Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Harmony Hasbrook, Founder of Rejoy, located in Seattle, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Rejoy is a social enterprise focused on decluttering and organizing the homes of Seattle area residents and donating excess items to local non-profits. Our customers range from young professionals setting up their first homes to retired empty-nesters downsizing and streamlining their lives. All of them care about sustainability and what happens to the things they no longer use.
Tell us about yourself
After 25 years in marketing and design, I pivoted to home organizing to directly impact the lives of my neighbors and the community at large. Working in corporate, I was able to deliver on projects and make my co-workers happy, but that's nothing compared to changing someone's life by transforming their space or dropping off a vanload of housewares to a teen housing organization.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
In our first two years of business, we've doubled our revenue and delivered over 2500 cubic feet of goods to local non-profits. Without us, those items would languish and decay or end up in landfills.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The autonomy is great, but it's also hard being responsible for all of the decisions. There is no one to pass the buck to. You must have faith in yourself and be willing to own your mistakes.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, a business plan is essential, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Document the who, what, when, where, and (most important) the why of your business. Second, don't expect a salary in your first year; focus on hiring great people and paying them first. And last but not least, don't get discouraged when things get hard because they will. Remember your "why" and keep moving forward.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.rejoynow.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rejoyseattle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rejoyseattle/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rejoyseattle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rejoy-llc/
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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