Lessons We've Learned...

This is our first post of a new series entitled Lessons We've Learned. This week, we are featuring the business lessons we've learned from Bender Rodriguez. We've assembled quotes from Bender that we love and explain how they relate to business.

1. "Bite my shiny metal ass." If you've ever watched Futurama, then this is the quote you are most likely to remember. Yes, it does have a business principle that you can apply. When you're in business for yourself, you'll attract a lot of people who have ideas on how you should run your business. We don't mean the people you go to with a business problem who then offer you a solution. We mean your friends and relatives who, although they are not in business in their own right, somehow know exactly what you need to do in your business...and they forcefully tell you how to run your empire. You must learn early how to run your business in the way that best suits you. While you don't have to be quite as direct as Bender, you should certainly let it be known that you will be making the business decisions...but thanks so much for your input.

2. "Shut up, baby. I know it." Bender is not known to mince words. You're wondering how this phrase could possibly help you. Well, simply put - it can serve as a reminder to stay confident. Often, you'll give ideas and suggestions to clients. When they are implemented and your clients gain success, you will hear from them (you'll hear from them if they don't work, too). Don't live and die by their compliments and criticisms. Always remain confident in your work.

3. "I'll start my own religion! With blackjack and hookers!" This Bender-iffic saying can get you through planning and executing your business. We've used it as a guide to expand our business offerings. Don't look so shocked. This quote has a great business lesson. If you don't like the way something is happening, improve it. Keep Bender in mind during your analysis stage when you are beginning your venture. You need to know what sets you apart from the competition.

4. "Anything less than immortality is a complete waste of time." You won't live forever. However, there's a chance that if your business is successful that it can continue on long after you're dead. You need to make sure that you always keep your brand and business image in mind. Anyone that you bring on to work with you also needs to have the business image in mind. It's the only way to ensure success after your dead.

5. "Another pointless day where I accomplish nothing." In this particular episode, Bender is seen relaxing and drinking. Business moral: it's okay to occasionally do nothing. It's possible that when you first start out that you'll have several days where you have nothing to do. In our opinion, there's always something that can be found to do...but the moral here is that it's okay to occasionally take some time to relax.