every late night, every ounce of effort feeds into a grand plan where Patent Profiler emerges as a profitable leader in IP space.
He believes the firm will not only set new industry standards but also push the envelope of what’s possible. His long-term goal is for Patent Profiler to revolutionize the field, with its groundbreaking approach and exceptional service.
Embracing AI While Honoring Client Care
This tech-forward pioneer, Andrew, is buzzing about the game-changing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on intellectual property. With AI’s knack for drafting patents and scouring trademarks, the future looks bright. Yet, he isn’t swayed by technology alone. He believes AI’s prowess doesn’t replace the irreplaceable: genuine client care. At Patent Profiler, while AI drives innovation, the human touch truly sets them apart. What’s Andrew’s secret to success in the AI-driven patent world? It is to harness cutting-edge technology to enhance services while steadfastly focusing on what truly matters—building strong, genuine client relationships.
Advice for Aspiring Business Leaders
Leaders don’t just talk the talk; they walk the walk. They blaze a trail for the rest of us to follow, leaving behind a blueprint of success for those who dare to dream big. Andrew’s advice echoes this hard-earned wisdom. It cuts straight to the core of success for those looking to significantly impact their industry.
He advises the aspirants to work tirelessly and ignore the naysayers. Why? Because the veteran has noticed, “Most people do not have your best interests at heart (only you do).” He underscores the importance of giving freely without expecting anything in return. Andrew urges to ‘focus on selling’ for a game-changing skill, which he considers essential for making a significant impact.
