Digging Into The Dynamics of Change

 

As I have always mentioned, a natural, strong-willed entrepreneur does not stop at a sign of distress or challenge. Instead, he gives himself time to create something extraordinary out of something unpleasant. Let’s face it. Not all businesses were able to survive during the last 5 months. However, some stepped up and took it as an opportunity to shine – a gleam of hope waving! Now, I am not saying they are taking advantage of the public. However, these entrepreneurs have seen something “magical” which cannot just benefit their company but as well as other people.

When ordinary people are asked about their connotation about business or entrepreneurs, most of them would reply, “money,” which is true. And some would even say that some entrepreneurs are just plainly taking advantage of people because of the poor quality of products and services provided. And I can’t blame them because I have also seen some customers suffer from them. But fortunately, even though how much pain and stress the pandemic has caused us. Some saw it as a way to turn things around. It will quickly be adopted and become part of their “new normal.”

 

Success Factors for a Sustainable and Beneficent Business

The pandemic was a blessing in disguise, I could say, for some entrepreneurs. Why? Because it became a way for them to discover something profitable and at the same time helpful. By opening up jobs, stepping into the “new normal” was a way of introducing something which we should learn to live by. It is funny how we can do these things when we may never have crossed our minds when things weren’t this way. Nevertheless, what is essential is that we see the light instead of darkness.

1. Business mindset – While some shops have considered waving the white flag because of the COVID19 issue, one millennial took it as an opportunity to get out of her comfort zone. She just recently launched a high-end nail salon for a year. But because of the pandemic, this type of business is not a one-off of the places allowed to open. Instead of giving up, she converted it into a mini supermarket that sells Japanese and Korean products. Go Grill Mart, a unique concept, is the recent eye-candy of all Japanese and Korean food.  
2. Innovation – Wearing face masks is now part of our daily lives. We were just familiar with using disposable masks. With the shortage by early April, many reusable face masks have emerged both in the streets and online. The most innovative product I have seen that is timely is when abaca fibers were then used to make these reusable masks. Abaca fibers have a higher filtration, density, and porosity rating than other materials. We’re are not just talking about how fashionable you may look while wearing them. But at the same time, purchasing these masks means supporting our local farmers, as well.
3. Partnerships – Every business needs to be stable. And with the dwindling economy, it is hard to know how long your business stays afloat. I suggest that if you genuinely believe in the business that you have but may have problems financially, seek someone who can see your vision and is willing to help you out. I have mentioned the qualities to look for in a business partner from a previous article. And you don’t have to jump right away on the first person who offers you help. Think 100x. You want to stay in business and not have a business relapse.
4. Social participation – Now we have a clearer picture of how so many Filipinos are indeed living poorly. The struggles that they have always been facing may have been tripled when the pandemic hit us. I am very thankful for some of our entrepreneurs because they have shown their love and concern by providing free food and clothes to them. I have seen some local celebrities who advertise products of small business owners through their Facebook as a way of helping them reach out to more people. These small gestures do not just strengthen our ties but also our faith in the Lord because even in our direst times, there are people who show compassion to the less fortunate and to struggling small business owners.
5. Scaling – If I ask you, which is more important to you – the profit you earn or your product’s purpose? A good business sense knows the right product to the right customer. Naturally, when you offer a saleable product or something that many people genuinely need, it would create a positive turnout. For example, a couple used to operate a carinderia outside their home. But when Enhanced Community Quarantine took effect, this no longer allowed them to accept customers. What they did was they started to sell them online and offered free delivery to customers who live nearby. They realized that they needed to step up because there has been an increase of online sellers who offer the same. Therefore, they improved the quality of their food and added a few more viands. As a result, they can sustain their family’s needs even if their carinderia is no longer operational. They have now started accepting orders for small events. Of course, it also helps to be charismatic.

Seeing in a broader perspective allows us to create dynamic ideas. Necessity is indeed the mother of invention. And slowly, we can get back to how things are. We just need to be patient and always be safe.

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You may contact Armando “Butz” Bartolome for questions and more information.

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