In this episode of the podcast, we address important topics related to entrepreneurship and the tech environment in Saudi Arabia, where Ahmed Attar hosts Professor Abdulaziz Al-Moussa, who shares his personal experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it affected his professional journey. The conversation begins with a focus on the challenges he faced, including the distribution of paper permits for more than 11,000 permits, and how these experiences motivated him to develop the idea of the “Shaqardi” application.
The dialogue also highlights the importance of preparedness and readiness before entering any project, and reviews how previous work experiences at Aramco have influenced him and provided the necessary inspiration to establish his own project. The guest discusses how working in startups can be more beneficial for learning and personal development compared to working in large companies, as it allows for acquiring multiple skills in dynamic environments.
In the end, the episode offers advice to young graduates who wish to enter the business world, emphasizing the need for long-term thinking in their career paths. The discussion also touches on the potential of emerging tech companies and how their future looks promising, thereby enhancing the importance of innovation and development in this sector.
Work Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic
When the COVID-19 pandemic began and the complete lockdown spread, many sectors in the Kingdom were affected, including the delivery sector. At that time, there was an urgent need to organize delivery matters and distribute permits. About 11,000 paper permits were distributed to couriers across the Kingdom to ensure the continuity of services. These challenges showed how companies could adapt rapidly to changing conditions, and how innovation could play a key role in overcoming crises.
This situation also represents a significant shift in work and trade patterns, as the demand surged unprecedentedly, especially in the early months of the pandemic. For example, there was a massive increase in daily orders, prompting companies to reconsider their strategies and expand their service offerings. Alongside the challenges faced by many businesses, there were also new growth opportunities, as project owners realized the importance of relying on modern technologies to meet the increasing customer needs.
Success Stories in Entrepreneurship
In the context of discussing entrepreneurship, many inspiring stories emerge of individuals who chose to resign from stable jobs to establish their own projects. For example, one guest spoke about investing 2 million Riyals of his savings into a business project, which faced significant challenges at the beginning. After a year and a half of hard work, the orders were zero, prompting him to think of ways to overcome this tough phase.
Success in the business world requires a lot of effort and perseverance, which is what this individual’s experience demonstrated. After the tough trials, he managed to achieve tangible results and notable successes. These experiences highlight the importance of patience and determination in entrepreneurship, and how challenges can be transformed into opportunities for learning and growth.
Experiences like these inspire others and show them that success is not merely luck, but the result of continuous efforts and a clear vision. Each success story emphasizes the importance of careful planning and the ability to adapt to rapid changes in the work environment.
The Entrepreneurial Environment in the Kingdom
Discussions about the entrepreneurial environment in the Kingdom indicate that there are both challenges and opportunities at the same time. Although some regions like Khobar may face difficulties in attracting startups, there is a supportive opinion that highlights that Khobar is a promising city with great potential. The presence of companies like Aramco and SABIC contributes to enhancing the economic environment and provides many opportunities for investors.
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it is essential to understand that an entrepreneurial environment requires a strong support system, including appropriate legislation, suitable infrastructure, and trained human capital. In discussing the news, it was mentioned that the city boasts distinguished human resources, with a number of universities producing qualified graduates. These graduates constitute an important source of workforce across various fields, enhancing the city’s ability to develop new projects.
It can be said that the balance between education and vocational training is a fundamental element in building a successful entrepreneurial environment. Educational institutions should collaborate with companies to identify market needs and develop the necessary curricula. This collaboration can open new horizons for students and assist companies in finding the right talent.
Innovation in Technology Applications
With the increasing use of smartphones, technology applications have witnessed tremendous growth. There were in-depth discussions about how these innovations affect our daily lives. From applications that provide delivery services to those that allow individuals to manage their financial matters, we now have numerous options that make our lives easier.
The application “شَقردي” is one of the discussed examples. It started as a delivery service, but it evolved into a comprehensive platform offering a range of services, reflecting how applications can meet people’s needs more efficiently. It is clear that innovation is not limited to providing new services but also includes enhancing the overall user experience.
