How I Got in Business
I was a recent graduate of the University of Technology (Utech) and working in my parents business. Worked there for a few years after graduating, but had many head to heads with my dad. I was young, full of enthusiasm and ideas, but on many occasions my dad would either turn down or ignore my ideas. I felt like I was being stifled and my potential underutilized. Frustrated by this, I decided to leave and start my own business. I needed to forge my own path. My focus at Utech was computer science so it was only natural to open a computer store. I researched Montego Bay, Lucea, Falmouth & Savanna-La-Mar. at the time Montego Bay was over saturated with Computer Stores, Lucea was a relatively small ghost town, Falmouth was still under developed, there was no thought of a cruise ship pier as exists today. Based on research from The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN), Savanna-La-Mar (Sav) was one of the fastest growing towns in Jamaica in 1999, a lot of the resorts in Negril were staffed by Sav residents, and sugar cane was also big business in this part of the Island. So Sav it was.
Having decided on a location I delved into more industry specific research. How many computer stores were in Sav? What did they offer? What was their strategy? How can I bring something new and different to the town of Sav? My team and I walked around into each store and asked questions, made mental notes; discussed the pros/cons, and service ideas, as we now had the information needed to formulate our strategy. Our concept was a One Stop Shop – document center - print, scan, copy, type, fax, etc.; internet cafe - send n receive email, browse the internet, do research, etc.; desktop publishing - business cards, flyers, etc.; computer sales, servicing, and repairs. Companies who couldn't afford a full time secretary could use us for office services. We were knowledgeable in this area, reasonable and you only pay us when you use our services. We started to scout locations until a suitable one was identified. Once this was done it was time to deal with the legal aspects such as business registration, etc. Once business registration was complete, it’s time to apply for light, water, telephone and internet; design physical layout and esthetics, call in carpenter, design logo, business cards, flyers; then hit the ground running with promotions.
At the time, no additional staff was needed other than partners. The intention was to start small and grow; we didn't have the money to start big. Matter of fact, we didn't even own a computer at the time. We borrowed 2 computers from friends to start, and once we were in a position to, paid them for it and kept the computers. We have grown from strength to strength over the years; made many mistakes, which I'm proud of; as a result of those mistakes we have been able to learn and grow.
At the time, no additional staff was needed other than partners. The intention was to start small and grow; we didn't have the money to start big. Matter of fact, we didn't even own a computer at the time. We borrowed 2 computers from friends to start, and once we were in a position to, paid them for it and kept the computers. We have grown from strength to strength over the years; made many mistakes, which I'm proud of; as a result of those mistakes we have been able to learn and grow.
Never start a business you know nothing about. If you own a restaurant and can't cook, and the chef calls in sick one morning, what do you tell the customer? Always try to be above board. Pay your taxes, always be compliant. Corporate governance is extremely important. Being socially responsible is also important. Give back. Support the community your business is in. Employ people from the community - Human Resource is your greatest asset. Hardest to manage, but give the greatest returns on investment.
Today after 15 years we are still a force to reckon with in the town of Savanna-La-Mar. We have grown to become a household name. Many students whom we have helped with SBA's are now University graduates or have started their own business. We have forged lasting partnerships with schools, JCDC, National Youth Service and other non-profit organizations. We offer work experience to students, and we sponsor a number of cultural and educational events. We have become truly entrenched in our community.
I am happy that you are on your way to unearthing your true potential. Maybe you need some more help. I would love to connect with you.
@DeanSalmon876
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