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Insights from a Seasoned Investor
In 2022 Nancy and Daniel had the privilege of a conversation with the insightful founder of SAFAL Partners and co-founder of Enterprise Entrepreneurs for Nepal. Our discussion covered a wide range of topics, from Ashutosh Tiwari's personal journey to the intricacies of international business and the mindset required for successful entrepreneurship.
From Nepal to the Global Stage: A Personal Journey
Ashutosh shared his inspiring story, beginning with his roots in a large family in Nepal, to studying in the United States, and eventually returning to Nepal. Tiwari's diverse career path has spanned social activism, media, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies. One of the key takeaways from his journey is the critical role of problem-solving and an entrepreneurial mindset in tackling social inequities and environmental challenges.
The Leap into Angel Investing
Transitioning from working with international buyers to becoming an angel investor was a significant shift for our speaker. Ashutosh emphasized the importance of punctuality, quality, and effective communication when dealing with American and European buyers. As an angel investor, he looks for entrepreneurs with drive, execution skills, and adaptability. These qualities are essential for navigating the unpredictable waters of starting and growing a business.
Embracing Cultural Differences and Urgency in International Business
Our guest reflected on his business experiences in Nepal and Bangladesh, highlighting the cultural differences and the steep learning curve faced. Ashutosh stressed the need for urgency and speed in international commerce and the challenges associated with motivating teams to meet international demands.
Personal Growth and the Evolution of an Angel Investor
Throughout the conversation, Ashutosh emphasized the value of listening, asking open-ended questions, and adopting a more tolerant attitude towards mistakes and failures. We discussed the importance of open communication and transparency, particularly when addressing errors, and the role of angel investors in coaching and mentoring entrepreneurs.
Overcoming Analysis Paralysis
A particularly resonant topic was the concept of analysis paralysis. Our speaker shared his experience as an "information sponge" and the realization that waiting for complete information can cause unnecessary delays. They advocated for starting with 60-70% of the information and learning the rest through real-time action and execution.
The Role of Tactical Empathy in Negotiations
For entrepreneurs, negotiation skills are vital, and Ashutosh highlighted the importance of tactical empathy. Being honest, confident, and focusing on the process are key strategies. They also recommended seeking mentorship or coaching to refine these skills.
The Essence of Genuine Intentions and Service
Daniel shared a personal story about the impact of sincerity when interacting with investors, and Ashutosh underscored the importance of framing life as being useful to others and finding purpose in serving the broader community. He also touched on the impact of leading by example and the fundamentals of leadership.
Final Thoughts
The overarching message of our conversation was the significance of genuine intentions, serving others, and leading by example in both entrepreneurship and life. We encourage our readers to reflect on these principles and consider how they can be applied to achieve greater success and fulfillment.
- Spencer Walker-Fooks