Tag: Entrepreneurship

Leveraging Public Speaking for Startup Success

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Are you good in public speaking?

Did you rake the opportunity to establish your personal brand or turn into business opportunities?

Well… I didn’t start that way.

In the early days, I focused on establishing myself as a knowledgeable voice in the IoT sector.

This meant engaging in public speaking at tech conferences, seminars, and workshops without directly promoting Favoriot.

My goal was to share insights on IoT trends, challenges, and future potential. This approach helped in gaining credibility and trust with a wider audience.

However, while these efforts enhanced my reputation, they didn’t translate into immediate business growth for Favoriot.

Changing Tactics: Talking About Favoriot

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Recognizing the need to align my expertise with business growth, I adjusted my approach.

During my talks, I began weaving in how Favoriot’s solutions addressed real-world challenges in IoT.

This wasn’t about a sales pitch; it was about demonstrating the practicality and effectiveness of our products through real use cases and customer stories.

This shift in approach helped the audience connect the dots between the theoretical knowledge I shared and the practical solutions Favoriot offered.

Seeing Results: More Business

This strategic change in content delivery began to pay off.

Audiences started associating my expertise with Favoriot’s innovative solutions.

This recognition led to increased interest in our offerings, resulting in more business queries and collaborations.

Over time, this approach not only solidified Favoriot’s position in the market but also turned many of those initial inquiries into loyal clients.

Conclusion: Public Speaking is Valuable

This journey reaffirmed that public speaking is a potent tool for business growth.

It’s more than just sharing knowledge; it’s about strategically showcasing your company’s strengths and solutions.

For startups and entrepreneurs, effectively combining your personal expertise with your business offerings in your talks can significantly boost your brand and business growth.

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Summary of Lessons Learned for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

  1. Build Credibility First: Start by establishing yourself as a knowledgeable expert in your field without immediately focusing on your product or service.
  2. Share Industry Insights: Use public speaking to share insights on current trends, challenges, and the future of your industry.
  3. Align Expertise with Business Goals: Gradually incorporate your business solutions into your talks to show how they address real-world problems.
  4. Showcase Practical Applications: Demonstrate the effectiveness of your products through real use cases and customer stories.
  5. Foster Brand Association: Use public speaking to link your expertise and your company’s offerings strongly.
  6. Be Patient for Results: Understand that this strategy is a long-term approach, and converting interest into an actual business takes time.
  7. Utilise Public Speaking as a Strategic Tool: Recognize the power of public speaking as a knowledge-sharing platform and as a vital tool for showcasing your company’s strengths and solutions.

To learn more about startup tips, check out my latest eBook, “Startup Survival.”

https://mazlanabbas.gumroad.com/l/startupsurvival

Through My Eyes: How Favoriot Shaped IoT Revolution in Malaysia

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As the founder of Favoriot, my journey in the Internet of Things (IoT) entrepreneurship journey has been nothing short of an odyssey.

We take our first step with an ideal vision.

Thinking everyone will quickly start to use our IoT platform.

But that’s not the case.

Later, we set our sights on pioneering IoT training, a decision that unfolded amidst the challenges of introducing an IoT platform-as-a-service.

Here’s my story.

Confronting the Reality of an Unused Platform

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A stark realization marked our early days.

We had developed a platform brimming with potential, yet it could have been more used.

Launching our IoT service, we faced tepid responses.

The crux of the issue? Favoriot was an unfamiliar name, a new entity in a realm ruled by established players like ThingSpeak and Azure.

The reluctance of tech enthusiasts and students to dive into this new venture was palpable.

Uncovering a Crucial Market Gap

Surveying the Malaysian market, a critical pattern emerged.

The landscape was teeming with resellers of IoT products, yet there needed to be more original product creation.

For Malaysia, aspiring to shift from a consumer to a producer nation, this represented a barrier and a deadlock.

The chasm between importing and producing technology was vast, and bridging it required nurturing homegrown IoT innovators.

Pivoting Towards Educational Empowerment

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Recognizing this void, we made a strategic pivot towards IoT training.

We meticulously crafted a curriculum encompassing the essentials, the complexities, and the advanced facets of IoT data analytics.

