IN HER SHOES

Businesswomen featured in our Tatler 10 online column give Christian Barlow their best tips for budding entrepreneurs

KAYLA WONG FOUNDER OF BASICS FOR BASICS

I would say take your time and don’t rush into things. There is so much to learn and entrepreneurs are constantly learning, and businesses are always works in progress, so I think it’s important to really absorb as much as you can while you’re in the early stages of launching. Kayla wears Cling boots by Stuart Weitzman

NATALIE CHAN FOUNDER OF OWN ACADEMY

First, think value-creation before you think money. Second, nothing is impossible, so don’t let what you don’t have hold you back. Lastly, a business is only as good as the people behind it, so surround yourself with people who will drive your business forward. A great team of people can be a business’s best asset. Natalie wears Alljack boots by Stuart Weitzman

MAY CHOW FOUNDER OF LITTLE BAO, SECOND DRAFT AND HAPPY PARADISE

Hong Kong is part of the global economy now, so the most successful entrepreneurs think about their business 24/7. Be willing to be married to your business. May wears Coverstory sneakers by Stuart Weitzman

CHRISTY LIANG FOUNDER OF LACE ATELIER

Building a business is really about compartmentalising, executing and problem-solving quickly. Don’t waste time. Build lasting friendships in your industry. Christy wears Curvia pumps by Stuart Weitzman

PEARL SHEK FOUNDER OF APINARA

I can’t stress enough the importance of surrounding yourself with competent, loyal and trustworthy colleagues whose skills and strengths compensate for your own weaknesses. Pearl wears black Nudist heels by Stuart Weitzman

VICTORIA TANG-OWEN FOUNDER OF THIRTY30 CREATIVE

Pick your partners carefully. It’s important to have a wide range of skills in any business, so try to work with people or hire talent that offers something you can’t bring to the table. Victoria wears Camila heels by Stuart Weitzman

CYNTHIA MAK FOUNDER OF CYNTHIA & XIAO

Be patient, positive and work hard. Always have some kind of plan and things will slowly take you in the right direction. Cynthia wears Mocpearl loafers by Stuart Weitzman

KELLY LO FOUNDER OF KELLY LO DESIGN

Hold true to your values, beliefs and vision but keep a level head. Don’t let your own ego interfere with your work and/or other opportunities. Others will eventually see your worth. I’ve also found that self-reflection and analysing the pros and cons of previous work and relationships always makes for a smoother journey ahead. Kelly wears white Décor slip-on sneakers by Stuart Weitzman

BETTY NG FOUNDER OF COLLECTIVE

Set aside fear, never hesitate to enquire and take a lot of

calculated risks. Betty wears Reserve boots by Stuart Weitzman

STEPHNIE SHEK FOUNDER OF EIGHTYEIGHT

My advice to any would-be entrepreneur is to do what you love and to always treat people the way you want to be treated. Stephnie wears Pave Nudist heels by Stuart Weitzman