Running a business can be challenging, especially in the early stages and in a developing country such as Nigeria, and I can attest to this having run Pezu Smith Consulting for three years. One of the biggest lessons I have learnt is that taking the initial step is the toughest, especially when you have to leave a comfortable job (like I did) to start from scratch. However, once you take the leap, you have to be determined to succeed and do whatever it takes to make your business thrive as long as such steps are legal and ethical.
Another important lesson I've learned is the power of consistency. Even as an introvert, I realised the importance of showing up consistently on social media and other platforms. It has helped me to gain more recognition, get invited to speak at local and international conferences, publish books, and earn the trust of clients. Therefore, it is crucial to focus not only on developing great skills but also on building character and demonstrating integrity.
Expertise is also important in running a business, and I have had the opportunity to work with great brands both in Nigeria and beyond because of my expertise. However, hard work, dedication, creativity, doggedness, and prudence have been my watchwords in staying ahead in the game.
Having a structure and automating systems are also critical in running a business to avoid getting overwhelmed. As Pezu Smith Consulting grows, we plan to start getting paid staff while continuing to work on making our brand reputable.
Other lessons a business owner should know include:
- Understanding your target audience: You need to know your target audience and their needs to provide the right products or services that will satisfy them.
- Keeping your finances in check: It is important to keep a proper record of your finances and track your expenses to avoid running into debt. Separate your personal finances form the company's finances and learn to wrok with budgets.
- Networking: Building a strong network of business connections is important as it can help you to gain more clients and grow your business.
- Adapting to change: The business environment is constantly changing, and it is important to be adaptable to new trends, technologies, and customer preferences.
- Learning from mistakes: Mistakes will happen, but it is important to learn from them and make improvements to avoid repeating the same errors in the future.
Overall, running a business is not easy, but with determination, hard work, and the right mindset, success is achievable.
If you're looking for a reliable consulting firm that specialises in administration and management, as well as education, Pezu Smith Consulting is here for you! Our team is dedicated to helping your organisation grow and achieve its goals. We are willing to travel to any city to provide our top-notch services.
Our training topics and sessions cover a wide range of areas, including on boarding house management, administration, front desk, performance management, customer service, record keeping, ethics, and much more. We have a wealth of experience in these areas and are ready to share our knowledge and expertise with you.
So, if you're looking to take your organisation to the next level, reach out to us at pezusmithconsulting@gmail.com and copy info@nancyekpezu.com or WhatsApp us at +23408035880367. Our team of dedicated staff will be delighted to work with you and help you achieve your goals. Don't hesitate to contact us today!
Visit our website www.nancyekpezu.com to see what we do.