Riley McMurdo, born in 1982, in Denver, Colorado, embarked on a varied career journey that reflects adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit. After graduating with a degree in History from Colorado State University in 2004, McMurdo initially pursued a career in education. However, his path took a significant turn when he ventured into the franchise world, eventually becoming a successful business owner with SportClips franchises across Colorado and Wyoming. This article presents an in-depth interview with Riley McMurdo, delving into his background, the challenges he faced, and the insights he gained along the way.

Career Beginnings and Personal Background

Can you tell us about your early career and how it led you to where you are today?

I started my career journey with a Bachelor’s degree in History from Colorado State University, intending to enter the world of teaching and possibly coaching baseball. After working in various roles, including teaching and banking, I realized that the traditional educational path wasn’t for me. In 2009, my father and I, both customers of SportClips, decided to explore the franchise business. We found the model intriguing and opened our first franchise in 2010 in Glendale, CO. This decision set me on the entrepreneurial path that I continue to pursue today.

How did your upbringing influence your career choices?

Growing up, I lived in several places due to my father’s job, which exposed me to diverse environments and experiences. This constant moving taught me adaptability and resilience. I've always had a love for sports and a knack for building relationships, both of which played crucial roles in my career. My experience in the DECA program during high school also ignited an interest in business, which I pursued later in life.

From Education to Business

What was it like transitioning from education to running a business?

The transition from education to business was both challenging and enlightening. Teaching and coaching provided me with skills in leadership and communication, which are invaluable in business. When we opened our first SportClips, I managed operations, relying on my family for back-office support. Over the years, we expanded to 19 stores across Colorado and Wyoming, which taught me a lot about the intricacies of business management.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your early business ventures?

One of the biggest challenges was learning how to manage operations effectively and understanding the financial aspects of running a business. Initially, I handled all operations, and it was a steep learning curve. Another challenge was ensuring we maintained a high standard of customer service and employee satisfaction, which are critical in the service industry.

Insights and Strategies

How do you ensure that your business stays innovative and competitive?

Innovation is a key component of our strategy. For example, implementing online check-ins connected us with a younger audience who appreciate immediate satisfaction. We also use in-store wallboards to show estimated wait times, enhancing the customer experience. Staying informed about industry trends and maintaining strong relationships within the industry are also crucial for keeping our brand relevant.

How do you maintain a positive reputation in the industry?

Maintaining a positive reputation involves setting high expectations for ourselves and our staff. We thoroughly follow up with customers and provide coaching for employees when expectations aren't met. Additionally, we treat our employees well, ensuring they know we care about their success and goals. Trust is a long-term investment, and we continue to invest in security and technology to protect our customers and employees.

What advice would you give to someone starting their entrepreneurial journey?

My advice would be to not be afraid of revisiting and adjusting goals as necessary. Set numerous goals—daily, weekly, monthly, and long-term—and don’t be scared to dream. Building a business takes time and effort, and it's important to keep learning and adapting to new challenges. Trust and treat people right, and your reputation will naturally take care of itself.

McMurdo's journey from a history graduate to a successful business owner is a testament to the power of adaptability and innovation in career development. His experiences underscore the importance of setting ambitious goals and maintaining strong relationships, both with employees and customers, as key to achieving success in any industry.

Expertise and Achievements

In the field of entrepreneurship, what do you consider your most significant achievement?

One of my most significant achievements has been the successful expansion of our SportClips franchise from a single location to 19 stores across Colorado and Wyoming. This expansion was not just about increasing numbers but ensuring each store maintained high standards in customer service and operational efficiency. It is incredibly rewarding to see our team grow and witness the positive impact we've had on our local communities.

How do you leverage technology and innovation in your business practices?

Embracing technology has been crucial for us. Implementing features like online check-ins has been a game-changer, especially for engaging with a younger demographic. Another innovation that has had a positive impact is our in-store wallboards displaying wait times, which improves transparency and customer satisfaction. Staying ahead with tech trends and integrating them into our business model helps us maintain a competitive edge.

What key strengths do you believe have contributed to your success?

A core strength is the ability to adapt and innovate, which has been vital as we navigated the challenges of business expansion. Another strength is our commitment to treating people—both employees and customers—with respect and integrity. This philosophy has fostered a strong and loyal team and has been instrumental in building trust and a positive reputation in the industry.

Vision for the Future

What are your future plans for your business and career?

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue expanding our franchise presence while maintaining the high standards that have become synonymous with our brand. Additionally, I am interested in exploring new business opportunities that align with our core values and customer-centric approach. Growth is important, but it should be sustainable and ethical.

How do you stay motivated and ensure continued growth in your business?

Staying motivated is about setting and achieving goals. We have a structured approach to setting daily, weekly, monthly, and long-term goals, and we're not afraid to revisit and adjust them as necessary. This keeps us focused and adaptable. Maintaining strong relationships with our employees and customers is also a key motivator, as their success drives our own.

Conclusion

Riley McMurdo's journey from education to entrepreneurship has been marked by strategic innovation and a commitment to personal and professional integrity. His success with SportClips franchises is a testament to these principles. Through adaptive strategies and a keen focus on customer satisfaction, Riley McMurdo continues to build on his achievements, aiming for further expansion and success in the future.