Surviving the Recession: Nigeria SME and Entrepreneurs Guide - By Femi Onakanren

The current challenges facing the country and businesses operating in the country are multifaceted. We are grappling with a perfect storm of challenging issues and unfavorable developments beyond our control. These have been further exposed by our longstanding failure to strategically plan for the future by developing tailored solutions, build required and sustainable structures and properly implement enabling policies. In the end, small businesses and entrepreneurs are caught in the middle; vulnerable on business and social front with little control on determining how to effectively escape the nightmare.

As stated previously, recovery from economic recession on macro and micro levels are out of the control of the SMEs, Micro Entrepreneurs and Startups. Fundamentally, the resolution of the current economic situation is at governmental levels and dependent on a well-balanced, structured strategic approach; suitable fiscal and monetary policies, grassroots integration, enabling environment for doing businesses etc. that provide for both short term and long term scenarios.

So, while we wait, pray and hope for more favorable returns (improved revenue, FDI, FPI, better policies etc.), here are some suggestions on how businesses survive (and thrive?)


Reconcile with Reality

The truth is, our current woes were not really a surprise; any following, concerned or discerning individual would have seen it a mile away. All forecasts and trending developments indicated the inevitability (which makes it more alarming that we were caught pants-at-knees). Unfortunately our dithering and befuddling fiscal and monetary policies dug us deeper. The wise business man/ woman needs to wake up and accept the current reality; it’s going to get worse before (if even) it gets better. The economic forecasts and projections that guided your quarterly or monthly assumptions need to be reviewed and adjusted. The business needs to take to mind a conservative approach by keeping at pace with projections.


Reduce Loan Exposures

In these times, reduced liability is an important approach and should be a key watchword. As much as possible, do not look for new loans and actively seek to restructure existing ones. Reduced exposure would help your business's ability to survive the challenging situation, plan for the future and position for the right adjustments without looking over your shoulders all the time; this is a race that can't be run in halves and distractions of any kind (especially capital related) have extinction level significance. Though some may reason that what you’ll be paying back at the time of repayment would be worth less, it should be noted that what you borrowed would also have depreciating power to achieve your objectives, sinking one deeper in hole.


Use Equity

To raise money for your business you'll need to give up a part of your business. Valuation will be an issue and it would be good to quickly execute a valuation report (adjusted for forecasts and trends). Now I know that establishing valuation can be tricky and seem technical but in the simplest terms, it means how much is your business (assets, liabilities, contacts, etc.). So, to survive, you may need to spread your risks to raise the funds required to do business. You may use a transaction partnership, profit sharing model or a full on equity for cash model (amongst others). Remember, 50% of something is better than 100% of nothing.

Change Operating Business Model

You may need to take a second look at your operating business model. For ease of understanding, an operating business model is a plan for the successful operation of a business on how you deliver value to your customers and beneficiaries; it identifies sources of revenue, the intended customer base, products and expenditure (Capex and Opex). Leaner resources mean it can't be business as usual. You will have to critically review key areas such as suppliers, credit system etc. to manage your resources, customers, sales channels and risk exposures.


Adjust Expenses

Times are tight and tough decisions will have to be taken with all the fortitude of a beleaguered general. Luxuries and non-essentials would have to eliminated; some of these may be staff, change of office space, adjusted working hours etc. Non critical payments may have to be deferred and/ or re-negotiated. Merge operations and activities under single, simple channels and block waste. It must be noted however that only an honest, critical evaluation will aid in making the right decisions one which expenses to prune.


Adjust Expectations

Businesses are built on projections and expectations. However, what was projected from the beginning and the foundations/ assumptions have also changed significantly; your expectations should take a similar review. Further, this review would help you plan and make inform decisions on some of the other issues identified in this guide. This adjustment will also help you see how quickly you can realistically return to profit and how long you can survive. We cannot stress enough that while ambition is a requisite for any entrepreneur, this is a period for managed expectations.


Seek Alternatives

You may need to review all your chain of service and actively explore alternatives in every area of operation either it is your supplier chain channels or raw materials (which can be close substitutes). It is important in the spirit of full disclosure to advise your clients of the challenge and share your plan of action; their support and on-boarding is very critical. Alternatives are quite plentiful, what is needed is the desire to see them and the courage to attempt. For example, you may be struggling to meet server obligations with your longstanding preferred partner while a little work would reveal close alternatives who can give similar services without hampering your service quality.


Consolidate Existing Customers

Rather than using limited resources to obtain new customers, deploy more of your resources to keeping your existing customers happy and patronizing; this is a sure way to guarantee your continued existence as a business. You must remember that your customers are going through the same rough challenges and would be similarly looking for alternatives for any product or service. Devise non-threatening avenues to show appreciation of their committed patronage, appreciation of shared plight and incentives for continued support. A little leaven can go a long way.


Don't Spread Yourself Thin

With an acknowledgement of the current reality, the business must focus on deploying a leaner approach towards doing business as has been stressed repeatedly. There is no point stretching your resources, you just become sub-optimal on all fronts and this could prove more damaging to the state and corporate survival of your business. This strategy involves focusing on a particular product line, customer niche or suppliers. This will aid your ability to deploy your resources effectively as well as build consolidated relationship with key partners. This does not mean you leave yourself flagrantly exposed to the associated risks, it means you chose to concentrate your energies and resources at the most optimal point. The decision should be well informed and use metrics such as greatest impact on bottom-line, greatest exposure, quickest to implement etc.


Apply for Help 

There are several funding, management support and advisory opportunities and services available, don't be shy to explore all. Some are available at no cost while others may come with manageable fees. For those with fees, it is important to remember that resources are scarce; every support to manage your risks and reduce your exposure is a lifeline that should not be ignored. Further, every expense must provide measurable value; either in avoidance of sunk cost by reducing avenues for errors (proper/ professional evaluation) or by accessing support structures and assistance (capital or otherwise) when made available for free. Management is a key part of any business and asking for help should also extend to seeking mentoring or advisory team guidance. These must be carefully chosen based on professionalism, shared values, achievements and peer recognition as they may open other doors of opportunities for your business.

This is not an exhaustive list; they are just suggestions and definitely do not assume to be all knowing nor a panacea for all woes. Finally, we would like to point out that this is not a wholesale solution; the nature of business, industry/ sector and regulatory constraints would determine which of the above would be applicable to your business.

