I am Calijah Burton, a senior entrepreneurship major and the proud owner of Burton's Bakery. Today, I want to share the invaluable lessons I've learned on my entrepreneurial journey, particularly the impact of the LaunchLab in shaping the success of Burton's Bakery.
Throughout my studies at WVU, the LaunchLab has proven to be an indispensable resource, guiding me from the inception of my business idea to its realization. The support ranged from developing a robust business plan to honing my pitch skills in front of a live audience. Initially hesitant about the abundance of free assistance, I soon realized the immeasurable value it brought to my entrepreneurial aspirations. The LaunchLab helped me shape my business, find a target market, and refine my pitch – aspects critical to turning my delectable dream into a thriving reality.
The skills acquired at the LaunchLab have been instrumental in the growth of Burton's Bakery. One key skill that has propelled my success is effective communication. I learned to tailor my business pitch to resonate with diverse individuals, even those not initially interested in my product. By engaging in meaningful conversations with customers, I not only sold cakes but also unearthed a trove of potential ideas and customer preferences, allowing my menu to evolve dynamically. I often find myself getting lost in conversations with customers about topics far beyond cheesecake after I’ve already sold them a slice of cake and individuals who don’t buy slices still leave with a smile on their faces because we’ve had a long conversation about a variety of topics all because we initially started talking about Burton’s Bakery.
Being flexible is essential, especially in the early stages of a business. I often get asked why I bake flavors I personally dislike. My response is simple – to cater to a diverse audience. Stepping outside my comfort zone, whether in crafting unfamiliar recipes or engaging with customers, has been crucial. Embracing constructive criticism and continually pushing boundaries has allowed Burton's Bakery to flourish.
For budding entrepreneurs, my journey underscores the significance of adaptability, effective communication, and openness to diverse perspectives. Embrace the unknown, be willing to step outside your comfort zone, and use every interaction as an opportunity to learn and grow. The ability to navigate challenges with resilience and innovation is key to entrepreneurial success.
If you wish to follow Burton's Bakery's delectable journey and stay updated on my experiences, connect with us on social media:
- Instagram: burtons_bakery
- Facebook: Burtons Bakery
- TikTok: @burton.bakery
- LinkedIn: Calijah Burton
A website is also in the works, so stay tuned for more exciting updates!
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