Was it a month of significant business and personal growth? Yes.
Was it also one of the most challenging and hectic months I've experienced? Also yes.
Before delving into the unexpected challenge I faced this month, I would like to share some inspirational insights I received that have kept me motivated during this tough time.
"Even if the bubble tea shop fails, you've taken a huge step forward as an entrepreneur, and those learnings can only bring you closer to success."
This response came from a fellow entrepreneur when I shared that many thought I was crazy for acquiring the bubble tea shop earlier this year. He not only understood my motivation but also provided unwavering support for my decision.
His words unintentionally highlighted the importance of going through the hiring process as an owner to grow as a business leader. This realization was one of the driving factors behind my decision to move away from my boutique consultancy and venture into something new.
"If something didn't happen, it's because God has protected you from it."
Although I am not religious, I find this perspective comforting when I feel frustrated about missed opportunities and doubt my past decisions. Reflecting on past events, even those that seemed terrible at the time, they often made sense and led to positive outcomes in the end. This perspective encourages me to pause before spiraling into negativity and focus on actionable steps.
"It's disorienting when you don't know what's happening. Once we understand, it's about taking the next step."
These were my words to my husband, executive assistant, and interim operations manager when we encountered an unexpected challenge. While they were understandably upset, I had already processed similar emotions days prior.
This positioned me to outline a plan and guide them away from negativity. Some situations are beyond our control, so it's best to acknowledge them, move forward, and determine the next steps.
Education
Like every other month, educational participation has remained a consistent aspect of my work. Over the past three years, witnessing the changes and growth of the organization I have partnered with has been remarkable. Seeing familiar and new faces always serves as a reminder that there are others, like myself, striving to deliver impact to the community we are a part of.
2. Catering
As I witness their growth, they have become my motivation as well. I extend my gratitude to Rachel and the Cocoon Foundation team for entrusting my humble bubble tea shop with catering services for 80 guests at their Matchbox event. This opportunity provided a valuable learning experience for both the shop team and me.
It was particularly gratifying to observe guests showing genuine interest in our products, with some even rushing to our booth to enjoy a bubble tea. Hopefully, this event marks just the beginning of my business's B2B endeavors.
3. Shooting
During the past month, I introduced a new acquisition channel for my bubble tea shop by turning it into a shooting venue. In collaboration with the Cocoon Foundation, my shop has become the subject of a case study for their Step Program - Step 2: Design Thinking Workshop.
This experience provided a refreshing departure from my usual routine as I worked with the team to develop a script, define a problem, and create a video demonstrating how design thinking can enhance the operations of a small local business. I am excited to see how the 50+ high school students will receive the content we have produced and respond to the challenge!
4. Sponsorship
Additionally, I had the opportunity to reconnect with my former work family at EDF Dance Studio by sponsoring their annual summer showcase with a custom membership cup from my bubble tea shop. It was truly heartwarming to reunite with my former boss and coworkers and engage with them in a new capacity. As part of this sponsorship, we also developed compelling content to be shared on my bubble tea shop's Instagram.
5. Client Work
Of course, it hasn't all been about marketing my own brand. JTCM continues to strive to be the premier boutique consultancy for other SMEs, and we have just completed a successful 6-month contract with our home care client. I am delighted to announce that we will be extending our contract for another 6 months!
During the past two quarters, I have not only developed their content strategy, created always-on organic content in Cantonese and English, crafted a piece of long-form gated content, produced a series of EDMs, designed a landing page, and executed a paid social campaign. It is rewarding to witness the integration of these elements and, of course, to be entrusted by my client to implement strategic and creative tactics for their brand.
6. Unexpected licensing problem
This month has presented me with one of the most significant challenges in my entire professional career.
Upon acquiring the bubble tea shop from the previous owner, who was two of three co-founders, our agreement stipulated the completion and handover of various assets, including licenses, to finalize the deal.
From the outset, we were informed that their existing licensing agent would manage the transfer and setup of the license seamlessly, allowing the shop to continue operating without interruption. However, in mid-August, the Food and Environmental Hygiene department informed me that the application process does not permit us to operate the shop, despite the existence of an active food license. When I confronted the licensing agent in front of the department staff, he told me, 'you should have lied and say that the previous owners still worked at the shop'. This suggestion was completely unacceptable! The agent then resorted to yelling and swearing before abruptly leaving.
Subsequent discussions with the previous owners only resulted in 'I don't know' responses. In contrast to their initial claims, the food license was not held by the company of the three co-founders but was personally owned by a co-founder who had left Hong Kong. What I believe is that the critical detail was deliberately omitted, preventing the licensing agent from informing us of the need to undertake the entire licensing process anew, resulting in a 4-6 week business closure and continued fixed costs during this period.
In response, I initiated a settlement request, which the previous owners disregarded by missing the agreed response deadline and simply stating their refusal to pay any settlement three days late. As a result, I have no choice but to escalate the matter to the small claims tribunal, which is currently delayed again due to the owners' refusal to provide their mailing address.
The behavior of the previous owners, characterized by evasion and irresponsibility, is disappointing. Their consistent response of 'I don't know' is inadequate given the situation they have caused.
However, I am determined not to let these challenges impede my pursuit of success. Despite the setbacks, there are numerous plans in place for the bubble tea shop, including a series of upcoming events, with the next scheduled tentatively for September 15, 2024. I sincerely hope that those who claim concern for the preservation of small businesses in Hong Kong will show me their support. An event listing will be set up for this purpose, and I encourage everyone to attend.
Your support is invaluable - and no, I won't give up just yet!
Joyce
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