Yesterday, Scotts Miracle-Gro Company announced that it would close all Smith & Hawken stores (read more here).  The fortunate legacy that will live on are the business teachings of Paul Hawken, one of the Smith & Hawken founders.  I read his book, Growing a Business, last year; its relevance and applicability to today’s business world is astounding, despite its publication date of 1987.  Principles have not changed.

Here are some lessons from Hawken’s Growing a Business:

- “Begin at the beginning.” Drill down to what  your company does.  Think ahead but don’t skip ahead.  Lay the foundation, don’t try to put on the roof before the walls go up.  (Sorry for the excessive construction analogies).

- “A problem is an opportunity in drag.” We will always have problems in our businesses.  If we stop having problems, our businesses are no longer learning and are no longer progressing.  When a problem arises, through creativity and innovation, we are able to solve and then build even better companies.

- “We want to do business with companies that back their products and take care of the needs of their customers.” Do right by your clients and they will reward you with coming back and telling their friends.  This is simple.  Why don’t more companies do it then?

- “Don’t live up to a criterion, set it.” If you are the second, the third, or the fortieth business in your industry to do what you do, are you always chasing the competition?  If so, you will always be behind.  Forge your own way.

- “Laughter and good humor are the canaries in the mine of commerce.” If you are not having fun every day in your business, close now.  If you don’t let your customers or clients have fun with you too, they will find someone else to have fun with (and spend money with).

- “There’s no way to instill a positive customer service ethic before you embody a positive employee ethic.” Treat your people like you want them to treat your clients.

All simple right?  Let’s get to it then.

Author: Alexandra Gibson

Alexandra is the CEO of Gibson Design Management and Managing Partner of interior design firm, Gibson Design Group. When she's not busy trying to build an empire, you can find Alexandra riding a horse, giving back to the community, playing with her Scottie, McCord, or drinking a martini (preferably not all four at once).

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Tags: Business Development, Customer Service, Growing a Business, Paul Hawken, Smith & Hawken