Starting off a business can be a tough decision for anyone. However, embarking on such a path while being a freshman in high school can be considered ambitious. Zeina Elhamadany, now a sophomore, has taken her love for crochet and has turned it into a business.
“Since my business was based on my love for my hobby, I simply focused on trying to share that with the people around me.” She started off not knowing how her business would start, but continued to persevere by pitching the idea to the people who supported her the most. After planning out what products she would create and sell, she was ready to move forward. “I waited about 4 more months before I began an official business that was open to the public, so that I could make sure my plushies were the best quality possible.“ Elhamadany planned on selling handcrafted plushies, which took time to create, but was determined to see it through. Once she had a plan in place, she began to promote her business.
Navigating a new business venture can be a daunting challenge. “As a small business owner, I’ve learned through experience that business is never steady. Demand has its ups and downs … I have a social media account to help keep everything organized. It also adds to the amount of orders I receive as people can access me more easily,” explains Elhamadany.
She goes on to explain how she balances her time between the demands of a high school student and a business owner. “Prioritization and perseverance. I have to know when to prioritize my schoolwork, and when I need to finish rush orders. Lately, I’ve been crocheting while doing my schoolwork as a last resort.” Elhamadany is sure to prioritize her school work, and focuses on completing orders after finishing her schoolwork.
Maintaining communication with her clients on when to expect their product is important to Elhamadany. Staying organized throughout the process is important to Elhamadany as well. “All of my clients access me through personal contact information, or through my official business social media account. I have a to-do list for all of my orders with due dates for each, and I send them updates on their orders weekly.”
Elhamadany offers her advice and reflects on what it has been like starting a business as a high school student. “It sounds scary at first, but starting a business is one of the best things that has ever happened to me, and I am so blessed by the benefits from it … Spread the word about your business to close family and friends … Start posting on social media to advertise to the rest of your community … Surround yourself with the people that will support you throughout the process of building your business.”
A small business can be extremely rewarding with the profit and the smiles of new customers who can reward you further by proclaiming your idea to other people! With the success of a business comes the criticism of others, but you must keep your chin up, ignore them, and continue on the positive. Find people who bring the better of your dedication and support your business, which can boost your morale and make you work harder!
