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| Concierge is french for 'service'. The concierge business is
a booming business. A business that was once only known to prominent and first class
hotels is now moving into the corporate industries.
I was motivated to start this business while working in the corporate world.
As a single parent there are always numerous tasks for me to do. Of course most things
just kept getting put off because time would not permit. |
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I kept wishing that I could pay someone to handle some of these things
for me. Well since there was no one I decided to start my own business.
I researched the industry and found only one company that offered similar services that I
wanted to specialize in. Upon conducting my own survey, I found that many employed people
longed to have a service which would handle personal errands for them. If such a service
were provided they would not have to take time off from work, or worry about being stuck
in traffic before their errands were completed and the stores closed. The benefits of a
Corporate Concierge continued to look promising, and ideas continuously flooded my mind.
The start up costs for this business are very minimal. All I needed was a computer to
print fliers, and labels for my mailing list. I hired a "virtual office" to
create professional broshures, and had some business cards made up. Instead of spending
hundreds of dollars for a web site, a friend ecommended a company that allowed me to build
a website for free. It has worked out nicely.
The Corporate Concierge is such a success because we can do a wide variety of services.
From the business owner... to the employee... our services are always in demand. Many
people call us a "personal assistant", because we are available to assist
clients in any way they need, as long as it is legal!
Word of mouth is the best way to promote your business, so I started out by telling
family, friends, and other businesses about my venture. Another way I promoted my business
was to volunteer my services and offer them at discounted rates. Donating my services got
my foot in the door and the opportunity for people to try my services.
Starting my own business has been challenging and rewarding. I am still learning how to
manage and budget my money. However, it gives me more flexibility with my family because I
am not locked in to set hours.
The hardest obstacle that I had to over come was the fear of failing. When one is
accustomed to a regular paycheck it is sometimes hard to make the transition to the
unknown. However, once you have overcome that fear you can conquer all else that comes
your way. Being in control of your own business is a challenge and a thrill.
The one thing I can say for anyone wanting to start their own business is to find
something that you like doing and turn it into a business. If you are doing something that
you enjoy you will work harder at making it a success and you will enjoy building your
business. You won't mind the sacrifices. Whatever business you decide to pursue, be sure
to research the industry before jumping in. If it is profitable then jump in with both
feet!!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Contact information:
Angela Stevenson
email: concierge_unlimited@yahoo.com
web address: http://geocities.com/concierge_unlimited/home.html
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