As part of an ongoing program Round Rock High School Fashion students have guest speakers come share their story of entrepreneurship and what they have learned along the way. Musa Ato from League of Rebels Mensware spent some time with students sharing his insights and what he has learned from years in the industry.
Ato on…
On how he got started: Two things brought me to this company- school uniforms and studying international business, economics and marketing. I grew up wearing school uniforms and I like the look of suits and jackets. I figured out how to get suits manufactured for myself to get exactly what I want. Then I began a brand to start selling them to other people.
On understanding strengths: I haven’t been to design school, and I have never cut a pattern. I approached my company from the business side- it was an expensive hobby but I understand brand equity and identity. Focus on your strengths and don’t try to learn other peoples jobs on the fly. I tried to learn alterations, but business is what I know. So, you hire where your holes are.
On building a brand: Build the brand any which way and any how. See a brand as a person, create an identity. If this were a person, what type of car would they drive, what color, what interior? Where do they eat for lunch. It helps you narrow the brand. When people come into the store it vibes with them. Quality and craftsmanship come first and over time customers will trust you in whatever you do.
On brand independence: Whatever I do personally doesn’t affect the brand, I am not the brand. I could come or go but the brand survives. Feel confident creating something and letting it run.
On brand loyalty: You want repeat customers, it’s the 80/20 rule; 20 percent of customers provide 80 percent of your business. They are easier to serve and it’s fulfilling to see people come back. Keep them happy.
On why he chose Austin: Austin wasn’t a saturated market, and it was growing. Now, if the big boys come here they have to compete with us. Look for a niche you can plug into. Your product should sell itself so look for an angle, and for whats missing in any situation.
Favorite part of creating your own business: Seeing the project come to fruition
Most complicated part of owning a business: Most complicated is dealing with people, and figuring out how to have employees and work together.
On what kids can do to get started now: Age doesn’t matter, with the internet and emails, no one can tell how old you are. You’d be surprised how much you can do. Don’t overthink things, just start. Don’t sit down and plan 5 years out, start the journey and do what it takes.
