"They need to get the model down first," Mr. Thornhill says. "Once they have a process in place - after the first three or four - they can step back and delegate. But they will still need to make frequent business visits to mentor and monitor." Mr. Thornhill says he suspects that Green Workplace may have lots of competition soon, but he thinks it can rise to the top by delivering superior service and building the brand. "Word of mouth is the best form of advertising, because it's free."
Bruce Poon Tip, founder and chief executive officer of G.A.P Adventures, knows a bit about expanding a business. Starting with credit-card loans, he launched what is now the world's largest adventure travel company, with more than 500 staff in offices throughout Canada and the world.
He thinks that Green Workplace first needs to establish a business plan and do a feasibility study that looks at the demand for its services and local competitors it could be up against.
On the subject of expansion, Mr. Poon Tip is "a big fan of organic growth."
"Identify early who your stars are and keep them in mind when you need to send someone to launch a new location. You need to have someone who has been working directly with you and who carries the essence of your brand."
Mr. Poon Tip suggests that they always have people on board who are mobile and willing to take on a startup in another city. "People who are mobile are very valuable to me - and a big consideration in our recruiting process," he says.
A high-growth company must constantly get better in two areas: leadership and recruiting practices, Mr. Poon Tip advises.
Ultimately, the owner's energy and enthusiasm for the business needs to be channelled through other people.
"It's a big jump from when you start a company and can lead by example because everyone is in the same room," Mr. Poon Tip says. "You will only be as successful as your ability to let go and trust others."
In a nutshell
PROCEED WITH CAUTION
If you go too fast, you can lose touch with your people and operations.
HIRE THE BEST PEOPLE
Bring in passionate people to represent whatever product or service you're offering. Don't settle for mediocrity.
GET THE MODEL DOWN FIRST
Stay hands-on while you're getting the expansion process in place. Only then should you step back and delegate.
KEEP YOUR SUITCASE PACKED
Make frequent business visits to mentor and monitor.
BE A LEADER
You have to motivate people to reach their potential without being right beside them every day.
CREATE A GREAT ENVIRONMENT
Build a great company and great people will find you.
