“We are the communities we serve,” said Earvin Magic Johnson when asked what was his brand. As part of his brand he is devoted to bringing businesses to the inner-city and job creation for the inner-city. Magic is true to his name. All he has set his hands on has prospered; his track record speaks for itself. Magic has come a long way from being a poor kid from the neighborhoods of Lansing, to NBA stardom and now an awesome businessman. Hard work, determination, and being 6’9” were the elements that formed the foundations to him being a success story. Those same traits made for an easy transition when becoming a businessman.
“You must OVER DELIVER in all you do,” was another pearl of wisdom that echoed in my mind. When you put in the work you must not only deliver but as we have learned you must exceed expectations. Exceeding expectations is what will separate you and your company from others who are good. Great companies are the ones that stand the test of time. You must strive to leave your mark.
He was extremely encouraging and told us that whatever you do be focused. You must change your vocabulary to match what your interests are pursuing. As a basketball player he prided himself on knowledge of the game and the same applies to the business arena. He pointed out that preparation through research. He understands his market which is urban America. He knew the power of the minority spending. He focused on taking things that blacks like, then putting an urban touch on it.
Johnson owns a multitude of businesses that all are marketed towards the inner city. He believes in partnering and has a diverse amount of Business holding. There is Canyon-Johnson Urban Fund, which is a housing development, is aimed at building/rebuilding inner city neighborhoods. Johnson owns a few TGI Fridays in which one is the top Fridays in the region. He partnered with Starbucks, which does not franchise, and owns 110 stores where they are mostly ranked in the top tier of the company. He owns 6 very successful 24hr Fitness Franchises. Among other business ventures he is also a minority owner in the L.A. Lakers.
I plan to follow in my fellow Spartan’s footsteps…
