Founder of Oxi Fresh, Jonathan Barnett, Featured on Thrive Global
Entrepreneur Discusses Lessons Learned as a Business Owner
Lakewood, CO. – Jonathan Barnett, the founder of one of the fastest-growing carpet cleaning franchises in the world, recently participated in an interview with Thrive Global. In the interview, Mr. Barnett shared his history as a businessman, the lessons he’s learned over the years, and more.
“I’ve been leading my company for many years now,” said Mr. Barnett, “and I was happy to take this opportunity to speak about my views on leadership and entrepreneurship. Hopefully, this interview with Thrive Global will help other business people as they build their companies and lead teams.”
Barnett’s 5 Big Lessons
While the interview covered a wide variety of topics—everything from the time he was punched by the founder of Subway, Fred DeLuca (don’t worry—it’s a funny story) to Jonathan’s original fireworks stands from college—a major focus was on five things he wished he had been told before launching his carpet cleaning franchise brand.
Jonathan’s five lessons were:
- You’ve Got the Green Light: An entrepreneur can’t wait for life to give them permission or for things to be perfect. They have to act like life has already given them the green light. Push ahead, take risks (without being pointlessly reckless), and make new opportunities.
- Letting Go to Grow: When you first start a business, you’ll have a hand in everything. In order for the business to grow, though, you eventually need to let go and entrust your team. Failing to let go will stunt the growth of your team and company. “If I tried to directly control everything at Oxi Fresh,” said Mr. Barnett, “My carpet cleaning franchise company wouldn’t be where it is today.”
- Speed Through Systems: A good business leader always looks to create or invest in tools and systems that increase efficiency. The less time your team has to spend on mundane tasks, the more time they can focus on new projects and building the brand.
- Ownership Through Scoring: Gut instinct is important, but data is more important. It’s vital to measure the various aspects of your business and then score yourself and your team with that data. This creates accountability and goals that can actually be measured.
- Profits with a Purpose: It’s vital for a business leader to be focused on more than money. Find a charity you and your team can believe in and make donating to it an important part of your brand. Through this, you can help make the world a better place and inspire your team. For example, Mr. Barnett’s carpet cleaning franchise company regularly donates to Water.org.
“I believe that internalizing these five lessons at the start of your career—or anytime, really—will help you be a better leader and run a better company,” said Mr. Barnett, “These ideas will empower you, your people, and your business.”
You can read more about Mr. Barnett’s thoughts on entrepreneurship and leadership here. To learn more about Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning’s franchise opportunities, click here. To schedule a carpet cleaning with Oxi Fresh, click here.