ASSETS and Bellafricana SME Export Workshop

African Sustainable SME Export Trade Solutions (ASSETS) and Bellafricana present Repositioning Nigerian SMEs As A Catalyst To Achieve Rapid, Sustainable Growth In The Non-Oil Export Sector.

Have you ever asked yourself any of these questions?

• Can SMEs become major players in the non-oil export value chain?
• Should my company get involved in export?
• How do I know if my product is export ready?
• If I don’t have a product yet what can I do?
• If I am a marketer can I get involved in export?
• Should I switch from import to export?

If you want answers to any of these questions, then you don’t want to miss a golden opportunity at the SME Export Workshop to get practical, down to earth answers to these and many other questions. You will also get the latest information about new incentives and critical issues affecting the non-oil export sector in Nigeria.


ASSETS and Bellafricana SME Export Workshop

WHERE?

At a special workshop to prepare SMEs for opportunities and challenges in the non-oil export sector at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

WHEN?

Wednesday 29th June 2016 from 9am – 5pm (Registration commences at 8.30am)

WHAT DOES IT COST?

Early bird fee: ₦12,000 (If payment is made on or before 17th of June)
Fee: ₦15,000 (After 17th of June till 27th of June, subject to availability of space)

HOW TO PAY:

Make payment to Bellafricana, Zenith Bank, Account Number 1013734944

Use your company name as reference. Once payment is made kindly scan deposit slip or proof of transfer to info@bellafricana.com, cc: smeexportsolutions@gmail.com with name and phone number.

TO REGISTER: Go to export.bellafricana.com

CONTACT NUMBER:

For sponsorship and more information, call Bukky on 08086363970

Participants will also benefit from the following:

Presentation on the NEXIM Non-oil export Stimulation Facility and other Export financing packages

Information about market access programmes including:

• ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and ECOBIZ
• USA – African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)
• European Union – EU Export Helpdesk and EPA

Assessment of Samples:

(One product per participant) and contact with officials from Government and International development agencies who will highlight the special facilities assistance and training available for Nigerian export-oriented SME producers and marketers.

Presentations that will cover:

1. The importance of market entry requirements and specifications
2. Quality Assurance/Control,
3. Certification,
4. Packaging and Labelling,
5. Costing and Pricing,
6. Non-tariff Barriers,
7. Phytosanitary Issues,
8. Use of social media and ICT as platforms to promote and export products made by Nigerian SMEs.

WORKSHOP COORDINATOR: Ms Shade Bembatoum-Young, CEO African Sustainable SME Export Trade Solutions (ASSETS)

Funding and Business Development Opportunities For SMEs in Nigeria

Does your business make impact in the following space?

• Agriculture and Agricultural Processing
• Manufacturing: Production of affordable products/services with high relevance for women, youth and (or) small holder farmers 
• ICT and Media 
• Recycling and Renewable Energy

Nextzon has been commissioned by Oxfam to implement an Oxfam funded business development service platform for SMEs in Nigeria.

Objective:

The Objective is to identify qualifying SMEs (with specific impact objectives) that can be structured and made bankable for potential funding. This will include Expanding SMEs and Early Growth Enterprises with difficulty accessing finance.

Selected SMEs will have the opportunity to be funded by an Oxfam supported impact fund (in either equity, quasi-equity or debt and as the business case may justify).

Areas of Interest:

SMEs across the listed sectors impacting women, youth and small holder farmers through job creation, improved incomes and the availability of affordable products and services of high relevance (to the target groups).

Your business could be eligible for the Oxfam Impact Investment based on the following criteria:

• Your business is a few years in operation and has started generating revenues
• You are socially committed and are willing to take on social and environmental responsibilities.
• You are committed to meeting environmental, social and corporate governance standards.
• You have a proven track record in your line of business.
• You are supported by a strong management team with a proven track record.
• Your business model is attractive and you have a clear value creation strategy.
• Your business is well positioned to benefit from market growth.
• You are looking for an investment size of between € 100,000 and € 1,000,000.

If you think your business is an ideal candidate to receive an Inclusive Impact Investment, proceed to application stage.

Follow this link - APPLY

Please have your financials and financial projections handy for this process.

Note: if you do not receive an email notification confirm the receipt of your application, contact the below:

Visit: http://www.inclusive-investments.com/

Email to: ventures@nextzon.com , nextzonventures@gmail.com , infonigeria@oxfamnovib.nl

Call/Text: 08166452418, 07017726747 or tweet: @smecapex

STOP PRESS!!! Project 2015

Hello all, Welcome to 2015.

So there's been plenty ado about making "New year's resolutions", truth is whether we make new year resolutions or not, a new year brings an opportunity for change, new decisions and a desire to achieve more and become more.

Like I always say...a Project is an activity or series of activities that have constraints such as;

- time (Dec 31st 2015)

- budget (your salary or proposed income) 

and has a specific outcome...which for many of us is to become better, change jobs, grow our businesses, make more money, get married...etc.

So today's post is just suggesting things that you might need to pay attention to when making those decisions...

1. Don't just have a resolution, turn it into a goal.

A goal is a resolution plus a plan.

A goal needs to be SMART.
Specific.
Measurable.
Achievable.
Realistic.
TimeBound

2. Consider external circumstances.

Left to you alone, you will probably achieve your goals (okay...probably not...you are your worst enemy...trust me...you are). Make plans with flexible alternatives based on scenarios that are possible no matter how remote. ( The 2015 elections mean that things will be different, make plans to maximize the opportunities and reduce the threats).

* If you are into a gift service business for example (why gift! Debo are you picking on me?), valentine is a busy period, it wont be this year. So start now, sell gift packages with delivery options and ensure delivery before February 14...election day in Nigeria (single men are excited for this...married men are trapped with their wives..)

(now he has let the cat out of the bag! Shocks!)

3. Make small changes to your plans as you go along. 

We made the model in project management called the
Plan-Do- Check- Act...model
a. Make your plans
b. Do your plans
c. Check to see if the outcomes and the proposed plans are compatible
d. Act. When you see major differences....ACT. Do not wait till 2016.

Thank you.

I will be having a Project Management Training course this month (January 2015). The course is the PMP certification training program with a twist to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses in 2015 and help position career individuals for a better year.

The beauty of PMP is that it cuts across every career and job option.

Cost: N 49,999
Dates: 24th-25th Jan
31st Jan and 1st Feb

I am offering a 10% discount on anyone who contacts me from mofolusades.blogspot.com.

