Success is Fun at 'The Monkey’s Uncle'

Name: Jeanell Morgan

Business: Monkey's Uncle sells retro and vintage-inspired apparel for women, men, kids and babies.

What drew you to your profession/business? 

I have always worked in corporate retail and after my son was diagnosed with Autism, I knew I had to own my own business to accommodate his hectic schedules.

What is the most challenging aspect of your business/career?

Keeping my customers satisfied with the purchases that we make each season.

How do you balance your career with family life?

My Husband Derrick and I make a great team! We balance each other to perfection. So without his support as well as support from my parents, owning our business would not have ever happened.

What’s the one lesson you would teach others about life and success?

Go with your gut ... and never take a single moment for granted ...

What are the three most important traits/skills a person needs to be successful? Why?

1.  Good listener—you need to really understand what your customers want.
2. Organization—it may not be easy but if you take a little time to plan things out properly it makes a big difference.
3. Dedication—we are 100% dedicated to the success of this business and we feel that True Old Fashion Customer service will keep you business alive for years to come.

What is your definition of success?

Being proud of the accomplishments you make and knowing people are looking to you for a great product.

If you could give advice to a recent graduate or someone just beginning their career, what would you tell them?

Listen, this ain't rock science. You need to treat your customers like family. Know their name when they come in your shop; know when their kids birthdays, anniversary's or big events going on. It makes a world of difference to them that you care about them not just their $$$$$$$. We love every customer, whether they spend $1 or $100; everyone get the same treatment.

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And here's an example of Jeanelle service-oeinted approach from the Monkey's Uncle Facebook page:

Ok True story....... This guy stops in to store yesterday and wants to purchase 2 hats. 1 phillies and 1 yankees. He wants to present them to his dad and uncle for their trip to Florida for spring training.(he did not have wallet) Here is the thing they leave tomorrow (which is today) and I need them by 8:30 am. but we do not open til 10am.. So Even though today is My son's 6 bday and I did not get to wake him up with my annual Happy Birthday song and silly dance I opened the store at 8:30 am in time for this customer to have 2 gift wrapped hats to give to his family members to get on a plane to Florida...Than enough time to close up shop race to my son's karate class at 9am to give him his Happy Birthday silly song and dance.... again will a BIG BOX STORE DO THAT FOR YOU????? the answer is probably NO!!! BUT our little home grown shops will do it everytime!!!!!!!!!!!!