Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Angela Ysseldyk, Partner at Dutchman's Gold Inc., located in Carlisle, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We produce and manufacture honey and distribute beehive ingredient supplements and skincare. We sell to grocery and health food retail banners and independents. In addition, we sell directly to consumers via our Farmgate store and website out of Carlisle, Ontario.
Tell us about yourself
We love helping people on their journey. We love bringing a smile to people's faces every time they consume one of our products. Making products that are good for people's wellness and the planet is motivating.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Deciding to bet on myself. Making the decision to step into entrepreneurship has enabled me to have more autonomy over my life and work/life integration.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Knowing how to respect and manage the excitement and fear that comes with the territory of being a business owner. Every day is different and brings new challenges and opportunities. And managing expectations is very important. Since I work with my husband, we have boundaries around when to bring work home with us and into our relationship.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you carve out time to do the most 1-3 important things that will progress your business each day. And do them first thing. Set yourself up to be proactive vs. reactive.
- Manage your network and ensure there is time set aside to stay connected with your peers and colleagues for support and advice.
- Hire people that have an entrepreneurial mindset - especially in the growth years. You need people who are flexible, positive, able to manage many tasks, and open and curious about how to advance the company forward. This is really important.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://dutchmansgold.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dutchmansgold
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dutchman-s-gold/
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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