Mojo Barbershop’s innovative concept of a throwback “barbershop/ social club for men” provides an enjoyable option for men who want to look and feel good. We caught up with co-owner Marian Lee to discuss the shop’s success.
1. In what ways has the Pacific Edge Magazine Business Achievement Award impacted your business?
The Pacific Edge Magazine Best New Business Award has been such an honorable recognition. Many of our clients have heard about our recognition or have seen it in your magazine. We also have our award displayed in our reception area and it has become a conversation piece!
The positive response and encouragement that we received from our clients and the community has been great for business. The recognition has also had a positive effect on internal morale. It has motivated our employees and gives them a sense of pride to work for Mojo Barbershop.
2. Since receiving the award, what are some new initiatives your business is undertaking?
Since winning the 2013 Pacific Edge Magazine Best New Business award we are in the stages of developing our own mens grooming product line. We are working on branding and R&D for this line which will include products such as pomade, shaving cream, after shave, moisturizer, etc. We are planning to retail it in our shop and will also distribute it through other retailers.
We are also in the very beginning stages of opening a second location.
3. What is the best part of your job? What drives you to “do what you do”?
The best part of my job is hearing first hand from our clients that we doing a great job at exceeding their expectations. From the great reviews on YELP and the positive feedback that we hear from our clients everyday, it motivates me and the team to hustle and give 110% every day. This positive feedback is validation that we are fulfilling a need in this niche market.
It is also rewarding to see our barbers succeed. We’ve had new barbers start with us with zero clientele and within a matter of months, they have built up their clientele and are booked up all day, every day! When we opened, we started with just 3 barbers. We now have 7 barbers and 2 receptionists. To see our team grow and to see each member succeed is gratifying.
4. As a thriving small business owner, what are some factors you attribute to your success?
One main factor that I would attribute our success to is networking. Early in the planning stages of this business, I started networking with everyone that I could. I sought out a business mentor through SCORE and til this day he has been a huge source of guidance and counsel. I also networked with several people in PR who have been essential to our successful marketing and PR exposure that we have had.
We also continue to network with other businesses in our community and businesses that many have mutual clients. Our success is largely attributed to utilizing the best of the best. The best barbers, the best branding/ graphic design artist, the best PR, the best business counselors. My role is to orchestrate it all together and make it work.
5. What advice would you give to local entrepreneurs and start-up companies on maintaining and growing business?
I would suggest network, network and more networking!
Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and set up meetings with them. There are so many free resources out there for small business owners. You just have to be willing to do your homework and do the research. Seek out SCORE Hawaii for business guidance, attend a business seminar, join professional networking organizations, utilize your family, friends and even friends of friends. You have to be willing to go out of your comfort zone and initiate these important relationships.
