Apr 12, 2021
With Sue Fuller, CEO and Founder of The Oliver Thomas
Why do some people overcome hard times faster than others? Why are some people more resilient? Did you know that your attitude can make a really big difference in how you handle a crisis? If you truly believe that you’re going to succeed, then you will succeed. So many of us say we can’t do it or it will be too hard. Try saying, “I CAN do this!”, and your attitude can make it happen. Today, we’re going to hear from a retail business owner who I interviewed in May or 2019.
Sue Fuller is the CEO and Founder of The Oliver Thomas brand of moderately priced, well-constructed handbags designed for the active, working woman; or anybody! When the pandemic began to threaten retail business, Sue’s positive attitude and determination were critical to her success. She was determined not to fail and she actually doubled her business during the pandemic. Listen to the interview and you’ll be inspired by Sue’s story!
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
- A little bit about Sue’s childhood in Wisconsin.
- What did Sue study in college?
- More about Sue’s early career.
- How was it working for Ralph Lauren and L.L. Bean?
- After six years in Maine, Sue moved back to Wisconsin to work for Kohl’s.
- How did Sue end up in Michigan with Carhartt?
- Just before starting her own company, Sue worked with Vera Bradley.
- How did Sue finally launch The Oliver Thomas?
- How do the daily operations work?
- More on the multi-functionality of the bags.
- Where are The Oliver Thomas bags sold and for how much?
- What is Sue’s goal for the future of her line?
Today’s Takeaway:
One of the keys to successfully overcoming difficult times is your attitude; yours and yours alone! You need to fully commit and believe in what you’re doing in order to succeed. Know your strengths and use them to your advantage. Sue succeeded because she BELIEVED. Her attitude was, “I can do this!” Think about how you can adapt by changing your circumstances and making a positive impact in your life. During the pandemic, Sue doubled her sales by listening to what her customers wanted and responding to their needs. You have to listen to what’s right for you. And you have to respond to your needs. Know what you want and know how to go about getting it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. In addition to attitude, when hard times occur it’s important to be flexible. Don’t be afraid to try different things. Being innovative can be your key to success. What changes can you make? You know what they say: if you keep doing the same things over and over again without making change, you’re going to get the very same results. Vision is a dream with a blueprint. Keep doing the things you're successful at and just persevere! Every day is a gift to us and every day gives us an opportunity to try something new or make what we’re doing even better. It’s all up to you and your attitude! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
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Mentioned in This Episode:
theoliverthomas.com