What I learned from Dad...about Business

My dad was a small businessman in rural Oklahoma. We had a construction business specializing in "dirt work.," preparing oil field sites, soil conservation work, etc. It was a real familiy endeavor, a part of our identity.

Dad gave me my first job. The vocation was glamorous, as I daily swept out a dusty shop full of heavy equipment and trucks. Those early days taught me a great deal about life and business. On this Father's Day, I think a great deal of what I learned in that dusty heartland town. Many of those same values still work today.

1. Show up on time...make that early. The one day I was late for work will never be forgotten. The operative words here are "one" and "never". Even today, nothing shows me more commitment or enthusiasm about the daily endeavor than someone who hits the ground early. I'm not a clock watcher, and am less so today than ever before. But let's say it this way, I have never seen the guy who is last in the office be the best.

2. Respect the boss. There wasn't a great deal of discussion about employee empowerment or the org chart in the Oklahoma oil field. But, everyone knew who the boss was and didn't give them a great deal of "back talk." If you did, there's a good chance you might get a knot on your head. Even now, I think it is a good idea to respect leadership and give them the support they need. Sure, they don't always get it right. But maybe someday you will be the person calling the shots. If so, you will need all the help you can get.

3. If you make a deal, stick with it. I negotiated my first job salary for $1/hour. Here's how I did it. I was a thirteen year "know it all" who challenged his Dad to a foot race. If I won, $4 per hour; $1 per hour if the "old man" pulled it out. I got smoked.

The important lesson was this. I just knew over the summer he would change the amount. He would feel sorry for me and provide a raise. No chance. A deal is a deal and you better think about the consequences.

These were all pretty simple stories. Well, the best lessons are often those plain experiences as a young person.

Dad was not perfect. I may have learned just as many things not to do from him as lifelong lessons with wonderful outcomes. But, thinking about it now, I think he may one of my best business mentors. Dad died several years ago from cancer. I love him, miss him and would really enjoy discussing the business issues I face today. My guess is he would still have some great lessons.