Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Philippe Bertrand, Director of Centre d'Entrepreneuriat en Restauration de Montréal, located in Montréal, QC, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I have been working in the restaurant industry for many years. My main activity is specialized in the creation of restaurants. I help and accompany people to create their own restaurants from the idea to the opening. I make their dreams come true by giving them the right management tools. My clients are people who want to create a restaurant, a café, a fast-food restaurant, and more. They are people in transition, food lovers, potential investors, professionals, young chefs, and franchisees.
Tell us about yourself
I have 30 years of expertise in the restaurant and food industry. I have a Master's degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Bachelor's degree in law, economics, and management in restaurant takeover and creation. The idea started from an observation. At the time, I saw many restaurants going bankrupt. I decided to help people create their restaurant concepts by giving them the right tools to start a restaurant. I specialize in business plans for restaurants. The other aspect was to allow the restaurants to last in time.
I am based on the principle that when you decide to put your money into creating your future business, you must be able to help your people.
My motivation is to see the person succeed and make a living from their business. It is a great satisfaction.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My business. It's my biggest success story. No one believed in it because it was about offering a specific service in a niche market requiring specific skills.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
In my case, I would mention the success of my clients. People come to me to start their businesses. They are ready to put all their savings into succeeding. It's a pressure, but it forces me to surpass myself constantly.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The first tip is perseverance. It's not easy sometimes. But you must persevere, hold on and go to the end of your ultimate goal.
Secondly, it is important to know yourself well. It is impossible to help others if you don't know yourself well. It is your mindset that will make a difference in the success of your business.
The third tip is to believe in your skills and abilities. It is okay to doubt sometimes. Don't doubt your abilities, and don't hesitate to seek out skills and help when needed.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://cdermontreal.com/en/
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Idlzbc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cdermontreal/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cdermontreal
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nD80bl
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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