Success in entrepreneurship is rarely accidental. It usually results from a thoughtful combination of curiosity, tenacity, persistence, and the wisdom to identify and seize opportunities. One entrepreneur who exemplifies these qualities is Max Lewis. Jeffrey Feldberg interviews Max Lewis on The Deep Wealth Podcast. Max built one of the largest independent propane cylinder exchange businesses in Florida before selling it for $37 million. Jeffrey does a deep dive with Max to learn little-known strategies that welcome success.
The Man Behind the Success: Max Lewis
Max Lewis doesn’t match the traditional mold of a successful entrepreneur. No MBA, no business degree – in fact, he barely graduated high school. But with an inquisitive mind and relentless persistence, Max embarked on an entrepreneurial path that has led to impressive success. From selling mangoes and candies as a child, he found a more robust business opportunity in delivering propane tanks. Max launched his propane exchange venture in 2002, transforming it into the largest independent propane cylinder exchange business in Florida.
Max’s Secret: Providing Exceptional Customer Service and Investing in Employee Happiness
Max points out that the primary factor that drove his success was a relentless focus on customer service. He saw an opportunity to deliver what customers were not getting elsewhere: exceptional service. Max made it a policy to provide his customers with the best experience possible, no matter the day or time. He chose service as his distinguishing factor, and it paid off immensely.
In addition, he cultivated a unique company culture that put employees first. He believes that one criterium for explosive business growth is treating your employees better than anyone else. When Max implemented it, his company grew substantially. He stressed training, nurturing employee potential, and creating effective systems for efficient working processes.
Max notes, “If you are treating your employees right, training them correctly, and they’re having a positive effect on the business, the business’s growth will be explosive.”
Lessons from a Post-exit Entrepreneur
Max’s career didn’t stop upon selling his successful propane exchange company. He continues to utilize the skills that facilitated his initial success and applies them to various other ventures. One crucial lesson Max emphasizes is setting clear goals and mapping out the steps needed to achieve them.
Using a simple method, he encourages entrepreneurs to clearly define what they want to accomplish and brainstorm the best ways to reach that target. Once this is done, the next step is to take action based on those plans.
The Power of Manifesting
In his book ‘Who is Max Lewis,’ Max dedicates chapter 33 to the concept of manifesting. This idea consists of using intentional thought and visualization to bring about desired outcomes. Max testifies that manifesting has had a significant impact on his entrepreneurial adventure, leading to tangible results.
Wrapping Up: Words of Wisdom
Max would advise his younger self and other entrepreneurs to enjoy the entrepreneurial journey fully, regardless of the challenges faced. He notes that it’s crucial to celebrate small victories and not take every stumble too seriously. Focusing on customer needs and creating a value they are not expecting also lies at the heart of a successful entrepreneurial journey, advises Max.
Max’s remarkable journey offers countless insights into navigating the entrepreneurial landscape. From his humble beginnings to leading one of Florida’s largest propane exchange businesses, his experiences provide a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The essence of his wisdom is encapsulated in his final word of advice. “When it affects the customer, it’s unacceptable. I did not allow my customers to get disappointed. I did everything I could possibly do to protect their experience…if you didn’t lose any customers, just think about how many you would’ve had.”
Max’s entrepreneurial journey reminds us of the true essence of an effective business – exceptional customer service, the importance of investing in employee satisfaction, and the power of a clear vision. His story is a valuable lesson for all existing and aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding us of the mountain peaks we can conquer with the right mindset and approach.
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