Name: Dave Vo

Title: CEO

Organisation: Xpede

I have been an entrepreneur for over 15 years in various industries – from e-commerce, jewelry to restaurant. I always have a passion for innovation and technology but never really took the leap to explore my passion until now, which I hope Xpede will only be the beginning of my exploration.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Dave's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

The most challenging aspect of being a leader is the ability to wear different hats under various circumstances. Whether it is speaking in public, overseeing the company or listening to your staffs or others about your company, you should be able to adjust your mindset instantly on a daily basis to address the issues at hand and play the role necessary to be a good leader.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

I think for some people, it is innate within them, so it comes quite natural and one can sense it in those people's persona and personality. That was me ever since I was a child. People always tend to push me into the leadership position in various situations, so I got used to it.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

I am an individual that is quite organized, so my work days are planned ahead of time and everything is scheduled on my calendar. My calendar gives me a prelude of when, where and how I will prepare and move forward with my daily tasks.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson that I've recently have been reminded of is to be a better and pacify listener to others before coming to a conclusion.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell. The book provides an insightful perspective on how to be a good leader and not just a leader. Sometimes being a leader and how hectic it can get, we forget to be mindful of other people's feelings and the impact that our decisions and actions can make on others.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Don't be afraid of failure because it can only make you stronger if you learned from it.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

I ran across an ex-employee of mine and we briefly spoke about what she did after leaving my office. She told me how impactful my advices were to her life and how it changed her livelihood - from personal life to career. Her story made me understands how important words can be when you are a leader and that you should be mindful of your words to others as it can change their lives.