By Niandra Conrad, Home Hero News
Key Quote: “Failure isn’t the end; it’s the best teacher. Embrace it, learn from it, and let it guide you to success.” – Jon LaFevers, Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving
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When you first meet Jon LaFevers, it’s hard not to be captivated by his infectious enthusiasm and genuine passion for his work. As the co-owner of Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving, Jon has built a thriving business that turns the often dreaded task of moving into a seamless, stress-free experience. But Jon’s path to success was anything but smooth. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, learning from failure, and the importance of having a great partner by your side.
Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving is a full-service packing and moving company based in Texas. The company specializes in local moves but offers a variety of services, including junk removal, furniture delivery, and one-time item delivery – essentially anything that involves picking up and putting down heavy objects. Their mission is clear: to provide the best service possible without causing any damage to the customer’s belongings.
Jon’s entrepreneurial journey is filled with ups and downs, but he considers his early business attempts as invaluable lessons. “After my first business failed, my dad sat me down and said, ‘Son, you just failed. And that was the most important thing you could have done,’” Jon recalls. His father emphasized that failure is the best teacher, a piece of advice that Jon now holds dear. With Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving, Jon took these lessons to heart. He diversified the services offered, ensuring that there was always work available year-round. This strategic move not only stabilized the business but also allowed them to retain employees even during off-peak seasons.
Jon isn’t tackling these challenges alone. His best friend, William Prichard, stands by his side as his business partner, managing the operations while Jon takes care of sales and administration. Their partnership has been a cornerstone of Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving’s success. Together, they have built a business model that prioritizes quality and customer service above all else. “We’re not a white-glove moving service, but if you don’t care about what you do, you’re going to break the customer’s stuff,” Jon says. “We’re not a quantity business; we’re a quality business.”
One of the biggest challenges Jon faces is finding high-caliber employees who share the company’s values. “We pay above average for the industry, starting everyone at twenty dollars an hour,” Jon notes. Despite this, finding workers who care about the quality of their work can be difficult. Rather than using incentives for performance, Jon believes in paying well and expecting employees to do their job the right way from the start. “By incentivizing them to do their job the way we need it done, you’re creating a distinction where they might not want to do their job the way you want it,” he explains.
Jon’s advice for aspiring business owners is grounded in practicality. “Take a sober look at the numbers before diving in. Know your costs, estimated revenue, and have savings to cover initial expenses,” he advises. “Don’t just jump into it – make sure you’ve done a realistic assessment.” He also underscores the importance of networking. The first 18 jobs for Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving came directly from Jon’s personal and professional networks. Joining a BNI (Business Network International) chapter further boosted their business through referrals. “I’ve been in a BNI since I was 18. It really is foundational for me,” Jon says.
Looking ahead, Jon is focused on sustainable growth. “One of the lessons I learned from failing was that if you can’t keep pace with the growth you sell, you fail,” he says. Instead of aggressive expansion, Jon and William are committed to growing at a manageable rate, ensuring they can always meet their high standards of service.
Jon LaFevers’ story is a shining example of how resilience, a commitment to quality, and a touch of humor can turn challenges into triumphs. As Jon continues to grow Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving, his dedication to quality service and his community-driven approach will undoubtedly pave the way for even greater success. And for those looking to start their own business, Jon’s advice is clear: Don’t fear failure. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward.
