Posted by The Arrival of a Korean Talent
Several years ago, our team welcomed a remarkable addition—a Korean lady with a fascinating background. Born in South Korea, she studied in Canada and even ventured into the entrepreneurial world in Silicon Valley. Her journey eventually led her to our company, where she assumed the role of a business analyst. However, after just two months, she realized that the corporate behemoth wasn’t her ideal habitat. With unwavering determination, she resigned.
Perhaps it was the shared Asian heritage, but during those initial two months, we forged an unexpected bond. We became fast friends, exchanging messages and phone calls beyond the work context.
The Pandemic Pivot
As 2020 dawned, the world grappled with the pandemic. One day, my Korean friend messaged me—with an urgent plea for assistance. Her online product had unexpectedly skyrocketed in popularity, and she needed help managing the sudden surge.
I hesitated initially, wrestling with two conflicting thoughts:
- Self-Doubt: Could I, with no prior startup experience, truly contribute meaningfully in this critical situation?
- Friendship Fears: What if my efforts fell short? Would it strain our newfound friendship?
Thankfully, clarity arrived swiftly. I realized that if she sought my aid, it indicated trust. Why shouldn’t I trust myself? Friends should support each other, especially when the opportunity promises both compensation and valuable experience.
Late-Night Collaborations
And so, after my regular work hours, I embarked on a dual journey—my corporate job by day and her startup venture by night. Fifteen extra hours each week, dedicated to her cause. She graciously compensated me with my time as well.
Startup Realities Unveiled
Working alongside her and her team was an eye-opening experience. Startups operated at a different tempo—swift, precise, and unyielding. While we wrestled with internal bureaucracy, they engaged directly with investors, held sway over development teams, and fought for revenue. It was a crash course in agility and resilience.
The Precious Takeaways
As our collaboration extended to four months, I realized the invaluable lessons:
- Networking Pays Dividends: Opportunities often knock through personal connections. Friends inviting friends to work together—this was the secret sauce.
- Large Corporations vs. Startups: The dichotomy became clear. The nimbleness of startups versus the bureaucracy of corporations. Both had merits, but the startup world had a raw energy that left an indelible mark.
Beyond Collaboration
Our professional partnership didn’t fray our friendship. Even after the project concluded, we remained close. Greetings flowed, and travel plans materialized.
A Final Reflection
So, what did I learn? When a friend beckons, don’t hesitate. The best opportunities often arrive through these connections. As I move forward, I’ll emphasize the art of networking—building bridges that lead to unexpected vistas.
If you enjoyed this article, consider giving it a thumbs-up. After all, life’s most enriching chapters often unfold when friends join forces.