Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Hrag Kalebjian,
Business Development & Operations of Henry's House Of Coffee, located in San Francisco, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We've been roasting coffee in San Francisco since 1965, so we know a thing or two about how good coffee should taste. Our expertise is in darker roasts that have a very smooth finish and are never bitter. Our Armenian heritage is something we are very proud of. We roast and prepare Armenian coffee, ground extra fine. What makes ours special are the high-quality coffee beans that are hand-roasted six days a week.
Tell us about yourself
When I was thirteen, my father would drag me out of bed on Saturdays to help him with the store. I hated it! I wanted to watch Scooby Doo. I remember scooping pounds of coffee and packing them in clear-colored bags for our wholesale accounts.
I was never interested in the business, so I ended up working in corporate finance for almost ten years. My last stint was at AAA, where I was a Sales Operations Manager. I loved my job, but there was something missing. I realized there is something very special about a tradition that is passed down from one generation to another, so I left and made the switch in July of 2013.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Keeping the family business going. As a third-generation coffee roaster, it's harder and harder to have a small business remain relevant. I'm proud that I can carry on the tradition of coffee in my family.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The challenge is to let go of things you're used to and rely on others to maintain the same level of quality and attention that you would do. This requires a lot of training and check-ins.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- What's your story? Practice telling your story in 20 seconds or less.
- Make sure everything you do (branding, marketing, business development) always goes back to your story.
- Focus on three things in one year; otherwise, you end up getting lost. Focusing on three items helps you create quality and ensures you have a set goal.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If you're a business that has a lot of competition, like coffee, try not to get overwhelmed by what others are doing. Focus on your core competencies. If your output is genuine, customers will recognize that and continue to support you.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://henryshouseofcoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HenrysHouseOfCoffee/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/henryshouseofcoffee/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3AQrZvk
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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