The Power of Persistence: A Lesson from My Early Days

For an entrepreneur, the most memorable moments are those where breakthroughs occur, shaping the entire trajectory. Reflecting on my younger days, I realize how pivotal these breakthroughs were in shaping my path and character. They were not just moments but the building blocks of the person I am today.

The Story of My First Breakthrough

As the CEO of my company today, it's humbling to look back on my early days in sales and see how those experiences have influenced my journey. One particular memory stands out as it made a huge difference in my entrepreneurial career. After spending three years in Dubai trying my hand at a business that failed despite putting in 14-16 hours a day, I got another opportunity. My uncle offered me a chance to be a sales agent in a completely unknown product range and market. I had to start from scratch, with no experience or knowledge of the products. I was tasked to offer importers different types of products from the Far East on a booking basis, on which I would earn a commission once they confirmed. Despite visiting every shop in the souq which had close to 150 importers, with 2-3 sales calls per day, my efforts for nearly two months resulted in no response. With just two days left of the 90-day period which i gave myself to try at this oppurtunity, I knew I had to try something different.

Venturing into New Territory

It was a sultry afternoon in the bustling streets of the souq where I was trying. This time, I decided to walk into a different souq, which was known for cables and electrical accessories. Most of the samples and catalogs my uncle had given me were for gift items and electronics, which was his forte. However, I managed to find a catalog for fans, which I said might suit the neighboring souq and decided to go in with that.

Knocking on New Doors

In this new area, I spotted a shop selling cables and other products. In the corner, I noticed a couple of samples of fans. A small spark of hope flamed inside me, but also there was a feeling of uncertainty as this was the case for the last two months. Anyway, I mustered the courage to approach the shop owner. "Hi, do you import goods from the Far East? Can I speak to you about a couple of products that I can offer you?" I asked. The shop owner, seemingly too busy, said, "We don’t import at all, we buy everything locally, but if you want to talk more, you can come back in the evening." Despite the initial brush-off, I didn't give up. I returned in the evening and started having small talks with him and finally got the catalog out and started showing him the catalog.

The First Breakthrough

He was busy even then, but upon seeing the catalog, one of the products caught his eye. Surprisingly, the shop owner asked, "Are your fans from Taiwan?" I replied Yes, they are, and after a pause he says the magic word "Okay." He then took out a pencil and marked a few models and told me, "I can consider it if you get me the price by tomorrow." Fueled by excitement and determination, I wrote down all the model numbers, made a fax (which was the mode of communication in those days), and sent it to my uncle.

I remember the sleepless night, waiting for the price. The next day, I got the price and eagerly presented it to the shop owner. He responded, "Okay, are you sure these are from Taiwan?" to which I responded, "Yes." As he was not an importer, these prices were too good for me, and he said, "Okay, let's start with two containers."

The excitement, the rush, and the feeling of getting the first order were just incredible. I knew I had the big breakthrough and my days in Dubai were going to change. I processed the order In the evening and then I did travel to India to celebrate the festive season with my family then ,and was back in Dubai in a week to start the new journey.

Though it happened 20 years ago, the memory is still fresh. That was the first order I received after nearly 85 days of trying. I remember making the decision not to succumb to fear, not to say no and to keep trying.

The Small Success That Changed My Life

This one small success changed the trajectory of my life. If this order on the last day had not happened, I might have moved back to India. This one order gave me the confidence to stay in Dubai, and thereafter, orders became regular, and the rest was history. Soon my brother, who has been my partner, joined me, we doubled our clients, products, and never looked back. The takeaway is: you have to stay persistent and wait for your opportunities; sooner or later, they will come. Every change is what shapes the direction of your life.