Essential entrepreneurship takeaways from Zoom’s founder & CEO

Eric Yuan Zoom's CEO

Say “Zoom”, and the average person would instantly get what you mean.

In recent times, the pandemic has brought about various changes in the way we work and communicate. Job interviews are shifting from in-person encounters to video calls, and connecting with friends and family members based overseas are also done through the webcam.

“Let’s hop on a Zoom call soon” or “I’ll drop you the Zoom link in a while” have become phrases we hear all the time. But do you know the creator behind the trending software used by millions now? Eric Yuan’s the name to note. He is also Time’s 2020 Businessperson of the Year, and we give him credit for that.

Here are some essential entrepreneurship takeaways from the 51-year-old Chinese-American billionaire businessman himself.

#1: Just do it

We will start by reinforcing Nike’s catchphrase. Do you know that Zoom was founded in 2011 when Eric Yuan was 41 years old? If he had allowed his age to deter him from creating Zoom 10 years ago, we wouldn’t be having the ease of communicating across time zones in this COVID-19 era.

#2: Remember the helping hands

Zoom came to life thanks not to just Eric Yuan but also his supportive friends and family who trusted him. They backed him up financially, and because of that, he was able to garner a total of $3 million in capital. Together with funding from venture capitalists, Zoom was able to progress to where they are right now.

#3: Keep at it
visa application form

Image Credits: immigration-ways.com

For quitters, the startup life may not be for you. Yuan shared that he got rejected eight times and accepted only on the ninth in his visa application to get to the US. This was after he had heard Bill Gates’ 1995 keynote speech regarding the future of the internet and wanted to get there to be part of the first wave of the internet revolution.

#4: Provide better solutions to problems

A startup usually exists because the founder wants to create a solution to pressing issues. But it has to be not just a mediocre solution but one that can set yourself apart from what’s already out there in the market. “Lead with the focus on the customer,” Yuan noted. While it’s good to know your competitors, don’t get overly obsessed with the research.

#5: Aim for user satisfaction

Those who’ve eyed the local startup scene or are well aware of new international ventures will know that sometimes startups waste time marketing the product when it’s not ready. On the other hand, Eric Yuan believed that happy customers would bring in money for the company eventually. Let your wonderful product speak for itself, and then leverage that word-of-mouth strategy to grow your business.

#6: Pay attention to employees & company culture
colleagues in an office

Image Credits: unsplash.com

As we come to a close, know that certain startups are bound to see a high turnover rate. While you may not be able to satisfy your workers with a market-rate salary or a speedy promotion raise, at least pay attention to them and your company culture.

“As a CEO, you need to think about your employees. Zoom’s culture is: Deliver happiness. If we are happy, the customer is happy. It’s a simple formula, and we lead by example,” Yuan remarked.

For more entrepreneurship insights, catch the entire webinar with Zoom’s CEO here.

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How to help your baby pick up a language during their early years

a child in a goat costume

Most Singaporean households use two languages to communicate with their kids – English and a preferred mother tongue.

But there are some families who stick to one preferred language and use it as the central lingo to make contact.

While there is no right or wrong method, some parents are looking to help their babies pick up a second language during their early years. Maybe you have not been exposed to Mandarin as a kid and hoping that your child will keep up the pace while he or she is young.

Great idea! If you believe that babies can learn within the first year of their lives and it’s crucial for them to get proper exposure for language learning in their early childhood days, stay on this page for tips.

#1: Magnify your expressions

Well-trained preschool teachers are usually very “big” with their gestures. To the average adult, their body language may look a little crazy. But it’s such craziness that your baby needs to attract their attention.

#2: Be responsive

In fact, not just for babies alone, most young children are encouraged by responsiveness. Pay close attention to your baby’s feedback and reply in your preferred language accordingly. Remember our previous point? Be sure to exaggerate your response to capture their concentration.

