Community
Are we an Entrepreneurship hub? Words Tim Johnson
R
ecently I’ve been thinking about Artisanal Entrepreneurs and why they seem to be choosing the Midlands to get started. So, what do I mean by an artisanal entrepreneur? Whilst it most certainly includes the baker, the butcher and the candlestick maker, a 21st
Century artisan also includes a digital designer or software developer, an online retailer, a manufacturer of a small but bespoke line of items, a consultant with a niche speciality and so on. Dare I say that even a highly skilled and specialised real estate practitioner fits into this category? Either way, it is increasingly clear that the future will see a resurgence of artisans as an economic force. Just think about the last time you genuinely promoted or waxed lyrical about an off the shelf, mass-produced product or cookiecutter, impersonal professional service? It is this innate need for us to be heard, recognised or to make a difference that provides artisans with the opportunity to succeed. Of course, the key is to be authentic, build meaningful personal relationships, understand your customers’ needs intimately, have a unique story or motivation, and connect. So why is the Midlands becoming a hot spot for many kinds of businesses and start-ups? In my view, a lot of it has got to do with the fact that entrepreneurs tend to be drawn to particular types of communities and locations, of which the Midlands happens to be a prime example. The first thing they look for is a place to set down roots. Whether you are setting up a consultancy or e-commerce enterprise that allows you to work from anywhere, or you’re trying to fulfil a particular local need that requires you to be present and well networked, the fact remains that if you can work in a place where you and your family can be happy, it makes the choice that much more simple.
We, therefore, find a mix of experienced and new entrepreneurs shifting their attention to our area because it is undoubtedly one of the most liveable destinations in the country. Another factor is that artisanal entrepreneurs look for a strong sense of community. In historically smaller, more close-knit towns, it is often easier to build relationships, share ideas, and establish an identity for you and your business. In the Midlands, whilst a portion of the population has been here for generations, the majority of the area is fairly new. It means that along with the deeply ingrained sense of community and a desire to protect our small-town values, it is this shared sense of starting fresh or looking to escape the rat race, which galvanises people. The community therefore celebrates and supports new businesses and entrepreneurs that are looking to add value and contribute towards a growing community. There has never been a more challenging yet exciting time to start a business. We certainly need more people contributing to the economy and creating employment, and we’ve got an environment as good as any in the world to make it happen.
It is increasingly clear that the future will see a resurgence of artisans as an economic force
TIM is a frustrated golfer, semi-fit mountain biker, excited Notties resident, pretty experienced marketing and real estate expert, and the MD of Local Real Estate. www.localrealestate.co.za
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