The role of a father is vital to the growth of a child. As the oldest of six, I am blessed to have a father who continues to make a big impact on the lives of his children and grandchildren. Some of my earliest memories include spending time at my dad’s office on Saturdays at 6 years old.
I loved going to my dad’s office and looking through all the drawers and browsing the office supply catalog. My curiosity got me into trouble several times, but it never dampened my spirit. I love learning through observation and hands-on work. I know the office supply catalog influenced my love of calendars and planners to this day.
I learned a lot about business from my father. He was the biggest influence on me becoming a small business owner. Although if you ask him, it wasn’t his first choice for me. He knew firsthand the sacrifice and challenges I would encounter. But like him, I’m persistent. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
My dream of having my own business started early. At 8 and 9 years old, I sold my knick-knacks to my brothers and sister for their change. Finding the items I no longer wanted (ex: posters from the book fair) and arranging them on my bed with prices. At 10 and 11, I baked cookies and sold them to neighbors. My siblings and I would have lemonade stands at the end of our driveway. The best sale came from a semi-truck driver who bought out our stand. To this day, I’m still sentimental about kids selling lemonade.
I was always looking for ways to earn money. At 12, I got my first business cards. Thanks to my dad, who had access to the software and printing supplies. My first business, Ingenuity, was born. It lasted maybe a couple of months, but I had my first business card.
In high school, I worked at my dad’s office during the summer. During this time, I learned many valuable lessons I still use today. I’m sharing two business lessons with you today.
Lesson 1: Everything Has a Place
Before there were digital files, there were manila file folders with green hanging files. There were files for clients, vendors, etc. I filed invoices, receipts, packing slips, order forms, correspondence, etc.
- Alphabetical order (Last Name, First Name
- Chronological order (Most Recent to Oldest)
Documents filed with the header on the left facing forward and staples in the top left corner.
“For every minute spent in organizing, an hour is earned.”
Benjamin Franklin
I’ve been complimented on my organizational skills throughout my career. The foundation was laid while working for my dad. The habits he taught me are now reflected in many aspects of my business. Everything has a place. Clients see this most in how I set up knowledge bases.
“A place for everything, and everything in its place.”
Mrs Beeton
Business Lesson 2: Attention to Detail
How you communicate on the phone is an important part of relationship building in your business.
- Identify yourself when calling, include your name, business, and who you want to speak with. This makes it easier for the receiver to direct your call and help you.
- When taking a message, confirm the spelling of the name, repeat the phone number back to them, include the date, time, and a detailed message.
In 2019, most people email instead of leaving a message with an assistant. However, this practice remains helpful when taking notes during a discovery call, client meetings, etc. Including details helps provide context and history to serve clients, partners, and team members well.
“Believe passionately in what you do, and never knowingly compromise your standards and values. Act like a true professional, aiming for true excellence, and the money will follow.”
David Maister
These simple business lessons laid the foundation for my career. They helped me excel in the various roles while serving clients and team members.
My success wouldn’t have been possible without the foundational guidance and training of my father. I’m one of six children, but the business lessons, work ethic, and values my father taught are carried on in each of our careers and families. We strive to make our father proud and to continue his legacy of excellence!