Some people think that being an entrepreneur is easy because you get to be your own boss and make your own schedule. The entrepreneurial journey takes persistence, hardwork, determination and patience. Esther Adjoa Paintsiwah Biney is my name and I am the CEO of @Salad_Style. I was born in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana. I am a graduate of University of Cape Coast with a degree in Bachelor of Arts (French). As an entrepreneur, I felt the pressure to conform every day. To avoid talking about the hardships of running a business and only show the successes, never the failures. I would say my entrepreneurial journey hasn’t been easy but God has been on my side the entire process. I do sometimes evaluate decisions and weaknesses. Knowing that there is room for improvement. It all started when my mother who runs a sandwich business included a few packs of salad I made to sell. The feedback was encouraging, meaning few individuals who purchased my gourmet salad were convinced that this was my space and I should start a company. Initially, I started with salad; did only ten packs a day. As days, weeks, months went by I increased the quantity. I created a page on Instagram to reach more audiences or my targeted market. I posted my content on my Instagram, Whatsapp, Snapchat, Facebook. In fact I made use of my social media accounts. I am now a strong believer re: power of social media!
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
My passion. My heart and mind was sold, so I invested so much time and effort. As a woman entrepreneur this really is a once in a lifetime experience that required me to act decisively and quickly.
What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?
Being consistent has also helped me a lot
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits?
How did you handle it? What would you do differently in hindsight?
I am blessed and fortunate to have amazing support from my family, especially my mum who always supported me from the very first moment; and encouraged me to push harder. I am eternally grateful for her support. I also have support from friends, their words of encouragement and patronage keeps me going re: not to give up. Let me add this, you would always find people who will support what you're doing, those who won't support you entirely. Don't let such situations hinder you from achieving your goals just keep going and push harder.
What advice would you give to an upcoming entrepreneur locally and internationally?
Entrepreneurship is not easy, it’s difficult but achievable. Be consistent; consistent hard work leads to success. Believe in yourself, believe you can and trust the process. Be patient and enjoy the journey. It's not going to be an easy task, it won't happen in one day. Don't give up.