This innovation reflects the significant changes in how we live and interact with the world around us. In the coming years, these trends are expected to continue growing, opening the door for more opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs seeking to develop new ideas that meet the changing market needs.
Funding Opportunities for Startups
Funding opportunities are considered one of the most important elements that determine the success of any startup. In this context, it is essential for entrepreneurs to have a clear idea of the various scenarios that can lead to obtaining funding. For example, investors may prefer to support projects led by individuals with prior experience in large or consulting companies, as these experiences reflect the founder’s ability to manage businesses and deal with challenges. History shows that many successful companies started with previous experiences, demonstrating that accumulated experience plays a significant role in attracting investors.
Additionally, working in environments such as large companies or startups can open doors to larger investment opportunities. When an entrepreneur works in a startup, they are exposed to multiple opportunities and may acquire valuable skills that help them later attract investments. This is evident in the success stories of entrepreneurs who started from scratch and succeeded in building massive companies like “PayPal” and “Tesla.” These examples illustrate how previous experiences can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to attract investors and achieve growth in the business field.
The Importance of Experience in Diverse Work Environments
The experience gained from working in diverse environments plays a critical role in shaping an entrepreneur’s character and developing their skills. Individuals who work in large companies or even in startups receive valuable educational opportunities. These experiences help them understand how markets operate and develop effective strategies. For instance, a person who has worked in a consulting firm may have a deep understanding of how to analyze markets and trends, enabling them to make informed decisions when starting their own project.
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This experience allows for understanding how to manage teams and motivate individuals, which are essential skills for success in the business world. People who have the opportunity to work in dynamic work environments can also acquire technical and managerial skills that will help them later when building their own projects. Overall, accumulated experience is considered one of the fundamental tools that enhance the chances of success and increase competitiveness in the market.
Challenges of Building Startups in the Local Market
Despite the available opportunities, entrepreneurs face many challenges when building their startups in local markets. Among the most prominent challenges are fierce competition and economic constraints that governments may impose. Success in this environment requires the entrepreneur to have a clear vision and a strategic business plan. For example, it is important to identify market gaps and untapped opportunities.
Moreover, it also requires adapting to rapid changes in the market and technology. Entrepreneurs must be aware of new developments and have the capability to innovate to confront challenges. For instance, if there is a new application in the market that provides delivery services, the startup must be ready to offer something different or improved to attract customers. Looking at success stories, we find that companies that successfully adapted to changes in the market were often able to achieve sustainable growth.
Lessons Learned from Global and Local Success Stories
Success stories are a source of inspiration for many entrepreneurs, as they carry valuable lessons that can benefit project building. For example, the experience of “Tesla” and “SpaceX” showcases the importance of patience and perseverance in facing challenges. Although these companies faced many difficulties, strong vision and continuous innovation led to their success. These examples illustrate how failure is not the end of the road, but can be a new beginning if one learns from mistakes.
Additionally, local stories like “Careem” demonstrate how understanding local market needs can lead to significant success. Companies that focus on providing tailored services that meet customer needs are often more competitive and able to attract investments. Therefore, entrepreneurs should benefit from these lessons and strive to apply them in their own projects to ensure sustainable success.
Strategies for Adapting to the Dynamic Work Environment
The ability to adapt to a dynamic work environment is one of the most important skills an entrepreneur needs. In a rapidly changing world where technology and markets continually evolve, entrepreneurs must have the capacity to quickly adjust their strategies. This requires a deep understanding of the market and customer needs.
Effective adaptation strategies include continuous market research and engaging with customers to obtain their feedback. Through these interactions, entrepreneurs can learn what customers need and determine whether their products or services meet these needs. For example, conducting surveys or focus groups is an effective way to better understand market needs.
Furthermore, entrepreneurs should stay updated on the latest trends and developments in their field. Attending conferences and exhibitions or joining professional communities can be an ideal place for networking and sharing ideas. All these strategies enhance an entrepreneur’s ability to adapt and increase the chances of their project’s success in a changing work environment.
