In an Expert Insight interview, John Golden talks with Gary Harper. Gary is a business coach and the founder of Sharper Business Solutions. He helps business owners grow by using smart systems, strong leadership, and clear goals. His book, The Rise Business Framework, shows how to build a business that lasts.
Why Systems and Processes Matter
Many new business owners think a good idea and excitement are enough. But Gary says that’s not true. A real business needs systems. Systems help the business run even when the owner isn’t there. Without good systems, growth is hard and messy.
What is the RISE Framework?
Gary uses the word RISE to explain his method:
- R stands for Resources
- I stands for Inspiration
- S stands for Systems
- E stands for Engagement
Let’s look at what each one means.
1. Resources
You need the right tools, money, time, and people to grow.
Gary’s advice:
- Check your resources often. Make sure you have what you need.
- Spend money wisely. Put money into tech or tools that help you work faster.
- Outsource smartly. Let others handle tasks that don’t need your full attention.
2. Inspiration
Your business needs a mission and values that everyone can believe in.
Gary’s advice:
- Write a clear vision. Share it with your team often.
- Talk about values. These shape your company culture.
- Lead with heart. Your actions should match your words.
3. Systems
Good systems make work easier and faster.
Gary’s advice:
- Write down your steps. Make process maps for key tasks.
- Use automation. Let technology do the boring stuff.
- Keep improving. Update your systems as things change.
4. Engagement
You must connect with your customers.
Gary’s advice:
- Know your audience. Do research to learn what they need.
- Speak their language. Use marketing that fits different groups.
- Build community. Use social media and events to stay close to your customers.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Many new business owners make big promises too fast. They focus on fast growth without planning. This can lead to burnout and failure. Gary says slow, steady growth is better.
Use Tech to Grow Smart
You don’t need a huge team to grow.
Gary’s advice:
- Pick the right tech. Choose tools that grow with your business.
- Fix weak spots. Improve steps that slow you down.
- Stick to your strengths. Do what you do best. Outsource the rest.
Cash Flow is Key
You need money on hand to keep your business running.
Gary’s advice:
- Track your money. Know when you’ll get paid and when bills are due.
- Plan ahead. Make money plans that include delays and surprises.
- Save some cash. Always keep extra money for emergencies.
Be Careful with Spending
Don’t waste money early on.
Gary’s advice:
- Think about your customers. Spend on things they care about.
- Cut the fluff. Skip things you don’t need yet.
- Grow wisely. Put profits back into smart business moves.
Keep Getting Better
Gary says great businesses are always changing.
His advice:
- Update your processes. Make them better as your business grows.
- Think long-term. Don’t rush. Plan for a strong future.
Final Thoughts
Gary Harper gives simple but powerful advice. To grow a strong business:
- Build smart systems
- Focus on your team and customers
- Use your resources well
- Keep learning and improving
By following Gary’s RISE method, business owners can avoid mistakes and grow in a smart, stable way.
Our Host
John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.
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