At the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce’s recent Rockhampton event for Small Business Month, local business owner Brad Johnson of My Local IT Guy took the stage—not to sell, but to share.

Brad’s presentation wasn’t just a business story; it was a collection of hard-earned truths. As someone who transitioned from selling shampoo to solving IT problems, Brad’s experience is proof that no matter the industry, certain principles hold true.

Here are three standout lessons he offered:

1. It’s Not About What You Sell—It’s About What the Client Needs
From his early days in hair and beauty wholesaling, Brad learned that business owners don’t just need products—they need answers. That mindset stayed with him as he moved into IT, where he prioritises clear communication over technical jargon and believes in finding real solutions tailored to each client.

2. Work with Facts, Not Feelings
Brad described the moment he saw the power of data: installing one of the first salon POS systems and helping owners understand where their money was really coming from. It was a turning point. “You can feel busy,” he said, “but the facts will tell you if that’s translating into real business.”

3. Teach, Don’t Take Over
His philosophy is simple: teach people how to manage their own tech. That way, they grow, and so does the relationship. It’s not about locking clients into dependence—it’s about empowering them with knowledge.

Brad also reminded everyone in the room of something just as important: you can’t run a business if you don’t look after yourself. His recent health journey highlighted how stress and long hours can take their toll. It was an honest, personal reminder that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for business owners.

For those who missed it, this wasn’t your average IT talk. It was a timely reflection on values, mindset, and building a business that supports people, not just profits.