Q & A: Monique Hilario of Lay Bare

MANILA, Philippines – She didn’t have a comprehensive business plan, just an idea.

With the help of her sister, Monique Hilario took the plunge and set up Lay Bare, the first waxing salon in the Philippines offering a full range of professional body waxing services.

With hard work and perseverance, Hilario said they were able to expand their business in the country. Today, they have branches in the United States.

Hilario is one of the 11 women entrepreneurs who will be recognized for their excellence and inspiring success at Go Negosyo’s 6th Filipina Entrepreneurship Summit on Friday, March 7.

Rappler asked Hilario for a bit of insight about success and what it takes to be a businesswoman. Here’s what she has to say:

What do you think are the top 3 skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?

Determination, discipline, and drive.

For you, is there a difference between how women and men run their businesses? Name one distinct contribution a woman brings to a business.

I think women tend to be more nurturing, and this characteristic has profound impact on a company’s culture and environment.

What pieces of advice will you give other women who want to start their own businesses?

Believe in yourself and in your product/service. Timing is a very important factor for success. Value the work you do as this will serve as an inspiration to others.

What do you think is the biggest myth people believe about entrepreneurship?

That success is a matter of luck. It is actually a product of hard work, perseverance, faith, and being humbled by your past mistakes.

Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most? Why?

Jollibee. It has created a global following.

The 6th Filipina Entrepreneurship Summit will be held from 9 am to 5 pm, Friday, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

For more information about the summit, visit www.gonegosyo.net. – Rappler.com