Besides being an entrepreneur, what else could you tell us about yourself?
What can I say about myself? I graduated from the Faculty of Economics of I. Javakhishvili State University. I have 16 years of experience working as an accountant, and now, along with my business, I also work as an outsourcer for several companies. I have two children and am a grandmother of two adorable little ones.
Why this business?
I have always loved to fuss in the kitchen, and I still enjoy cooking. I like traditional recipes, but at the same time I try not to lag behind the latest in cooking and confectionery. I always wanted to have my own little business, a business that would bring me pleasure. You will probably agree with me that chocolate is what brings happiness to most people. I think I made the right choice, because working with chocolate is truly a great pleasure. This is a business that allows me to develop, learn and work on my own abilities.
What is the main benefit that your product/service provides to the customer?
Today, the consumer market is rich in a variety of chocolate products, and the market for handmade chocolate is also large. Chokomia offers customers a product that is different in terms of visual and taste. A diverse selection of chocolate truffles makes it possible to satisfy people of all tastes. As for cheese chocolate truffles, this is a different and original gift that will not leave anyone indifferent.
What is the formula for business success for you?
The formula for business success is love for what you do. A willingness to learn new things, a desire to deepen your knowledge, and gain experience. And yet, I believe that the main thing is tireless work.
What is the biggest challenge that you have turned into an opportunity? What did this particular incident teach you?
The biggest challenge was a coincidence (although nothing happens by chance), it was information about an online course on chocolate production, which aroused my great interest. I took the course and realized that this was what I had to do, that I had to connect my future work with chocolate. Despite the fact that my main job took up a lot of time and energy, I did not have enough finances to start a new business, I did not know how to manage a business, I had no experience in managing social media and advertising, I still decided to try.
And I wasn't wrong! The main thing is desire, love for the work.
During the time I've been doing what I love, I've realized that you should never give up on a new challenge and a dream. The world around us works only to fulfill our desires - whatever we wish with all our heart, everything will come true.
What gives you strength and energy for your daily activities?
I get strength and energy from the feedback of my satisfied customers. I get amazing energy when their faces show boundless surprise at the mention of cheese chocolate, and I become even more convinced of the success of my work when they leave an unforgettable impression after tasting it.
The main reason why BPN Georgia?
The main reason is their professionalism. The BPN Georgia team supports the entrepreneur, shares the experience of Georgian and foreign experts. I was very impressed by the individual consultations, where we discussed issues and touched on nuances that I could not even imagine. This is the biggest positive side of this strongest team.
If BPN Georgia were a person, what would it be like?
What an interesting question… friendly, loving, warm, funny, smart, loyal, sociable. It would probably be difficult for me to list all the qualities. If BPN Georgia were a person, it would be your best friend, always ready to lend a helping hand.
Based on your experience, what advice would you give to entrepreneurs?
Business requires dedication, love of work, willingness to learn and develop. It requires knowledge of how to draw up a business plan, planning, calculating the future, and the ability to analyze.
Do you think the customer is king or you?
The old saying “the customer is always right” should be a guiding principle for any business owner. However, it is always necessary to set limits within reasonable limits. The king-consumer should know that when in my kingdom, as everywhere else, there are certain norms of behavior that must be observed.
Past, present or future?
Without the past, there would be no present. We must deepen and refine the knowledge and experience gained in the past in the present in order to achieve the future we want.
