How it works
Each step is proof, not a pitch.
Serving first builds trust. Once a Phase 1 goal is spotted, Garrett hits it. When Phase 1 reveals a bigger goal, he does that too, and then the talk turns to a long-term partnership.
Step 0 · Free
Serve First
Garrett looks the business up online and finds the easy fixes: the Google listing, unanswered reviews, the website, booking. He asks the owner, "Mind if I fix these?" and starts fixing them, at no cost.
Meanwhile, he and the owner shape a measurable Phase 1 goal together. SLS earns the right to define Phase 1 by already being useful.
Phase 1 · Paid after results
Hit the goal
Garrett gets into the business and learns how it really runs. He and the owner put one specific, measurable goal in writing, such as getting back above the business's own baseline or developing a manager who can run the floor.
What the work can include
- Time at the business, watching the real work and gathering the real numbers.
- Mapping who does what, and documenting key roles and processes.
- A weekly cash rhythm and a clear break-even.
- Google listing, reviews, website and booking cleaned up.
- 5S and a short daily or weekly leadership routine with the team.
- Coaching the owner and leads to set targets and act on the gaps.
The terms
- Payment starts only once results show, spread over 12 months.
- Two-way due diligence: Garrett learns whether he can help the business grow, and the owner learns whether Garrett and the strategy are the right fit. All before any talk of ownership.
Phase 2 · When Phase 1 reveals it
A major growth project
When Phase 1 reveals a bigger goal and the fit is proven, Garrett takes on an owner-level project that changes the size or direction of the business, such as opening a second location. He plans it and builds it alongside the owner.
- SLS earns a percentage of ownership as sweat equity, based on the value it contributes.
- Goals, roles and terms are agreed in writing first, along with talk of a long-term partnership.
- SLS takes on only a handful of Phase 2 partners, so each one gets real time.
Phase 3 · Partnership
The management agreement
SLS holds its share under a management agreement. The owner runs the business day to day. SLS's role is strategic planning, following servant leadership: every stakeholder aligned, and operations run with discipline.
- Weekly review of progress and goals, with visits to the business.
- A deeper planning session twice a year.
- Yearly strategic planning.
Every partnership starts with a free look.
Garrett looks the business over, finds the easy fixes and starts fixing them. Phone, video or in person at the business.