Entrepreneurs need to stick with it

Saturday 14 June 2014

Passion and tenacity are essential traits for up-and-coming entrepreneurs - according to a panel of local business personalities at a networking breakfast held during Jersey Enterprise Week.

The event, titled “Going it alone: The struggles and rewards of starting your own business”, took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel and was mediated by the editor of Business Brief, James Falla.

The panel comprised: Michelin Star chef Shaun Rankin, the CEO chief of Prosperity 24.7, Chris Clark, Kristina Le Feuvre of aMaizin! Adventure Park, the outgoing CEO of Jersey Business, Andy Cook and the Chief Executive Officer of the Genuine Jersey Products Association, John Garton.

Each provided their take on what is required to start your own business – covering the essential steps to take and mistakes to avoid – as well as commenting on the current start-up business landscape and the various support networks available in Jersey. 

Mrs Le Feuvre, said that organisations like Jersey Business were hugely advantageous for modern entrepreneurs, offering all types of business information from a single resource. However, she also stressed that it was important for those with start-up business aspirations to understand that there is no easy route.

“Having your own business is incredibly hard work, often with more frustration than elation. If you’re prepared to accept that and have the tenacity and positivity to take it forward, then it may be for you,” she said

Along with the personal attributes necessary for business success, the panel touched on several practical requirements including financing options, growth strategies, recruitment and the use of social media.

The event was the third in the Moore Stephens and Close Finance Breakfast Briefing series and a portion of the ticket sales was donated to The Prince’s Trust programmes in Jersey.