A That's series where we ask a Beijing-based somebody to tell us 5 Things specific to his or her life.
Beijing is full of impressive young entrepreneurs and the founder of JingJobs is definitely one of them. Like so many college grads, Samantha Kwok graduated from university and had no idea what she wanted to do with her life. So she packed up her things from Australia, moved to Beijing to learn Mandarin and, eventually, embarked on the quest to find a job in the city.
Samantha was disheartened by the lack of information about jobs for skilled professionals in China. So the budding businesswoman set up a website, created a resource for like-minded jobseekers and, with that, JingJobs was born. Samantha took some time to talk with us here at That’s Beijing about the rewards and challenges of starting a business here in Beijing.
1. Take the plunge
I guess I had nothing to lose – I was 21 and had barely started a career, so I figured I’d better take the plunge now before it’s too late. I didn’t start out with a monetization plan or even a business plan. I just had some savings which I chucked into building a website.
I do take pride in seeing a vision that I had three years ago come to life and actually become something real. There were times when I didn’t think this would work, and that I wouldn’t be able to build something sustainable or enduring, but it’s definitely been a rewarding experience. If all else fails, I know I’ve had an awesome, crazy start to my career.
2. Think big and start small
When I first came up with the idea of starting JingJobs, I didn’t think a lot of things were possible with the shoestring budget I was on. But by thinking big and breaking that vision into smaller steps and taking it week by week, it is possible to achieve a lot more than you originally imagined you could.
3. Finding a work life balance can be challenging
It’s definitely harder to figure out a work-life balance when I do constantly worry about work! Being an entrepreneur means being able to have more control over your own schedule on a daily basis, but definitely means that you do have to take work home after official working hours and on the weekends!
Involving myself in other activities and groups has also helped keep a decent work life balance. I’m part of a boxing gym, an instructor in training for a spin cycling studio and I love just hanging out at the Living BIGG gym in Sanlitun! I also co-chair the Beijing Women’s Network, which is also a great support network full of amazing women who are always there for peer-to-peer mentorship and help.
4. A support system is key
What is great about Beijing is that there is a lovely, supportive community of entrepreneurs and business owners that are always willing to lend a hand or give advice. I also have met the best mentors one could ever ask for. They act as a great sounding board for difficult decisions and long term planning.
Being a solo founder is definitely challenging as I have a bit of pressure to make sure I make the right decisions. If anyone is ever thinking about starting a business, definitely consider doing it with cofounders so you don’t feel like you’re going insane! Also mentors are a great resource. I have mentors who have 30-plus years experience on me within my industry. They have helped me come up with plans and strategies that I would have never thought of on my own! Also having a Chinese or local partner who knows local business laws, regulations and government requirements is super helpful.
5. Beijing is a great city to start a business
Beijing has given me the courage and opportunity to start and build something from scratch, which I don’t think I would have had the balls to do back in Australia. China’s immense and diverse population opens up a ton of opportunities, even for niche markets.
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