As the founder of Brainpower, an AI consultancy firm based in Dubai, I've seen the incredible potential artificial intelligence has in transforming businesses.
However, the journey wasn't always easy - and it still isn't.
I'd like to share some of the challenges I faced, milestones that stand out, and the lessons I've learned along the way.
When I first started Brainpower, I encountered a lot of enthusiasm and excitement from potential clients. AI can transform a business with the proven track record of Brainpower - but many were unwilling to take the leap of faith into the unknown. AI is new to many and even with proper guidance and knowledge, businesses are used to the traditional methods of running their businesses.
They still don't understand the importance of freeing up time.
That's what AI does.
Educating businesses about the benefits of AI and how it could revolutionize their sales and recruitment processes was a significant challenge. At first, we started with implementing AI in all areas of our clients business. Marketing, tech, finance, recruitment and sales.
It was a lot.
With practice, patience and the ability to communicate complex ideas in simple terms we learned that we delivered the best results for our clients when it comes to recruitment and sales.
One of the most memorable moments was securing our first client. It was a validation of our expertise and the value we could bring to businesses. We automated the recruitment process for a major real estate company here in the region and we delivered 20 new real estate agents in a cost-efficient, automated and innovative manner. Nothing like our services is being provided in the region and we knew it since day one - the market just didn't know it and it was my job as a founder to prove it to them.
Our first client taught me the importance of celebrating small victories and using them as motivation to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity.
As Brainpower grew, I realized the significance of building a strong community around our brand.
We started gaining more and more clients through word to mouth and now we work with multiple clients across different industries - providing sales and recruitment automation.
The lessons I've learned along the way are invaluable and here are some that might help other entrepreneurs starting out in their journey.
- Your values and principles are the most important guidelines - never compromise on them.
- Business is constantly evolving, and so must you.
- As a leader, you must lead and set an example. Don't look for anyone else for help to overcome the current obstacles. We are privileged to have that responsibility.
- Don't be afraid to change. Sometimes, the best opportunities lie in unexpected directions.
- Focus on solving problems, not selling products. Provide value, and the rest will follow.
- Never stop learning. The moment you think you know it all is the moment you start falling behind.
It's not easy - especially being innovative. Many will doubt you and you will have the entrepreneurial route stacked with obstacles that will cause you to doubt yourself and your business every step of the way. What you need to do is use every obstacle to learn and become better - and the best way to prove your worth to the marketplace is to provide value.
Do you have a great product or service? Show it, prove it. Give value first, without expectation - and watch how client after client will line up for your services.
