Do you recall any customer experiences – people whose shoes you shined – who stand out as interesting or special?
… Peter Lougheed was a very nice man. He talked about football, and his days as an Edmonton Eskimo. His shoes were nothing special. Dick Haskayne is great too – people like him a lot. He wears Dacks. Very good shoes.
What brought you to Calgary?
… my brother was here, and his wife, they sponsored me to come here about 20 years ago
Where were you before?
… I grew up and was schooled near the equator – in Accra, Gold Coast in Africa – once a British colony, so my schooling was in English. And I attended technical school there but have not found work in my area . . .
How did you get started in this business, shining shoes, who taught you?
… a friend’s father was shining shoes. I watched him, learned from him. The rest has been self-taught. My first place was at the Westin hotel, but business wasn’t so good there. Then I moved to Bankers hall when Brookfield leased me this spot. It has been good here.
Why do you like this work?
… I get to control my time. I enjoy interacting with people I serve. I enjoy meeting people. Some people think this is hard on my back, but it is not. Not yet!
Who are your customers?
… men mostly. I like women too, but they are maybe 5% to 7% of my business. A lot of my business comes from people who are too busy to wait, they drop off their shoes – sometimes several pairs at a time.
What do you do for fun?
… I spend time with my wife. I play soccer with friends, for fun, not on a team – just for relaxation. I like to sing. At home .. not here (I don’t think it is allowed in my lease!)
What kind of music do you like?
… contemporary music from Ghana, anything African with a good beat. I like jazz – I find it very soothing
What is your business outlook, to the future?
… business is good and I expect it to continue. Summers are slow. Repeat business, customers for life . . . serving them the best I can makes a difference I think.
What qualities do your clients look for in you, in your shoe shine services, that distinguishes you or sets you apart from your competitors?
. . . No Complaints! ... and my sense of humour. I try to give good service. If they are happy – no complaints! They enjoy my company.
What are you reading?
. . . non-fiction business and marketing books. And my Bible – that is my chief text book.
His ride?
. . . 1999 Ford Taurus
Thank you Emmanuel, shine on my friend!