The launch of Professional Certificates marked a turning point, enhancing the professional standing of our trainees.

Today, over 15 Malaysian universities have integrated our IoT platform into their curriculum, a testament to its relevance and impact.

Thus began the slow but impactful way to create awareness and prepare the necessary skills in hands-on IoT development for future graduates.

Furthermore, I have been personally invited to educational and industry IoT talks, which have given me better opportunities to introduce Favoriot to the public.

Beyond Training: Spreading the IoT Wave

But our vision extended beyond training.

This phase was merely a catalyst, igniting a broader adoption of IoT across Malaysia.

Our platform has become integral in diverse sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and smart city development.

Photo by Conny Schneider on Unsplash

In Conclusion: Lessons from the Journey

Reflecting on Favoriot’s trajectory, several vital lessons emerge:

  • Adaptability is Crucial: The ability to pivot and adapt strategies in response to market needs is vital.
  • Identifying Market Needs: Understanding and addressing specific market gaps can drive significant change.
  • The Power of Education: Empowering through education can catalyze broader technological adoption.
  • Beyond Immediate Goals: Long-term vision should extend beyond immediate objectives.
  • Collaboration and Influence: Collaborating with educational institutions can amplify impact and relevance.

As we continue on this path, our dedication to empowering Malaysia with innovative IoT solutions and robust training remains unwavering, fueling the flames of progress and innovation.

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Secrets You Need to Learn From Colonel Sanders Entrepreneurship Journey

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What’s the best age to become an entrepreneur?

With or without working experience?

If you too old, you might have less energy.

But you might not have the relevant experience if you are too young.

But in the entrepreneurship landscape, there’s a misleading notion that success is the domain of the young.

Stories of youthful prodigies and emerging entrepreneurs constantly reinforce this view.

However, the inspiring journey of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, shatters this stereotype.

Sanders embarked on his venture to create a global fast-food empire at 62 when many contemplate retirement.

His story isn’t just about late blooming; it’s a testament to lifelong perseverance and the falsity of the ‘overnight success’ myth.

Whether you’re 20 or 60, the entrepreneurial journey is about the courage to begin.

Colonel Sanders: A Lifetime Culminating into Success

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Sanders’ story often appears as a sudden success that occurred later in life.

Yet, a closer look reveals a rich tapestry of experiences. Sanders dabbled in various jobs from a young age, including running a restaurant at 40.

This means that before KFC became a global name, Sanders had accumulated two decades of experience in the food industry.

His venture into KFC wasn’t a leap into the unknown but resulted from years of learning, grit, and passion.

It’s never too late to be what you might have been. Age is no obstacle to starting your entrepreneurial dream.

The Entrepreneurial Essence: Starting from Scratch

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What’s particularly intriguing about Sanders’ story is his secret chicken recipe, which was popular among locals long before KFC was established.

This contrasts with many entrepreneurs, including myself, who often start with a blank canvas. We strive to build a brand identity and customer base from the ground up.

However, this challenge is what makes entrepreneurship so exhilarating.

Every entrepreneurial story is distinct and filled with unique challenges, risks, and rewards.

Don’t let the number of your years be a barrier to your entrepreneurial spirit.

Resilience: The Heart of Entrepreneurship

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Sanders’ journey wasn’t a smooth sail to success; it was marked by persistence and numerous rejections before his recipe gained acceptance.

This aspect of his story is especially resonant for aspiring entrepreneurs.

It highlights that the essence of entrepreneurship isn’t about the timing of your start but the quality of your perseverance.

As I venture into the entrepreneurial world, doubts and fears are constant companions, particularly about starting at a later age.

However, stories like that of Colonel Sanders remind me that success isn’t age-bound. They emphasize the importance of determination, resilience, and adaptability.

Age is just a number. Dreams are timeless. Start now, start anytime.

In Conclusion: The True Essence of Entrepreneurial Success

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Colonel Sanders’ legacy with KFC teaches us that success is not confined by age.

It’s about resilience, experience, and the unwavering spirit of never giving up.

His story is a beacon of hope for anyone considering entrepreneurship, affirming that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

Each entrepreneurial journey, irrespective of its outcome, imparts invaluable lessons that shape and enrich our lives.

