Interview compliments of Chantelle Rochester
With Owner Malivai Harris
1. How did the idea for your business come about?
• The guys on my block used to chill outside my house but we were always forced to travel to other shops in my area to buy the drinks. Hence, I figured it would be a great idea to open a bar right outside my house.
2. What was your key driving force to become an entrepreneur?
• I am a ‘think outside the box’ person and I was never of the belief that my temperament would allow me to conform to society’s norm. Therefore, I thought it best that I start my own business so that I do not have to worry about how I will fit into the regular work place.
3. How did you come up with the name for your company?
• The name ‘Study it’ is the two-word answer to any question which people try to interpret negatively or sarcastically.
4. How do you build a successful customer base?
• I have first identified my target market then find ways to attract them.
5. How do you market your business, and which tactics have been most successful?
• That’s my little secret. LOL!
6. What kind of culture (way of life) exists in your organization, and how did you establish it?
• The culture that exists is one of freeness. My customers are free to have fun at any level in a comfortable and safe environment.
7. What or who motivates you?
• My customers and friends.
8. How do you generate new ideas?
• Pay attention to marketing trends and patterns.
• Get ideas and feedback from my customers.
9. What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?
• As a small business owner, you are faced every day with unpredictable situations and the uncertainty of where your own decisions will take you. Certainly, my greatest fear is the unknown and not being prepared to serve my customers with the best. Greek historian and philosopher Thucydides once said, “The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out to meet it.” In a nut shell this is the way I manage my fear.
10. How do you define success?
• Being a successful entrepreneur means more than starting new ventures every other day. It means the right attitude towards a business and the determination. Obtaining regular profit and not just turning over the revenue of the business.
11. Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
• No. All businesses are not the same hence each business requires its own plan.
12. What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
• The discipline and determination I would have embarked and see it through. Also, being able to satisfy my customers and ensuring they are happy with what my business has to offer at any given time.
13. What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
• Being able to expand from its original intent and incorporate a remarkable clothing line. This has been keeping my customers on there toes as they know not what next is coming (at ‘STUDYIT” there is always something better for our customers in the making).
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