Enterprise Insight:
ENTREPRENEUR: ARE YOU READY?

I attended a cocktail party this weekend in the very hip neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn now touted as the mecca for food incubation in America. My friends and colleagues were talking about how it seems everyone wants to open their own sandwich shop, noodle bar, gluten free bakery, locally sourced gourmet market or … (fill in your passion).

It is wonderful to see, hear, meet and work with many start-ups who are jumping into the food business. A good concept can be developed, good systems can be created, but good economics must be there for a business to be profitable. The question to ask budding entrepreneurs; Are you ready to be an entrepreneur?

So what does it take to be an entrepreneur. 1- Believe in yourself; share your passion and optimism with your team. 2- Passion for your product is a must. 3- Self motivation and the ability to execute. 4- Leadership and capability to build a team around you. 5- Do not be afraid to hire smarter or more knowledgeable people than you. 6- Know what you do not know and seek the advice of experts. 7- Stay organized in your thoughts and file keeping. 8- Reach out to your guests, your vendors, your partners. Build relationships. 9- Make your relationships personal. 10- Be kind to yourself.

Happy Leading… TaraPaige Group