Make 2015 count...its #gametime.

Goal Setting for the new year - SME Version #strikedanvil #2015

Hello Fam!

Here's my amateur instaquote new year greeting pishure.......

and this is the gen gen one, because we ain't playing at all........

It's been a while. I got caught up in Christmas sales and then year end festivities. It's like most members of my family think the world is coming to an end, the way weddings were just coming up ehn! I became a party hopper. Plus, I have gained a few kilos, did I say a few? Scratch that! This girl is in need of gyming tins... like ASAP! But seriously, before some people yab me and say which fat are you talking about; thing is, the way I ate this holiday, the fat will come upon me like a thief in the night, so I better resume exercising now, before I have to buy new clothes.

On strike the anvil tomorrow, we are joining the band wagon (yea yea, whatever) to discuss the main thing on most people's minds, well those who mean business at least. We'll be taking on Goal setting and planning for the new year. I bet this is all many of us have been hearing everywhere since the first of January, with all the prophetic declarations a la "2015, my year of this and my year of that". As if, that will be an automatic fix. You better get off your behind and work.

Like I always say though, we do not have the answers, but we will at least take a look at issues from the lay man's eye with help from some gurus too, hehe. Let's lay it all out and learn a thing or two from one another shall we.

I must confess, as I type this, I haven't taken the time to do my planning for the year, imagine *covers face*  and my excuse is, I can't function without some sanity around me. I only just cleared out my table and house today to get myself back in work mode. The whole place was like a war zone, paper everywhere (I'm like, how and where did all this paper come from). You think you don't need the housekeepers/nannies till they are off for a few days! Whew! So grateful that my nanny Mcphee came back today! Glowraaay to Jesus. Now let's eat that frog!

In other news, have you downloaded the enterprise radio app? Why not? What are you waiting for? Hep a sister and download the tin naa - ww.enterpriseradiong.com. God bless you as you do so...

Joining us on the show tomorrow are Debola Ogundeko and Adeshola Onadipe.

Debola Ogundeko is the principal consultant, Dino Strategies Limited, a tax consulting company in Lagos (If you don't have your taxes sorted, you better call him now!). He has a BSc. in Economics from the Ogun state university as well as an M.A in International Economics from the London Metropolitan University. He is a member of the Chattered institute of taxation of Nigeria (CITN).

He started his career with Bond Bank from where he left for Dixons Group, UK as a credit analyst. Up till recently he was a tax auditor with the Lagos Internal revenue service.

Adeshola Onadipe can best be described as a multi-preneur. She is an extremely passionate business woman who left her full-time career in banking to set up an events programming company known as sholskoncept. One of her many ventures! lol.

A graduate of accounting from the Lagos state University Ojo, she built a career in service management in the banking sector before her passion drove her to resign her position with FCMB and pursue her dreams.

On Goal setting, I have this group of entrepreneur friends - +Gbubemi Atimomo +Erin Magazine and Niyi Sonayon, I miss them. Last year and the year before the last, we would come together to have some sort of retreat to develop our business goals for the year and set targets together. Now everyone is scattered everywhere, it's so hard to get together.

From what we used to do, here are some of the key issues we (when I say "we", I mean it o, you and all of us in the studio) will look at tomorrow;

1. What are the elements of the goal setting? Revenue streams, product lines, bottom-line (profit), workforce count, client base, office or no?

2. In setting your objectives, should money be the starting point? For example, "I plan to hit a bottom-line of 40million naira this year"

3. How do you break the goals down into measurable and achievable steps?

4. How big can you dream? Can you set a 40billion target for example when just the year before you were at 3million? Is that foolhardy

Before we take off tomorrow though, here's my two cents.....

• Focus on what really matters to the growth and sustainability of your business. Don't get carried away with dotting the I's and crossing the T's of your plan.
• “To begin with the end in mind means to start with a clear understanding of your destination. It means to know where you’re going so that you better understand where you are now and so that the steps you take are always in the right direction.” -  +Stephen R Covey    
• Remember to use the SMART test when determining your goals...

S = Specific M = Measurable A = Achievable R = Results Orientated T = Time Framed

Cheers fam!! Don't forget to tune in tomorrow....

The Co-sharing office space trend in Nigeria #strikedanvil

On #strikedanvil this week, we are talking about one of the elements of starting small - office space! I listened to the CEO if an oil servicing company once who said when she started out with her hubby, they invested all the money they had into leasing a fancy office on Victoria Island, by the time they were done paying for the lease and maybe purchasing a table and chair, they had nothing left to actually run the business. I know a few others who have found themselves in this situation too. Many of us start out with so much zest and fire, we have our assumptions which sometimes we haven't tested, we have our start-up capital which should include the working capital for a year or two at least, but does not. Lol!! This is one of the reasons, many businesses grind to a halt or crash even before the second or third year.

The +Lean Startup model has saved many from this trend. The mantra for many these days is "have a big vision but start small". Even better now the is trend of co-shared spaces for start-ups where they can test their ideas and run a pilot of their ideas without necessarily investing so much money on acquiring office space. We have places like the +CcHub Nigeria in yaba, the Ideashub also in yaba, Venia business Hub, Enterprise Creative center on allen, +CapitalSquare Lagos in Lekki. See more here with full address and features. Someone might need it! This is the way to go for start-ups these days. 

I was in Marina recently and I visited the  +Etisalat Nigeria experience center there! Alas they have facilities for their customers too who are startups. I had a chat with the manager at the center and he'll be on the #strikedanvil show this tuesday to answer questions and share all you need to know about the center. Before the show though, I have a list of some of the features;

1. A dedicated Geek bar strictly for device related issues; 

2. A state of the art vip lounge with a well equipped library; 

3. A vip cafe; 

4. Free wifi for waiting customers; 

5. A game centre where customers can play XBOX;

6. Dedicated helpdesk for specific query types; 

7. A meeting room for 10 pple with projectors and for video conferencing.

They also give best deals on device purchase as we are in partnership with OEMs like Samsung, Apple, Nokia, Huawei, Tecno....etc With fantastic staffs to attend to all customers.

Won't you rather be an etisalat subscriber?! Hehe

Make it a date on the show this week, Tuesday, 9am - 10am, ask your questions via twitter or our dedicated phone lines - 09090000061, 09090000062!

Cheers!

