Start Business While Still Employed

Most books and gurus on entrepreneurship demand total commitment to a chosen business, including physical presence. But for Khriz Gueco, an architect in Saudi Arabia and owner of Gueco Farms in Capaz Tarlac which has more than 30,000 chic heads, he chose to do it a little bit smarter.

“I started this (poultry business) while I was in Al Khobar in 1997. Since then the growth has been steady.” he said.

Contract growing is ideal agri-business for people who have idle land. The size depends on the number of heads (chics) to be contracted.

In terms of risk, it is relatively low. “Basically, the supplier pays for the use of the facility, and payment is on volume or mass produced basis (by kilogram),” Khriz explains.

He claims, however, that the secret of his success lies primarily on his willingness to take the risks, and trust on the people he tasks to take care of the business. In his case, he engaged his family (including the extended ones) in the management.

“One of the smart ways of handling business while away is by having them (the people) feel a sense of ownership. Let them understand the consequences of its failure. That way, they will give due importance and proper care,” he said.

While Khriz continues his profession abroad in order to maximize further his earning potential, he tasked it upon himself to promote the value of entrepreneurship among his colleagues. Every now and then, whenever he is invited to share his insights to small groups or seminars, he reiterates the importance of having a business.

Accordingly, it saves a great deal of remittances, since the business is supposed to be giving livelihood and source of income to the family; and, it acts as a fallback in case something goes wrong with the employment

His advice however is to start a business while employed. “It is actually less risky,” he said. “Should the business turn unfavorable, then employment will provide a leverage to stand up and the capacity to start all over again,” he added.

For tours, and additional information on contract growing business, contact:

GUECO FARMS, Capaz,Tarlac
KSA:(+966)567492081
Manila: +63(02) 7421330 (S)