I asked Robert how he sees his business “premium men’s fashion business”; I asked ‘how’s business looking, going forward over the next quarter?’
… challenging! We are luxury goods – not necessities. With lots of uncertainty, one might expect difficulty, but I find when people are out of work they become more focused on their appearance. I don’t expect we’ll see any new retailers entering our market for a while due to the economy.
And over the next five years?
… I see a trend back to ‘better dress at the office’. While the economy will push many people ‘back to basics’ the job market and employment will be more competitive. Employers will look at many factors, I’m sure, but hygiene and appearance will be as important as performance in getting and keeping a great job. First impressions are very important.
What qualities distinguish your preferred colleagues, collaborators and suppliers?
… trust, honesty. Integrity. People I’m comfortable with, who treat me as I would treat them – then I’m loyal without a need to change. Gut-feelings.
What distinguishes you that causes people to choose Robert Liden, and why do they do business with you, why have they hired you, over your competitors?
… I show my customers pride in what I do. I’m interested in people. It’s never about making the sale, it’s about doing the right thing. Someone whose knowledge level is high – why wouldn’t they want to deal with me?
How would you describe your management style?
… I don’t have the patience to be a good teacher and coach. In my career – at Tip Top, at Holts – I was in management and did well at it, but I wanted back into sales. When I left the Edmonton Henry Singer store I was #1. Starting again in Calgary has been a struggle to get myself known and establish clientele, but I’ve never regretted moving back into sales – I love it.
What do you lose sleep over, what do you worry about?
… my health. I've broken a lot of bones in cycling mishaps ...
Who or what influenced you most – that has made a difference in your life, or that was a major turning point?
… I didn’t have a lot of self-confidence growing up – nothing ever came easy for me. I was a shy kid. Closeness with family has always been important for me. My dad was a great help to me …
Work-life balance – do you have it?
… hmm-hmm! I have a flexible schedule and I’m happy in my work.
For fun?
… cycling, selling clothing! … hanging out with my wife. We like museums, galleries, travelling. Dinners with friends.
What do you read?
… current events, cycling and men’s wear publications. I like novels but don’t seem to get around to reading them much.
His ride(s)?
… we have a 2015 VW Golf. I ride a bike to work every day. My ‘pride’ in bikes shows most in my Pinarello …
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