Project Management for SMEs by 'Debo Ajayi - 1

We have a new contributor in the house!! Yaaay. Remember Debo, the project management guy? Yes?

No? Well, he'll be taking a series on project management for entrepreneurs starting today!

Employing Risk to Transform your business.

Okay, so I will be writing a weekly article here to help SMEs build their businesses using a proven technique to grow their business, customer base, portfolio and product line.

Off course the technique we would use is called Project Management.

Today we will focus on risk.

http://www.businessinsider.com/

Risk itself is an industry and we cannot pretend to do any justice to understanding or digging into the depths of risk, but we will look at risk and how we can use a renewed understanding to grow our businesses.

Risk is simply any event with a degree of uncertainty. Risk means that we do not know exactly if an event will occur or not.

If you look at my elementary definition, it is clear that risk is neither a good or a bad phenomenon...it is just a phenomenon

We consider risk to be a bad thing around this part of the world...but this isn't necessarily true. Our general attitude towards risk is Prayer (oh well...). We try to nullify the unknown but we can adopt a proactive method to resolve challenges that risk can induce.

Risk is not always a bad thing for businesses. It can be a good thing as it presents unique opportunities for capitalizing on uncertainties.

Whenever there is an outcome with uncertain outcomes we need to investigate weather or not there are positive possibilities or just negative ones.

If all the outcomes for an event are negative, here is what every business owner needs to do with negative risk;

1. Avoid.
2. Transfer
3. Mitigate

If the outcomes have any possibility of being positive...here are valid responses

1. Seek
2. Enhance
3. Exploit


Avoid:

When there is a possibility that an outcome will be negative, the things to do is avoid the outcome altogether. Somethings we need to pass off certain opportunities because the risk outcome isn't worth it. This is a valid response to uncertainty but needs to be assessed carefully. The decision should be made not out of fear but a conscious methodical process that will create opportunities in the future.

We would continue this series next week........

Thanks.

Project Management for SMEs - Debo Ajayi #guestpost

Hi, my name is 'Debo Ajayi and I am a Project Consultant and Strategist.

A few years ago, I discovered something called Project Management. Let me be clear, I didn't actually invent it (someone just breathed a sigh of relief) I just happened upon it. And I discovered that I was born to do this. It came easily and seamless to me.

Now over the years, I have worked in quite a few industries. From Non- governmental to Entertainment, then Management consulting, Construction, Security, training and capacity building and now Business Consulting, I have noticed that one constant factor in all my business and career endeavors is Managing Projects.

I currently run a fantastic organization called Endive Projects and one of the things we have done is create a Product for Business Owners called Project Management for SMEs. Many start-ups have great ideas. The question is how to turn these "fantastic" ideas into great products and services.....That's where Project Management comes in. It enables organizations turn strategic goals into desired outcomes. Every entrepreneur should take a Project Management course and there would be a radical transformation in businesses with astronomical growth and productivity.

Also I discovered that we have a cultural challenge that inhibits us firm achieving our goals in our environment and country (Nigeria). I observed that we are good Initiators, and even executors, but we are terribly poor at planning and closing out Projects or ideas. We are quick to blame governments for failed and abandoned projects. But the problem is cultural. How many of us know people who never finish what they start (hehe, I see guilty faces, plus me), how many of us can identify uncompleted buildings around our routes and streets. Indeed how many of us have ideas that we started on but haven't followed through on? Yeah. I guessed you also have a few (yes we do),don't be alarmed. We can learn and transform our experiences.

Truth is our nation is a reflection of its people. So we need to change certain patterns to make a huge difference in our businesses and careers.

Project Management is the Number one skill required in Management staffs in the world's fortune 500 companies and great multinationals. (Says who?)

Here's just me jumping in with this picture I found that quite sums up why women especially need project management!! See!

Source: http://www.impacttrainingservices.com

Endive Projects helps businesses execute and ensure project success...we also run Project Management training for interested parties.

If you desire to join any of our programs or need our expertise on a Project, please contact

'Debo Ajayi
debo.ajayi@endiveprojects.com
08095763213

Thank you.

Power Sector Opportunities For SMEs– Lessons from Telecommunications Deregulation by Bukky Imoyo

Introducing Bukky Imoyo, our guest blogger for today; She shares insights on how SMEs can tap into the opportunities in the power sector.

Enjoy....

About 15 years ago, the likes of MTN took the risk and paid huge, (what some referred to at that time, as overvalued) sums for GSM licenses in Nigeria. Today, the rest history. The risk paid off not just for the initial investors but many others. The hitherto dead industry took flight on a scale that was unprecedented in Nigerian history and unimaginable at the time.

Let’s just think about it, the industry has birthed all sorts of service providers to the telcos, recharge card sellers, trade partners, mobile phone sellers and repairers, bulk SMS businesses. The list is endless. It has also provided access and opportunities in other sectors like banking through mobile banking and we are yet to see the end of value added services in telecoms.

Since we are always told to learn from history, the question is “What can we copy from that experience to our newly deregulated power sector? What are the opportunities for an SME in this sector? In my opinion, here are a few that small businesses should be thinking about.

Scratch / Recharge Cards: Nigerians are very comfortable with recharge cards. It is strongly believed that Distribution Companies (DISCOs) may go this route eventually. Postpaid billing which requires meter reading and generation of bills, often leading to unpaid bills, dispute over bills, and other time and money wasting effort, will definitely be a thing of the past. Given the huge amounts sunk into and still to be sunk into the power sector in the nearest future, no operator would wait to collect his money after providing services. Though electricity credit which is currently bought at former PHCN offices and at agents and are tied to specific meters, the scratch card model will eventually hold sway because power is required on the go. Consumers must be able to top up even at 10 pm in the night. This is possible through readily available scratch cards. Scratch card printing and selling are services that can easily be outsourced to small enterprises. There won’t be tolerance for the days of no MTN scratch cards because there will be competition.

Branding, Marketing & Communications: I recently read that operators will not be focusing on Marketing/Communications in the nearest future. The thinking is that power is a necessity that we have all been deprived of for so long. Since distribution is also localised to a particular area it is thought that all consumers around the area can have only one provider. Therefore, it is believed that consumers will always be available in abundance and no marketing per se will be required. While this thinking may be true for some time, eventually, the competition will become intense and the war will be fought via marketing communications. The truth is that competition, no matter how minimal is an integral part of a deregulated market. Also, National Integrated Power Project (NIPPs) and other private independent power projects will spring up all over the landscape. So, while there will always be consumers for electricity, they will not always be shackled to one provider. In the end, we may see a scramble for consumers and the media will be a key vehicle to use to woo consumers. We all know how our advertising landscape has been taken over by the telcos.

