The E-Myth Revisited
by Michael E. Gerber
Key Concepts
Entrepreneurial Myth
The false belief that knowing how to do the work means you know how to run a business.
Three Personalities
Every business owner embodies the Technician, Manager, and Entrepreneur, requiring balance for success.
Franchise Prototype
Design your business as if it will be franchised, creating systems independent of you.
Business Development
Focus on innovation, quantification, and orchestration to build a predictable, profitable system.
Turnkey Revolution
Create a business that runs itself, providing consistent results regardless of who performs the tasks.
Action Items
Document every core business process as if training a new employee.
Delegate tasks by creating clear, repeatable systems, not just handing off work.
Work *on* your business by designing systems, not just *in* your business doing tasks.
Create an organizational chart with roles and responsibilities, even if you fill all positions initially.
Develop a comprehensive operations manual for every aspect of your business.
Systematize your sales, marketing, and customer service processes for consistency.
Core Thesis
Small business success hinges on building a systematic, franchise-prototype business, not just being a skilled technician.
Mindset Shift
From being a skilled technician who owns a job to becoming a strategic entrepreneur who builds a self-sustaining system.