Growth & Jobs | The business of convenience can grow exponentially
Published:Monday | May 28, 2018 | 12:00 AMJodi-Ann Gilpin/Gleaner Writer
Once you are able to connect with people and maintain trust, Angelica Barrett-Medley believes the business of convenience can grow exponentially, whether it's on an individual or national level.
Barrett-Medley, who is the owner of Glad Helpers Cleaning Services, indicated that she has seen her seven-year-old business grow from having two clients to currently serving more than 400 people through washing, cleaning, house decor and even shopping.
"You grow as you go along and make the necessary steps. Our helpers don't just wash, cook and clean, they are here to lend a hand - if you want us to re-arrange your house, we do that. We customise each package depending on our clients. We also do shopping," she told The Gleaner.
"There is a need because people need the help, but they want people who are experi-enced, and they want persons who they trust in their homes. As a result, we vet all our staff. They have to present a National Insurance Scheme card, police records, food handler's permit, among other vital documents. We do not randomly select people."
ACCOMMODATING CLIMATE
Barrett-Medley said that though the struggles can be daunting for entrepreneurs, she believes the climate is much more accommodating for persons who want to venture in the field.
"I think it's changing, people are becoming much aware of entrepreneurship and how one can grow within that sector. In previous years, it's as if you were just there. Yes, they know you are starting up a business, but there was not much support," she said.
"This is where I would mention the Young Entrepreneurs Association, of which I am a member. We have assisted with making the process much easier (in getting started). So instead of going all over the place, we proposed one form which would cover everything."
The business owner added, "I want to see much more being done for entrepreneurs. The struggle is real, but you have to love what you do and want to do it, but you can have results. When I started I could only have two persons on staff, now I employ more than 200 persons."
In giving advice to young people, Barrett-Medley said, "Entrepreneurship can be a lonely street, so you have to find persons who are of like mind and who can encourage you along the way."