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Sometimes I feel like this fellow. .
Not because we each began our future careers as hobbies while in elementary school. Not because we each held a variety of apparently unrelated jobs before finally settling into our successful careers.
But because Michael Gerber is a favorite business author of mine. In his series of remarkable books about “The E-Myth”, Gerber systematically outlines attitudes, exercises, and disciplines for building a successful business.
Practical ideas like this always catch my attention, and I follow Gerber’s advice carefully.
Gerber urges us to model our business after a franchise in significant ways, and he cites Ray Kroc, founder of McDonalds, as the ultimate good example. I believe he easily could have named Colonel Sanders, instead, and why I think so is the subject for another blog.
Let me get back to “Franchising”. I’ve been thinking about Colonel Sanders’ career. A few friends recently asked me if I’m starting to “franchise” the band, because in recent years, with three of our favorite associates, two trios entertained at several wonderful Easter Sunday and Mother’s Day brunches.
But the band is the band, and not a franchise. The people we serve are either companies or individuals, but like most of my colleagues, I’m in business by myself, not a franchise of someone else’s business. Unlike Straw Hat Pizza or PakMail, I’m not under contract to operate under someone else’s guidance, using their “Operating Manual”, products, and brand name.
Sure, this arrangement has some pluses and minuses for me, but I’m very happy with it. However, from another perspective, and following Gerber’s advice, it’s useful to regard myself as a franchise of one.
That is, I create and implement a thorough business plan, balancing my responsibilities as entrepreneur, manager, marketer, and technician. Yes, I’m learning valuable benefits from thinking systematically about managing the band, but according to my own “Operating Manual”, standards, and practices.
You might benefit from thinking about your own career from this same perspective.
No matter how you make a living, or whatever you’re doing, I believe that a systematic approach will surely make you more successful.
Some of my colleagues in this biz began working as musicians years ago, and then became caterers, entertainment agents, event planners, or wedding coordinators. That’s not for me. I love being right there in the midst of every party. Clients quickly become my friends, and I’m personally involved every minute, making sure our music provides the absolutely best atmosphere for their festivities.
So here’s where it’s at for me: I became a manager to enable me to work as a musician, not the other way around. From the start, I aimed my career at creating music to help people enjoy their celebrations. The band is still the band, and I’m still me after all. We’re not a franchise, just a few friends helping their friends, and that’s how I like it.
What’s YOUR plan?
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How can I help you? Call 408-245-9120 or use Robbie@MagnoliaJazz.com. Planning a celebration? Ask about our availability.
I loved “The E Myth Revisited” and like you took much of what I read to heart.
Thanks for the great explanation about your business model Robbie. It can become confusing at times to know how to best describe what our colleagues do, how they operate and what fits into the range of what services are offered so your post is very helpful.