Meter Sales & Installation: This is a lesson from the DSTV model. Recent publication of the Federal Ministry of Power released recently shows that about 25 million Nigerians still require prepaid meters. These meters are the only conduit for DISCOs to secure payment. While the DISCOs are busy with their core business, which is distribution of power, meter sales and installation will be an opportunity for SMEs. Even if capital constraints make it difficult for an SME to sell meters, installation is definitely a low cost, low entry barrier business.

Sundry Services: Like every other business, the DISCOs and Generating Companies (GENCOs) will require a myriad of services. Of course, technical services will require technical expertise and all the big boys that invested in the companies will get a large chunk of the contract for technical services, but what about the non-technical services? For instance security and surveillance of assets, whether manual or automated, will be required as well as asset auditing and revalidation especially in the remote parts of Nigeria. I understand that there is currently an urgent need for people to help clear bushes and grass in order to create access to some assets.

Link to ICT: I haven’t quite worked this out but I believe there must be a link between ICT and the Power Sector, which can lead to big businesses. Consumers of power will definitely have GSM lines. What is the connection? Electronic recharges, customer interaction via the phone, social media, etc. Also, utility providers have always been carriers of big data including customer details. Somehow, all this data can be used to create some business for power sector operators and you. Figure it out and let me know.

I believe the opportunities are endless. Let us tap into it.

OmoAlata - Kasope Badaru #Inthespiritofenterprise

Hi guys! Hope you are having a fantastic holiday. Nanny Mcphee took off on the 23rd, smack in the middle of all my hamper deliveries! I have a friend who insists keeping a nanny and one smallie is the key to sanity, I bet he'll laugh at me if he reads this.  Anyways, I am a survivor and yes, the worst is over. Bless Jesus!!

For the first time ever, I shipped the boys off day before yesterday to spend some time with my sister in law (she's a life saver). Funny thing is, I miss all their "wahala" and can't wait to pick them up, lol!! Imagine. But while they're away, let me share the very last #inthespiritofenterprise story for the year! Sounds unbelievable that the year is over already. It's been a great year and it can only get better. Yes!

Let's meet Kasope Badaru, Omoalata herself.

Enjoy.....

1. Tell us about yourself

My name is Kasope Badaru, I am an IT person by profession. I graduated in 2006 and I worked on an 8 - 5 but quit my job 2 years ago to venture into entrepreneurship.

2. Tell us about your business

Omoalata as the name implies is "the child/son of a pepper seller or a pepper seller". What our business does for now is to package blended peppers. We plan to do other products later on, all centered around pepper, soups and stews. Basically we blend tomatoes, onions, tatase and rodo into a puree or paste, boil and pack and sell to end users or supermarkets.

3. How did you get the name Omoalata and how do people receive it?

To be honest, I can't really remember exactly how the name omoalata came about. I just remember it was a name that my partner and I just had in mind for a very long time, even though it wasn't really clear what we wanted to do with the name, we just knew it was food related. Over the years, travelling, going around, we got some exposure and saw the need for some partial processing of pepper to make food easy and faster to cook, considering that most Nigerians use pepper in some form or the other during their cooking. We wanted a way to make cooking easier since we are in a world where things are faster and easier.



We get mixed reactions to the name "omoalata". Some people are wowed by it, while others ridicule the name and make fun of it. But because we are confident in it and proud of our heritage we are not moved. I am sure if we translated it in some other language for instance, people would think it cool, but because it's in our native Yoruba language that some people take the name for granted.

4. What will you say is unique about omoalata?

One of the main things about our product is that we are trying to replicate the exact thing that you do in your house. We are not trying to do a processed tomato paste, we are simply trying to cut your cooking time and make the process easier. We want to do exactly what you would have done yourself if you went to the market to buy your tomato and pepper. So because of that we decided from day one never to add any form of preservatives. We keep getting suggestions and pressure from people about preservatives e.g. "why don't you just add preservatives so you can sell in stores that have no freezers?". Especially because we are a growing business, we are expected to want to jump on these recommendations. However, we know that's not who we are nor is that what we are offering. Ours is an organic product and we intend to stay that way.

5. What are the main challenges you face and how have you overcome them.

The number one challenge is what everyone complains about in this country, POWER! Our business relies a lot on electricity supply. We grind, we boil and then we freeze. The freezing process is a lot of power and it means that we always have to have constant electricity. It also means that our grinding machines have to be run on petrol. Which is a lot more expensive than if we had constant power.

Another challenge we have is manpower. The casuals who work in the factory; ensuring they come at the right time, ensuring they follow laid down procedures. Especially for small, growing businesses like us who can't afford to employ them full-time yet, getting the right commitment is not easy. It's really been difficult but I know that as we go along though, it will get better and we will be able to balance it.

Acceptance from people is also one of the challenges we face. It's a new type of product and Nigerians are generally slow to adapt to change. So we have to do a lot of marketing and convincing, but the good thing about it is that for the people who have used it, their referrals go a long way. We are still in the process of getting all our certifications, so we have not done a lot of advertisements. I would say that we are gradually conquering that challenge of getting the word out there and convincing people to try the product. People are still stuck with the tradition of "oh I go to the market myself and I blend my own pepper mix myself", "how are you sure it is fresh, not too spicy or not spicy enough?" We know that over time we will get more and more loyal customers as they try it out.

6. How will you summarize your journey so far?

The journey so far has been interesting, tedious, frustrating, Lol!. But I am sure that is normal for any small start-up business anywhere in the world. I mean, we have the peculiarities of running a business in Nigeria, but when you remove the challenges of Infrastructure like electricity, I am sure that every other small business anywhere in the world goes through the struggles the frustrations and all that. But to be honest, it's been interesting.

There are days when you think oh I have made a mistake and there are days when you are so excited, especially when you get just one positive feedback. This makes you feel that it's all worth it because you are making someone's life easier somewhere. The feedback just gives you a lot of joy that someone somewhere needs what you're offering.

7. Given another chance, will you do this again?

Oh yes definitely, I mean without a question. I don't regret in anyway, going into this. If I were to rewind time, I would definitely go into it again!