#3: Repeating is key
a grandmother reading a storybook to her grandchild

Image Credits: considerable.com

Even adults frequently repeat specific phrases in order to remember it. If you’ve had the experience of learning a third language, you would be well aware of how repetition plays a huge part in retaining new sounds, words, and phrases. This process is similar for your little one!

#4: Use children songs with visual aid

Children songs and nursery rhymes are usually filled with actions to stimulate a child’s interest. If you prefer not to expose your child to the television for prolonged periods, then do it yourself! But too much of something isn’t productive and may even wear out your baby. So, watch the clock.

#5: Keep interests in mind

No one person would like to continue an interaction if it doesn’t interest them. Hence, it pays to use your baby’s curiosity, for example, in a particular object, to engage in a “dialogue” with them.

#6: Q&A works fine
a dad talking to his baby

Image Credits: identifythesigns.org

Q&A is a system adults use to confirm understanding. Your baby may not be able to speak right now, but they can respond to your questions in their unique way. To make sure they understand the language you’re using over time, ask simple questions and watch their reply.

#7: Include storytimes

One of the things I admire about European families is the presence of storytimes before bed. It’s not just a wonderful way to teach a language but also a fantastic time to bond with your baby. Don’t forget to slow down your reading speed and make sure you’re articulating those words clearly.

#8: Avoid over rectification

As we come to a close, perfectionist parents should keep in mind not to go overboard with correction. Even if your child is unable to pronounce certain words accurately, that’s okay. They are still in the process of speech development, and you can aid them by giving them the confidence to speak freely.

Time and patience will go a long way. Take heart!

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Experts and observers share their views on bicycle registrations and cyclist licences in Singapore

cyclists and pedestrians crossing the road

Last week, Senior Minister of State for Transport Chee Hong Tat announced that the Active Mobility Advisory Panel would reassess rules on safety for cyclists and motorists.

The advisory panel will also be looking into the feasibility of the registration of bicycles or licensing of cyclists. This also means that cyclists may be required to take a theory test in the future.

However, observers noted that such measures could disrupt Singapore’s cycling vision. Experts also say that it would be wiser to pump more resources into educating the public on safety aspects instead.

Singapore’s history with bicycle registrations

Do you know that our little red dot required bicycle registrations from the colonial era until 1982? Over 30 odd years, there have been many requests on the licensing of two-wheelers and their riders.

In fact, in 2013, ex-Nee Soon GRC Member of Parliament Lee Bee Wah recommended that cyclists go through safety lessons before licence issuance. Following various letters to the news forum in a bid for registration to discourage reckless riders, the suggestion was revisited in 2016.

At that time, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) raised several practical difficulties implementing the scheme. They explained that it would be overly resource-intensive and could result in fewer cyclists since owning a bicycle would be too burdensome.

Experts and observers share their take on the issue
abandoned bikes in Singapore

Image Credits: The Straits Times

Dr Cecilia Rojas, who focuses on active mobility research, shared that the registration of bicycles would help reduce bike theft and abandoned or illegal parking.

However, the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) lecturer added that the authorities should clarify who needs to be registered. The licensing process should also be seamless and adopted over time so people can adapt to the new rules.

“Bicycles are bought, sold, exchanged very regularly. Also, in cases of road bicycles, sometimes just the frame or the handle or the wheels are changed, making the bicycle lighter or faster. Would these types of changes be required to be informed (to the authorities), or a new licence be required?” Dr Rojas questioned.

Tham Chen Munn, a business development director for traffic solutions firm PTV Asia-Pacific, also raised an excellent point. He asked if the registration of these devices would aid the authorities in catching hasty riders.

To that, the co-founder of cycling group Love Cycling SG, Francis Chu, noted that despite e-scooter registrations, those were ultimately banned from walkways.

“On the roads, vehicles move faster and the distance between them is further apart compared to those on the pavement. If on the footpath it didn’t help address the errant riders, it will be more difficult to capture the number plate on the road,” remarked Mr Chu.

