#204: Chris Riccobono, Founder of UNTUCKit and Greatness Wins — Passion is powerful
Sep 12, 2024
auto_awesome
Chris Riccobono, CEO of the innovative clothing brand UNTUCKit, dives into the power of passion in business. He shares his journey of creating a shirt you don’t need to tuck in, highlighting resilience during the pandemic and the importance of a strong brand identity. Riccobono discusses lessons from his tennis background that shaped his leadership style and emphasizes the significance of storytelling and authentic connections. He also reveals key hiring strategies for startups and the challenges of navigating dual ventures.
Passion for a product not only drives effective sales but also enriches connections with customers and motivates team engagement.
Navigating uncertain times requires mental resilience and the ability to adapt while maintaining customer loyalty as a core strategy.
A compelling brand name is essential for market success, as it helps customers easily remember and identify with the product.
Deep dives
The Power of Passion in Sales
Strong passion for a product is vital for effective sales and leadership. Chris Riccobano emphasizes that genuine belief in his brand, Untuck It, stems from his personal need for a shirt designed to be worn untucked. His journey reflects that when a founder's enthusiasm resonates, it attracts customers who relate to the solution being offered. This connection not only fosters brand loyalty but motivates both employees and consumers to engage deeply with the product.
Navigating Challenging Times
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Untuck It demonstrated the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. Despite a period where the brand faced potential bankruptcy due to significant drops in sales, Chris and his team remained determined to overcome these challenges. They relied heavily on strong customer loyalty and adaptability, using the temporary setbacks as a learning experience. This resilience illustrates the importance of mental fortitude and the ability to control what can be influenced during turbulent times.
Building a Strong Brand Name
The significance of a clear, compelling brand name is exemplified by the success of Untuck It. The name itself conveys its purpose, making it easier for customers to remember and identify with the product. Chris notes that being at the forefront of a trend, such as shirts meant to be worn untucked, helped solidify the brand's market position. The ability to create a brand that resonates on a personal level with consumers is presented as a key strategy for achieving long-term success.
Expanding the Product Line
Untuck It’s expansion into women's clothing is grounded in consumer insights and market demands. A significant portion of their customers were women buying for men, which prompted a logical business decision to include products for women as well. This diversification enhances the brand's reach and showcases a commitment to addressing customer needs. Chris highlights that understanding customer behavior is crucial for expansion strategies and overall growth.
Lessons from High-Profile Collaborations
Chris's latest venture, Greatness Wins, illustrates the benefits of collaborating with respected athletes like Derek Jeter and Misty Copeland. These partnerships not only provide credibility but also symbolize shared values of excellence and performance. Leveraging their influence and insights helps shape the brand while ensuring trust and excitement among customers. This approach highlights the potential advantages of teamwork in entrepreneurship and the importance of choosing partners who align with the brand's mission.
Passion is powerful. When you let your belief in a product or an idea shine through, people respond—and that passion can keep you going in both the good times and the bad.
See how to put passion to work in your business in this episode with Chris Riccobono. He’s the CEO of UNTUCKit, the incredibly successful clothing brand known for making a dress shirt you don’t have to tuck in.
If you want to get better at motivating or inspiring or convincing people, then hit play now!
You’ll also learn:
The mindset you need to navigate uncertain times
The #1 thing a startup must do to be successful in the long run
A consideration that can make or break a brand name
What to look for if you’re hiring for a small company