Fantastic Field Trip to Three Storefronts

Friday the 14th we went to three different types of businesses in Rockbrook. 

1)  Pets R Us, which has been in business for 18 years owned by Dave and Barb as a Corporation, was our first stop.  They had five dogs lying behind the counter.  Do they like animals or what?  Dave gave practical advice on being a long-time business owner. 

2)  Across the street at the Great Harvest Bread Co., which is a franchise,  was the co-owner, Mariann giving us a great overview of the hallmark of their business, great product and great customer service.  They advertise by "bread of mouth!" 

3)  Our third stop was at Laurie's Piano Studio which is a newly opened service business which offers Simply Music, an Australian-developed piano method.  She gave us a first-hand account on how to move a home-based business to a storefront. 

E-ship Club on Monday Night

Another great night at the E-ship CLub. 

Dan Stuenzi, a home school dad, entrepreneur for many years,  gave a great presentation on what it is like to be an entrepreneurs. 

SOme highlights from his talk: 

Things learned from past business ventures: 

~needs a profit 

~not fear rejection

~how to properly target customers

~under-promise/over-deliver

~the importance of capital

~importance of networking and reputation 

~how to "fail forward" 

~providing VALUE comes before reward 

WHat struck a chord with me was: 

"It's hard for entrepreneurs to work for someone else!" 

That is so true for me. 

One summer I taught summer classes and I was shocked the administrator was keeping their eye on me.  

WHy? 

Of course I am going to be doing what is right, I am a professional, aren't I? 

I will make good decisions, work hard, etc. 

Good stuff to recognize... 

Next month we have Frank Kumor as our guest speaker.  

HE is a long-time business owner from Olde Towne Bellevue and will speak on customer service and longevity of business.