Criticism, important feedback in Taiwo cases

[ad_1]

Olabisi Taiwo is the CEO of Redrose and Lily Aso Ebi. She talks about her business to TOFARATI IGE

What services does your company provide?

We research, fund and deliver aso ebi (uniform clothing for guests at special events) for all occasions such as weddings, birthdays, graduation ceremonies, birthdays and funerals.

Besides, we add uniformity and glamor to peoples occasions and give relief to our customers by helping them to buy, distribute and collect money for aso ebi from their guests.

As the CEO of your company, what are your responsibilities?

My responsibilities are to make sure customers are happy and get their money’s worth from the moment they contact us until we deliver what they want.

What is your field of study?

I did my primary and secondary education in Badagry, Lagos. I then studied History and Diplomatic Studies at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State. I also have a master’s degree in international law and diplomacy from the University of Lagos.

Do you have work experience in a company?

I have never had professional experience in a company. I have always been business oriented and love to serve people. Entrepreneurship has been my passion since I left school.

How long have you been in the business?

At school I used to buy and sell things. So after graduation I started buying and selling on a larger scale. I started shopping for people who had parties or any kind of occasion. I was the go-to person when people needed items on the island. However, one day a friend of mine advised me to start charging people for my services. I then decided to create a business and make a living from my passion.

What motivated you to start your own business?

I like to serve people. Some people don’t like stress and don’t have the strength to endure all of the drama that comes with shopping for a party. I then decided to relieve people of stress by shopping for them while they were sitting in the comfort of their home and office.

What are the main challenges you have encountered in managing your business?

I had different types of challenges. But, the most important thing that really struck me was when a wedding was called off. By this time, I had already made purchases and ordered lace supplies to be delivered. It was a difficult time for the company.

How to advertise your business?

I mainly advertise on social media. Also, SEO is a very strong point for our advertising because we are in a business that makes people happy. I believe that a satisfied customer could lead to three or five new jobs.

Have you ever thought about quitting and looking for a paid job?

Not for once. (My business) is something I am passionate about and could even do without getting paid.

Is your business registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission?

Yes it is. We have clients overseas because Nigerians in diaspora also like to wear their aso ebi on special occasions.

How profitable is the business?

Profit (in this industry) is neither fixed nor stable. Sometimes we would make a profit and other times we would just do the job for the sake of getting referrals.

What other skills do you have?

I can cook and decorate events.

Where do you see yourself and your business in the next five years?

I see myself as a citizen of the world, therefore I see myself and my brand serving and meeting the needs of people around the world using the internet.

How many employees do you have?

I currently have five employees, ranging from field and operational staff to dispatchers, customer service people and social media managers.

What do you think is the most influential factor in the success of your business?

My passion for service and making people happy is what keeps me going.

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in business, what would it be?

Keep living your dream. Don’t give up on your dream even if it doesn’t seem like it has come true. You should also be open to offering free service. An American writer, Napoleon Hill, once said: The man who does more than what he is paid for will soon be paid more than him. You should also listen to comments and reviews because they will make you better.

Copyright PUNCH.

All rights reserved. This material and any other digital content on this website may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without the express prior written permission of PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

[ad_2]