Remember, the essence of entrepreneurship lies not in the destination but in the journey itself, the lessons learned, and the passion that propels us forward.

As I embark on my journey, I hold onto these truths, finding solace and inspiration in the paths tread by others like Colonel Sanders.

The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now, regardless of your age.

Critical Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

  1. Age is Just a Number: Success in entrepreneurship is not age-dependent. Stories like Colonel Sanders prove that it’s never too late to start.
  2. Experience Counts: Leverage your past experiences. Every skill and lesson you’ve learned can be an asset in your entrepreneurial journey.
  3. Embrace the Unique Journey: Every entrepreneurial path is different. Embrace your unique journey with its distinct challenges and opportunities.
  4. Persistence Pays Off: Success often comes after numerous rejections and failures. Persistence and resilience are essential.
  5. Adaptability is Crucial: Adapting to changing circumstances and overcoming obstacles is vital in the entrepreneurial world.
  6. Learn Continuously: Stay open to learning – about your industry, your customers, and even from your mistakes. Continuous learning is crucial for growth.
  7. Passion Drives Success: Your passion is your fuel. It keeps you going through tough times and inspires innovation and dedication.
  8. Build a Strong Network: Relationships matter. Build a network of supporters, mentors, and peers who can provide advice, support, and opportunities.
  9. Balance Vision with Practicality: Dream big, but also be practical. Set achievable goals and create a realistic plan to reach them.
  10. Self-Belief is Key: Believe in yourself and your vision. Self-doubt is natural, but don’t let it hinder your progress or dampen your ambition.

These lessons, drawn from the inspiring story of Colonel Sanders and personal reflections, offer a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs.

They highlight that entrepreneurship is a journey of learning, resilience, and undying passion, regardless of when you start.

Your age does not define your ability to succeed; it’s your passion and perseverance that counts.

How To Overcome the Fear and Embrace the Unknown of Entrepreneurship

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Are you a Startup Founder?

How you do you start your entrepreneurial journey?

There’s always the first step to the unknown.

The important thing is to make that first step.

Embarking on the journey of building a startup can feel like venturing into uncharted territory.

It’s not just the practical hurdles that make it daunting but also the mental barricades we construct.

This narrative of my transition from a robotics enthusiast to a hesitant entrepreneur, and eventually a determined founder, encapsulates this complex experience.

Dreaming Big in Childhood: Beyond Science and Robots

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During my childhood, the realm of science was magnetic. My aim was clear: to become a scientist, innovate in robotics, and leave my mark on the tech world.

The notion of entrepreneurship was foreign to me then, seemingly reserved for a distinct class of dreamers.

Navigating Career Paths: Comfort in the Known

My professional journey meandered from academic corridors to the structured corporate world.

I harbored lofty ambitions, yet they were comfortably nestled within familiar landscapes. Climbing to a Chief Technology Officer position was my guiding star.

The leap to becoming a CEO? That seemed like a leap too far, a dream for the braver souls.

An Eye-Opening Encounter: Silicon Valley Inspirations

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In 2016, a visit to Silicon Valley sparked a significant shift in perspective. Surrounded by innovators and trailblazers, age and background seemed inconsequential.

This environment brimmed with innovation and bravery.

However, even amidst this inspiring backdrop, doubts plagued me.

Could I, in my 50s and without prior experience in founding a company, truly embark on this path?

Facing the Unknown: Conquering Inner Doubts

The obstacles were numerous: lack of a product, team, market insight, and revenue.

Yet, overshadowing these tangible issues was a deeper fear of the unfamiliar.

I had convinced myself that entrepreneurship was a young person’s venture, and my opportunity had slipped by.

Nevertheless, embracing the wisdom of “Better late than never,” I mustered the courage to leap.

The Entrepreneurial Journey: Lessons from the Trenches

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This venture reshaped my world view.

Beyond the knowledge gained from books, it’s the real-life experiences – the difficult decisions, restless nights, and the rollercoaster of successes and setbacks – that truly enlighten one on the entrepreneurial journey.

It’s a path filled with challenges but also unparalleled opportunities for learning and growth.

