From the radio show archives, here’s Nick’s & Johnny’s interview with Tommy Phillips from Tommy’s Slalom Shop in Denver, CO.

Tommy came in several years ago and spoke with us about how he started, how he tried to expand his business, and why he likes to blend into his store and look like the janitor.  We were missing the first half of the interview with Tommy, but the Post Show provided tons of great info for you to grow your business.

Tommy talks about:

• The busyness of running a retail shop
• Running special events
• Building excitement
• Servicing your customer well
• Hey-Dude Marketing
• Trade Show success

If you are a REAL water-ski nerd, Tommy tells us how to find glass.  The easiest is to go to a private lake that will charge you per ride.  If you are in Denver, you can go out and see the folks out at Soda Lakes.

Top tip: Remember people’s name!  You may need to decide to do this.  People LOVE to hear their name being used.  Tommy would teach his sales people to work on this with their customers.

Tommy built a new building and then the economy tanked.  How did he survive selling luxury items?

At the end of our talk, we asked Tommy what advice he would give to a young or new entrepreneur.  This is what he said:

• Learn to live well below your means.  Don’t use credit.
• Get in shape.
• Every contract is negotiable.

Check out their website for more information.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download