We were lucky to catch up with Kathlyn Nguyen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kathlyn, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Being a business owner can be really hard sometimes. It’s rewarding, but most business owners we’ve spoken sometimes think about what it would have been like to have had a regular job instead. Have you ever wondered that yourself? Maybe you can talk to us about a time when you felt this way?

As a business owner, I find a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that comes from being in control of my own journey and having the opportunity to make a positive impact around me. The flexibility that come with entrepreneurship allows me to pursue my passions and make my own decisions. While the journey of being a business owner certainly has its challenges, I believe that the rewards of personal and professional growth, as well as the ability to contribute to my family and beyond, make me happy overall.

While being a business owner brings a lot of satisfaction and freedom, there are moments when I consider what it might be like to have a more traditional job. I imagine the stability and predictability that come with a regular job might provide a sense of security and ease. However, ultimately, I value the opportunity for growth that comes with running my own business, and those factors outweigh any curiosity I may have about a more conventional career path.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My journey into this industry began when my dad wanted to open a restaurant after he decided to leave his 9-5 job, which ignited my curiosity and drive to learn more about the restaurant industry; and honestly any other business field. I like being able to problem solve and help others.

At Pho Bo To Grill, we specialize in providing authentic Vietnamese food that satisfies our customers needs. Whether it’s a quick meal or a family gathering meal, we are dedicated to delivering top-notch service that exceed expectations and drive tangible results.

What sets us apart is our commitment to keep up with new food trends while continuing to improve on our established dishes. We prioritize in providing family-friendly service, ensuring that every interaction with us is meaningful and our customers leave with an easeful feeling.

I am most proud of the team we have been able to build as they reflect our dedication in this business and the trust our customers place in us. Moving forward, I want potential customers to know that each dish made at our restaurant is made from someone who holds a similar core value and beliefs as the business owner(s). We are here to create an environment of enjoyment with food, and we are excited to continue making a positive impact in our community.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale are crucial aspects of effective leadership. Some takeaways I like to keep in mind and implement in business is:

Clear Communication: Keep your team informed about company goals, expectations, and any changes within the organization. Open and transparent communication fosters trust and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

Recognition and Appreciation: Acknowledge and appreciate your team members’ contributions regularly. Celebrate successes, both big and small, and recognize individual achievements publicly. Feeling valued and appreciated boosts morale and motivates team members to continue performing at their best.

Provide Support and Development Opportunities: Invest in your team’s growth by providing training and opportunities for skill development. Empower them to take on new challenges and responsibilities, and offer support whenever they need it.

Encourage Collaboration and Teamwork: Create a culture of collaboration and teamwork where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and supporting each other. Encourage open communication, respect diverse perspectives, and promote a sense of unity among team members.

Lead by Example: As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the team. Lead by example by demonstrating qualities such as integrity and accountability. Show empathy and understanding, and be willing to roll up your sleeves and work alongside your team when needed.

Promote Work-Life Balance: Recognize the importance of work-life balance and encourage your team members to prioritize their well-being.

Address Issues Promptly: Address any conflicts, issues, or concerns within the team promptly and constructively. Create a safe and supportive environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns.

Celebrate Successes Together: Take the time to celebrate team successes together.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage your team and maintain high morale, leading to a more engaged, motivated, and productive workforce.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

One significant pivot we have experienced was when the team decided to open two new business locations similarly at the same quarter during the year.
Our first location in Houston was established in 2018. Additionally, we obtained our Sugar Land location in 2021, and decided to take on another location in Richmond at the end of 2021 going in to 2022. Opening two business locations simultaneously was a demanding yet rewarding experience that taught me valuable lessons in time management, teamwork, and perseverance. It underscored the importance of careful planning, effective communication, and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges in achieving success in a multi-location expansion.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.phobotohouston.com
• Instagram: @phobotohtx
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/phobotohtx