What does it take to thrive in a dynamic and diverse business landscape? My journey, spanning over two decades as a woman entrepreneur across India and now Singapore, has taught me that passion, adaptability, and a deep connection with the people and cultures around you are key ingredients for success.
The transformative journey from my roots in India to the vibrant canvas of Singapore’s business landscape has been a humbling experience. In the nuanced world of executive search, where every interaction is a lesson, I found myself at a crossroads in my mid-forties. The decision to move, not just professionally but as a family, wasn’t driven by a desire to boast about accomplishments, but rather a genuine yearning for growth beyond the familiar realms of India. This shift marked not only a change in career scenery but a profound personal evolution. It was an exploration of uncharted territories, a quest for self-discovery, and an earnest endeavour to establish a regional hub for CFR Global Search.
Embracing the unfamiliar in Singapore, we as a family found solace in the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures. From bustling streets and aromatic hawker centres to heartfelt conversations over cups of teh tarik, every experience enriched our lives. It wasn’t just about adapting professionally, but about understanding the city’s essence, where diverse cultures beautifully converge, for each member of our family.
Establishing ourselves in this competitive market posed its challenges. Winning client confidence, especially in the initial stages, demanded perseverance. I vividly recall a pivotal pitch for a key leadership role where scepticism loomed large from an established client panel. Instead of resorting to generic presentations, our team took a different approach. We delved deeper, understanding the client’s specific needs and cultural nuances, and presented a tailored strategy showcasing our regional expertise and commitment to diversity. The result? We not only secured the project but cultivated a long-term partnership. This experience reinforced a valuable lesson: in a crowded space, differentiation and a genuine understanding of clients’ needs wield immense power.
Thriving in this dynamic market demands more than strategic acumen; it calls for a delicate balance between personal aspirations and professional ambitions. As I stand tall on this journey, I recognize that it transcends reaching destinations. It’s a profound transformation experienced as a woman entrepreneur, mother, and an individual who dared to embrace the unknown. This diversity extends beyond Singapore’s borders, as our established trust allows us to serve clients across Asia, leveraging the global network of CFR Global Executive Search.
In conclusion, this journey is more than a career; it’s a testament to resilience, the power of diversity, and the unwavering spirit of embracing the unknown. As I continue navigating new horizons, I carry with me the lessons learned, the connections forged, and the profound transformations that define the heart of this entrepreneurial odyssey.
What challenges and opportunities are you facing on your entrepreneurial journey? As I continue exploring the unknown, I invite you to do the same.
Article written by Jasmine Haria, CFR Global Executive Search Singapore