Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skincare but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Max Terrien, Partner at DAMDAM Tokyo, located in Tokyo, Japan.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

DAMDAM Tokyo, and our customers are younger millennials who are looking for skincare products that are clean and highly effective.

Tell us about yourself

I originally came from big tech and wanted a change of course in my life. DAMDAM was started by my family, and I'm passionate about working on DAMDAM because I was very insecure about my skin, specifically with acne, and I needed a product that was effective and without any chemicals or additives. And to honor my Japanese heritage as the main ingredient was the cherry on the top :)

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Our biggest accomplishment is when customers love our products and when those working for the brand are just as passionate and driven.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Some of the pressure I haven't felt when working for a big company. It's your own, so everything from financials to ensuring performance, it does feel like a lot to make sure you are moving in the right direction.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. My biggest tip would be to just start. It sounds simple and all, but the biggest blocker on why someone can't start a business is usually themselves. It was the same for me; I thought about step 20 and how we're going to grow, etc., before taking the first step. The journey can be overwhelming, so just take it step by step.
  2. Embrace the unknown or the uncomfortableness. Unlike a job at a big company, I was good at one thing, but now I have to be aware of all functions of the business, it's quite a change! I know I'm not an expert in all areas, but I thought I had to be at first, which gave me a bit of anxiety. So knowing that it's ok to learn, learn from others, and keep improving is something I tell myself.
  3. Have fun! I want to be doing something I'm passionate about, and it's a long journey, so have fun with it.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://damdamtokyo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damdamtokyo/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/maxterrien/
https://www.instagram.com/damdamtokyo/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/damdamtokyo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-terrien-44a5ba69/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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