💪 "I Can Lift Heavy Things"

SMALL IS YOUR SUPERPOWER

I’ve heard the phrase, “Do things that don’t scale” (coined by Paul Graham of Y Combinator) ever since I began starting businesses nearly 20 years ago. It means taking steps early on in the entrepreneurial journey that help you make progress, even though they’re not sustainable in the long term. Let’s roll up our sleeves and read on …

BIG THINGS COME FROM SMALL ACTIONS

Starting and growing a new business sometimes means getting your first customers by hand. For example, Airbnb's founders asked friends to put their homes on the site, and Facebook began by signing up users at Harvard before other schools. They needed enough users to prove their social media idea worked before going big.

On tomorrow’s (2.1.24) call, we’re going to look at things you could be doing that don’t scale. Activities and actions you can do NOW because you’re nimble and quick.

I CAN LIFT HEAVY THINGS

When my son, Robbie (who hosted last week’s call … thanks, Rob!) needed to earn money in the summers to pay for his hockey obsession, he decided to try his hand at being the local “handyman”, of sorts.

He put together a flyer with a pleasant picture of him smiling. (I might have that flyer somewhere and will try to post it at some point). He stated that:

• I live in your neighborhood

• I’m honest and trustworthy

• I work hard

• I can mow, rake, clean your yard

• I can lift heavy things

• Call me at xxx-xxx-xxxx and let me help you enjoy your home.

He was contacted the next day by enough customers to keep him busy for the following seven summers!

Scalable to drive from house to house? No

A good plan to get initial customers? Yes.

WHAT SAY YOU?

What are some ways you can attract or retain initial customers and clients?

• Handwritten Notes?

• Phone Calls?

• Personal Emails?

• Door to Door Visits?

Doing things that don’t scale isn’t glamorous, but it works. So, let’s get to work!

WOULD YOU, COULD YOU?

Would you be willing to share this newsletter with someone in your life who could use some inspiration, encouragement and support as they build/grow their business? Thanks! 🥹

Have a blessed day, friends! ~ Brent