Customer service key to any business: Namalenga

WINDHOEK, 05 JUN  – The Namibian economy needs people who are willing to work beyond the aim of getting paid, Dinapama Manufacturing’s Managing Director, David Namalenga has said.

Namalenga made these remarks during an Entrepreneur Round Table event held here on Monday.
The round table, hosted by SMEs Compete on a monthly basis, is aimed at motivating young people with business ideas and owners of small to medium enterprises in overcoming challenges in the industry.

Namalenga said many Namibians look forward to getting paid rather than appreciating the value of what they are doing and how it makes a difference in the lives of other Namibians.

“Lucky, employed people are more comfortable because their salaries are guaranteed which results in bad attitudes without knowing that they are actually killing their salary,” Namalenga said.

Thus, he said, many people, especially the youth who are unemployed, cannot afford to join the private sector or become entrepreneurs that are expected to contribute to the economy.

“Becoming an entrepreneur needs synergy and understanding with customers because to become a successful business, an employer has to be a servant to customers,” Namalenga added.

He also suggested that customer service be taught at school level to instil the necessary qualities required in professional settings later on.

Director of SMEs Compete, Danny Meyer emphasised that young people need be ready for work rather than looking for jobs if they really want to make an impact in the country and in their lives as well.

“We create this platform for entrepreneurs with business success to share their ideas and motivate those with passion for business,” Meyer added.

Apart from the customer service suggestion, other successful business persons also suggested that the tourism industry be respected.

The round table was attended by business men and women from different organisations such as the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology, Miracle Arts and Crafts, IndigenousBatikDesigns and Dinapama Manufacturing among others.
NAMPA