A year after starting our eBay Store, BenThai Products, we've realized a level of success and opportunity that extends well beyond our expectations. I measure this not only in growth in sales and customers, but particularly in the aspect of starting a "dream" shop and molding it into a viable, worthwhile business endeavor. Fun, challenging, rewarding, sometimes frustrating, mostly fun...all the elements of being a business owner/operator.
I started a construction company over 20 years ago, was in the steel products manufacturing sector...both fairly large companies, and now treat our eBay, Etsy and Bonanza Stores with the same level of business effort. Any and all businesses have the common elements and needs...commitment, resources, effort, cash management, planning...big or small, all business require such elements of focus. So going from wholesale manufacturing, steel production, commercial construction, real estate development...then to selling purses, jewelry, silk products, handmade by our collaborative artisans in Thailand...all the business principles are the same. So, what's different now as opposed to those many years in my other businesses?
My answer is surprising...to me anyway...you used to be able to choose to be on the internet, as a viewer, a user of this wondrous tool. Of course, I knew we were going to operate online businesses, so what's the big surprise? For me, it's the realization that you MUST be engaged as a participant of the internet, a SOCIAL NETWORKER!! As a lark, I started this blog, thought it might give me a "few hits" via SEO etc...but now I know that you MUST have a facebook page, MUST have a blog, MUST participate in forums, circles, networks...and of course, I am a TWIT who TWEETS on TWITTER.
I've found myself spending my business marketing day networking with other such as myself, finding my way with those of a younger generation that take this for granted rather than "re-learning" how you conduct your business. A challenge for sure, especially for an "old dog" such as myself, but frankly, it is a blast! And now I know, it's required for any business in this marvelous online environment.
Nothing earth shattering, but a thoughtful prose from a Sunday afternoon of reflection. And although somewhat indulgent of me, this blog post is also my responsibility...to my business, my partner (my beautiful, hardworking, focussed wife, Benjamas) and because it's what I find rewarding...personally, psychologically and financially.
Always, my greatest thanks to our wonderful customers...have fun...Happy Shopping!
