Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kathleen Grey, owner of Parrotdise Perch, located in Mississauga, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We specialize in pet Parrots and provide everything necessary for their care. We consider our customers to be the best caregivers since they go out of their way to find us, and many of our customers drive over an hour to shop at our store.
Tell us about yourself
Like many Parrot owners, I wanted to learn as much as I could about these wonderful creatures. I quickly found out that so many are rehomed because a person was not aware of the commitment. About half are rehomed because of behavior problems that can be resolved. I felt I could help these Parrots by providing their caregivers with the tools to solve these problems. We offer classes on Parrot Emotions and Behaviour Modification as well as consult one on one in the store.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I personally feel rewarded when I have been able to help a customer solve a problem with their Parrot, whether it is reducing their vocalization or stopping feather destruction.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Marketing. Although many of our customers find us online, most hear about us from other Parrot owners, other stores, and veterinarians.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
For anyone starting a small business, I recommend being out front with the customers. We can learn so much by interacting with our customers, and they really appreciate dealing with the owner. If you have to hire staff, don't hesitate to let them go when you see they are not producing. Train your staff in three steps first, show them how to do a task, then do the task together then finally watch them do the task on their own.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If you are selling products, then always keep in mind that you are shopping for your customers. I sometimes see a great Parrot toy, but if it doesn't look good, no one will buy it. We have to get the product into our customers' hands before they can discover how great it is.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://parrotdiseperch.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParrotdisePerchMississauga
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parrotdiseperch/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ParrotdisePerch
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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