June 11th 2024.
When Karla Spencer-George attended her first Omega Psi Phi National Convention, she was a newcomer in the world of vendors. As she interacted with more experienced vendors, she quickly realized how much she could learn from them. However, when she took out her Square credit card reader to process transactions on her Android phone, she caught the attention of everyone around her. They were impressed by her efficiency and speed in completing transactions using the device.
Karla's journey as a business owner began in February 2010 when she left her 12-year career as an electrical engineer at Lockheed Martin to start Liberation Clothing & Gifts, LLC. Her business focuses on promoting Black history and culture through various merchandise such as T-shirts, documentaries, books, calendars, and paintings. While most of her sales are made online, Karla also participates in events organized by Black sororities and fraternities, Black History Month fairs, science fairs, Juneteenth celebrations, and natural hair symposiums.
When it came to accepting credit card payments at these events, Karla found that using Square was more convenient and cost-effective compared to traditional credit card processing machines. On average, credit card payments accounted for 35% to 65% of her total sales at events. She was pleasantly surprised to discover that the Square device only cost $10 and she could even redeem that money back after setting up her account. Additionally, there were no recurring monthly fees to worry about. Karla was also impressed by the device's plug-and-play feature, which made it easy to use.
As someone with a background in computer science, Karla appreciated the fact that Square allowed her to ring up repeat customers without having to re-enter their information every time. She also valued the paperless aspect of the transactions, seeing it as a bonus for both her and the environment.
After several years of experience as a vendor, Karla has some valuable tips to share for those who want to make the most out of their sales at events. Her first tip is to complete advanced on-site testing before the event. She emphasizes the importance of making sure that the credit card payment processor works without fail. Even if the event is in a remote location, Karla recommends going to the site in advance to do a test Square transaction. If that's not possible, it's a good idea to call your internet service provider to ensure coverage in that area. She also suggests considering purchasing secure internet from the venue for merchant transactions.
Karla's second tip is to avoid relying on a single point of failure. In other words, have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. She personally uses two mobile devices with the Square software, a Droid phone, and an iPad. She also brings a wireless hotspot to use with the iPad, so the Droid phone's battery doesn't drain quickly. And as a last resort, she always has her laptop with her to use the traditional merchant account if all else fails.
Another important tip from Karla is to make sure all your devices are fully charged before the event. Since there may not be access to power at the event location, it's essential to charge all your devices the night before. Karla typically charges her Droid phone, iPad, laptop, wireless hotspot, and portable wireless charger before every event.
Finally, Karla recommends investing in a stylus for touch-screen devices and having customers sign for transactions using it instead of their fingers. It not only looks more professional, but it also makes it easier for customers to write their signature.
Karla's success as a vendor is evident in her story. She started her business with just $650 and has grown it into a thriving enterprise that generates $242,000 per year. With her valuable tips, hopefully, other vendors can also achieve great success in their businesses.
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