Fritz Frazier is the owner of the snow and ice management company Winter Services Inc. in West Allis. Frazier says small business owners should consider the strategies employed by large corporations to remain successful even when conditions are uncertain.
“Running a small business with a big business mentality is what is helping us achieve our success. When I bought the business in December 2005, I knew in order for us to be successful, we needed systems and structure in place to make sure we delivered on our commitment to outstanding customer service. The snow removal business is very hard as you never know when you will work or how much snow you will get. We are basically snow firemen who have to be ready for anything at a moment’s notice.
“Our vision for Winter Services is to be the best snow removal company in the U.S. We’re accomplishing this by bringing professionalism, systems and accountability to our industry. We run our business on a 12-month operation plan. Every day, week and month is planned. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are in place and followed by all employees.
“As a previous executive at Kohl’s and Gateway Computers, it’s apparent to me that all great companies invest in systems, infrastructure, training and their employees. We have taken that approach at Winter Services and are constantly looking at ways to get better in all phases of our business. This is the same mentality that drives success for Fortune 500 companies.
“We believe that systems run our business. Our people run our systems, and we focus on leading our people.”