Want to know where to find Mcpeppers? Well here's a list below, plus you can follow them on twitter, like their facebook page and follow their blog.

Rennies Supermarket
VGC Shopping Complex,
VGC Lekki Epe Expressway Ajah,
Lagos.

Rennies Supermarket
32A, Admiralty Way (near Tantalizers)
Lekki Phase 1 Lekki, Lagos

Petadis Place

0-5C, Close 7A, Opp. NICON Hotel

VGC Lekki Ajah,

Lagos.

Gravitas Supermarket

17, Emma Abimbola Cole street,

Off Fola Osibo Lekki Phase 1 Lekki,

Lagos.

Best Choice Mart

Shop K111, Road 5,

Ikota Shopping Complex,

Ajah Lagos.

Nazareth Supermarket

Babatunde street, Off Ogunlana Drive,

Surulere, Lagos.

Spendless Mart 

2, Association Avenue (right turn before magodo estate)

Magodo, Lagos.

CCD Superstores 

116, Ogudu-Ojota Road (Near GTBank)

Ogudu, Lagos

Royalmart Limited

Carlton-Gate Estate

Chevron drive, Lagos

Royalmart Limited

Crown Estate Shopping Mall,

Crown Estate, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

Egole Shopping Mall 

http://www.egoleshopping.com/

Cheers guys! Their other details are below, do the needful....

http://www.omoalata.com/
http://omoalata.wordpress.com/
https://www.facebook.com/OmoAlata
https://twitter.com/omoalata

+234 (0) 802 8736 502, 01-8544436

Ninekay Stitches - Nkemdilim Adeniran-Adedokun #inthespiritofenterprise

So we met Madam Tootsy, now let's meet Ninekay sticthes.

Are you preggies, listen up.....

Enjoy.....

Tell us about yourself

I am Nkemdilim Adeniran-Adedokun. I am by the grace of God the Founder and Creative Director of Ninekay Stitches, a Lagos based fashion designing concern with a lot of emphasis on the need of pregnant mothers and their newborns. Before I started this business in 2010, I was in the banking industry for six years during which I worked towards setting up a structure for what is my dream. I resigned in 2010 and went straight into this business. 

I gained a degree in Mathematics Education from the Delta State University Abraka and a Masters in Educational Psychology from the University of Lagos, Akoka. I have also done a few courses in Fashion Designing, Fashion Management and Entreprenurship home and abroad. I am an Alumnus of the Enterprise Development Centre of the Pan African University and a Goldman Sachs Scholar. I am currently on a one year Fellowship with Vital Voices VVGrow program to support my goals as an entrepreneur and leader of a small and growing business.I am married and God has blessed us with children

Tell us about your business

At Ninekay Stitches, We specialise in the design and manufacture of maternity clothing as well as the complementary accessories such as pre-packed hospital bags and nursing covers for expecting and nursing mothers respectively. We produce custom fitted maternity wear for special occasions (made to order) and ready to wear clothing( office and casual maternity clothing ) .

Our pre-packed hospital bags have been carefully packed for mom and baby, containing basically all the items an expectant mom would need for delivery. All packed in a bag suitable for travel even after delivery. We have our made in Nigeria nursing cover,suitable for our weather. I am an advocate of exclusive breast feeding and with our nursing cover you have no excuse. Lol. Our products are readily available and can be delivered to your door step.We also offer other services such as maternity photography, personal shopper and other tailored services our clients might need.It's our ultimate goal to make our target customers stylish ,comfortable and free of stress before and after delivery.

How did you get into this line of business

It was the choice I made out of a couple of other things that I thought I would like to be as a child. I always knew that I would be working for myself at some point and so when I started getting the exhaustion vibes from Banking, I began to consider which of those things I would love to do. 

One of the things I thought about growing up was Wedding Planning and then Fashion. At the end of the day, I chose fashion designing. I thought of the need to do something really different and then the experience that I had getting affordable and comfortable clothing during pregnancy inspired me into starting a maternity line, which we have continued to grow since 2010

What inspired you

I pray to and trust God a lot to give me directions about what to do and so I would say that this relationship with God led me into the actualization of this particular dream that I am living. I also noticed that each time I was pregnant as a bank staff, I needed to rely on clothes that came from outside the shores of Nigeria to feel comfortable, I felt this was totally unacceptable and thought that, God helping us, we could make a difference. It is the same reason why we have introduced the accessories, just to make life easier for professional ladies who do not have all the time to go shopping by themselves.

What are the main challenges you face and how have you overcome them

I will share one or two of those with you. A major challenge is that fact that the business environment in Nigeria is so unfriendly. Apart from the demands of setting up your business, you have to deal with so many other issues that should be the responsibility of government. For instance, you need electricity, you need water and all that. Running after these on your own increases your overheads.

Funding is also one major challenge that one has faced. There are no long term financing options with reasonable interests in this country so you have to sort it out yourself. Another challenge is the quality of workmanship. Many of our tailors do not just have the right work ethic and so we struggle with that. However time is teaching us deal with that and God’s wisdom and favour is helping out on the two other fronts.

How will you summarise your journey so far

It has been a learning curve in which God has really been there for us. We see the future as very bright and promising.

Given another chance, will you do this again

I most definitely will do this again. We are here to fulfil a purpose and I am very happy with the way that God has continued to deal with us and help us, it is a venture in which I have found a lot of joy and satisfaction and so there is even no debate.

You know what to do, contact;

8 Sura Mogaji Street,off coker road,Ilupeju,Lagos
08023211428,08063180647
ninekaymaternity@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/ninekaymaternity
Twitter:@NinekayPreggie
www.ninekaymaternity.com.ng

Tootsy Interiors and more - Oluwafunbi Fatore #inthespiritofenterprise

Hello fam! Again today I have two entrepreneurs to showcase, both ladies are "onise owos" crafts women in simple english. They turn fabric into useful products. We'll start with the interior designer cum events planner.

Let her introduce herself and share her story - straight from the horses' mouth!

Enjoy.....

Tell us about yourself

My name is Oluwafunbi Tokunbo Fatore. I am an Insurer by day, interior decorator and events manager by night.

I am happily married with 2 adorable children. My personality is that of a quiet and private person but I am a fun loving person, enjoy shopping a lot and I am a go-getter.

I am the chief responsibility officer of Tootsy Interiors and more services.

