Author: Mazlan Abbas

IOT Evangelist

Six Main Lessons From My 8 Year Tenure in a Government R&D Agency

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

This is my third job after ten years in academia and 13 years in a telco company.

Reflecting on my eight-year tenure as a Research Director for Wireless Technology in a Malaysian government agency, I’ve gathered a wealth of insights distinct from my experiences at a leading telco in the country.

My journey, marked by a static role but dynamic challenges, offers a unique perspective on leadership, team management, and innovation in a research-driven environment.

The Value of Role Consistency

Contrary to the typical progression of changing roles within 3–4 years in an organization, my position remained unchanged for eight years.

This unusual stability offered a deeper understanding of my role and a continuous impact on wireless technology research.

Leadership Through Inquisitiveness

One pivotal lesson was asking the right questions, especially in management positions with limited in-depth technical knowledge.

This approach not only prepared me to handle various queries but also fostered a culture of curiosity and critical thinking within the team.

Understanding the Research and Development Dichotomy

A significant realization was the distinct nature of research and development teams.

Often more introverted, the research team focuses on individual tasks and deep-thinking processes.

In contrast, the development team thrives on collaboration, working cohesively to turn ideas into tangible products.

Appreciating these differences is crucial for effective leadership.

Tailored Performance Management

It’s essential to recognize that research and development teams require different approaches to performance management.

While the outcomes of the development team are visibly tangible, the research team’s contributions, though less apparent, are equally vital.

Both teams deserve recognition and appreciation for their unique roles.

The Art of Presenting Technology

Regular project showcases to ministers, government bodies, and international visitors taught me the essence of creating Minimum Viable Products (MVPs).

These demonstrations, while sometimes rudimentary, are crucial in highlighting the potential of emerging technologies.

Mastering the Craft of Communication

Frequent presentations and the ensuing barrage of questions honed my skills in creating clear, audience-friendly PowerPoint slides.

The ability to convey complex ideas in an understandable and engaging manner is a skill as crucial as the research itself.

Conclusion

My tenure as a Research Director was a journey of constant learning and adaptation.

The unique challenges of managing a diverse, multinational R&D team and the need to bridge the gap between research and practical application have been invaluable lessons.

This experience has shaped my approach to leadership in wireless technology and offered broader insights into the dynamics of innovation and team management in the public sector.

The story of my first job as an educator:

View at Medium.com

The story of my second job in the corporate world of telco:

View at Medium.com

You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

“Read” in 15 Ways

Read widely, understand deeply.

Read diversely, broaden perspectives.

Read diligently, absorb wisdom.

Read passionately, ignite your imagination.

Read critically, sharpen your intellect.

Read continuously, foster curiosity.

Read adaptively, explore new realms.

Read together, share insights.

Read bravely, confront new ideas.

Read imaginatively, journey through worlds.

Read persistently, overcome barriers.

Read purposefully, gain enlightenment.

Read ambitiously, challenge your limits.

Read attentively, master knowledge.

Read voraciously, nourish your mind.

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Lessons Learned During My 13 Years Stint at One of the Biggest Telco in Malaysia

Photo by Jonas Stolle on Unsplash

Looking back at my working career, my 13-year tenure at one of Malaysia’s premier telco giants has been a profound personal and professional transformation journey.

This adventure, filled with varied roles and extensive learning, not only mirrors the industry’s dynamic nature but also underscores the priceless experiences it provides.

Embracing Versatility in Management Roles

The journey began with a foray into diverse management domains within the company, from research and development (R&D) to billing, network operations, technical functions, product development, and business management.

This unique rotational strategy provide me with an opportunity to see a comprehensive view of the telecom industry’s intricacies and interrelated aspects.

Each position I undertook brought challenges and learning curves, significantly molding my approach to effective leadership and operational excellence.

These roles were instrumental in refining my ability to adapt to rapid changes and adopt innovative solutions to complex problems.

The Thrill of Technological Evolution

The most refreshing part of my tenure was my engagement in technology-centric projects.

Operating in a sector known for its brisk technological progress, I discovered a deep-seated passion for the swiftly changing landscape.

This inclination towards technology revealed a preference for dynamic and innovative environments over monotonous, day-to-day operational tasks.

