3 Key Takeaways from the Podcast Episode with Kevin Rutherford
In this insightful episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Kevin Rutherford, a respected voice in the trucking industry with a wealth of experience in business training, finance, and trucking operations. Kevin shared a plethora of valuable insights that are not only applicable to the trucking industry but to personal and professional growth in general. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation with him:
1. Adopt a Contrarian Mindset to Succeed in Business
One of the most striking pieces of advice Kevin shared is the importance of adopting a contrarian mindset to succeed in business. This approach involves looking at what the majority are doing and deliberately choosing a different path. Kevin believes that about 80 to 90% of people entering business are doing it wrong, which contributes to high failure rates.
"Adopt the mindset of a contrarian. Look around at what 80 to 90% of the people are doing and avoid it like the plague."
This advice is particularly relevant in the context of the trucking industry, where many jump in during market highs and struggle when conditions worsen. Kevin suggests that success comes not from following the crowd but from assessing the market and making informed, often contrarian, decisions that set you apart from the majority. This approach forces individuals to innovate and think critically about their business strategies, which can lead to greater success.
2. Focus on Business Skills, Not Just Technical Skills
Kevin passionately argues that possessing technical skills, such as driving a truck, does not necessarily translate into business success. The real challenge and necessity lie in developing strong business acumen.
"80 to 90% of the people that get into business are doing it all wrong... they're good drivers, they're excellent at delivering freight and solving problems on the road. That does not translate to being successful in business, not at all."
For owner-operators and small fleet owners, Kevin emphasizes the importance of focusing on the business side of operations rather than just the technical aspects of trucking. Understanding finances, marketing, customer relations, and strategic planning are crucial. He suggests that individuals should start learning about business long before they decide to launch their own, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the challenges that come with entrepreneurship.
3. Build and Nurture Your Tribe
Kevin discusses the concept of building a "tribe" — a loyal community of followers who believe in and support your vision. This idea is rooted in creating genuine connections and providing value that resonates deeply with your audience.
"We grow that tribe one person at a time... We do tend to have kind of raving lunatic fans. We have more than just customers. So that's our tribe."
The takeaway here is the importance of community building, which can be a powerful tool for business growth and sustainability. By focusing on nurturing relationships and engaging with your audience on a personal level, you can create a loyal base of customers who will support your business through thick and thin. This approach is particularly effective in today's digital age, where social media and other online platforms provide unprecedented opportunities to connect with and expand your audience.
Conclusion
Kevin Rutherford's insights provide a roadmap for not only those in the trucking industry but for anyone looking to improve their business acumen and achieve success through unconventional wisdom. By adopting a contrarian mindset, focusing on essential business skills, and building a supportive community, aspiring entrepreneurs can navigate the complexities of their industries and emerge successful. These principles, while simple at their core, require dedication and a willingness to learn and adapt — qualities that Kevin exemplifies and encourages in all his endeavors.
Is this enough to jumpstart your business? What other important mindset did we miss? Let us know in the comments!