Alston Chiang, the founder of Acacia Consulting, shared his journey of starting his own business after years of working in talent acquisition. He emphasized the importance of mentorship and seeking advice from those with expertise, even if they may not be in your direct network. Chiang highlighted the value of finding collaborators and partners who align with your goals and motivations, suggesting a trial period before committing to a business partnership.
While confidence is crucial in business, Chiang stressed the importance of balancing confidence with realism and transparency. He mentioned the significance of asking for help and being open to addressing areas of improvement, both personally and professionally. Embracing flexibility was another lesson he learned early on, adapting his business model and services to meet the needs of clients during challenging times in the tech industry.
Chiang discussed the importance of staying true to oneself in the workplace, sharing his experiences of encountering biased behaviors in corporate culture. As an openly gay founder, he advocated for diversity in talent acquisition and emphasized the importance of being authentic and comfortable in the workplace. Chiang mentioned his policy of not working with clients who cannot accept him for who he is, reflecting his commitment to diversity and inclusion in business.
Reflecting on his journey, Chiang emphasized the value of staying true to oneself, embracing flexibility, and seeking mentorship in the pursuit of success as an entrepreneur. He shared his experiences of navigating the challenges of starting a business and highlighted the importance of being open to new opportunities and approaches. Chiang’s insights serve as a guide for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make the leap from working for others to founding their own companies.
As a member of the Forbes Business Council, Chiang is part of a prestigious organization that offers growth opportunities and networking for business owners and leaders. His journey of entrepreneurship and commitment to authenticity and diversity in the workplace serves as an inspiration for others looking to carve out their path in the business world. Chiang’s lessons of mentorship, flexibility, and staying true to oneself are valuable takeaways for those embarking on the entrepreneurial journey.