Various suggestions to be considered

Mr Chu mentioned that setting a mandatory online test on road-cycling safety could be considered. Similarly, drivers could also go through a similar test on the proper response to road cyclists. He added that the LTA could examine protected bike lanes and junctions if there’s enough space to work with.

On the flip side, Mr Tham requests speed limits to be reduced in specific areas. He’s referring to places with a high traffic flow of people walking and cycling.

“We’re not talking about expressways, we’re not talking about major arterials, leave those as they are. There are opportunities to (introduce a speed limit of) 30kmh in places that can be safe for people to come out and play and be more active,” he commented.

So, with all that said, what’s your take on the issue? Would you be keen to register for a compulsory theory test to be “certified” safe to cycle? Or would you give up cycling altogether since registration and licensing is too much of a hassle?

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Top Places For Authentic Jjajangmyeon In Singapore (From S$7)

One of the most common take-away dishes in Korean dramas is Jajangmyeon (자장면) or Jjajangmyeon (짜장면). Jjajangmyeon is a Korean noodle dish coated with a thick sauce made of chunjang, vegetables, and diced pork. Different versions of this dish use seafood or other meats.

It was inspired by the Chinese dish Zha Jiang Mian, which was introduced by a Chinese immigrant living in Incheon. Nowadays, Jjajangmyeon brings delight to people all over the world. Luckily for us, we can satisfy our appetite without having to travel to Korea.

#1: MUKJJA

Mukjja‘s catchy name came from 먹자 (Mukja) meaning “Let’s eat!” and 짜 (Jja) from “Jjajangmyeon”. Located opposite Novena Church, MukJja offers a fusion of dishes from the Korean and Chinese cuisines. It opened last March 2020, before the implementation of the Circuit Breaker.

People who have missed the dishes from Tae Woo Ban Jum (i.e., a Korean restaurant that used to be at Clarke Quay) will be happy to know that its founder is the person behind MukJja.

Now, let us focus on MukJja’s Jjajangmyeon (about S$11). What makes their Jjajangmyeon memorable is its in-house noodles, its black bean paste, and its inclusion of shredded meat. Food blogger and presenter Daniel Ang expressed that its taste is as legit as the one he had before in Seoul. He is not alone! Many online reviews considered it as one of the best Jjajangmyeons in Singapore.

Image Credits: facebook.com/mukjja

Address: 275 Thomson Road #01-07, Singapore 307645

#2: DONG FANG HONG

This list will not be complete without the Dong Fang Hong Korean Chinese Restaurant. Dong Fang Hong serves a mouthwatering collection of dishes, which are suitable for casual dining and family gatherings. Serving people since 2005, Dong Fang Hong is one of the most experienced Korean Chinese restaurants in Singapore.

Try the DFH Jjajangmyeon (about S$12) or the Uni Jjajangmyeon (about S$13) when you are there. The DFH Jjajangmyeon is made with chewy handmade noodles and savory black bean sauce. While the Uni Jjajangmyeon is the spicy equivalent its Jjajangmyeon. The spiciness seeps through the thick savory sauce, making the dish more addicting with every bite.

Image Credits: facebook.com/DongFangHongSg

Address: 92 Telok Ayer Street #01-01 Singapore, Singapore 048472

#3: O.BBa Jjajang

O.BBa Jjajang is the sister restaurant of O.BBa BBQ. One of its well-known dishes is the Jjajangmyeon (from S$13). The restaurant’s Jjajangmyeon is served with fermented black soybean paste, homemade noodles, diced pork, onions, and shredded cucumber. Its size can feed about two people, but you are more than welcome to upsize your bowl for an additional fee.

Its noodles are smooth and chewy. As for the sauce, it has a generous sauce-to-noodle ratio. People who love saucy dishes will consider it a treat. Please mix the noodles and the sauce before consuming it to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Image Credits: facebook.com/obbajjajang

Address: 77 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088498

#4: ANNYEONG CHICKEN

The most inexpensive Jjajangmyeon (about S$7) on this list packs a punch! You see, it added vibrancy to our local hawker scene with its offerings of popular Korean cuisines such as the Jjajangmyeon. At Annyeong Chicken, the black bean sauce coats every yellow noodle strand. It boasts with a heavy onion flavor too.