Challenges in Staff Management

Managing diverse teams was one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of my career.

The team sizes varied dramatically, some with fewer than five members, while others more than a hundred.

Each group presented unique challenges due to the varying backgrounds and attitudes of the staff.

Developing adaptable management strategies was crucial in these situations.

These experiences were critical in sharpening my abilities in conflict resolution, team cohesion, and empathetic leadership, highlighting the significance of empathy and understanding in managing a diverse workforce.

Synergy Between Technical and Business Needs

My role in product development was particularly enlightening, as it involved striking a delicate balance between technical viability and market requirements.

This period underlined the necessity of aligning technical solutions with business goals, ensuring that our products adhered to technological benchmarks and appealed to and satisfied customer needs.

Navigating High-Stakes Business Management

Taking charge of a division responsible for an annual revenue close to RM 50 million was no small feat.

This high-stakes role required sharp business insight, strategic foresight, and robust risk management skills.

It was a continuous endeavor to balance ambitious growth targets with the need for operational sustainability and efficiency.

Overcoming Challenges in Billing System Migration

A particular testing phase was overseeing the transition to a new billing system.

This project, laden with technical hurdles and customer dissatisfaction, tested my crisis management skills.

Leading a team during such a tumultuous period was an intense lesson in resilience and strategic problem-solving.

On many occasions, I have to buffer the wrath of the customers and the Company’s management.

There are times, I wondered if any our our key staff resigned, it will probably bring the whole company down to its knees because no billing will be able to process and Millions of dollars of revenue will not be able to be collected.

Enduring Bonds of Friendship

One of the most treasured aspects of my time at the telco was the friendships I forged with colleagues.

These relationships, lasting over two decades, are a testament to the strong connections built through shared experiences and mutual challenges.

These bonds, transcending the professional realm, have become a cherished part of my life.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my 13-year journey with the Malaysian telco, it’s evident that it has been a kaleidoscope of challenges, triumphs, and personal evolution.

It has ingrained in me the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and the power of human connections in the professional sphere.

I am immensely grateful for the plethora of lessons learned and the deep, lasting relationships formed, which continue to enrich my life on both personal and professional fronts.

Photo by Onur Binay on Unsplash

This journey has been about more than just achieving professional milestones or acquiring technical expertise.

It has been about understanding the human aspect of business — how to lead, inspire, and connect with people from all walks of life.

These human elements, technical skills, and experiences have shaped me into the leader I am today. My story at the telco is more than just a career narrative; it’s a chronicle of growth, resilience, and the enduring power of human connections.

The story of my first job as an educator:

View at Medium.com

The story of my third job as a Research Director:

View at Medium.com

You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

“Pen” in 15 Ways

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

Pen your thoughts, unlock creativity.

Pen stories, travel through worlds.

Pen insights, reflect deeply.

Pen emotions, touch hearts.

Pen discoveries, pioneer ideas.

Pen experiences, learn endlessly.

Pen adaptations, embrace change.

Pen together, create connections.

Pen bravely, voice your truth.

Pen fantasies, spark imagination.

Pen through challenges, build resilience.

Pen with purpose, influence minds.

Pen with ambition, surpass boundaries.

Pen with care, craft masterpieces.

Pen voraciously, feed your soul.

You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

My 2023 Medium Journey: Growth, Strategies and Reflections

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

As the year 2023 comes to a close, I reflect on my journey as a writer on Medium.

It’s been a significant year for me, especially since I’ve been a part of the Medium community since December 2015.

However, 2023 is a year of personal growth, strategic learning, and rewarding achievements.

Below, I will share three tips that significantly impacted my earnings in December 2023.

The year 2023 Screenshot of Author’s Audience

Consistent Writing and Overcoming Limitations

Throughout 2023, my commitment to consistently publishing articles was unwavering.

Despite starting my writing journey on Medium in late 2015, this year marked a new level of dedication and a significant improvement.

One challenge I faced was the limitations imposed by my free subscription.

I often encountered intriguing articles I couldn’t fully access, leaving me missing valuable insights and learning opportunities.

