Author: Rachel Mui, BSU student
Nancy and her husband started their hair salon business when they first came to America 11 years ago. Their business is a great success and growing gradually. I was lucky to be their fist 18 customers and received a discount during their grand opening. I set up an appointment with Nancy and interviewed her by phone.
Q: Why did you choose this line of business?
A: I was a hairdresser and had my own business in China for many years. It was easier for me to continue what I was good at as an immigrant with only limited English. Also, the most important reason was the joy of seeing my customers’ satisfied faces after our services.
Q: What made you decide to start your own business vs. working for somebody else?
A: I like the flexible working schedule, plus I could spend more time with my children when they were young. Having my own business fit my lifestyle better than working for somebody else.
Q: Looking back, what was the most difficult challenge you had to face? What inspired you to keep going as you were getting the business off the ground?
A: The most difficult challenge I had was the lack of customers when I first started my business. I believed in my own profession and customers services which inspired me to keep going. Turnback rate wouldn’t be a problem once customers tried our services.
Q: What would you have done differently if you had to start over from day 1?
A: The general direction of the business was what I expected. I think I can do better on customer services if I had to start over from day 1.
Q: What is the toughest part about having a business in 2020?
A: I’ve had my business for 11 years. The business is on track because we have a stable customer base. However, the Coronavirus somehow affected my business a little bit in 2020. People are afraid to go out to a crowded area.
Q: If a customer was to choose between your business and 3 others just like it, why would you suggest they try your salon first? What makes you stand out from the others?
A: I would say the customer won’t regret it if they came into our salon. We are very professional in our industry and our prices are very competitive. The feedback on our customers’ services are positive, and we have an excellent location. Q: What is the number 1 way you currently bring in new customers?
A: The main way to increase the number of new customers is through people. Customers will let others know if they think our services are worth their time and money.
Q: Has internet technology played a big part in your growth and making your company more successful?
A: Internet technology hasn’t played a big role in my business growth, but the role seems increasing. More customers are starting to leave their feedback on Yelp and Google reviews.
Q: Do you feel that internet technology could play a bigger role in your business if you had the right tools?
A: Yes, Internet technology is a trend for promotion business. It could play a bigger role in my business if I had the right tools and know how to use it.
Q: Where do you see your business in the next 3-5 years?
A: We just expanded our business by moving into a shopping plaza. Our goal for the next 3-5 years will be continuing attract more and more stable customers. I am satisfying with the growth of our business.
Visit Phoenix Hair Salon at: 223 Quincy Ave, Quincy, MA
Contact them via phone: 617-376-0088