Belief in one’s self and the will power to face whatever that comes along the way, with a Kay sera- sera attitude is the face of today’s successful entrepreneurs. That “life is what you make of it” is not just a saying can be clearly determined by Shana Melamed’s action and determination which eventually led to the Rox San pharmacy. From a refuge to a successful entrepreneur, Shana Melamed was entitled “Beverly Hills Business Woman of The Year” for 3 years in a row now. In a word, she has made it; And from scratch.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry and with the expertise of running one of the most influential pharmacies in Beverly Hills, California- Rox San today caters its dermatology compounds to the most renowned plastic surgeons in the world.
Shana Melamed is the owner of Rox San pharmacy, Beverly Hills, and shares with the team her share of hardships, rock solid determination, her passion and her secrets to a booming business.
Looking back, what was the driving force behind creating Roxsan and making it, into what it is today?
I came here as a refuge with my kids and didn’t know if my husband could come or not. So, in a situation like that, I told myself that no matter what, I have to be successful and that there was no other option. That did it all.
How important have good employees been to your success?
Very important without them I do not know what to do without them
How many hours do you work a day on average?
I work at this pharmacy 40 plus hours a week and take pride in having the ability to have my customers contact me directly. My business has always been hands on and people appreciate that.
How do you build a successful customer base?
The marketing of my business is not on just a local level; we market our website through SEO and Pay per click campaigns and ship our products nationwide. We have sales reps that generate more business on a personal level with our doctors – something not many pharmacies do.
What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?
Set your goals and go for it, be persistent, don’t get discouraged.
If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?
Not sure maybe more attention to new technology.
What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?
Strong will, work hard, persistant
How long do you stick with an idea before giving up?
I do not give up until I get it.
How many hours a day do you work?
10 hour average and 40 plus hours a week!
How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?
I have learned to be more patient, receptive, respectful, and listen better.
What motivates you?
My goals.
How do you generate new ideas?
By paying attention to everything around me, reading, and listening.
What are your ideals?
Commitment and excellence that’ll help me get where I want to be.
How do you define success?
Be happy about what you do and feel that you achieved what you had in mind
Where did your funding come from?
I got a loan on my house.
How did you decide on a location?
I always think what is best for my customers not me and hence the location.
If you could talk to one person from history who would it be?
Coco Chanel, Estee lauder, for innovation and creativity
What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
Having the freedom to do what I want to do.
What is the major difference between entrepreneurs?
The difference is you can work on any ideas that you think will help you be successful and not be limited by somebody else’s thoughts and saying. The sky is the limit when you are self employed and you chose your destiny.
How do you go about marketing your business?
We use SEO for our internet needs, e mail marketing, and have sales representatives to service our doctors, followed by excellent customer service which generates good word of mouth.
What kind of culture exists in your business?
Our culture is friendly, calm, and relaxed and we make sure that everyone is in the same mode.
In one word, characterize your life as an entrepreneur
Happy
Where you want to see yourself and your business in the next 10 years or 20 years?
In 5 years I will be where I want to be and should have reached my goal.
What would you say to someone that wants to start a business but has nothing?
Let your adversity become the inspiration for you to become what you want to be. Rest everything will follow. I have always believed that if you work hard, you will be rewarded. I am living proof of that statement. I do know that my own adversity has made me aspire to become what I am today.
