Secrets of Success: Michelle Thompson

October 22, 2014 Rieva Lesonsky

secrets of success

We’ve launched Secrets of Success, a new weekly interview series here at’s Small Business Forum. I’ve asked some of the smartest, most innovative, most successful people I know to share their insights and success secrets.

Meet: Michelle Thompson, the director of customer acquisition and retention at, the largest online consignment store for children’s clothing and other merchandise.


Michelle Thompson: A veterinarian, a la Doc McStuffins.

Lesonsky: Why did you start your own business?

Thompson: I always wanted to have my own store, and admired local shops that I patronized. I always looked up to entrepreneurs, and never felt like I wanted to stay in a conventional, corporate environment.


Thompson: Not really any specific pivotal moment, but I remember reading Malcolm Gladwell’s Tipping Point and being mesmerized by the types of people we are, how powerful the word of mouth is, and who I related to the most: a Connector.


Thompson: Another consignment shop owner stressed the importance of social media and Facebook. It was “free” at the time, and a great way to create a network and have them market for you! Since social media is becoming bombarded with more paid advertising, using referral campaigns and making your customers grow your network is the secret to success.


Thompson: Customer service is key! Good or bad, it will make or break you. Keeping customers happy or turning a bad situation around will most likely earn you a customer for life (and they will tell their friends!).

Lesonsky: Do you have a small business prediction for the rest of the year?

Thompson: I think supporting small businesses has been increasingly popular for shoppers, but I am worried the brick-and-mortar shops might take a hit. For example, weather was a huge factor for stores this past winter in Chicago. Finding an online alternative for selling your items might be a good idea during slow times.

Lesonsky: Do you have a favorite book?

Thompson: I love the Hunger Games trilogy. I am sure I was supposed to say a smart, nonfiction book here, but I cannot help it. I devoured this series.

Lesonsky: Is there a quote you find particularly inspiring?

Thompson: It’s on my desktop computer: “The most dangerous phrase in the language is, ‘We’ve always done it this way’.” –Rear Admiral Grace Hopper



Author information

Rieva Lesonsky

Rieva Lesonsky


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