In Conversation with Mojoyin Abolarin of Jojo Shoes

Describe Jojo Shoes in a few words?

EXQUISITE SHOE DESIGN AND BRAND

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I love designing shoes and wanted to put more time into what I love to do.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

IT (database administration/software development).

We always learn the most from our mistakes, share a time with us that you made a mistake or had a challenging time in business and what you learned from it?

When I first started, I registered for the Texas show market/fair. when I got there, I realized it wasn't the market for the kind of shoes I designed. I design very stylish and high fashion shoes and no one told me that the market was for more of western shoes, and western /cowboy boots. It was very discouraging that no one stopped at my booth. I almost wanted to give up on this business and go back to work.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

I am most proud of my unique designs and the people I have met who believe in my products.

When hiring for your team, what is your go-to interview question? Please share any hiring tips you can share from your experience?

I haven't hired anyone so far, but one thing I would ask is " why do you think my shoes should be out there selling" I expect the person to have done a lot of research on how I use memory foam in my insoles for comfort or how I cater to those with wide feet or even customize shoes for those who want a unique and personal experience.

How has your business or industry been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

It's been really hard selling shoes, since no ones going out as much. It’s like selling sand in the desert. But I'm still selling and pushing it.

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

I expect to expand by reaching out to several outlets where I can sell my designs. I am also trying to introduce more casual designs like sneakers and slip ons.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?

In business, I keep pushing and marketing myself. Even though things might be rough, there is always a need for you or your product somewhere in the world. You just have to find that person who needs you. 

Personally, to stay and think positive because I believe I attract whatever flows through my mind.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?

I wish I knew that it wasn't only about designing great products but also how to market them and show them to the world.

How have you managed to stay grounded this year?

Just focusing on my initial goals and plans for my business and working towards them one goal at a time.

Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

I believe in work life balance and that's one of the reasons I decided to start my own business. I'm a mom of 3 young active boys who need me at this point. I balance work and personal life by setting out a schedule and making sure I stick to schedule especially when it comes to work. My thing has always been God first, family next, then work and that's how I've been doing it.

What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I'm really scared and terrified of dogs even though I think they are cute and look at pictures of dogs online.

What are your top 3 tips to stay productive each day?

List things to be done, stick to the list, and take breaks in between tasks.

What does being an Entreprenista mean to you?

Being an Entreprenista to me means a woman who is able to take on the world conquering tasks, solving problems, helping others build their dreams by supporting and also working towards building her world (financial, family, etc) the way she wants it to be.