Local Arts, Connecting Hearts - Azerbaijani Socks
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Teresa Hamlin, Founder of Azerbaijani Socks, located in Baku, Azerbaijan.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Azerbaijani Socks honors the artistry, traditions, and culture of knitted socks; it also honors and empowers women, utilizing their skills to provide them with fairly paid, flexible employment. We employ women who live in rural areas where other employment opportunities are scarce. We love to provide handmade souvenirs for ex-pats living in Azerbaijan, as well as unique products for people who are looking online or in smaller boutiques in the USA and Europe.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Teresa Hamlin. I am from the USA but have been living in Azerbaijan for 18 years. I first came as an English teacher, but after many years I decided to start this business because I saw a need and wanted to do something more meaningful and interesting. Now I am motivated by my knitters and their stories of how Azerbaijani Socks is helping them overcome hardship and find a better future for themselves and their families.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
After six years in business, we finally have our own nice storefront in Azerbaijan; we were able to create our own website this year as well as get some orders from stores I never thought I would be able to get into.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest is leading people, which sometimes includes having to let people go or being the 'bad guy' and communicating well across languages and cultures to make sure we understand each other.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a good idea, love it, and believe in your product. (if you don't love your product, you will not be able to continue).
- Listen to all advice with your own filter. Just because someone is more successful or any other title doesn't mean that their advice and what worked for them will work for you.
- Work hard and do ALL the jobs at the beginning, but when you are ready, hire the people to help!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://azerbaijanisocks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/azerbaijanisocks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azerbaijanisocks/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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