Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in recreational coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kelly Hajar, Owner of North London Dance Centre Inc., located in London, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Established in 1997, North London Dance Centre offers more than 85 classes per week for children and adults at our beautiful studios in London, Ontario. Our recreational and vocational classes are all taught only by qualified and professional instructors to maintain the high quality of dance instruction we are known for.
Tell us about yourself
I am the Owner and Director of North London Dance Centre and have been involved in dance for more than 30 years. Prior to owning North London Dance, I founded the Maritime Dance Performance Group, where I was the Artistic Director of the company for eleven years. I'm an avid performer and choreographer and have created more than 20 original commissioned works during my career.
As someone who grew up with dancing, and all of the benefits of that training, such as creativity, confidence, problem-solving, and perseverance, I love having the ability to pass along these same life skills to our students.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We have more than doubled student enrollment from 203 students to 430 since 2011, which enabled me to work full time on this business, and leave my other full-time career. This has given me more time with my three young children, which is irreplaceable.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Owning a business can be all-consuming and on your mind all time.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Hire excellent staff
- Treat your staff how you would want to be treated
- Build your confidence around saying 'no.'
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://northlondondancecentre.ca/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/NLondonDance
Instagram: https://instagram.com/northlondondancecentre
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NLondonDance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-london-dance-centre/
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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