Power in numbers

Glamazon Shoes is an independent retailer, which has its good and not always so good bits. Good in that we’re not constrained by any corporate higher power telling us what to do, how to do it etc. Not always so good in that it can be a little isolating and overwhelming at times, and we certainly can’t compete with the big shoe businesses and chain stores out there. Recently I was invited by another footwear retailer that’s part of an association of independent footwear shops. The group meets informally once a month over dinner to discuss business, how things are going, how sales have been, any particular issues affecting them, especially in relation to mutual suppliers etc. I attended my first meeting the other night and was made to feel incredibly welcome, something you’re not quite sure you’re going to get from people that may be your competitors. The individuals were extremely warm, friendly and quite open in sharing experiences. Some of what they were saying was quite daunting, but I left with a general feeling of optimism and solidarity, which when you’re a sole operator, can be priceless.

On a personal level, I consider myself more of a ‘people person’, meaning that I often draw bursts of energy from people around me. One of the biggest challenges I face as a sole operator is to maintain the positive energy, particularly on flat days which we can all understand. This is when it becomes critical to seek out and get involved in forums, associations, networking events etc. in order to mix with others in similar situations. The support you give each other and the learnings you undertake go a long way in helping you keep the faith and give you the impetus to keep going through the tough times. Don’t get me wrong. I have an extraordinary belief and passion in the concept behind Glamazon Shoes and providing beautiful shoes in large sizes for women and girls. That doesn’t change. But the reality behind realising the dream of running a business day to day can at times get difficult and even overwhelming. These are the times when networking and sharing with others in the same boat gives you the necessary boost to continue and keep the dream alive.