Entrepreneurs with a ‘can-do’ attitude inspire customer confidence

Two shoe salesmen were sent to a faraway island to sell shoes. After the first day, both men sent back telegrams. One read: "This place is a disaster. No one wears shoes." The other telegram said: "This place is a gold mine. No one wears shoes."

By Sarah Hale
The Orlando Sentinel in the Seattle Times

Maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity, could mean big bucks for your business and just may improve your overall self-image. Successful entrepreneurs don’t dwell on mistakes or bad circumstances, said Gary Lockwood, a business coach, who has used the shoe story to inspire clients.

"Don’t ignore the challenges in your business," said Lockwood, who runs a business-consulting firm, BizSuccess, in Southern California. "There’s nothing wrong with being sad, mad or scared — as long as you don’t dwell on those emotions."

Evan Dimov, a Florida business owner, is certain that having a positive attitude can affect business. In fact, he says remaining positive is the No.1 ingredient in running a successful company, with knowledge of the business coming in second.

"Being positive is so important," Dimov said. "A bad situation can be a good situation if you have the right attitude."

Dimov owns Gourmet Dippin’ Bread Cafe, a specialty coffee and sandwich shop in Orlando. Although other shop owners at the tourist-dependent mall complain about declines in customers and revenue, Dimov prefers to count his blessings.

"There’s increased competition," he said, "but we still have a great location here. That’s not going to change."

Dimov previously owned a coffee-only shop but had trouble competing against the bigger coffee chains. So he broadened his product line and expanded the company.

"I was hesitant to make a change," he said, "but I took a risk. I don’t believe in saying I can’t do something."

Dimov is convinced his willingness to take the leap has paid off. His average customer receipt went from $5 to $7, and business is up about 5 to 10 percent over a year ago.

"When I’m happy about the company, I’m happy with myself," he said. "That positive attitude rubs off … . Even the customers notice."

When times turn tough, bills mount and deadlines approach, remaining positive may seem impossible. But it can be done, Lockwood said. Instead of berating yourself after making a mistake, learn from the experience and move on.

It’s also a good idea to surround yourself with positive people, Lockwood said.

"If you think you’re absolutely stuck and there’s no way out," he said, "ask a friend for help and brainstorm together to find a resolution. A good friend might change the way you look at things."

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