Being in business for 51 years will teach you more than a few things.In this episode, Jerry Harrod, who is also my dad, tells the story of how he started Harrod’s Blacksmith and Welding in 1970. He shares how he, my mom, and my brother made it through what could have been a business-ending accident that put him in the hospital just a few months after they went out on their own.Dad also gives the three fundamental career skills he recommends every small business owner or corporate employee put into practice to be successful.Today’s GuestJerry HarrodJerry Harrod is the founder and owner of Harrod’s Blacksmith and Welding in Howard, Kansas. Jerry and his wife, Mary, still operate the business they started in 1970. Along with their son, Gary, they serve customers throughout Kansas and Oklahoma.And, as I said above, I’m proud to say Jerry Harrod is my dad.You’ll LearnWhy “the customer is always right whether he is or not”How, when Jerry was only 26, his dad died and caused him to take a big career risk to care for his familyWhy the best leaders don’t ask their employees to do anything they wouldn’t do themselvesThe biggest challenge new small business owners face todayTips on diversifying to survive in business when economic conditions changeThe core principles successful business owners share regardless of their companies’ revenue levelsWhat to consider to avoid letting rules put you out of business3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today’s Guest1. Get input and make a decisionGreat leaders get input from their team members, analyze the situation, and make decisions.2. Treat customers rightSuccessful business leaders sincerely appreciate their customers. And, they let their customers know they are appreciated.3. Ask don’t tellAvoid “command language” and be polite when assigning tasks, even when you’re the boss.Links and Resources from this EpisodeMy blog post, “3 Simple Tips for Polite and Effective Email“Facebook page for Toot’s Drive In. Still going strong since 1955.My hometown, Howard, Kansas on Wikipedia. Just in case you’re interested.For More InformationCheck out the full show notes on the episode page at GregHarrod.com.

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