From afar, she looks like an international model or actress, but this brain-and-beauty is a businesswoman. She talks loud in business. Mariam Chindo, runs a real estate business , a public relations outfit and a contracting company. Recently, she launched her all-gloss magazine at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja. The occasion, witnessed by top executives of companies, and dignitaries from all walks of life, was impressive and colourful. Speaking to CHRISTY ANYANWU in Lagos, she talked about what makes her tick in business.
Could you please give us an insight into your person and background
I grew up in Nigeria and studied Media and Communication Studies at Middlesex University. Immediately after graduation, I pursued my interest in running my own business and have been doing so ever since.
Tell us about your real estate business
The first business I started was a real estate company which I operated for close to 10 years in Dubai and two years in Nigeria. I’m proud to say that it has grown over the years and very soon, would be moving to another phase of expansion.
Why did you diversify into other businesses?
I am usually led by my passions. Apart from the fact that I invest in businesses where I see viable opportunities, all my businesses are interwoven and thrive on the benchmark of my interests. This way, I enjoy what I do and it doesn’t seem like work.
How do you define success as an entrepreneur?
For me, defining my success has been about what I have been able to create out of nothing and how far I have come. Each year, I look back and assess what I have been able to accomplish in the previous year. I continually set goals for my businesses and celebrate each milestone as a sign of where each venture is going.
What kind of clientele do you cater for?
It depends on the business you are referring to. In my PR company, we deal mainly with corporate individuals and organisations by helping them build, maintain and manage their reputation. However, Maktoub Magazine and my Interior Decoration outfit cater for a broader range of clients spread across various social and ethnic backgrounds.
Could you tell us about Maktoub magazine?
Maktoub magazine is a unique monthly business and lifestyle publication set to be one of Nigeria’s finest initiatives towards bringing on a global pedestal the rich and strong heritage of the Nigerian people. The magazine contains a rich blend of lifestyle features and articles as well as the latest news and analysis relating to banking, finance, business development and technology.
Maktoub is a brain child of The Best Strategic Public Relations Limited, owned by my humble self. The Best Strategic Public Relations Limited is a public relations development agency established with a brief to professionalize the public relations industry in Nigeria. At the launch, we are set not only to introduce the magazine to a wider audience, but to launch a charity project that would transform the lives of several underprivileged people in our society. Ten per cent of the donations at the event would be given to GI Plc, a charity organisation that sponsors individuals in dire need of financial help for serious medical conditions.
Why did you go into public relations and how has it been doing professionally?
I wanted to provide a service for both individuals and brands that can give the platform to build their business within their margin. There are millions of start-up companies with small budgets but they are unable to find the resources they need to help them build their brand. That demand has to be met; I started The Best Strategic PR to target these markets and business has been fine.
As a shrewd entrepreneur, how do you cope with male folk in your line of business?
There are always competitors in business. They could be male or female. I don’t think there is anything to worry about them and I have never felt intimidated by the male folk. I actually see them as a healthy competition and we share resources and ideas whenever we can.
What lessons has life taught you in business?
Focus. Don’t try to do too much. Entrepreneurs are always thinking of the next thing to do. It’s great, but we only have so much time and brain power to focus on the right areas.
How was growing up days like? Any memorable experience?
I grew up in a very loving and disciplined home. My parents provided everything I needed, but not to the extent of spoiling me or my siblings. They taught us to be independent and uphold good moral values. I have fond memories of times spent with my immediate family and grandparents.
What do you do to keep in shape and trendy?
I am lucky to have a naturally trim figure. So, I don’t really have to do too much to keep it this way. However, I eat right and drink much water.
How do you spend your day?
My day usually starts with planning. I re-confirm my appointments or meetings with clients if I have any and get prepared for them. In between these, I also liaise with my staff, respond to emails and make important phone calls. Most times, I work into the evening because the demands of my job require that.
How do you unwind?
When the hectic demands of the day wear me out, I relax on my couch and watch cartoons.
What is style to you?
Style, to me, means having the creativity and confidence to choose specific items of clothing/accessories from various genres to create a look that suits you. I have a personal style and I’ve always been known for it. Knowing what suits you is important. There’s a huge difference between someone who’s dressed ‘fashionably’ and then dressed ‘stylishly’.
When I’m dressed up, I feel wonderful. I think being true to yourself and not wearing things that are ‘on trend’ just to fit in, is extremely empowering.
Which is your most expensive accessory?
I don’t really attach much importance to the price of a fashion piece because that does not determine its worth to me. I don’t bother much about price tags.
What is the fashion item you cannot do without?
I don’t have any particular fashion item I am attached to. Every fashion item I consider important, I usually get the best of it.
Are you married?
No I’m not. The lucky man would soon reveal himself, but in the meantime, I’m single and mingling.
The post I ran my business in Dubai for 10 years –Mariam Chindo appeared first on The Sun News.
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