Experience of Personal Transformation After Shakardi
Life is always full of challenges and opportunities, and in this context, the idea of Shakardi has become a pivotal turning point in the lives of many. Talking about Shakardi is not limited to being a food delivery platform but also represents the embodiment of dreams and passions that awaken the spirit in the business world. Many individuals connect their personal and professional successes with the launch of Shakardi in the market. This platform was not just a means to deliver food, but also a way to express oneself and achieve goals.
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For example, we can see how many entrepreneurs started their own projects after being inspired by the Shaqardi journey. Every success story requires courage in decision-making and change. The courage to make difficult decisions like leaving traditional jobs and embarking on new adventures contributed to reshaping people’s lives. Thus, Shaqardi was not just an idea but a source of inspiration for many, enabling them to discover their hidden potentials and achieve their dreams.
Understanding Market Size and the Importance of Data
Studying the market and understanding its size are fundamental factors for the success of any project. One of the points raised in the discussion is the way to evaluate market size, where the importance of data and numbers in understanding daily restaurant demands was emphasized. For example, if there is information about the number of orders at a particular restaurant, this data can be analyzed to derive market trends.
For instance, if a large restaurant records 500 orders daily, it can be assumed that there is significant demand for delivery services in the area. This type of analysis can help in making strategic decisions, such as choosing the right geographical areas to expand service offerings. This understanding enables companies to predict future success and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Additionally, knowing the competitors in the market and how they behave can provide a significant boost to any startup. Data is not just numbers; it is also stories that can be read to understand consumer behavior and the overall market climate. Analyzing data can lead you to untapped opportunities and increase the likelihood of success.
The Challenges Facing Entrepreneurs
The entrepreneurial journey is accompanied by a wide range of challenges that every entrepreneur must face. The discussion about the difficulties faced by the founder, from losing employees to financial pressures, reflects the harsh nature of working in this field. Many entrepreneurs discover that things are not as they seem, requiring flexibility and readiness to adapt to changes.
For example, when an investor comes and promises financial supplies, then at a certain moment pulls back, it can lead to significant negative impacts on the workflow. Such moments require the entrepreneur to make difficult decisions, such as laying off employees or restructuring the company. Here, the importance of effective leadership and resilience becomes evident, as the entrepreneur must be ready to bear the pressures.
Moreover, difficult personal experiences, such as facing financial crises or work pressures, are an integral part of shaping an entrepreneur’s character. Many people may find themselves seeking support from relatives and friends in times of need, reflecting the importance of building a strong social network that supports them in tough times.
The Importance of Relationships in Business
Relationships are one of the most important elements for the success of any business, playing a key role in achieving commercial goals. Building relationships with customers, investors, and employees is not only important but essential for companies to remain in the market. The stronger the relationship, the greater the trust, which facilitates the processes of work and collaboration.
For example, if you have a good relationship with an investor, it is likely that they will provide financial support in difficult times. Similarly, if you maintain positive relationships with employees, it enhances team spirit and positively reflects on productivity. Companies that embrace a culture of teamwork and develop good relationships maintain their market position better.
Personal relationships also affect the course of one’s professional life. Meeting people from different backgrounds can open new doors for job opportunities and collaborations. Every relationship you build could be the key to an unexpected future opportunity. Therefore, building relationships goes beyond mere daily interactions; it is an investment in the future.
Adaptation
Lessons from the COVID Experience
The COVID pandemic has led to fundamental changes across all industries, including the restaurant and food delivery sector. Many businesses that were not prepared to face these challenges were forced to close, while some companies thrived by adapting to the new situation. The ability to innovate and adjust to new conditions was crucial for survival.
Therefore, many companies adopted new ways of working, such as offering unprecedented delivery services or enhancing the online customer experience. For example, some platforms utilized modern technologies to facilitate remote ordering and provide comfortable shopping experiences for consumers. These transformations may have been challenging, but they were necessary for survival during times of crisis.
Similarly, adapting to changing customer needs is also a key element. Understanding customer preferences and how to meet their needs during crises can provide companies with a competitive advantage. Therefore, it is always important for companies to be ready to adapt to changing circumstances and seek opportunities amid challenges.
