- Dr. Naph Macharia transitioned from employment to entrepreneurship and shared his journey on the 'Financially Incorrect' podcast
- Dr. Macharia utilised social media to market his skills and services, building a strong online presence that contributed to the success of his business
- Effective debt management played a crucial role in enabling Dr. Macharia to run his business without the fear of asset repossession
Transitioning from a stable job to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship is a daunting journey that requires careful planning, resilience, and strategic thinking.
Dr. Naphtali Macharia, a renowned Kenyan dental clinician, has successfully made this leap and has shared invaluable insights on the 'Financially Incorrect' podcast.
His journey from employment to entrepreneurship provides a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs. Here are the key lessons he learned along the way:
1. Know when to leave
According to Dr Macharia, leaving employment for entrepreneurship is a decision that needs to be well thought out and requires psychological and financial preparedness.
Dr Macharia made a mistake by leaving prematurely, as he was inadequately prepared. Although he eventually got back on his feet, he learned that he should have been better prepared.
2. Debt management
One of the major lessons that emerged from Dr Macharia is the importance of managing debt effectively.
To start his clinic, Dr Macharia approached a bank that gave him a loan to start his business, despite him already servicing another loan.
Dr Macharia said effective debt management has enabled him to run his business without the fear of the bank repossessing his assets. While debt can be a tool for growth, it can also become a significant burden if not handled properly.
By managing debt wisely, Dr Macharia was able to maintain financial stability, which was crucial during the early stages of his business.
3. Utilise social media
Social media played a pivotal role in Dr Macharia’s transition. He began marketing his dental skills and services while still employed, gradually building a strong online presence.
This was eventually his motivation to start his own business, as the demand for his services grew significantly.
READ: 7 factors to consider before investing in a money market fund
His early investment in social media marketing paid off significantly, providing him with a solid client base that allowed him to fully transition into entrepreneurship.
4. Having a good circle around you
Dr Macharia underscored the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive and knowledgeable network.
From family to friends, he elaborated on how all of them played a pivotal role, from his education to internship and eventually starting his own business.
His dental clinic is not a sole proprietorship, as it is a partnership between him and his best friend.
When things got tough, Dr Macharia would turn to his mother and aunt, who would constantly come through for him. His good circle of professionals also enabled him to always have people he could share ideas with and receive feedback from.
5. Training and skill addition
Continuous learning is a critical aspect of entrepreneurial success.
After starting his business, Dr Macharia has continued to invest in training and other resources the business requires to serve his clientele even better.
READ: Top 10 popular careers among Kenyan Gen Z & countries they prefer for work
6. Proper financial management
Effective financial management is the backbone of any successful business, as Dr Macharia has experienced.
This ensures you do not fall into unnecessary debt, maintain a good credit score, and spend your money wisely.