Two weekends ago,
we went to Whittamore’s Farm
to pick fall strawberries,
an annual tradition for us.
It was a very busy day
at the family-owned farm
and by the time we arrived,
the strawberries were picked clean.
As we debated whether or not
to pay the $5 entrance fee,
the employee waived the fee
and allow us to enter for free.
The employees were right.
The strawberries were picked clean
but we still enjoyed ourselves.
We also continued our tradition,
increasing the likelihood
we’d return next year.
Plus more than one of us
talked about how a big company-run farm
wouldn’t have allowed us
to enter for free.
It reinforced Whittamore’s Farm’s branding
as a family-run farm
(since 1804).
Exceptions to the rule
are one of the signs
of a family-run or small business.
If that is how you’re branding your company
(no matter how large the company is
or who really owns the company),
strongly consider giving your employees the power
to make decisions
and ‘break the rules.’