The guru of small business has always had the opinion that if you work on your own, you haven’t got a business, you’ve got a job. I disagree and indeed heckled him on this at a presentation a few years ago. Quite a smart move, as it happens, as it got me noticed and led to a dialogue that’s continued ever since. But that’s another story.
In Gerber’s world, ‘90% of small businesses fail’, whereas in mine (and backed up by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and the Australian Productivity Commission*), 70% of micro businesses do not.
In Gerber’s world, solo businesses are ‘in a living hell’ and eternally miserable. We know from our own Understanding Micro Business surveys that happiness is both a driver and a reality for eight out of ten soloists.
At the close of our interview I remark that once I watch the video I’ll doubtless think of many more things to say in the defence of the wondrous world of soloism.
In fact I’m left with the feeling that I should have been much tougher and made a more compelling case for enjoying success on your own. I adore working solo and I DO have a business.
To view our way of working as a job is nuts.
He employs staff. I embrace partners and collaborators. Less hassle, better outcome.
He has foundation and structure. So do I…along with greater flexibility and agility.
He sees fear of failure. I experience the excitement of opportunity.
There is one thing we agree on, though: he preaches the teachings of the E-Myth and so do I, it’s a masterpiece.
Please help me out by doing some virtual heckling of your own. Lay into me too if you like, I’m up for it. Either way, I’ll make sure the main man gets to see it all.
“ In Gerber’s world, solo businesses are ‘in a living hell’ and eternally miserable. ”
Robert Gerrish is one of the Flying Solo crew and supports soloists as a coach and consultant. He presents at conferences and networking events and bangs on to the media or anyone who listens, about all things micro. Along with Sam Leader and Peter Crocker, he's the co-author of Flying Solo – How to go it alone in business.
