We spoke with Deborah and Julius Jenkins of Doc J’s Heating & Air about what it’s like to own their own business and handle the marketing, hiring, and development of their growth as a company. Starting a business for them, in the beginning, wasn’t easy. “We grew up in parts of what people would call a disadvantaged neighborhood,” Deborah says. “But we only knew it as home.”
From humble beginnings, to building their legacy
From the beginning, both Deborah and Julius knew they were destined for more, and starting a business was always in the cards. Their long-term goal? To grow and sustain a business they could pass on and retire from, while still being an inspiration to their community. To this day, they run their business from a customer-first standpoint. Deborah and Julius say it’s all about understanding that it’s not just about you. It’s about how you can help the customer.
Why representation in the home service industry matters
Deborah and Julius also mentioned how important it is for their customers to know who they are when they book with them. Coming from Tulsa, they want their customers to see that they are a Black-owned business and proud of it. Deborah talks about how sometimes, as a woman – specifically as a black woman – you can get caught up trying to prove that you’re worthy and capable.
“It’s a challenge because people want you to prove that you belong and that you deserve what you have,” Deborah says. “I’ve learned to ignore that.” A message that she wants women to know is that they belong, even if it feels like they have to prove it to other people. “Claim your space,” Deborah says.