In Conclusion: Saluting the Courageous

As a founder, my admiration has only grown for those who dare to dream and act against all odds.

It’s a demanding path, but to all entrepreneurs out there, remember you’re not in this alone.

And for those teetering on the edge, held back by self-imposed limits, bear in mind: the best time to start was yesterday, but the next best time is now.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

  1. Embrace the Unknown: Fear of the unknown is natural, but don’t let it deter you.
  2. Age is Just a Number: It’s never too late to start your entrepreneurial journey.
  3. Learn from Experience: Real-world experiences are invaluable; embrace every lesson.
  4. Break Mental Barriers: Challenge self-imposed limitations; they’re often unfounded.
  5. Persistence Pays Off: The journey is tough, but perseverance is key.
  6. Community Support: Remember, there’s a community of entrepreneurs to lean on.
  7. Just Start: The perfect time may never come; the best time is now.
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The Entrepreneur’s Flight: Navigating the Startup Sky and Tips to Become the Pilot

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A startup CEO is like a pilot.

You have an idea of the destination but you need an airplane to bring you there?

How do you build an airplane that can carry as many crews or passengers on board?

What if you don’t have long runway to take off?

Here’s my story and lessons we can learn.

Navigating the Startup Sky: The Journey of Building a Startup and an Airplane

Entrepreneurship is an exhilarating adventure, akin to building an airplane and embarking on a long, uncertain flight.

Let’s explore this fascinating analogy.

1. Starting with Limited Resources

In the startup world, like building a plane with limited funding, resources are often scarce.

You ensure your ‘aircraft’ (your business) is equipped to carry not just the founders (pilot and co-pilot) but also a small, efficient team (crew).

This requires meticulous planning to ensure every component, from your business model to your team, is in place, much like ensuring an airplane has all it needs to fly.

2. The Perilous Takeoff

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Launching a startup is the take-off phase.

Often, you’re at the edge of a cliff, relying on the thrust of your idea, market research, and initial capital to take flight.

Like many planes struggling to lift off near a high cliff, startups face a high risk of failure in these early stages.

3. Navigating Through Challenges

Once airborne, the real journey begins.

Startups, like small planes, must navigate through a landscape of challenges – regulatory trees, competitor mountains, and market valleys.

Reaching higher altitudes (scaling up) requires skillful maneuvering and constant adjustment.

4. Turbulence in the High Skies

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Even when a startup scales, turbulence is inevitable.

Market changes and unforeseen problems, like air pockets, can shake the most stable ventures. Maintaining course demands resilience and adaptability.

5. The Constant Quest for Fuel

Fuel for an airplane is akin to capital for a startup.

As you near your goal, the need to find more resources becomes critical.

This is where many seek investment, posing the crucial question: Who will back this expansion?

6. Landing and Taking Off Again

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Reaching a milestone is like landing.

It’s an achievement, but the journey isn’t over.

Now, you must refuel (secure more funding) and possibly build a bigger aircraft (scale your business) for the next phase of your journey.

7. Tough Decisions at High Altitudes

In dire situations, like running out of fuel or facing an insurmountable obstacle, tough choices must be made.

Do you shed weight by letting go of non-essential assets or even team members? These decisions are hard but necessary for survival.

8. The Final Destination

After several landings and take-offs, dealing with challenges, and making tough decisions, your startup, like the airplane, aims to reach its destination – success, stability, and recognition, with the team intact and the vision realized.

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Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

  • Resilience is Key: Expect turbulence and be prepared to stay the course.
  • Efficient Use of Resources: Like fuel in an airplane, manage your capital and resources wisely.
  • Adaptability: Be ready to pivot and adjust your strategy as you navigate the startup landscape.
  • Teamwork Matters: Your crew (team) is crucial; choose and nurture them wisely.
  • Continuous Learning: Just as pilots never stop learning, keep updating your knowledge and skills.
  • Risk Assessment: Be aware of the risks but also the opportunities they present.
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek investors, mentors, and industry connections.

In conclusion, the journey of building a startup is fraught with challenges and risks, much like piloting a small plane through a treacherous landscape.

However, with the right mindset, strategy, and team, it’s possible to navigate these challenges successfully and reach your destination. Remember, the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning.