You can complete your course with delicious dishes such as the Soy Garlic Chicken (about S$8/3 pieces) and the Haemul Pajeon (from S$10). Haemul Pajeon is otherwise known as the Korean seafood pancake.

Image Credits: facebook.com/annyeongck

Address: Blk 710 Clementi West Street 2, #01-247, Rong Fa Coffee Shop, Singapore 120709

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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3 Places Where You Can Learn Pottery In Singapore

Pottery is one of the oldest and most widespread forms of decorative arts. Despite the technological advances, the existence of pottery is far from over.

Experience the beauty of pottery as you attend one of the classes below. These classes will help you create your own plates, bowls, mugs, and more. Handmade crafts are more personalized and meaningful than store-bought products.

What are you waiting for? Make pottery your new hobby this 2021!

#1: THOW KWANG POTTERY JUNGLE

What better way to experience pottery than by going back to its roots? While most pottery studios in the country operate on electric kilns, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle does not. Witness the magic of the dragon kiln as you attend one of its workshops.

Built in 1940s, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle’s dragon kiln is one of the last two dragon kilns in Singapore. Its uniqueness does not stop there! You see, it is the only dragon kiln that is fired up multiple times per year. It is made from bricks and uses a wood-firing technique to engulf the pieces in fire. This way, the ashes react with the pottery glaze to create dynamic textures and colors.

Visit this place to enjoy their tours, workshops, and retail items. One of its interesting workshops is the Paw-Stamping Workshop. This workshop allows you to personalize your pet’s bowl with its paw (costs about S$65). Workshop prices start from S$28/pax.

Address: 85 Lorong Tawas, S (639823)
Website: potteryjungle.com

#2: ARUDIO

ARUDIO’s story dates way back in 2014 with its founder – Poh Sin Yong. Poh Sin Yong aims to support the local art scene through providing arts to the public and job opportunities to the local artists. Nestled in Woodlands, you will find various workshops such as painting, printmaking, and pottery.

ARUDIO provides art classes to all levels and rental spaces for artists. In its core, it believes that everyone is bestowed with the gift of creativity.

Well, here is one for the books – a pottery class for couples or friends! If you are looking for an activity to experience quality time with your partner, you may book for the Ceramic Hand Building Class (about S$130/2 pax). It is a 3-hour class for people who are eager to learn about the different tools and techniques used in pottery. Nonetheless, their trial classes start at S$70/pax.

Address: 11 Woodlands Close, #09-30, S (737853)
Website: arudioceramic.com

Image Credits: facebook.com/arudiosg

#3: THE POTTERS’ GUILT

The Potters’ Guilt offers more than its eye-catching name! According to its website, it got its name by playing with the terms “guild and guilt”. For them, the word “guild refers to the respect accorded to the integrity of craft” and the word “guilt refers to the pursuit of our own idiosyncratic imperfections”. This studio consists of practicing artists, who are dedicated to work in the realm of three-dimensional art. They share their passions through their products and workshops.

Sign up for The Potters’ Guilt Pottery On Wheels Experience (about S$55/pax) to know more about the technique of wheel-thrown pottery. This is the same tool used in the unforgettable scene in the film “Ghost”. Classes are kept small to ensure everyone safety.

Best of all? Their workshops are not only for adults. Your beloved children can experience the therapeutic effect of pottery by signing up for the Children’s Workshop (about S$60/pax). Let your children create monster mugs while having fun!

Address: 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, #01-03, S (168976)
Website: thepottersguilt.com

The abovementioned art and pottery studios are just some of the options you may consider when starting out your creative hobby. If you are not yet ready to take a class, learning at home is a budget-friendly alternative. Start by gathering air-dry clay, paint, and acrylic gloss. There are countless tutorials available on YouTube. See for yourself!

Sources: 1 & 2

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