Tell us about your business

Tootsy Interiors and more services is an interior decorating and events management outfit. We have been in existence for quite a while now. For our interior decoration arm, we make fitted bedspreads, duvets, throws, furnishings and curtains to various customers’ specifications especially using color preferences.

Our expertise falls in the expanse of rendering consultancy services for clients in assisting to organize their events, manage and coordinate them.


How did you get into this line of business

It all started when a certain wealthy aunt was having a birthday party and we all couldn’t think of something really nice to give her that she doesn’t already have (You for call Trezorlandia naa). It was a great task ahead of us, but later on that day in my room, it just occurred to me that we could give her a bedspread. Not just an ordinary one but a customized bedspread, different from what she could be used to.

Then, we thought of a pattern, and went off to the market, picked a nice fabric, got laces, ribbons and elastic, and then got a tailor to get the exact design we had in mind. On the d-day, we wrapped it beautifully and presented it. Unfortunately, we forgot to put our name on the wrapper.

A week later, when my mum saw her, she asked if she liked the bedspread, and she was like ‘wow’ she liked it, and even laid it on her bed immediately she opened it, but couldn’t find the name of the giver. She asked to know where we bought it from and could bet it cost quite a lot, but proudly my mum made her realize we made it specially for her. She then requested for another one, but that this time, she was willing to pay for it.

Subsequently, for the next set of functions we have had, we made and gave out different sets of bedspreads, and the responses we got were always the same. One day, God just gave me this idea, that we could actually make money out of this concept and that was how we started the interior decoration business.

For the events management and consultancy arm of the outfit, it has always been there right from youth. You see, my mum is a master planner, she has always had her hands full; she was either planning for someone’s engagement, or wedding or birthday or graduation just name it; that was when I picked up the interest. I guess the saying an apple never falls far from the tree is true.

After school, some of my close friends and I decided to form an events company, and I went for training and certification in event management. We planned a couple of events before we all went our separate ways.

Later on naturally, when it was time for my sister’s introduction, I took it as an opportunity to start off. So I was the event planner for the ceremony. I also coordinated my own wedding, which saved me cost and gave me more experience which I used in planning my sisters’ wedding.

What inspires you

My inspiration comes from what I hear, what I can see, my past works, and my intuitions.

When my clients appreciate what we do for them, I am inspired to do more.

What are the main challenges you have faced and how have you overcome them

Unfortunately in the past, we have had clients who could not pay for our services on the onset of the job and still refused to balance off afterwards, this has led to unbalanced books and a lot of debt which has affected our stock and purchase orders. Due to this, we have made decisions to only give credit to those who have been faithful or credit worthy.

Another challenge we faced was delivering by hand through public transport, this brought about a lot of stress until we were able to purchase a utility vehicle for this purpose.

We also faced the challenge of creating awareness for our products and services, but we are currently looking for ways to position ourselves in better ways through mediums like; print media advertising , though we did a couple of that, but we had to stop because it was not bringing in the much expected clients.

Funding to expand is also a challenge. We intend to have our own fabric factory where we can make our own designs and give our clients the opportunity to come in and choose what they want for their homes or offices.

How do you balance your business with your day job

It’s a passion, so after my routine work, when I get home I work sometimes till late to get some things done. When I get urgent orders, I just pass it on to my partner and things get moving, in which of course decisions are coordinated.

Also; I attend to my family needs, and do some work before finally retiring for the day. I also work on the weekends, as they are my main free days and I ensure things are moving on as expected and properly coordinated.

How will you summarise your journey so far

Hmmm, surprisingly tasking because I thought it would be easier at first; but I find it enjoyable as nothing is more fulfilling than going after your passion.

Given another chance, will you do this again

Over and over and over again.

You know you need to change those sheets! Contact Tootsy Interiors;

Call - 08026589268 , 08099000854 

Add - 7B01F026

FB - Tootsy Interiors

Sora Tulip - Hilda Shangotola #inthespiritofenterprise

Market women can lie ehn!! It takes all the patience in the world to deal with them and keep your sanity. The hamper season is here and I am trying to dot my Is and cross my Ts. I haven't started importing these things myself yet because my current volume will not justify the headache and expense - Have you ever tried to deal with our customs or agents here?! Whew, I know a few sour stories. Naa men!

Anyway, so I go to this supplier, identify the bag I need and negotiate a price with her, then I go back to raise the money because when I asked, madam do you have up to 100, she goes aah, o po! O wa ni store. Isokay! I return with the money expecting to pick up my bags in batches, alas! Madam could not even gather 10. What da hell. These things frustrate me. This is why at yesterday's GEW event, I had to disagree with a facilitator who said we should never say no to our customers! Sometimes it is better to say no I don't have or I can't do it than string your customer along only to dash their hopes in the end. It's just plain wrong. Period.

Enough with my ranting. Its #inthespiritofenterprise day!! Whoop whoop! The entrepreneur I am showcasing today has her day job still. I am happy to share this because it'll bring another perspective to entrepreneurship. There is no rigid way or approach to business, while some take the plunge and swim immediately (or sink too), some joggle the ball for as long they need to. Our circumstances differ and we should respect that.

Hilda is a fresh London returnee (i just had to throw that in, and don't ask me why, I don't know, okay). During my chat with her, I was like fresher and she said "you can take the girl out of Naija, but you can't take Naija out of the girl" hahaha. Apparently, she is still very in touch with her base. I know many returnees who had to spend a whole year debriefing and adjusting! I can't blame them. Hilda on the other hand has hit the ground running.

Let's meet her shall we;

Tell us about yourself

My name is Hilda Shangotola and I'm 26 years old. I have a degree in Information Technology from Greenwich London College and I moved back to Nigeria in January 2013 (see what I mean! Less than a year).

What is Sora Tulip about

My business is focused on fruit displays. Fruit displays add color and glamour to an event plus its an edible and a healthy option for guests. Clients can also order fruit displays for loved ones, perhaps to say "I love you","Thank you" and "Congratulations" (That'll be so cute!! or marry me maybe). Fruit displays include fruit bouquet, fruit table, watermelon carving,chocolate covered strawberries, fruit kebabs and the list goes on.

What inspired you to go into this

The name represents my inspiration for the business. The S and O are my late father's initials, while the R and A are my late sister's initials. Tulip is a flower that comes in variety of colors just like fruits!

I am also inspired by the need to stay healthy. We eat too much artificial and processed food (canned etc) and these kind of food have been known to be a contributing factor to cancer and other illnesses due to chemicals used as preservatives. We can never eat too much fruits and vegetables. Infact we should binge on them more often (hmm, wahala dey o).

