Sometimes You Need To Partner To Grow

Stephens ran Geek Squad independently for six years, growing it to about 100 employees.

But he knew that demand for computer or other technical services would be highest if it was offered in the place where the devices are purchased.

At the time, the consumer electronics retail space was crowded, with Best Buy, Circuit City and CompUSA all fighting for market share. But Stephens was confident Best Buy would prevail since its stores were cleaner and brighter than either of its competitors.

Plus – with both Geek Squad and Best Buy based in Minneapolis – Stephens had an "in" with the company.