Diversifying Revenue From a Single Product – Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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What if you can diversify your revenue streams from a single product?

What if you can come out with couple of new business models?

The Necessity of Diversifying Revenue

In the world of technology and business, diversification isn’t just a strategy, it’s a survival tool.

Our story with the Favoriot IoT platform exemplifies this.

We started with a simple, focused idea – a subscription-based IoT service.

What unfolded was a fascinating journey of expansion and discovery, leading to multiple revenue streams.

Starting with Subscriptions

Our initial model was simple: offer users a subscription for consistent access and updates to the Favoriot platform.

This straightforward approach proved effective, laying a solid foundation for our business.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps with IoT Training & Certification

As the IoT field grew, so did the knowledge gap among users.

We seized this opportunity by integrating educational services with our product.

Offering IoT training and Favoriot certifications, we used our platform as a teaching tool, enhancing its value and our brand’s credibility.

Customizing with On-Premise Licensing

The diverse needs of businesses led us to adapt.

We introduced an on-premise licensing model, offering a solution for firms wanting the platform within their own infrastructure, catering to a new segment of customers.

Creating Synergy with Hardware Bundling

The expanding IoT market revealed another opportunity – bundling hardware with our software.

This integration offered a more comprehensive, user-friendly experience, further enhancing our product’s value.

Tailoring Solutions for Specific Industries

Our final pivot was towards industry-specific solutions.

Tailoring our platform to meet unique challenges faced by different sectors, we opened new revenue channels and established Favoriot as a versatile and solution-focused entity.

Conclusion: The Evolution from a Single Product to Multiple Streams

What began as a singular IoT platform evolved into a multi-faceted business model.

Favoriot’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability.

A single product, when viewed through a lens of creativity and responsiveness, can lead to diverse income avenues and immense value creation.

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Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

  1. Stay Open to Evolution: Your initial business model might evolve; be ready to adapt.
  2. Identify and Fill Knowledge Gaps: Educating your user base can become a valuable revenue stream.
  3. Meet Diverse Customer Needs: Flexibility in product delivery can open new markets.
  4. Synergize Products and Services: Look for complementary services or products to enhance value.
  5. Tailor Solutions to Industry Needs: Customizing your product for different sectors can significantly expand your business reach.

This journey illustrates how a single-product company can transform into a multi-revenue stream enterprise, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, market awareness, and continuous innovation in the entrepreneurial world.

Beware the Brain-Picker – Make Use of Your Time Wisely

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There’s a certain thrill in being recognized for your expertise.

I remember vividly the first time someone asked if they could “pick my brain.”

It was a sunny afternoon, and I felt a mixture of pride and excitement as we sat down with coffees in hand.

These sessions, initially a source of flattery, gradually began to reveal a more complex nature, one that demanded a balance between generosity and self-preservation.

The Enthusiastic Beginning

My career’s dawn was marked by an unbridled enthusiasm to share and guide.

Recalling a time when a simple piece of advice helped a colleague clinch a crucial deal, I reveled in these moments.

My door was always open, my phone constantly buzzing with queries. This period was not just about giving; it was a journey of growth and connection.

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The Tide Begins to Turn

The change was subtle at first.

A meeting here, an extended session there, where I started to question the real intent of these interactions.

I vividly recall a day, amid the bustle of a crowded café, where I felt more like a free consultant than a collaborator. Doubts crept in, turning the tide of my perspective.

The Moment of Truth

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The pivotal shift came during a session that felt particularly draining.

Here was someone seeking not just guidance but a detailed roadmap, offering little in return. It sparked a period of introspection.

I began to question the sustainability of my open-door policy and the impact it was having on my own goals and time.

Redefining the Rules

This realization led me down a path of redefining my approach.

I began setting clear boundaries and criteria for these interactions. For instance, I started offering structured mentoring sessions instead of impromptu meetings.

This wasn’t about turning people away; it was about respecting my own time and expertise as much as I respected theirs.

The Balanced Path Forward

Today, my approach is more balanced.

I engage in interactions that promise mutual growth and respect.

A recent collaboration, where shared insights led to a successful project, stands as a testament to this new strategy.