How has the journey been so far

The journey has been good, just baby steps for now and I have had lots of positive responses and enquiries about what I do and the business has a lot of potential. One or two people have even shown interest in investing in the business.

How do you balance Sora Tulip with your Job

My job comes first, once my work day ends, I resume Sora Tulip. My weekends are also dedicated to the business.

What are the challenges you face

The main challenge is electricity. The use of refrigerators is vital in this line of business and since we live in a country where we have no stable light, it becomes a problem. But I have alternatives on how to get things going regardless.

Where do you see the business in the future

My vision for the business is for it to grow rapidly and become a household name as the to go place for healthy fruit displays and be part of people's memories for many years to come.

Tell me how you can look at this and not give Hild a ring! Quit binging on all those things that make you have to hit the gym desperately, call Sora Tulip;

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/soratulip

Twitter - @soratulip

email - soratulip@gmail.com

BBpin - 7B63e616

The Land Is Green - Kehinde Olagbenjo(co-founder) #inthespiritofenterprise

Our entrepreneur today is more like a "Multi-preneur". You'll understand why I call him this when you read his interview. Kehinde is an octopus. Lol. He also has a lot of experience working with entrepreneurs and so I took the liberty of picking his brain to get some tips for us! So get your notepad and pen and take notes! Hehe.

Enjoy.....

http://www.lifewithoutpants.com/ - Another cool site for entrepreneurs and I love this picture!

Tell us about yourself

I am kehinde Olagbenjo co- founder The land is green limited. Associate consultant SME Business Platform and the CEO of 3m Global Resources Limited, an IT and media services firm set up to offer IT and Media services to businesses and individuals with the goal of helping them increase their customer base and sales through cost effective Bulk SMS messaging (www.smsmak.com), Website Design and development ,e-Commerce business www.alaba-intl.com and (www.madeinnaija.com.ng)

We also train SMEs (small, medium enterprise) and We have organised several seminars that have changed businesses positively and published over 20,000 business bulletins.

As a writer I have co-authored the best selling Book -The Land is green for Entrepreneurs. And finally we run a weekly radio program for SMEs (SME Business Platform) on inspiration 92.3Fm every wednesday by 3.30pm.

Last year I won 2 awards by Nigerian Entrepreneurship Recognition Awards As the most outstanding website designer of the year for alabaonline www.alaba-intl.com) and 2012 S.D.E.A (Success Digest Enterprise Award) young entrepreneur of the year.

How did you get into business?

I have been nurturing the dream of owning a business since when I was young. My mother ran a couple of businesses and I also I sold one or two things when I was young and when I got into school to study mass communication I fell in love with a course,  Entrepreneurship development program. Today I am on my own and I have been helping people to run their businesses also.

How did you finance your businesses?

Apart from having my own businesses I am a multi-talented person, I play and direct music productions and from this I was able to raise about N60k for my first book. In 2008 and I raised another N150k through my savings as well as a loan from a friend to register my first business name and start my sms business in 2010

Starting a business is not expensive if you have the right knowledge and relationship.

Having worked with a lot of entrepreneurs, what would you say is their greatest challenge doing business in Nigeria?

From my experience over the years as an SME consultant I have come to understand that money is not the reason many have not launched their business idea, but the lack of determination and skill.
For you to succeed in life you have to start with what you have not with what you don't have. To get anywhere in life, you have to start from somewhere or else you will get to nowhere.

There is always something you can start with in life. The issue with SMEs is that we tend to focus on what we don't have and neglect what we have.

There are many free things around you that you can use to start your business but the question is, how have you been able to identify what you have? Can you use what you have to the advantage of your business? People are afraid to invest in new business ideas so there is a level you have to push your business to before you can begin to attract investors.

Another thing is, lack of quality information and wrong mindset. The way an entrepreneur thinks is different from the way an employee thinks. It will be impossible for you to become an entrepreneur with your employee mindset. You have to think like an entrepreneur. Being a successful banker, manager does not guarantee you that you will succeed as an entrepreneur because most employee think about salary increment, security, strike, public holiday, thank God is Friday and you can’t control a successful business with such mentality.

You have to start thinking as an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs think about ideas, risk, opportunity, freedom, expansion and so on. For you to succeed as an entrepreneur you need to get information on entrepreneurship. 

What will advise would you give to anyone looking to start a business

They need the following;

1. Business idea- and you must understand that there is difference between business idea and business opportunity. It is not every business idea that will lead to business opportunity.
For you to call your business idea a business opportunity you must ask yourself the following questions

A. Will my business idea solve a problem for people?

B. Are people desperate or willing to have my business idea or is my business idea relevant to their needs?

C. Is there a market for my business idea or people willing to buy my solution?

D. Do my target audience have the resources to pay for my business idea?
You need to answer these questions correctly to know if your business idea can be translated into business opportunity.

2. Develop a business plan for your business idea. Organise it in a way that it will be attractive to investors. Nobody will invest in you without a business plan.

3. Start with what you have. Before you will convince people to invest in you they want to see that you have put in something yourself. Use free resources around to promote your business.

4. Develop strong relationship. I have achieved many things in life and business due to quality relationships. There are lot of things you will get for free or at a reduced price if you build strong relationships.

As an entrepreneur you must not only discover, recognise or perceive business ideas, it goes beyond that. As an entrepreneur you are a leader and you must be able to manage what I called six Ms of management in order to run a successful business.

1.Man - (e.g staff, customers, partners etc)
People are key to the success of your business and you must learn how to manage people if you must succeed in life. Even if you have few resources and you know how to manage people you will succeed

2.Machine - depending on your line of business as an entrepreneur you must learn how to manage your equipment very well for you business success.

3.Money- capital for investment. As an entrepreneur you must learn how to manage your fund very well. Lack of money management is one major reason many entrepreneurs fail.

4.Market- this refers to your potential customers, your target audience, your niche market. Your product/service is not for everybody, identify your market and draw a plan on how to get to them.

5.Management –leadership- no business will grow beyond the owner. Show me your leader and I can predict the future of your business. When you grow as a leader your business will grow as well.

6.Method – your style of leadership and your method of running your business.

Kehinde John Olagbenjo
@KOlagbenjo @smebizplatform
www.smebusinessplatformng.com
www.thelandisgreen.com