Strategic Planning: From Idea to Execution
Strategic planning is considered one of the essential keys to any successful project. A clear plan must be built that outlines the goals, necessary resources, and steps required to achieve success. The discussion of how to develop and implement the idea reflects the importance of discipline and focus during the execution phases.
When starting any project, it is crucial to have a clear vision of what you want to achieve. Initial steps may include market research, assembling the right team, and defining the company’s core message. It also requires monitoring and evaluating goals periodically to ensure progress in the right direction.
For example, after launching the application, it was important to evaluate performance and understand user feedback. This type of analysis can provide valuable insights for improving the product or service. Therefore, strategic planning does not stop at a specific point; rather, it is an ongoing process that requires reviewing and adjusting plans based on results and market changes.
Personal Relationships and Their Importance in Daily Life
Personal relationships are a fundamental part of social life, playing a significant role in shaping an individual’s social identity. These relationships are not limited to friends or family but also include colleagues and acquaintances we interact with daily. Building strong relationships with others can enhance quality of life and overall happiness. Social relationships provide emotional support, help alleviate the stresses of daily life, and offer opportunities for learning and growth.
By establishing a broad network of relationships, individuals can access resources and information that may be useful in various fields, whether professional or personal. For example, if you have a good relationship with colleagues, it makes it easier to get help when you need it or even to obtain new job opportunities. These relationships require building trust and effective communication, which takes effort and time.
There are many ways to build personal relationships, such as engaging in social activities or using social media to connect with others. Many people use platforms like Twitter to create new relationships, where they can interact with others and share their ideas and projects. However, it is important to be cautious about maintaining privacy and not sharing sensitive personal information.
Work-Life Balance
Achieving work-life balance is a significant challenge faced by many individuals today. With the pressures of work and daily life commitments, some may feel they are in a constant struggle between work and relaxation. It is essential for individuals to recognize the importance of attending to their personal lives and not sacrificing it for professional success. Success should not come at the expense of mental health or family relationships.
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This balance can be achieved by following certain strategies. For example, allocating specific time for both work and personal life can help in managing time better. It is also important to set aside times for rest and relaxation, such as exercising or spending time with family and friends. These activities are not only a way to unwind but also help to recharge energy and improve productivity at work.
Furthermore, it is crucial for individuals to recognize that professional success can be attained without neglecting personal life. Many successful entrepreneurs care for their social relationships and allocate time for family. They understand that emotional support from friends and family can be a strong motivator for achieving professional goals.
Challenges in Entrepreneurship and Startups
Entrepreneurship is a journey that requires a lot of passion and dedication, but it also comes with a set of challenges. Starting a new venture requires meticulous planning and investment of time and resources, which can sometimes be overwhelming. Entrepreneurs face multiple challenges such as time management, financial resources, dealing with competition, and staying in touch with customers and suppliers.
When starting a startup, it becomes essential to understand the target market and its needs. Conducting market research can help identify opportunities and challenges. Effective communication with customers helps to understand their expectations, which can enhance the chances of project success. Success in a project is not only about having a good idea but also about the ability to effectively implement that idea.
Additionally, personal relationships play an important role in the success of projects. For example, building strong relationships with investors can provide the necessary financial support to expand the business. Therefore, the skill of building relationships is among the most important skills that entrepreneurs should possess.
The Importance of Caring for Mental Health and Personal Wellbeing
Mental health is a fundamental element of a happy and balanced life. It is essential for individuals to have strategies for coping with the stresses and challenges they face in daily life. Practicing meditation, yoga, and physical activity are considered effective ways to improve mental health. Additionally, social support from friends and family can assist in coping with psychological challenges.
It is also important to pay attention to the balance between work and personal life, as overworking can lead to what is known as “burnout,” which adversely affects personal and professional performance. Individuals should learn how to allocate time for rest and relaxation and engage in activities they love. This helps in rejuvenating energy and increasing productivity.
Ultimately, mental health is not just the absence of mental illness but a state of overall wellbeing. Therefore, it is important for individuals to strive to achieve balance in different aspects of their lives, including work, family, and mental health.
The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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