Learning from Whales
Over the past two decades, I have mostly been a seasonal visitor in the Overstrand, with a job that had me shifting between West Africa and the Western Cape. It always struck me how often small businesses would come and go between my visits. Restaurants were usually victims of seasonal tourist flows. Now that I am back permanently and being entrepreneurial, I am much more conscious of how business gets affected. I am also getting more closely acquainted with other small business owners, and learning from the lessons they share. Timing is everything in the Overstrand market. When you take the Covid factor out (hard to do, because it wreaked havoc with local small businesses), there remains a seasonal slowing down over the winter season. It is as if people have a business hibernation period where the markets take a quiet lull until the August winds blow the winter blues away and bring some spring sunshine. The southern right whales have perfected their seasonal flows. They know when to show up and make a splash. It is a good reminder that in business we should take heed of seasons and use them to our advantage. When the going is good, reap as much as you can. In the slow months, take stock of your business plans, your customer segments, and your product lines. Experiment a little, and take a few small risks. At New Life Woodwork, we started out focused on transforming pallet wood and reclaimed wood into beautiful pieces of furniture. But this winter we are spending time designing a great new line of patio furniture. We are testing styles that are affordable, but also have an upmarket option. We are building stock, and building partnerships. We are looking forward to a good season ahead.
