When I first started my business, I had no idea that it would end up being where I am today. I had no money to pay an electrician to get the lights in my kitchen turned on, and I certainly didn’t have enough capital to pay someone to do what I could do myself (although it took me longer than it should have to realize this). If you are just starting out and don’t have money to burn, here are some ways you can save yourself some cash while still doing good work in your new business as a caterer or food truck operator.
The first step
Before you get into anything, really research what it is that you want to do. Know your market. Is there room for another caterer in your area? Do you want to start your own kitchen? Know how much it will cost and how much time it will take before you decide on your next move. Then, be patient and work hard! Good luck!
Teach yourself everything you can about the industry
I started as an apprentice, working for free for three months with one of Melbourne’s top caterers. I learnt how to set up tables, serve and pour wine, among other things – something you wouldn’t learn in hospitality school. It was just about getting my foot in there and showing them that I was willing to work hard for them. The pay wasn’t great, but it was an amazing opportunity.
Don’t give up
When you’re starting out, it can be tough. You might have an idea of what you want to do and where you want your career or company to go, but actually putting in all of that time, effort and energy—and working through any hardships that arise—takes perseverance. If you let yourself quit when times get tough, you’ll never get anywhere.
Network, network, network.
Networking is probably one of, if not THE most important aspects of growing your catering business. It’s free. It puts you in touch with other professionals in your field and teaches you valuable industry insights. It’s about knowing people that can help you expand your client base or even help you get a foot in another door. And when done correctly, it doesn’t feel like work. It feels like fun!
Prepare for your first job by volunteering
This is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, while giving back and gaining valuable contacts. If you’re looking for an extra income, it also allows you to test out your business idea with little risk. And as an added bonus, businesses are more likely to hire employees who have relevant work experience and connections—and volunteering fits both of those bills.
Do everything you can to make your first gig a success
Consider it your first big chance to show your value as an entrepreneur. When you’re starting out, you don’t have much clout. But if you prove yourself through hard work and smart decisions in that first gig, you might find yourself with more opportunities down the road.
Get referrals and recommendations from happy clients
One of your best ways to build repeat business and grow your customer base is by earning referrals and recommendations. Sure, you could put an ad in your local paper or on Craigslist, but you’ll get better results if clients are promoting you themselves. To get them talking about your business, make sure you deliver outstanding service and go above and beyond when they need help.
Set aside some time each day or week to make new contacts.
If you’re trying to start your own food-related business, you have no choice but to get out there and talk with people. Go to farmers markets, restaurant supply stores, open houses and other events where potential clients might be hanging out. When you meet new contacts who might need your services, tell them what you do and see if they’re interested in hiring you for an event or job in the future.
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