Busi Chamboko is an aesthetician and founder of Second Skin Therapy an intimate beauty and skincare clinic in Clapham specialising in delivering: Advanced skincare treatments including Environ electrotherapy facials, skin peels, LED light therapy, Microblading, Hot and strip waxing among other things.

The Challenge

Building my business from scratch has been my biggest challenge. Prior to setting up my skin clinic, I had spent 6 years working abroad, so when I came back to London and decided to open the clinic doors, I had to build my client list from nothing.

The clinic became my sole source of income, so I was under immense pressure for it to be a success.

I don’t have staff, so, in the beginning, I worked 7 days a week, which was exhausting. Because it was a new business, it took a lot of work, time, and effort to build up my client base. I would spend 8 – 9 hours in the clinic, then go home and continue to work on the business. 

When I wasn’t providing treatments, I was spending time on the marketing aspect of the business, working on increasing my visibility and attracting more clients.

The financial pressure was constantly looming – I had to do a shop refit, furnish the clinic, purchase stock and equipment, along with staying ahead of my personal and business bills.

Navigating the Challenges

I knew that the hard work would pay off, and so I decided from the beginning that I just had to put my head down and plough through, knowing that this difficult phase would not last forever. 

I was solely responsible for the success of the business, so there was no other option than to just get on with things. 

I was at peace with all of the sacrifices that I had to make. I set myself a target and getting closer and closer to it felt like I was achieving multiple wins along the way. Seeing my business grow month on month has been incredibly rewarding.

Advice To Startups 

Be clear on your business goals and direction. 

Find your niche, what sets you apart, and stay focused.

I think it’s important to have a support network, and to surround yourself with like-minded people, so that when times get hard, and your resolve waivers, you don’t feel so alone. The support is also important for times when you need another perspective, a second opinion, and a sounding board.

Always remember that the hard times are a symptom of success, so, take a little breather to recharge when you need it, but don’t give up.