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Lessons Learned as a First-Time CEO in an IoT Company

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

Embarking on a journey as the CEO of an IoT company, especially when one has never envisioned reaching such a pinnacle, is an experience filled with unique challenges and valuable lessons.

My path to becoming a CEO was unconventional, as my career goal was always to become a CTO.

However, life had other plans, and I found myself at the helm of a new IoT company, a subsidiary of a publicly listed company.

This 2.5-year tenure was eye-opening and instrumental in shaping my professional insights.

Lesson 1: Understanding the Multifaceted Role of a CEO

My first revelation was the expansive scope of a CEO’s responsibilities.

Furthermore, this is a new subsidiary responsible for a new business venture.

And the business area is very new – the Internet of Things (IoT).

Unlike my previous technical-focused roles, being a CEO required a holistic approach, managing product development and technology and steering the business’s strategic direction.

Building a team of experienced professionals, we created Smart City Solutions, a venture that demanded a blend of technical understanding and business savvy.

Lesson 2: Navigating the Complexities of Selling IoT Solutions

One significant challenge was underestimating the complexity of selling IoT solutions to local councils.

Unlike typical products, IoT solutions involve navigating bureaucracy and complex decision-making processes.

The sales cycle was excruciatingly long, a factor I had initially overlooked.

Lesson 3: The Pitfall of a Singular Market Focus

Our strategy initially focused on a single market with a singular product line.

This approach was a miscalculation due to the lengthy sales cycle and the need for extensive customer validation.

In hindsight, pivoting earlier to a different product or a more competitive market segment would have been more effective.

Lesson 4: Establishing a Brand in a Nascent Industry

A silver lining in our journey was the ease of establishing ourselves as an IoT brand in Malaysia, one of the industry’s early players.

This positioning opened doors to numerous opportunities, including invitations to conferences globally, enhancing our brand visibility.

Lesson 5: Overlooking Synergies Within the Parent Company

A missed opportunity was not leveraging the strengths and networks of our parent company’s group.

Instead of venturing out to find new markets and customers, tapping into the existing network within the group would have been a strategic advantage.

Lesson 6: The Imbalance between Product Development and Market Outreach

Our focus leaned heavily toward product development, overshadowing the need for effective marketing and customer engagement.

This imbalance led to a lack of real-world feedback and potential partnerships, which could have significantly influenced our market presence.

Though my tenure as a CEO was brief, the lessons learned are invaluable.

They have enriched my professional outlook and laid a strong foundation for my future endeavors, particularly in building my own startup.

The journey taught me the importance of flexibility, understanding market dynamics, and the power of strategic partnerships, insights I eagerly carry forward into my next chapter.

View at Medium.comView at Medium.comView at Medium.com

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

“Build” in 15 Ways

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

Build innovative solutions, shape the future.

Build strategic plans, overcome obstacles.

Build resilience, thrive through challenges.

Build disruptive ideas, change industries.

Build creative approaches, solve complex problems.

Build analytical skills, make smarter decisions.

Build adaptability, stay relevant.

Build strong networks, foster collaborations.

Build global perspectives, capture new markets.

Build visionary concepts, lead trends.

Build from failures, strengthen foundations.

Build with purpose, drive meaningful change.

Build ambitious goals, achieve greatness.

Build efficient processes, optimize performance.

Build passionate teams, cultivate success.

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

How My Presentation Survived When My Powerpoint Slides Get Corrupted

The Author was standing in front of the lecture theatre.

Imagine spending days meticulously crafting a presentation, only to face a presenter’s worst nightmare: corrupted slides.

This was the scenario I encountered before a recent lecture at a local University (UNITEN).

The Discovery

The chaos unfolded just as I was setting up for the big day.

It was the third day of 2024!

My laptop was hooked up, the projector was ready, and I was about to dazzle the audience with my well-prepared slides.

But fate had other plans.

To my horror, I discovered several of my slides were blank, devoid of the crucial information I had painstakingly compiled.

The timing couldn’t have been worse!

The Warning Ignored

Reflecting on this mishap, I recalled a critical moment from the previous day.

As I was packing up, my computer, running PowerPoint, flashed a warning about a problem with the file’s save process.

In my haste, I dismissed this. The issue stemmed from my decision to rename the slides folder.

Unaware of the impending disaster, I saved the file under a different name and thought nothing more of it.

My fault!

This is the lesson for being too complacent and overconfident!

I have previously made hundreds of presentations, and everything ran smoothly… until that day!

The Improvised Solution

There I was, in front of an eager audience, grappling with the reality of my situation.

Time was ticking, and I needed a quick fix. Scrambling through my digital archives, I found old slides from past presentations.

It wasn’t ideal, but it was a start.

The process was cumbersome, having to merge and present two separate files.

The seamless flow I had envisioned was now a patchwork of old and new, with some of the freshly prepared slides tragically lost to corruption.

The Silver Lining

Despite these unexpected events, the lecture was a partial disaster.

I navigated through the improvised presentation, covering as much material as possible.

Admittedly, key points needed to be addressed due to the missing slides.

However, the experience became an impromptu lesson in adaptability and problem-solving – valuable skills in any professional setting.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

As I reflect on this incident, backing up work and heeding software warnings stands out starkly.

In the world of digital presentations, such mishaps are not uncommon.

The key takeaway for me, and one I hope to impart to others, is the significance of being prepared for the unexpected. Always have a backup plan, and maybe a backup for the backup!

The Author managed to recover back the old slides and continue with the presentation.

This experience, though fraught with challenges, was a memorable start to my lecturing endeavors in 2024.

It served as a reminder that the best lessons are sometimes learned outside the confines of meticulously prepared slides.

I must not be complacent and overconfident.

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

“Write” in 15 Ways

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

Write your thoughts, shape worlds.

Write through struggles, find clarity.

Write with persistence, discover mastery.

Write with heart, evoke emotions.

Write outside the box, uncover originality.

Write from mistakes, refine skills.

Write with adaptability, explore genres.

Write collaboratively, blend perspectives.

Write with determination, achieve publication.

Write with imagination, create wonder.

Write through challenges, build resilience.

Write with purpose, influence readers.

Write with ambition, set trends.

Write with focus, craft perfection.

Write your dreams, leave a legacy.

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

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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