It’s a path that values both giving and receiving, creating a more sustainable and rewarding exchange.

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Lessons Learned Along the Way

My journey from an ever-available source of advice to a strategic sharer of knowledge has been enlightening.

The key lessons I’ve learned include:

  1. Value Your Time: Your time is as valuable as your expertise.
  2. Seek Mutual Benefit: Aim for interactions that are beneficial for all involved.
  3. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to establish limits to protect your time and energy.
  4. Stay Open to Genuine Connections: Be available for those who seek true collaboration.
  5. Reflect and Adapt: Continuously evaluate how your interactions align with your personal and professional growth.

This evolution hasn’t just been a professional necessity; it’s been a personal journey of understanding the true worth of knowledge and time.

In sharing this story, I hope to inspire others to find their own balance in the art of knowledge-sharing.

Building Brand With Almost Zero Budget – Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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As a Startup Founder with a very small budget, how do you brand yourself?

What better ways to make yourself known in the market?

Here’s my story and hopefully you can learned something too.

Launching a startup, such as Favoriot, inherently presents a maze of challenges, with visibility standing out as a colossal hurdle.

In an era where traditional media like TV and radio are either financially daunting or highly selective, innovation becomes not just an option, but a necessity.

This narrative dives into our journey of utilizing alternative, primarily social media channels to sculpt and elevate the Favoriot brand.

The Crossroads: Conventional Media vs. Start-Up Realities

How many of us afford to pay ourselves into the conventional media like the newspaper, magazine, TV or radio?

Appearing on TV with Millions of audience is a dream.

People listening you on radio can be very entertaining.

Looking at yourself on the cover of a business magazine can be thrilling.

But when you just start, it’s quite impossible to reach that channels.

For many startups, the allure of mainstream media exposure remains a coveted but elusive dream.

The stark reality is a choice between either having an inherently compelling story or investing heavily for visibility.

Grappling with these constraints, we ventured into the more accessible and interactive world of social media to fulfill our marketing ambitions.

Our Digital Arsenal: Creativity Meets Strategy

Confronted with the inaccessibility of traditional channels, we discovered and harnessed the power of online alternatives.

With minimal branding budget – only use free or subscribe to some software tools such as Canva and website hosting , we begin our branding journey:

  • Podcasts Over Radio: Launching our podcast series, we delved into sharing industry insights, engaging with experts, and chronicling our journey, offering a more intimate connection with our audience.
  • YouTube and TikTok Over TV: We initiated both YouTube and TikTok channels, transforming it into a dynamic platform for product demonstrations, customer stories, and a sneak peek into the Favoriot lifestyle.
  • The Digital Poster Revolution: Reimagining advertising, we employed visually captivating digital posters on Instagram and Facebook, sidestepping the hefty costs of traditional billboards.
  • Blogs as the New Age Newspapers: Our blog evolved into a treasure trove of valuable content, from practical guides to industry updates, keeping our audience informed and hooked.

Sharpening Focus: Targeting Impactful Channels

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Our strategy initially encompassed a broad spectrum of platforms.

However, through analysis and observation, we honed in on TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, X, Threads and LinkedIn, recognizing their superior engagement and audience alignment.

Beyond Transactions: Cultivating Trust and Recognition

Our vision transcended mere sales; our ambition was to embed Favoriot as a brand synonymous with reliability and trust.

Regular updates, milestone celebrations, and relatable storytelling were our tools in building a brand that resonates and garners recommendations.

Distilled Wisdom: Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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  • Flexibility is Paramount: Be prepared to pivot your strategy if certain channels don’t resonate as expected.
  • Quality Content Reigns Supreme: Engaging, well-crafted content is a significant driver of audience interaction.
  • Consistency Builds Brand Presence: A regular posting rhythm is crucial in maintaining and refreshing the brand’s presence in public consciousness.

Conclusion: The Enlightening Path of Alternative Media Branding

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Our excursion in branding Favoriot through alternative media channels has been a journey of profound learning and adaptation.

It’s a testament to the fact that impactful branding doesn’t necessitate a colossal budget.

Utilizing available resources astutely and prioritizing the development of a robust, trustworthy brand presence, we’ve successfully etched our space in the competitive market.