The year 2023 Screenshot of Author’s Earnings

The Leap of Faith

On September 25, 2023, I decided to take a leap of faith.

I subscribed to Medium’s paid plan with a clear objective: to offset the $5 monthly subscription fee through my writing earnings.

View at Medium.com

This decision wasn’t made lightly, as I was uncertain whether the investment would be worth it.

However, the results were encouraging.

By October, I had earned $8.63 more than the subscription fee. I maintained this momentum in November, reaching a slightly lower at $6.89.

The year 2023 Screenshot of Author’s Earnings

Setting Higher Goals

Emboldened by these tiny successes, I set a higher target for December: to earn at least $50, enough to cover a year’s subscription.

I surpassed this goal to my delight, ending the month with $55.01 in earnings.

This achievement was not just a fluke but a testament to the effectiveness of the strategies I had learned and implemented.

Strategies for Success

Engagement: Key to Growth

One of the strategies that significantly contributed to my success was engagement.

Throughout the year, I emphasized the importance of interactions – follows, claps, highlights, comments, and replies.

As I’ve shared in previous articles, this level of engagement can significantly impact your visibility and connection with the audience.

View at Medium.com

It’s a time-consuming endeavor but undeniably fruitful.

Captivating Headlines

Another change I implemented was in crafting my article headlines.

Moving away from straightforward, potentially dull titles, I focused on making them more attractive and engaging.

This minor tweak made a noticeable difference in attracting readers.

Understanding Audience Preferences

I also observed that articles on Medium offering tips about writing attracted more readers.

While I write about various topics, including entrepreneurship, it was clear that insights about the Medium platform resonated more with the audience.

Sharing my experiences and journey as a Medium writer was more impactful than other topics.

Gratitude and Hope for the Future

As I look forward to 2024, I’m filled with optimism and appreciation.

My experience on Medium this year has been financially rewarding and immensely enriching.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the authors who have shared their wisdom on audience engagement and article monetization.

Their insights have been instrumental in my growth as a writer.

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

My 2023 journey on Medium has been a blend of consistent effort, strategic changes, and learning from the community.

It reinforces the belief that turning your passion for writing into a rewarding endeavor with dedication and the right approach is possible.

Let’s hope that 2024 will be an even more successful year for all of us in the Medium community!

“Think” in 15 Ways

Think innovatively, lead change.

Think strategically, overcome challenges.

Think persistently, achieve goals.

Think boldly, disrupt markets.

Think creatively, find solutions.

Think analytically, make informed decisions.

Think adaptively, navigate trends.

Think collaboratively, build networks.

Think globally, act locally.

Think ahead, stay ahead.

Think resiliently, bounce back stronger.

Think purposefully, create impact.

Think ambitiously, set new standards.

Think efficiently, maximize resources.

Think passionately, inspire teams.

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On the Brink of the 1,000 Followers – Can I Achieve This Before the Year 2024 Begins?

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

I am short of another milestone – to reach my 1,000 followers target!

A Look Back at Eight Years

As the clock ticks down to the New Year 2024, I find myself in an exciting yet slightly nerve-wracking position.

I’m just 23 followers short of reaching a significant milestone in my blogging journey: 1,000 followers.

Author’s Snapshot on Dec. 31, 2021

This goal, which once seemed like a distant dream, is now tantalizingly close.

Reflecting on the past eight years, my audience consistently hovered around 200 followers. Despite my efforts, breaking out of this range felt like an insurmountable task.

That was until a pivotal moment at the end of September 2023, which marked my entry into the Medium Partner Program.

A Turning Point with Medium

Joining Medium was like opening a door to a world brimming with insightful writing tips and a vibrant community of writers.

The platform gave me access to a wealth of knowledge, and I eagerly dived in.

I began implementing the tips and tricks I learned from other successful Medium writers, and the results were almost immediate.

My initial target was modest: gain at least 5 new followers each day.

However, to my surprise and delight, this number soon doubled to 10 followers daily. This growth, I believe, stemmed from my active engagement within the Medium community.

I spent considerable time reading articles by other writers, leaving thoughtful comments, and following others in similar niches.

This expanded my network and enriched my understanding of what resonates with readers.

