In this episode we will meet a student who also runs a business. I hope you enjoy the interview.
Could you kindly introduce yourself?
Well, every day I discover new things about myself but here is the basis. My name is Joyce James and yes, I am
Ghanaian.
Tell us all about Wash N Trim.
Wash N Trim is a chic beauty salon located in Accra, precisely UPSA-Madina new road. We offer a wide range of services from hair care, nail care, pedicure, manicure, birthday treat, cosmetics, accessories, wig caps and offer trainings too.
What gave you the idea for the business?
Okurrrr, so what gave me the idea for the business. Well, if I am being like 100% honest, the main idea for Wash N Trim was to solve a problem. I run an event company on the side where we provide ushers and waitresses for events. I noticed a low self esteem energy with the girls I used to work with in their appearances anytime we went for training or recruiting. If you do not feel good about yourself it affects everything around you. So, I decided that anytime I wanted to take my girls out on a field day, I would have all of them, pass through the salon and have some little touches here and there to help boost their self-esteem, and that was it!
Did you tell people about your idea? How did they receive it?
Yup, I did. Not so many though, could count up to five people or even less. And the response was positive, “oh, I know you can make it work, you have got this.”
What kind of market did you have in mind for your business?
Every single walking soul, from children to adults, to oldies, everyone. I wanted everyone to enjoy this experience.
How difficult was it to start?
Lol, difficult, well mainly financially difficult. Rent was crazy, procuring the items too. You need money to make money, sigh.
What challenges do you face on a day-to-day basis?
On a day-to-day basis, well I think the challenges differ daily, like currently, we are dealing with the irregularities with our power supply. Unfortunately, when opening the salon, we did not plan for it. So, we need to raise funds to get a generator soon.
How do you market your business?
I use social media a lot! That is how I get to market Wash N Trim.
What has the response to your products been so far?
So far, it has been good, could have been better though. Covid dealt with us but hey, we for dey solid.
Do you have any employees? What does someone have to do to work with you?
Yup, I do have employees. Well, first, you need to know what you are about, and I am very keen on customer service. We provide an excellent experience. You should sometimes go out of your way to make sure you are providing a client with good experience.
How does entrepreneurship compare to a regular job?
I do not know about others, but personally, with entrepreneurship, there is never a break. I personally manage all the social media accounts, run the day-to-day affairs of the shop, procure stuff and a whole lot. I barely even have a good night’s sleep because I need to think of strategies with which we can make enough revenue to break even and keep the business running. It is mentally draining all the time. Comparing it to my previous regular 9-5, well, there was something to look forward to every month. It was steady and secured. Little stress, you just need to do what you are being paid for.
What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
I think my favorite part about being an entrepreneur is being able to set everything in motion. I do not know, but it is a feeling I enjoy. I lay the foundation and watch it play out and see how it goes. I do not know if I am best describing this feeling but that is it. 😂
What have you learnt about running a business that no one could have told you before you started?
Man, managing my own psychology. 😔😔
What can government do to help young entrepreneurs?
So, I noticed that if you run a small business and you need a loan or capital to run/start your business, the interest rates on it are relatively higher compared to you being a government worker and needing funds for something. Personally, it does not make sense to me. Running a business in this economy is too hard for the interest rates on the loans for small businesses. I think the government should consider subsidizing them.
Any advice to other entrepreneurs or would-be entrepreneurs?
Well, this is to my would-be entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurship is not as glamorized as social media will let you believe. It is a daily mental struggle. Take all the time you need before you fully commit.
Anything else you would like to share?
Well, apart from the fact that I am sexy? And I have got nice legs and would like to put them to use? Thank you all so much.😂🙈