NC Retail Merchants Association has deemed 2016 as the “Year of the Member.” We have asked our members to fill out a questionnaire to learn more more about who they are. Below are some of the responses we have received.
YEAR OF THE MEMBER
Margaret Ward, Barrett’s Printing House, Inc.
Member since 2013
What is your favorite part of being a business owner?
My favorite part of owning a business is the constant change from day to day and being able to create my on schedule, nothing is ever static. I look forward to every day being different and presenting new challenges and opportunities. The flexibility was wonderful when my children were in school because I could participate and contribute my talents at the same time. The fact that is a family owned business and we’ve been in business for 120 years brings an added sense of pride to the job as well. I love working with people.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
I was a softball, volleyball, and chorus mom for many years. I enjoyed volunteering for school events while my girls were younger and I have volunteered my time each month to Meals on Wheels for over 15 years. Now, my husband and I are adjusting to the empty nest syndrome.
What piece of advice would you offer to a new business owner?
Educate yourself every chance you get. There are a lot free services out there to help you with your endeavor within the trade and through local community colleges. I have seen and experienced a lot of changes in my industry and am amazed what you can find on the internet these days. I do recognize the shift to the internet and how it brings everything to the masses. Things that took me years to learn and master can be found on the internet. Its scary and exciting at the same time. (I probably don’t take my own advice on this… lol.) As you know I am currently working on developing a better presence online and through Social Media.
Most of all I’d say “give great service”! Anyone can probably do what you do, search and learn just like you, do it maybe faster, cheaper… whatever the case may be, but they are not you! Ultimately you can only add the flair the pizazz that is uniquely you to your business and that is what will keep you customers coming back. When you own and work in a small business you are essentially the business!