The Final Push

As of today, I stand 23 followers short of my goal. It’s a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

Will I hit the 1,000 mark before the year ends? It’s hard to say, but one thing is sure: January 2024 looks promising.

The prospect of reaching this milestone fills me with a sense of achievement and anticipation.

The Value of the Medium Partner Program

I cannot overstate the value of joining the Medium Partner Program, particularly the paid subscription.

It has been instrumental in my growth as a writer.

The unlimited access to the collective wisdom of other Medium writers has been a game changer.

It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the growth journey and the community that supports and inspires you along the way.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

As I stand on the cusp of this milestone, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my old and new followers.

Your support and engagement have been the driving force behind my journey.

My advice to those still contemplating whether to join platforms like Medium is simple: leap.

The benefits, both in terms of personal growth and audience engagement, are well worth it.

Happy New Year to all of you!

Here’s to reaching new heights, not just in follower count but in the quality of connections and content we create.

Whether I reach the 1,000 mark now or a bit later, the journey has been incredible, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.

[Update: 1/1/2024]

Surprise! Surprise!

When I woke up this morning and checked my profile… yes! It has reached 1K target!

A Decade of Teaching at a University and How It Has Evolved Me as An Individual and Educator

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

For the first ten years of my career, my role as a lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has offered me a treasure trove of experiences, deeply enriching my understanding of education and student engagement.

This period has refined my professional abilities and spurred significant personal development, transforming me into an educator of greater influence and confidence.

Grasping the True Essence of Student Needs

In my early days, I viewed teaching primarily as imparting knowledge.

It didn’t take long to recognize that students sought something more profound – a blend of motivation, engagement, and practical knowledge application.

Recognizing and adapting to these needs marked a pivotal transformation in my teaching approach.

Strategies to Engage and Inspire

Capturing the interest of students requires an innovative approach.

I turned to interactive methods, using group discussions, real-life scenarios, and digital technology integration to make my lectures more dynamic and relevant.

These techniques made learning more enjoyable and deepened students’ comprehension and interest.

The Power of Knowledge and Earning Respect

One vital realization was the necessity of thorough preparation and expertise in my field.

Students naturally gravitate towards and respect lecturers who demonstrate comprehensive subject knowledge.

Earning this respect was instrumental in creating an environment conducive to learning and engagement.

Cultivating Confidence Through Public Speaking

Delivering regular lectures became a foundation for honing my public speaking skills.

Over time, this consistent practice significantly boosted my confidence, equipping me to present with poise and clarity at international conferences.

The skill of effective communication, garnered through my teaching experiences, has been invaluable.

View at Medium.com

Beyond Teaching: Research and Development

My responsibilities extended far beyond the lecture hall, involving rigorous research and academic paper publication.

Staying at the cutting edge of my field advanced my professional development and offered tangible benefits to my students.

This aspect of my career has been particularly gratifying, contributing to the broader academic sphere.

Fostering Enduring Connections

One of the most fulfilling outcomes of my tenure at UTM has been the lasting relationships established with students.

Many of them have evolved into friendships, professional relationships, or even client connections, often reminding me of my positive influence during their academic journey.

This has underscored the enduring impact that educators can have on their students’ lives.

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

Reflecting on this decade-long journey, it’s evident that my experiences at UTM have been as much about personal learning and growth as they have been about imparting knowledge.

I am very thankful. The lessons learned have enhanced my capabilities as a lecturer and enriched my life in numerous ways.

My tenure at UTM underscored that being an educator transcends teaching; it’s about inspiring, connecting, and continually evolving personally and professionally.

The story of my second job in a corporate organization (telco):

View at Medium.com

The story of my third job as a Research Director:

View at Medium.com

You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

10 Years of Lessons as a UTM Lecturer: Insights and Growth

A Reflection – The Early Days of My Career

Reflecting on a decade of experience as a lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), I’ve gleaned invaluable insights into the art of teaching and connecting with students.

This journey has not only honed my academic skills but has also been a personal growth experience, shaping me into a more confident and impactful educator.

Understanding Students’ Needs

Initially, I perceived teaching as a straightforward transfer of knowledge.

However, I quickly realized that students yearn for more than just information; they seek engagement, inspiration, and real-world application.

