Get Inspired

Risk Taker Grows Custom Jewelry Business with Her Dream Team

Philadelphia company has four locations and a staff of 20.

Published

1 year ago

March 28, 2023

INSTORE Staff Instore April 2023 Issue Online Extra

ONLINE EXTRA

I LOVE MANAGING PEOPLE. I think more than I love jewelry even. I think I have stayed in tune with people’s needs, which is a full-time job. If someone is starting to say they are overwhelmed, I’ll work on getting help in that department quickly. We do reviews every quarter, in depth, about what’s going on, how they’re feeling about their work, their boss, about me, and I make sure people take vacation.

WE HAVE AN UNLIMITED VACATION POLICY. If their manager approves it, they can take the time off. There’s no hard limit. Most people take a month off. If you start getting to eight weeks that would start to feel excessive. I have had people get married and go on their honeymoon and take three weeks off in a row. It tends to work out. The team loves it, so they make it work for each other.

OUR CULTURE is one of autonomy, accountability, and flexibility. I hire personalities, not skills, knowing that the right people can learn about diamonds – but the wrong people can’t learn flexibility or work ethic. Managing well is a lot of work – weekly one-on-ones, celebrating workiversaries, etc – but it’s the single most important thing I do. If you’re not a people person, make sure your manager is.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”