Engaging with potential customers has been an absolute delight. Witnessing their genuine interest and curiosity about Amway products reaffirmed my belief in the exceptional quality we offer. During my product demonstrations, I highlighted the outstanding efficiency of Amway detergent, which stands 7x more concentrated than most retail brands!!

Creating a Instagram account was a game-changer. Through this platform, I can now reach a wider audience of health and wellness enthusiasts. The enthusiastic response from the Instagram community, including numerous direct messages seeking information about Amway products, has been truly encouraging. I'm excited about the future as we continue to chart our path to success.

4. Your feelings & thoughts:

Throughout Week 2, I experienced a range of emotions, from exhilaration to pride. The positive reception from potential customers and the enthusiastic response to our business meeting have heightened my enthusiasm for this entrepreneurial venture.

The unwavering support from my business partner and Mr. Clarence has been a source of motivation, and I feel more empowered to face challenges head-on.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

I am eager to continue honing my interpersonal skills, particularly in engaging with potential customers. By effectively articulating the unique advantages of Amway products and addressing customer queries with confidence, I can foster lasting connections and nurture brand loyalty.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3):

In the upcoming week, I plan to further expand my customer base through targeted marketing initiatives, including personalized email campaigns and interactive social media content. To ensure an enriching customer experience, I will deepen my product knowledge, enabling me to provide tailored recommendations and address inquiries with unwavering confidence. 

My unwavering commitment to continuous learning and dedication to the Amway business will be instrumental in propelling me towards greater heights in Week 3.

In the next step, I thoroughly inspected the preloved items to ensure they were in good condition and without any obvious blemishes. I then labeled them with the selling price and communicated with the sellers to confirm the previously provided prices.

3. Points to remember from week 2!

To be trusted: 
When it comes to dealing, trust is essential. As a seller, building trust requires clear communication, reliability, and professionalism. Being honest, transparent, and responsive is definitely a must. In the following week, when I start selling items, providing accurate product information and delivering on promises are crucial. Additionally, addressing any concerns or issues promptly and courteously will help establish trust with customers over time. Consistency in actions and customer service is key to building lasting trust.

Time Management:

As in the previous week, I must ensure that all tasks are completed on time. Since I am arranging everything myself, having a timetable is essential to avoid last-minute rush.

Adaptability:

Adapting to changes is necessary. I should adjust the prices according to the clothes' quality and condition when I receive them. If things don't turn out as planned, I need to come up with a backup plan.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

During this phase, I feel excited as it is a significant step in the trading process, and I have met people who are willing to source items for me. Compared to the previous week, where most of my efforts were focused on my Instagram, this progress is motivating.

However, checking preloved items virtually sometimes leaves me speechless. It's not as easy as physically inspecting the items, and there's a higher chance of overlooking certain aspects, which may result in needing to return the items. For instance, determining the texture and color of preloved clothes can be challenging without seeing them in person.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!
I believe that the good thing that I can practice now is to be trusted. Being trusted is not only important as a seller but also as a human. As I aspire to become a doctor in the future, being trusted is definitely a must. I will continuously practice clear communication, reliability, and professionalism. Although it may seem easy, when it comes to practice, it is not. I will try my best by answering others' questions accurately, without responding when I am not sure about the answer. I will also do my utmost to give clear instructions. There is still much for me to learn, but I believe that with my efforts, I will improve day by day.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
One of the challenges I encountered was the difficulty in checking the conditions of items from sellers who were located far away. Relying on their descriptions alone proved to be challenging, as it wasn't as effective as personally inspecting the items. To cope with this, I initially asked for photos and videos from the sellers, but over time, I found that video calls to see the condition were more convenient. However, I still prefer to check the items face to face whenever possible.

Another difficulty arose when some sellers disagreed with the prices I provided. In such cases, I would explain my pricing rationale and engage in negotiations. Thankfully, most of the time, we reached a mutual agreement at the end.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

Since I have collected the preloved items, I will now begin the process of double-checking their condition, continuously seeking out additional items, and initiating the selling process. I intend to sell these items through a car boot sale, and for those who live far away, I will utilize Instagram as my platform.

- Next week, I will control the amount of orders per day so that I can handle the workload easily. I also will continue accepting the feedback from my customers so that I can improve my business day by day.
 

2. How is your progress?
To attract customers, I decided to create a promotional poster. This allows me to promote my banana chips via social media, particularly Whatsapp. In the poster, I included the price for each size of container, the ingredients, and my contact information. Aside from that, I designed a sticker that I can stick on the container. Throughout the week, a total of 20 containers of banana chips were sold.

3. Points to remember from week 2!
• Marketing strategy is essential in this industry. To make people aware of and interested in our product, we must promote it as widely as possible. Applying to my life, if we have any thoughts or questions, we must express them. As a result, other parties will be aware of the situation and can assist in resolving any unresolved concerns.

4. Your feelings & thoughts
- I am quite happy because many people have supported my business. It was a great achievement for me as a beginner.20 containers of banana chips that were sold in one week made me excited. I supposed to increase the sales. However, I feel that I should not set higher goals for the future in order to avoid any disappointment. This is because I assumed that people would not buy my products for the second times. Nevertheless, I should remain positive and continue working as usual.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice
I could practice my communication skills with many people and learn how to instill trust in someone about something other than the product.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
Promoting my banana chips required me to be brave and confident. This is due to the fact that it required them to spend their money in order to purchase my products. I was quite shy and self-conscious. However, my family supported and motivated me to be brave and not be afraid of rejection.

7. Your plan for next week(week 3)
I planned to make banana chips as usual but using only “Pisang Nipah” because of insufficient source. Since ‘Pisang Tanduk’ is more favourable than ‘Pisang Nipah’, I planned to worked harder in selling later.

4. Your feelings and thoughts
As it is a family business, it was interesting to see how family dynamics influenced the work environment. I would get into small arguments with my siblings one minute and have the most fun the next. But importantly, I had to learn how to stay professional as it was easy not to be so with them.

At the same time, it was really nice interacting with people and introducing them to Malaysian food. They were curious about the Kuih Lapis and some of them would come back to give feedback, saying how they enjoyed their meal. We met a few other Malaysians too and they are always excited to have a piece of home abroad.

5. One good thing from what you did that you can practice
One good thing that I can practice from helping out in a food business is realizing that anything good takes time, effort and perseverance. A business doesn't get successful immediately. Just like that, I should learn to trust the process and grow, slowly but surely.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
I was concerned that Kuih Lapis wouldn't sell as much when we sold it at the stall. I was worried on whether they would be curious enough to buy something that they had not tried before. It definitely helped that we gave them testers, allowing them to know what it was. We would also give out a free piece together with orders as a way to introduce it to them.

7. Plan for Phase 3
For the next week, I plan to learn more on how to properly handle food in a business and the local food standards.

Nur Hanin Nasuha binti Shamsul

A181050

26/6/2023-2/7/2023

So far everything has gone smoothly. Week 2 fell on Raya Haji week, hence I decided early on to have a promotion in hopes to attract more customers. As I usually have twice the amount of orders on Eid days, I have also decided to only take orders on Thursday till Sunday for this week. This is because I did not want to overburden myself so I could produce quality baked goods up to my customers’ satisfaction. I spent the other days stocking up my baking materials, taking orders from customers and promoting my business as usual. Everything is going well as I also have customers repeating their orders and all feedback has been delightful. 

 

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

Early on I was a little concerned that I may not be able to get my orders done in time, especially for Eid day. I was surrounded by all this worry that something could go wrong such as an oven malfunction or I did not stock up enough ingredients but thankfully, in the end all of those were just worries. I am now glad that all of my concerns were sorted out and everything went well. I felt very accomplished to have managed them all by myself. 

One good thing I learned is to know your limits and take breaks. I knew I would be overwhelmed by orders for this week, hence I decided to limit my orders. 

On one of the days, I had an order of 10 boxes for Eid morning alone which was very challenging as 1 box takes around 1 to 1 and a half hours to make. Usually I would only limit to 5 boxes/ day as working alone is very demanding. However, with the help of time management and multiple, multiple ovens, thankfully everything went smoothly.

For week 3, I plan to follow through with the orders I have taken and update my sales report. 

 

4. Your feelings and thoughts
I feel proud that I've introduced new menus and I am eager to see if customers will enjoy these new treats. There's a sense of responsibility too, as I want to ensure that every bite is as delightful as they expect it to be.

Sometimes, doubts creep in – will they like it? Will the flavors be just right? But then I remember the joy that baking brings me, and I believe in what I've created.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!
I maintained a structured schedule for my baking tasks.  I break down each task into smaller, manageable steps, which allowed me to maximize productivity and reduce the chances of feeling overwhelmed.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
My biggest concern was to ensure consistent quality across all products while introducing new flavours. I wanted to maintain the standards my customers had come to expect, even with the addition of red velvet and vanilla mango cupcakes.

To cope with this, I recorded each measurements in detail, including all the techniques used for each step and I followed the same steps for each recipe. I also did regular taste-testing and quality checks to ensure that the new flavours met the expectations.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)
I plan to introduce an exciting concept: open-ended orders. Customers will have the option to request custom baked goods beyond the regular menu. I aim to provide a personalised experience, allowing customers to request their favourite flavours, unique combinations, or even special dietary options.

Your feelings & thoughts
Although there wasn't much difference on the numbers of orders compared to the previous week, but I was still felt overwhelmed with the orders that I've gotten. However, thanks to my mother's support I was able to pull through.

One good thing from what you did that you can practice
As important as it is to take breaks during work, it is also important to not use 'break' as an excuse to procrastinate. It may be tiring, but the outcome will eventually pay off.

Any difficulties/ concerns? How did you cope?
I was worried for Tuesday's menu which was nasi hujan panas as that would be my first time cooking it. I spent the weekend before watching cooking videos on how to perfect it and a day before the actual selling day cooking it to make sure I got the recipe and taste right. Thankfully, the customers loved it and gave good feedbacks.

Your plan for next week (Week 3)
My plan is to come up with new menus and perfecting the recipe to ensure the quality of the food 

Matrics number: A183642 

Date : 31 July 2023 - 4 August 2023

 

2. How is your progress?

On the 2nd week, I have managed to open orders twice on Tuesday and Saturday. I have gotten a lot of responses for the cinnamon rolls up to those who lived in Penang area. However I was unable to accept the order since it is too far away. On both days, I have sold 42 boxes in total. 

I believe I did a good job on the 2nd week as I am much more efficient in handling the whole process rather than the 1st week. I am also relieved to know that my business has been widespread in my area. 

 

3. Points to remember from week 2!

Creating Connections: I am not just selling cinnamon rolls; I am creating connections with my customers. Building a loyal customer base can have long-lasting benefits.

Continuous Improvement: Every week is an opportunity to learn and improve. Stay open to new ideas and keep refining my approach.

Passion and Persistence: My enthusiasm and determination have brought success in just two weeks. Keep that passion alive, and my persistence will continue to pay off.

 

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

After two weeks of selling cinnamon rolls, I'm feeling a mix of excitement and pride. It's been such a rewarding experience to see my little venture take off and become a part of the neighborhood's routine.

Initially, I was a bit anxious about how the locals would respond to my cinnamon rolls. But hearing their compliments about the flavors has truly warmed my heart. It's incredibly satisfying to know that something I've created is bringing joy to people's lives.

Overall, these two weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions, but I'm genuinely thrilled with the progress. I'm looking forward to refining my skills, experimenting with flavors, and continuing to bring a touch of sweetness to the neighborhood, one cinnamon roll at a time.

 

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

Honing my sales and communication abilities. As I interact with potential customers, I have the opportunity to practice my persuasion techniques, learn how to effectively highlight the deliciousness and uniqueness of my cinnamon rolls.  This experience has enhanced my confidence in engaging with people, understanding their preferences, and tailoring my approach to cater to their needs, which are essential skills not only in sales but also in various aspects of life and business.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

One difficulty I faced was managing the unpredictable demand, which sometimes led to overstocking or understocking. To address this, I started closely tracking sales patterns and keeping an eye on busy days to adjust my baking quantities accordingly. This allowed me to minimize waste and ensure that I always had fresh rolls available.

Lastly, gathering customer feedback played a crucial role in my journey. At times, I wasn't sure if my offerings matched their preferences, so I actively sought out their opinions and adjusted my recipes based on their suggestions. This personalized touch not only improved my product but also made my customers feel valued and heard.

In the end, these challenges taught me the importance of adaptability, effective communication, and continuous improvement in the process of selling cinnamon rolls to locals in my neighborhood.

 

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

First off, I'm going to introduce a new "Flavor of the Week" – something unique like a caramel sauce with almond dice on top. This will create anticipation and excitement among my regular customers.

To tackle the challenge of fluctuating demand, I'm going to closely analyze the sales data from the past few weeks and pinpoint the busiest days and hours. Based on this, I'll adjust my baking schedule and quantities, ensuring that I have just the right amount of rolls to meet the demand without any wastage.