|
Summer 2005 Client of the Month
Cycling has not only been a way of business for Ward Budweg, it has also been a way of life. "I come from a family of nine and rode a bike since grade school. For me it is freedom!" After losing a W-2 job in the mid 1990's, Ward bought a business that fit his passion, Decorah Bicycles. "I bought a business because I needed a change in my life." Ten years later, Ward has built his business to where it is known as the premier cycle shop of northeast Iowa. "The business is a reflection of my personal goal, being fit." Decorah Bicycles carries a variety of name brand bikes from TREK, Specialize, Gary Fisher, and Giant. The business sports a full-service bicycle repair shop and also sells cross-country skis and accessories. Ward contributes
his success to his "team" and his method of integrating
a simple incentive program that motivates team members to sell
while better serving customers. "I believe you don't sell
what you don't believe in." Ward takes the time to inspire
the passion of selling in his team through the distribution of
articles and the viewing of video tapes on self improvement and
effective sale techniques. Weekly meetings are held to educate
the team about new products, As a member
of the Northeast Iowa MyEntreNet Program, Ward said he likes the
dialog exchanged with like minded entrepreneurs. "The open
forum times are great! It lets me bounce off ideas in a constructive
fashion in networking with like mined entrepreneurs." Asked
what motivates him, Ward said, "Having customers tell me
about the scenery, spending time with the family, losing weight
or just enjoying life on a bike going 12 mph." Ward's future
plans are ambitious. He plans to bicycle around the world in 2007. Ward Budweg Return to Client Corner. |
features
and to setsale goals. If these goals are met, team players receive
a bonus. "Selling is about relationships, if I see a team
member going out of their way to better serve a customer, I will
reward them right there, right now." Decorah Bicycles employ
three full-time and two part-time.
2004 All rights reserved. University
of Northern Iowa Regional Business Center Last Updated:
09/19/2005
212 E. 4th St. Waterloo, Iowa 50703 319.236.8123
email info@unirbc.org
Directions/Map