This marks the inception of a continuous journey of growth and innovation.

Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

  1. Embrace the Digital Landscape: Understand the power of digital channels and leverage them to your advantage.
  2. Innovate Within Constraints: Use budget or resource limitations as a catalyst for creative solutions.
  3. Understand Your Audience: Deeply knowing who you are speaking to is key to effective brand communication.
  4. Experiment, but Measure: Trial different strategies, but always keep an eye on analytics for insights.
  5. Build Relationships, Not Just a Customer Base: Focus on creating lasting connections with your audience.
  6. Storytelling is a Powerful Tool: Use your unique story to create a memorable brand identity.
  7. Learn from Feedback: Regularly engage with and learn from customer feedback and online interactions.
  8. Networking is Crucial: Build connections within your industry and with influencers to expand your reach.
  9. Stay Updated with Market Trends: Keep abreast of industry trends and adapt your strategies accordingly.
  10. Resilience is Key: Persevere through challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth.

This journey of building Favoriot using alternative media channels has not just been about business growth, but about lessons in innovation, resilience, and the power of digital connection – invaluable insights for any aspiring entrepreneur embarking on their own venture.

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Do Not Neglect The Power of Mailing Lists in Your Startup Journey

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Are you so dependent on Social Media?

How effective is your content?

For example, I have been on X (Twitter) right after it was launched but it was never as effective as my mailing list.

In the early days of a startup, the allure of a burgeoning social media following is often irresistible.

It’s true that a strong presence on these platforms is crucial.

However, it’s vital not to overlook a more personal and impactful tool at your disposal: the mailing list.

Navigating the Social Media Maze

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Did you get frustrated when you don’t get many followers?

How many is “many”?

Social media’s reach is undeniably vast, but its nature poses unique challenges.

Your content competes with a deluge of other posts, making it hard to capture and keep your audience’s attention.

For startups, especially, the effort to organically grow this audience demands a significant investment of time and energy in constant posting and engagement.

The Unmatched Benefits of Mailing Lists

Go directly to them!

Get intimate!

Mailing lists carve out a more direct and personal channel to your audience.

When individuals subscribe to your newsletter or download content, they’re showing a real interest in your message.

My startup, Favoriot, experienced firsthand the benefits of this approach.

By sharing free eBooks rich in IoT insights and tips, we not only engaged our audience but also added real value, attracting a global following.

Value Comes First, Sales Later

Don’t hard sell!

The golden rule of successful mailing lists is to provide genuine value before any sales pitch. People recognize and often disapprove of overt selling.

On platforms like LinkedIn, I share not just about Favoriot, but my broader experiences in entrepreneurship and IoT.

This mix of personal insights and professional advice builds trust and credibility, essential for any startup eager to cultivate a devoted customer base.

Independence from Third-Party Platforms

A robust mailing list means less reliance on third-party platforms. You’re free from the constraints of changing algorithms and policies, giving you more control over your reach.

In my journey, reaching this level of independence has been liberating and empowering.

A Global Reach with a Personal Touch

From local to global reach.

Nothing can stop you.

The goal is simple yet ambitious: to expand your follower base, particularly internationally.

The key lies in balancing valuable content with a personal approach, ensuring your audience doesn’t feel like just another sales target.

People want to connect with your brand’s ethos and understand how you can enrich their personal or professional lives.

In Conclusion: Embracing the Mailing List Strategy

Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash

While the temptation to focus solely on social media is strong, the unique advantages of mailing lists can’t be overstated.

They offer a more intimate, direct, and effective means of communication, crucial for customer acquisition, retention, and achieving a global presence.

For startups at any stage, now is the time to harness the potential of mailing lists.

This strategic move is not just about immediate gains; it’s an investment in your long-term relationship with your customers.

Start building that mailing list today, and watch as it becomes a cornerstone of your growing business.

How Blogging Became My Unexpected Oasis

Photo by Vika Strawberrika on Unsplash

Everyday, we all juggle a myriad of responsibilities – family, work, and personal beliefs.

Amidst this busy backdrop, I’ve found two constants: my devotion to praying five times a day, and a seemingly mundane yet profoundly impactful habit – blogging.

