Small Business Owner Interview
What is your business called?
“Del Mariuz Contracting”
What is the nature of your business? (What goods does it produce or what services does it provide?)
“My business provides the service of renovating bathrooms and kitchens in existing homes.”
Who are you main customers (i.e. young families, seniors in the city etc)
“My main customers are anyone that needs renovations. It’s usually for people that have more money though.”
Is this your first business. (If not, what other businesses have you tried?)
“Yes. This is my first business”
Did starting this business require any special training, education or skills?
“I didn’t take any secondary school courses just a lot of on the job work at various construction sties to improve my skills.”
How long have you been in business?
“I’ve owned and operated this business for almost twelve years.”
What made you want to own a business of your own?
“There were no job requirements and I make more money. The big fact was that I don’t have a boss.”
What qualities do you think a small business owner needs to succeed?
“I think that small business owners need to carefully choose their customers so they don’t get cheated. It’s happened to me quite a few times.”
What has been the hardest thing for you in owning your business? Why?
“The hours are very long initially. My job used to keep my away from my family.”
What has been the most rewarding part of owning your business? Why?
“The most rewarding part of owning my own business has to be the stress free environment I work in. I don’t answer to anyone and I love my job.”
Did this business change your lifestyle at all?
“It forced me to go to bed earlier ‘laugh’.”
Did anything really catch you off guard that you did not foresee?
“Nope.”
Other than computers, is there any kind of technology used in your business?
“Basic construction equipment like “nail-guns”, powered saws, and that sort of thing.”
Do you use a computer for your business? If yes what do you use it for? (be specific)
“I use a computer to manage all the accounts of every customer I’ve had. My business computer is also used for keeping track of finances.”
About how many hours, on average, do you work in a week?
“At first I worked 60-70 hours easy. Now it’s usually only 40 or less.”
How many people do you employ, and what are their positions?
“None.”
What qualities do you look for in your employees?
“I wouldn’t know. Honestly and a hard working attitude I suppose.”