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Essential Tips from a 4th Grade Entrepreneur

Is asking for business really so easy a 4th grader can do it?

This summer I went to friend’s wedding. Keep in mind that this was no ‘ordinary’ wedding. It was outside in a park on a beautiful summer day. And, being Portland style, you could bring your dog. So, I did. That’s when I met Charlie, a bright, ingratiating 4th grader. He immediately struck up a conversation with me–asking if he could pet my dog, Suki. He crouched down and met her timidity with a gentle yet vibrant spirit. After playing with her for a while he looked up and said,”I love dogs. If you ever need a dog sitter I’d love to do it.” Just that simple, just that easy—he asked for business.

(TIP 1: He asked for business because he loved playing with Suki, versus being friendly because he wanted to ask for business.)

He was so good with her, I thought, why not? So we had dinner, asked his mom and drew pictures–a wonderful comic cowboy with a hot dog DOG. What else would you draw at a barbeque? As we finished the flourish on the cowboy’s hat, we set a date for Charlie to do his first dog sit with Suki.

(TIP 2: He finalized the ‘deal’ in a casual, personalized way.)

The week before I dropped her off he sent me a note telling me how much he was looking forward to taking care of Suki. He signed his name with dog paw next to it. Certain that his mom must have helped him, I asked her about the paw. She laughed and said, “That’s all Charlie.”

Two days before his dog sitting he sent me another email, saying how they’d prepared a special space for Suki– this time with a picture of a dog who looked just like her. His simple note coupled with a personalized touch made me rest easy that she would be in good hands.

(TIP 3: He created a sense of trust.)

When I dropped her off he brought me into his room and showed me the dog house he had made with blankets and a couple of chairs. I melted on the spot. He then walked me out to my car and gave me a soda for the long drive saying ‘here’s a treat for your drive”– A simple gesture yet, so considerate. Not only was he going to take good care of Suki, but he was also interested in my comfort.

(TIP 4: He went the extra mile by considering my needs as well as my dog.)

Yes, you might say. This is all very sweet, but what about the business of money. His little sister, Ellie is his assistant. When I came back to pick up Suki and asked him how I should I pay him — should I pay him and let him pay Ellie or should I pay each of them. With out a blink of an eye he said, “You only need to pay her $1, she’s only 5.”

When I shared this with his mom, she laughed and said “If that kid doesn’t grow up to be the CEO of something, I will be surprised…he delegates duties very well…just ask his personal assistant, Ellie.”

(TIP 5: He wasn’t afraid to talk about money.)

And most of all, he was, and is, generous and engaging. Charlie puts people at ease, asking for what he enjoys while taking care of his clients, both animals and humans. So, the next time you’re feeling a bit timid — perhaps consider a more carefree, youthful approach. And, don’t take yourself so
seriously.