Author: Edward McElroy, BSU student
Question: Tell me about your business. Why did you choose this line of business?
Answer: My Father and I always dreamed of owning a business. I have a background in construction, working various jobs in different trades. My first job was actually at a hardware store. My father had built homes for 30 plus years as a skilled carpenter, and when this business opportunity came across, it was a no brainer.
Question: When did it start? What Year?
Answer: Three and a half years ago is when we open our doors, and as of January 2020, I officially took over as the sole owner of the business.
Question: What was it that made you want to start this business?
Answer: From a young age, I always wanted to run a business, so starting this hardware store looked like a great way to take advantage of the opportunity and freedom that comes with owning a business.
Question: What is the toughest part of having a business in 2020?
Answer: Currently, the toughest part about running my business in 2020 is the competition. Trying to compete with national chain stores is a constant reminder that being in this line of business, you need to stand out and distinguish yourself not only against larger competitors but among other local and smaller stores in the area.
Question: If a customer was to choose between your business and three others just like it, why would you suggest they at least give you a try first? What makes you stand out?
Answer: What we do here at Watson Family Hardware is to bring a friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, which in return transitions to exceptional customer service. Making sure we meet the needs of every customer that walks through that door is our number one priority.
Question: What is the number one way you currently bring in new customers?
Answer: Currently, I try to bring new customers in by using Facebook ads, as well as posting our monthly sale flyers on our social media platforms. Reaching new customers is something that I personally, as a business owner, need to work towards both short term and long term.
Question: Has internet technology (website, online ads, social media, etc.) played a big part in your growth and making your company more successful?
Answer: I realize that this on one of my weaknesses, something that I would like to pay attention to more, especially with how much of an impact it can have on a business. I have established social media pages, but collectively, I don’t believe that social media has played an enormous roll in the growth of the company.
Question: If you had to look six months to a year into the future, where would you like to see your business be?
Answer: Right now, I would like to focus on meeting the demands of the customers. I want to focus on little things in the store, like how our inventory looks on the shelves. A short-term project for the store is to do some remodeling to the interior by getting rid of a wall that will open up the store and allow for a better look and easier accessibility for the customer as well as adding a few new departments to accommodate their needs.
Visit Watson Family Hardware – True Value at: 1 Cole Pkwy, Scituate, MA
Contact them via:
Telephone: 781-544-6077
Website:www.scituateharborma.com/watson-family-hardware.html
Facebook:@watsonfamilyhardwaretruevalue
Yelp:www.yelp.com/biz/watson-family-hardware-scituate-2