Bridging The Gaps Between Cultures To Allow Innovation Globally
Today, we had an interview with Young, the President and Founder of Avela Global. He plays a vital role in different companies, where he gains hands-on experience in leadership.
His journey highlights strategic growth and continuous innovation, from journey highlights strategic growth and continuous innovation.
In this interview, we will discuss his entrepreneurial journey, leadership principles, and his advice for today’s entrepreneurs.
Q1: Can you tell us about your entrepreneurial journey and the inspiration behind it?
My journey starts by gaining hands-on experience in different companies. In 1984, I launched my own company which specializes in educational publishing. Later I launched my second company which is a boutique advertising agency. Then I decided to merge these ventures in 1988 to create Avela Corporation. But in 2002, a trip to China changed everything. Inspired by China’s culture and business environment, I decided to turn my company to focus on global product sourcing. So, this transition helps me to connect with business globally.
Q2: What was the biggest challenge you have faced while transitioning your business, and how did you overcome it?
The transition from an advertising agency to a global product-sourcing company has brought many challenges. It requires a complete change in our business model, from adjusting the international market and building a strong global network. One of the biggest challenges is supply chain management and smooth processes. To overcome this challenge I rely on introspection and creativity. By pausing to reflect and brainstorm during a challenging time, I found solutions that felt out of reach. This approach combines patience and resilience, helping us to overcome hurdles and get a successful transition.
Q3: How do you stay ahead of technological advancement in a rapidly changing market?
Staying ahead of the technology is another constant challenge, especially with the ‘Great Firewall’ restricting modern internet solutions. Initially, we depended upon traditional tools like email, excel, and WeChat. But now we use advanced technologies including Microsoft servers and paid routers that give us access to all modern solutions. Moreover, combining AI tools within these platforms will also improve our operational efficiency. Staying updated with technologies helps us to clear communication, improve data analysis, and boost client satisfaction. Also, it allows us to ensure our process remains relevant, efficient, and capable of meeting the demands of the industry.
Q4: Does artificial intelligence impact your current operation and plans?
AI also turns the way we operate business, specifically in marketing and workflow optimization. Currently, we use tools like ChatGPT and Grok for creating engaging content and polishing our marketing strategies. These tools help us a lot to reach and connect with clients effectively. Looking forward, we plan to combine Microsoft AI-powered business solutions, which are expected to improve efficiency in our operations. These AI tools will automate repetitive tasks and help us to focus on strategic growth. So, through AI, we aim to stay competitive and improve the value of our services.
Q5: Can you share a recent success story from your company with us?
One of our recent successes lies in our ability to adjust and diversify. As the geopolitical tensions are rising with China, we expanded our sourcing operations to Vietnam, Cambodia, and India in 2017. It will help us to stabilize our supply chain for our clients and position our company as a reliable partner. We build strong networks in these regions to provide cost-effective, high-quality solutions for our clients. This success highlights the importance of adaptability and maintaining an effective approach to market challenges. Also, it highlights how strategic planning can turn potential hurdles into growth opportunities.
Q6: What leadership principles guide you to promote a positive culture in your company?
Leadership is all about simplicity, transparency, and valuing relationships. Simple processes can make our work efficient and easy to navigate. Clear communication builds trust and loyalty among both employees and clients. We have more focus on relationships than transitions that help to promote long-term partnerships. Moreover, we have seen mistakes as learning opportunities not failures that promote a culture of positivity. I believe in creating an environment, where everyone feels motivated, and valued for contributing to the company’s success, ensuring a healthy and productive culture.
Q7: How do you ensure your business keeps responsive to market changes?
So, it’s all about staying curious and always open to change. We monitor market trends closely and are ready for potential disruptions to keep ahead of challenges. For instance, when supply chain tensions rise, we expand our operations to Vietnam and India, offering clients alternate options. We also maintain strong relationships with secondary factories, ensuring continuity for our clients during disruptions. Our culture of curiosity helps us to explore new opportunities and makes our services align with market needs. However, by promoting a mindset of continuous growth, we ensure our business remains resilient and adaptable, and prepare for future challenges.
Q8: What advice would you give to today’s entrepreneurs?
My advice is to trust your skills and abilities. Don’t rush with your decisions as your impatience can lead to costly mistakes. Resilience comes from your ability to adapt and maintain perspective during setbacks. Take failures as learning experiences and let them shape your growth. Also, build a strong network of mentors and collaborators. Stay committed to your vision and success will follow in time with your perseverance and hard work.
Gary Young’s journey defines a transformative power of vision, adaptability, and resilience. From reshaping his business to focusing on technology and promoting long-term relationships, his story is truly an inspiration for us. Gary’s approach serves as a guide for building a successful business.
