A little insight in seven seconds...

When meeting new people, in business or private we get the "What do you do?" as the first way of introduction. We peg people on their title, if you're a CFO expectations are you being meticulous, correct and perhaps introvert, whereas a Sales Director is expected to be extrovert and full of enthusiasm. This simplistic approach to understanding people and the world around us is intuitive and based on our previous experiences.

So when running an independent or small business you become a Jack of all trades. From the boardroom to driving the forklift truck (yes I do).

So the elevator pitch becomes harder. Research shows you have seven seconds. That is how long it takes to form a first impression. Don't worry, for the elevator pitch you get another 30 seconds to explain what you do before the other person grows bored and want to talk about their favourite topic. Themselves.

So how do I pitch myself? As a consultant focusing on Industrial Restructuring Projects and International Trade with a variety of projects from Interim CEO right-sizing footprints to Export Acceleration projects? How do I get my driving force to grow businesses, sustainably, ethically and most of all working with awsome people whom I share values together with across? In this respect it was easier to be a CEO.

But now, as I am engaged in multiple roles across different ventures, the support of amazing partners becomes invaluable and I'm fortunate to have amazing partners that complement me and makes it possible to somewhat let go of focus on every parts of the business.

Notic - the change focus on International Trade, the Export Accelerator guides mainly Swedish SME into the world of export and international business. For those that want to gain a foothold into EU, Sweden is a great choice and Make it in Sweden offers a fast way to set up your virtual presence in EU. Speak to Van Nguyen for your entry into Sweden and EU.

Back in pandemic times I was Interim CEO of a window and door company that went into bankruptcy, that we restarted as AllVy Uterum , that is run on a daily basis by my colleague Kent P?lsson .

In addition if you're interested in innovative last mile solutions that can be a game changer freeing up city space to improve quality of life Omniloop AB provides the answer. The business was formed by Sten Wandel and has an intriguing list of founding members.

Stay sharp, stay connected, and partner up!

Niklas