Thanks for posting Ron. This thread is great. For someone starting a business in this field, I appreciate this type of honest feedback. Alot of what you posted are principles I have picked up over the years looking at good and bad businesses. You however added so much more to it with your post. I feel like printing it and making it a wall hanging for my office.
When I look at shops in this industry that always tend to blame the customers for their inability to make money, I see why they are where they are. I think you can apply some of your keys regarding employees to choosing customers as well. In alot of cases, you can tell almost immediately what kind of customer you are dealing with. One of my most respected colleagues from the past gave me a piece of advice that I think is worth adding here. When I told him I would have a business one day, he said "Remember, It's OK to say NO". He meant that with regard to customers. You don't have to work with anyone you feel is not a good fit for your business.
Thanks to the OP and to all who are posting in this thread as well. This is a very timely discussion. At least for me.
