Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in home care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leslie Tam, Co-Founder of UrbanMop Inc., located in Ottawa, ON, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business, UrbanMop, is a local cleaning business based in Ottawa which was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The business was built on the widespread need for professional cleaners during a time when sanitation was immensely prioritized. We understand that professional cleaning can be a huge cost for many households, which is why we strive to provide cleaning services that are both affordable and high-quality.
Tell us about yourself
We started this business because we were privileged to know the world of professional cleaning and how much it has impacted our lives growing up. We know that professional cleaning can help many individuals, especially if they work from home, as they can enjoy a clean and clutter-free environment while still having time to spend with their loved ones.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We are extremely proud and, at the same time, recognize that our biggest accomplishment thus far as a business owner for a cleaner company has been the reach of our local company. We've had the opportunity to help expected mothers, elderly, disabled individuals, etc. And most of all, knowing that we are able to use this reach to continue to alleviate stress/inconvenience through our service.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being a business owner is a roller coaster! It comes with loads of responsibility that can be extremely time-consuming, especially when unexpected situations occur. When internal or external issues arise, the business owner must handle them or take full accountability, which is a big challenge. The financial responsibility of being a business owner is another strain, ensuring we have all the money to delegate for the all-encompassing assets properly.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have confidence in your business - What stops many people from starting a business is not having the confidence to start it. The biggest critic of what you are doing is yourself, so you need to implement your plan. Start creating a business plan, look into your competitors, etc., and see how you can set yourself apart. Doing this will go a long way in your success as a business person.
- Invest in your resources - Every business owner needs to invest at some point in their career, whether hiring staff or a third-party company, to help optimize your business. For example, you may need to hire staff to help keep your services running to keep business operations running smoothly. It is also about investing in the proper tools and ensuring that they will have the ability to complete the job to the highest satisfaction.
- Have patience and persistence for business growth - The biggest advantage in your business is taking the time and having the consistency for world-class growth. Constant effort over time will show long-term results; all it takes is patience and grit to do it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://urbanmop.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urbanmopottawa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanmopottawa/
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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