Join me as I unveil how this digital diary has evolved into a cornerstone of my daily life.

A Haven for Heart and Mind

Life’s challenges often clutter our thoughts with worries and uncertainties.

For me, daily prayers are a spiritual detox, but blogging? It’s akin to a mental retreat.

It allows me to untangle my thoughts, process the day’s events, and emotionally unload onto a digital canvas.

The moment I click ‘publish’ and receive a message saying, “Hey, that really resonated with me,” it feels like a soulful high-five.

View at Medium.com

Beyond Codes and Business Strategies

When you hear ‘blog’, you might envision tech guides or sales tips.

Yes, I delve into the tech realm, but my blog is more than that.

It’s a chronicle of my entrepreneurial journey – the victories and the stumbles. It’s a raw, honest account that serves as a testament to my business evolution.

View at Medium.com

The Joy of Sharing

Remember the childhood lesson that ‘sharing is caring’?

That ethos thrives in the blogging sphere. Each post, be it a life lesson from a business misstep or a snippet of joy, feels like a heartwarming conversation with friends.

My blog has fostered a virtual community as tangible to me as my real-life neighbors.

View at Medium.com

A Blog: Not Just a Diary, But My Spotlight

My blog is a multifaceted tool – a diary, a confessional, a stage. It’s where I voice my passions, from the role of faith in my life to innovative business ideas, or musings on balancing spirituality with ambition.

It’s a platform for authentic self-expression, broadcasting my uniqueness to the world.

Emotional Fitness Routine

Blogging transcends being a mere task; it’s akin to an emotional workout.

Each post is a session of emotional clarity and mental rejuvenation, much like a gym routine for the soul.

View at Medium.com

Why It Matters

If the daily routine feels monotonous, consider the transformative power of simple habits.

Blogging was an unexpected boon in my life, not only enriching my days but also illuminating someone else’s.

Whether it’s a means to connect with your spiritual side, share your business journey, or simply find a space to be heard, try blogging.

It’s more than words on a screen; it’s a gateway to self-discovery and connection.

Conclusion: 15 Blogging Tips

To help you embark on this transformative journey, here are some comprehensive tips to make your blogging experience both enriching and rewarding:

  1. Find Your Niche: Identify topics that you are passionate about. It could be personal experiences, hobbies, or professional insights. A niche gives your blog a clear focus and attracts like-minded readers.
  2. Be Consistent: Establish a routine for your blogging. Whether it’s daily, weekly, or bi-weekly, consistency helps in building a loyal audience and also keeps you disciplined in your writing.
  3. Authentic Voice: Write in a way that reflects your true self. Authenticity resonates with readers and helps in building a personal connection.
  4. Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments, emails, and messages. Engagement builds community and loyalty among your readers.
  5. Use Visuals: Incorporate images, videos, or infographics to make your posts more engaging and shareable.
  6. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends in blogging and digital marketing. This will help you keep your blog relevant and interesting.
  7. Promote Your Blog: Use social media, SEO strategies, and networking with other bloggers to increase your blog’s visibility.
  8. Quality Over Quantity: Focus on creating high-quality content rather than churning out a large quantity of mediocre posts.
  9. Personal Stories and Experiences: Share your personal experiences and stories. They add a unique perspective and make your blog more relatable.
  10. Feedback and Adaptation: Be open to feedback and willing to adapt your strategies. Continuous improvement is key to a successful blog.
  11. Plan Your Content: Use a content calendar to plan your posts in advance. This helps in maintaining a steady flow of content.
  12. Stay True to Your Beliefs: If your blog includes elements of your personal beliefs or values, stay true to them. This integrity will shine through in your writing.
  13. Keep Learning About Writing: Good writing is at the heart of effective blogging. Keep honing your writing skills.
  14. Balance and Wellness: Remember to balance blogging with other aspects of life. It’s important for your overall wellness.
  15. Enjoy the Journey: Lastly, enjoy the process of blogging. It should be a fulfilling and enjoyable part of your life, not a chore.

Blogging is more than just a platform; it’s an avenue for personal growth, connection, and sharing your unique perspective with the world. Embrace it and watch how it transforms not just your daily routine, but also your life.

View at Medium.com