INTERVIEW AN ENTREPRENEUR
PURPOSE: The purpose of this project is to expose students to local
entrepreneurs
GOAL: Students will understand what is involved in owning and operating a
business. This will include: hiring, termination, inventory, payroll, ordering,
recordkeeping, customer service, human relations, advertising, selling, and
pricing.
ACTIVITIES: Students will visit a locally owned business and interview the
entrepreneur. The business should be one in which the student has interest, and
a business similar to one that will be the subject of their own business plan.
Students will have a list of prepared questions and will be encouraged to ask
additional ones. The student will also discuss a sample cash budget, and a
calculation of how much money it takes to keep the business running. While the
business owner may not wish to discuss actual figures from their own financial
records, they may be willing to discuss ”ballpark figures” that can aid the student
with his business plan. At the conclusion of the visit, students will prepare oral
and written reports.
Business: Name ______________________________________________
Location: ____________________________________________________
Entrepreneur: ________________________________________________
Part 1. INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
1. How is this business organized? (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation )
2. How long has this establishment been in business?
3. How would you characterize yourself? (energetic, responsible, etc. )
4. What made you decide to go into business for yourself?
5. Who are your competitors?
6. How have your products/services changed over the past 5 years?
7. Do you advertise? If so, what media do you use?
8. How did you come up with the name of your business?
9. How did you decide on your location?
