Episode 30 - One Person's Trash is Another's Treasure with Speed Metal Scrap, Melbourne

Self Starter

Some of your may know Chris as the guitarist in Melbourne band Vanishing Point, however Chris has a unique story to tell which finds him running his own business, Speed Metal Scrap, collecting and selling scrap metal around the suburbs of Melbourne.

Working for an Automobile manufacturer for a couple of decades, Chris found himself in a rapidly changing industry and saw the writing on the world when it came to his own career in that field. Accepting an exit package from his employer and with two newborn twins, Chris took the plunge to start a new chapter and launch his own business.

Diving into that first year out of the comforts of traditional employment, Chris had appropriately prepared himself and his family to ensure that expectations were reasonable while he built a reputation and group of clientelle. While money was not a steady stream like it had been in the past, the new world of self employment and the flexibility that has come with it has helped Chris find a work/life balance that meets the needs and desires of him and his family.

Chris' approach to his business might be unorthodox for some. His business has doesn't have a website or a social media page, but instead exists via classifieds and his tight inner network of people that work in his field who support each other with opportunities and work via word of mouth and reputation. Just like being a musician performing on stage, Chris knows he is only as good as the last customer he has dealt with. His reputation is built on being in service to other people and he's proud to do it with a high standard.

Chris is always looking ahead to ensure he stays on his toes with his business, however he doesn't hesitate to enjoy every moment along the way. Each day brings opportunity and the freedom to continue to carve out his own part in the world for his family.

What did you get out of this episode? Here’s what I learnt;

1. Answer the Phone! - It's the simple stuff that counts and often we find ourselves in a state of self-sabotage by being lazy, avoiding uncomfortable moments or allowing introverted tendencies to overwhelm. Chris has put a rule in place that he always answers the phone. He's seen others make the mistake by being complacent and by following this simple rule, he ensures that he does not miss out on any opportunity. Think about how you can set rules in place to ensure that you never miss out. If it's not phone, maybe it's email and instant messages!

2. Reputation/word of mouth - It's a common theme with the Self Starer guests and it's worthy of highlighting again. You are a reflection of your business, and your personal reputation directly equates to not only return business but also recommendations to others. Chris doesn't invest a lot in marketing as he built a network of people who through word of mouth bring him new opportunities. Cheap and organic! Don't get me wrong, marketing is always important however if you invest in customers who come to you in the early stages with a great service, they will reward you with more business in the long term both directly and indirectly.

3. Be realistic, invest and profit later - Delayed gratification. As the dollars roll in, spend wisely. It's important to invest in what you are doing so you can ensure that not only the business grows, but is sustainable. As long as your basic lifestyle needs are met, try to put as much back into it as possible.

4. Touch base, say hello. - Just because you don't hear from someone doesn't mean they are not interested. Life gets in the way and people get busy. Sometimes a friendly follow up call, email, message can do wonders and jog the memory of someone who was genuinely interested in doing business with you. Just like answering the phone, Chris has ensured that this simple rule of follow up and reconnecting is followed and it is proving to have great results. Some people may have concerns that it could come across as being desperate however it's all in the delivery. Remind people that you exist and that you are ready to serve them when they are ready.

Learn more about Speed Metal Scrap by contacting Chris via Facebook

Location – South Eastern Suburbs, Melbourne