Adapting my teaching methods to meet these needs was a transformative step in my career.

Engagement Strategies

To captivate students’ attention, I learned the importance of interactive and relatable content.

Techniques like group discussions, real-life examples, and incorporating technology made my lectures more appealing.

This approach not only made the classes more enjoyable but also facilitated deeper understanding.

Knowledge and Respect

A crucial lesson was the importance of being well-prepared and knowledgeable.

Students respect lecturers who display a deep understanding of their subject.

This respect became a powerful tool in creating a conducive learning environment, where students felt more inclined to participate and engage.

Confidence in Public Speaking

Regular lectures served as a training ground for public speaking.

Over time, this practice built my confidence, enabling me to present effectively at international conferences.

The ability to convey ideas clearly and confidently is an invaluable skill I acquired through my teaching journey.

Research and Development

My role as a lecturer extended beyond the classroom.

Conducting in-depth research and publishing papers kept me at the forefront of my field, benefiting both my students and my professional growth.

This aspect of my job has been particularly fulfilling, contributing to the broader academic community.

Building Lasting Relationships

Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of my tenure has been the relationships formed with students.

Many have become friends, colleagues, or even clients, often reminding me of the impact I had during their university days.

This has been a profound reminder of the lasting influence educators have on their students’ lives.

Conclusion

As I reflect on these 10 years, I realize how this journey has been as much about my own learning as it has been about teaching others.

These lessons have not only made me a better lecturer but have also enriched my life in countless ways.

At UTM, I learned that being an educator is about inspiring, connecting, and continuously evolving, both personally and professionally.

The Significance of the $50 Milestone in My Medium Journey

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

As 2023 draws close, I reflect on a significant milestone in my writing journey: reaching the $50 earning target on Medium.

This goal is not just a number for me; it embodies my dedication, learning, and evolving strategies that have shaped my experience in the Medium Partner Program (MPP).

Why $50 Matters

1. Meeting My Medium Partner Program Subscription:

In October 2023, I embarked on a journey with the Medium Partner Program, a platform that promised to be a new avenue for my creative expression and growth.

The $50 mark is critical as it equals the yearly subscription fee for the MPP.

Reaching this target means my passion for writing is not just self-sustaining but also an investment that pays for itself, literally.

2. Joining the Elite 8%:

Another reason this target is significant is its symbolic value.

Earning $50 places me halfway to the $100 mark, a feat achieved by only 8% of Medium writers.

This benchmark is not just a testament to my writing skills but also to my perseverance and dedication to my craft.

The Journey So Far

My initial goal when I joined MPP was modest – to earn at least $5 monthly.

However, as December unfolded, my earnings surprisingly reached $48.26, with three days remaining.

This progress was not just encouraging; it transformed my perception of what’s achievable.

[Update: Dec. 30, 2023]

Today, I have reached my target and I am super excited!

Strategies That Made the Difference

Engaging with Other Writers:

I realized early on that writing in isolation on Medium doesn’t spell success. Engagement with other writers – commenting, responding, and clapping – has been pivotal.

It created a supportive community around my work, increasing visibility and readership.

Pinning Articles and Crafting Headlines:

The way I present and promote my articles transformed.

Pinning articles strategically and crafting compelling headlines significantly increased the readership.

These are about more than just attracting readers; they are about ensuring they value what I say.

Looking Ahead: Boosting My Articles and Celebrating Success

As I look towards 2024, I aspire to see my articles get boosted, reach a wider audience, and create a more significant impact.

Achieving the $50 mark is not just about meeting a financial target; it’s about affirming my writing and strategies.

Reaching the $50 earning target on Medium is more than a monetary achievement.

It’s a validation of my efforts, a proof of my evolving strategies, and a stepping stone towards more significant accomplishments.

As I continue this journey, I’m filled with hope and excitement for what the future holds, not just for my earnings but for the growth and impact of my writing.

This article reflects my journey of reaching a significant milestone in the Medium Partner Program and the strategies that made it possible, highlighting the importance of community engagement and effective article promotion.

Go on! Try this!

I also have my blog – Mazlan Abbas, and eBooks here. Check them out!

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey