The People In Your Neighborhood: Remy Richards of Just A Deal

Good morning my QuickBooks Community friends, and how are you? Today I wanted to introduce you to our new series called "The People In Your Neighborhood". This series will be centered on interviewing local and international small businesses and sharing their business journey.

I would like you to join me in this adventure as we travel over to the beautiful island of Antigua and Barbuda. Do you have your passport ready? Let's go!

We will be interviewing the lovely Remy Richards, a friend, and a recent entrepreneur, as she discusses her journey.

Just a little background about her business, it is located in the heart of the island, which is St. John's, Antigua. The name of her company is Just A Deal, which began in March 2020. The type of business she operates in is strictly electronics but has goals to expand. You can view her business page on Facebook called Just A Deal 268. Here is what she had to say:

What would you like for people to know about your business?
We offer quality phones at affordable prices.

What gave you the idea or inspiration to start this business? 
A need for income. After graduation, it was difficult finding a job during the pandemic, therefore inspiring me to start this business. 

What has been the biggest surprise/challenge of business ownership so far, and how did you overcome it?
The inconsistency of sales was very surprising for me. I thought I would get a phone sold each day or very often, at least, but some weeks you don't get any phone sales. However, on certain weekends, I would sell like four to six phones in a day, which makes up for the other days. The overhead cost was more than what I anticipated when it comes to paying bills and maintaining the store. It is so high for a start-up business.

For challenges, I would say getting the business register, competition, sourcing goods, and importing to Antigua. Also, I had insecurities that customers wouldn't think that I'm offering high-quality products (since prices are relatively low) and losing credibility. To overcome this, I stay honest with customers and have a steady flow of open communication. Also, having resources for them to fix their phone if there is an issue.

Do you have a certain daily routine that sets you up for success? If yes, what is it?
Monitor social media every day to watch interactions, so I know what type of content to post, when people most likely see it, and how they react to it.

How do you acquire or bring in new customers?
Social media interactions and paying for Facebook ads to advertise, and using radio and newspaper ads.

How do you balance additional responsibilities and hobbies outside of work?
Strong timeline and work time. I operate my business from 8 am-5 pm, after 5 pm I cut all deliveries. Then, after 6 pm, I stop all interactions with customers. 

Where do you go when you need inspiration for something new?
To other electronic stores online such as Apple, Best Buy, and observe what new phones are coming out. Also, see what their audience is liking and ways to incorporate into mine, such as advertising style for upcoming holidays.

If you could go back in time, what's the one thing you would tell yourself about starting your business?
Just start and don't wait or be afraid to launch.

What is one of the biggest lessons you've learned as a business owner?
Don't give up, even though it's difficult at times. 

And as she rightfully said, don't give up, even though it can be challenging. I encourage you to do the same. Feel free to share your business journey as well or notify me if you would like to be interviewed. Until then, continue to be safe and be well, my Community comrades.