Behind the Counter

What motivates me?

My lil shop employs 20 people, because my philosophy is to employ as many deserving people as possible, and that they will multiply my success. It is a simple philosophy that is not always right. And, it is a struggle, sometimes, to pay everyone. But, it is my goal.

Everyone at the store makes the same pay I do, if they have a key. Everyone makes $1 less per hour who does not have a key. It's kinda a hippie attitude about work, everyone sharing success and responsibility, and not all people can buy in, but those who do get rewarded. For example, yesterday, we voted to give one of the staff enough of a pay advance to help put money down on a new car. Her first new car ever.

These are the things that motivate me. Team building. Working with people who I can be invested in. I am not an easy boss to work for, being an old 12 year army vet. I'm very demanding. And, in return I can offer rather low wages, and long hours. But, the work is enjoyable, and the atmosphere we try to make fun, and fast paced. And, we do try to employ people long term - I am slow to give up on people.

I also enjoy working on comic subscriptions, doing live sales online, and going to flea markets to find cool collectibles. We are trying to add live music to our store with a small local band performances, looking forward to adding a coffee bar, and we do book readings to children. We do try to innovate, grow our reach and find new offerings for people.

I used to do 40+ shows a year, mostly as a vendor, but also as a presenter, speaker, etc. I now share those things I've learned with others if they come to me, and I have 4 retailers I am mentoring right now, one I opened a store specifically to sell it to the new owner, and one who is getting financing to open her store about 40 miles from me.

These are the things that motivate the much-older me.

I am always interested in hearing what motivates other retailers, feel free to chime in,

Marcus King
Owner
Mad Ox Games & Comics
Titan Games & Comics
London, KY 40741