Comments on: Small Business Success and Quality

By: Becky McCray

Becky McCray — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 21:13:02 +0000

In reply to Amber. Amber, I love that the principles you listed are also a good characterization of the best in small town businesses. (We have some worst of small town businesses, too, like you point out.)

By: Becky McCray

Becky McCray — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 21:11:09 +0000

In reply to Rhonda Howell. I'll give that an amen! And I love this idea of inviting folks to come watch your product being forged. That is brilliant!

By: Amber

Amber — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 14:33:59 +0000

Yet another great post. Living about 40 minutes from the nearest big city, people will still drive out of town for (perceived) quality. Unfortunately in our small town, people scrimp on quality to try to make a dollar but it ends up hurting them in the long run (as stated) because you lose any potential repeat customers. If you give people a great product AND give them the feeling that they are getting more for their money (perception) AND treat people with kindness and appreciation, you have success. It’s really not hard but there are those that just don’t get it or have no business in dealing with the public. Brutal but true. :)

By: Rhonda Howell

Rhonda Howell — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 14:23:57 +0000

Thank you so much for this post. This is the battle we fight every day. As a maker of artisan iron work we can not compete price wise with the big box operators. So we offer high quality custom product that are meant to last. I totally intend to quote your principle that quality is a short term investment with long term gains. Bargains are short term gains with long term losses. Can I get an Amen from the other makers in the group!
We encourage folks to come and watch product being forged as it gives them a whole new perspective on the labor involved and the process as a whole. It does more to change the attitude on price than anything else we do.
Thank you for your flow of information. I am so glad I found you.