Name: Waqar Abro

Title: Founder

Organisation: Swash Enterprises LLC

A successful serial entrepreneur with wide-ranging experience of driving market share, brand recognition, and revenue improvements through strategic marketing/communications initiatives and campaigns (online/offline).

With many successful startups, he is a professional experienced in both domestic and international markets (US/Latin America/Brazil). Besides, he is a recognized results-driven thought leader and creative thinker with excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills. He is also deeply involved in stock lending projects.

His main financial service is SBL (Stock backed Loan) through which he helps listed companies and their shareholders to secure funding by pledging their securities / shares all over the world.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

I started my career as a freelancer and content writer but after years of struggle, I founded my first company in 2015 under the name of Swash Enterprises. I faced many challenges as a leader, some of which are described below:

Adaptation to Change: In the dynamic business landscape, adapting to changes in technology, markets, and consumer preferences can be a significant challenge. Team

Building and Management: Building and managing a high-performing team, especially in diverse international markets, may pose challenges in communication, coordination, and maintaining a cohesive company culture.

Risk Management: As a serial entrepreneur, managing risks associated with multiple startups and international ventures is crucial. Balancing risk and reward while making strategic decisions requires a careful approach.

Global Expansion: Expanding into international markets involves dealing with diverse regulations, cultural nuances, and market dynamics, which can be challenging for any leader.

Financial Management: Handling the financial aspects of multiple startups and stock lending projects, ensuring sustainability and profitability, can be demanding.

Innovation and Creativity: Staying innovative and creative in a competitive landscape is a constant challenge. Encouraging a culture of innovation within your teams is vital.

Stakeholder Relations: Maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders, including investors, clients, and partners, is critical for long-term success.

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

My leadership journey began with a passion for creating something meaningful and a relentless drive to bring innovative ideas to life. Early on, I ventured into the entrepreneurial world, launching startups fueled by a desire to make a positive impact.

The path to leadership wasn't a linear one. It involved learning from failures, adapting to challenges, and continuously evolving. Each venture, successful or not, provided invaluable lessons that shaped my leadership style.

A pivotal moment came when I recognized the importance of building and leading a strong team. The realization that success is a collective effort fueled my commitment to fostering a collaborative and empowering work culture. This approach not only strengthened my teams but also played a key role in the success of subsequent ventures.

The expansion into international markets brought its own set of challenges but opened up new avenues for growth. Navigating through diverse cultures and markets honed my adaptability and cross-cultural leadership skills. It was during this phase that I discovered the significance of effective communication and understanding the unique dynamics of each market.

Throughout this journey, being a thought leader and creative thinker became integral to navigating the complexities of the business landscape. Embracing innovation and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset played a crucial role in staying ahead in the competitive entrepreneurial arena.

In essence, my evolution into a leader is a story of resilience, adaptability, and a constant pursuit of learning. It's a journey shaped by the people I've worked with, the challenges I've faced, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of entrepreneurial endeavors.

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

My workdays are meticulously planned to ensure efficiency and balance. I typically wake up early, allowing me to start the day with a clear mind. Morning routines are crucial, so I kick off with some exercise or meditation to set a positive tone.

The early hours are dedicated to strategic planning and reviewing priorities for the day. I delve into emails and correspondence, addressing any urgent matters and setting the agenda for meetings or important tasks. Clear communication is key, so I make sure my team is aligned with the day's goals.

Mid-morning to early afternoon is often reserved for meetings, whether with team members, partners, or stakeholders. Collaboration and communication play a central role in my leadership style, and these interactions are instrumental in keeping everyone on the same page.

Lunch is a necessary break, not just for nourishment but also for a mental recharge. I use this time to step away from work, perhaps catch up on industry news or engage in some light reading.

The afternoon is when I dive into more focused work. Whether it's developing strategies, working on financial aspects, or engaging in creative thinking for new projects, I ensure this time is dedicated to tasks that require deep concentration.

Late afternoon might involve checking in with international teams, given the time zone differences. Staying connected with various markets is crucial for our global ventures. As the workday winds down, I use the evening to reflect on accomplishments, assess any challenges, and plan for the next day. Family time is also a priority, providing a balance between work and personal life.

Before heading to bed, I make it a point to unwind, perhaps with some light reading or a brief period of relaxation. Quality sleep is vital for maintaining energy levels and sustaining productivity.

This structured approach allows me to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Flexibility is, of course, inherent in this routine, as the entrepreneurial world often demands adaptability.

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

One recent leadership lesson that stands out is the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning within the team. Despite being deeply involved in the fast-paced world of startups and financial projects, I was reminded that staying ahead requires a collective commitment to staying informed and adapting to new insights.

This lesson became evident during a period of market shifts and technological advancements. Instead of relying solely on my own experiences, I encouraged the team to embrace a mindset of curiosity and ongoing education. We implemented regular knowledge-sharing sessions, where team members could bring new industry insights to the table.

The results were transformative. Not only did it enhance the team's individual expertise, but it also sparked innovative ideas and approaches to problem-solving. The atmosphere became more dynamic, fostering a spirit of collaboration and a shared commitment to staying at the forefront of our industry.

This experience reinforced the notion that leadership goes beyond individual capabilities; it's about empowering the collective intelligence of the team. Embracing a culture of continuous learning ensures that we navigate challenges with a well-informed and adaptive approach, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of our ventures.

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?

One book that has had a profound impact on my leadership journey is "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. This book fundamentally shifted my perspective on leadership by emphasizing the importance of creating a culture of trust, collaboration, and a deep sense of purpose within the team.

Sinek's exploration of how effective leaders prioritize the well-being of their teams resonated deeply with me. The idea that a leader's primary role is to serve and support the team, rather than the other way around, was a paradigm shift. It prompted me to reassess my leadership style and focus on building a foundation of trust and camaraderie.

The impact of "Leaders Eat Last" became particularly evident during a challenging period for one of my startups. Instead of adopting a top-down approach, I took inspiration from Sinek's insights and worked towards creating an environment where everyone felt valued and supported. We reinforced a shared sense of purpose, emphasizing that each team member played a crucial role in our collective success.

The results were transformative. Morale improved, collaboration flourished, and the team became more resilient in the face of challenges. The principles from the book not only guided me through that specific situation but also became ingrained in my leadership philosophy.

"Leaders Eat Last" served as a guiding light in fostering a culture that prioritizes the well-being and growth of the team. It continues to influence my leadership decisions, reminding me that a successful leader is one who puts the needs of the team first, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

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

Embrace the Power of Resilience. In the dynamic world of business, challenges are inevitable. What sets successful leaders apart is their ability to bounce back, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward. Understand that failures are not the end but rather opportunities for growth.

Cultivate resilience not only in yourself but also within your team. A resilient leader inspires confidence, fosters innovation, and leads their team through adversity. So, when faced with obstacles, view them as stepping stones to success, and let resilience be your guiding force.

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

One particularly meaningful story from my leadership journey revolves around the launch of a startup that faced unexpected challenges. We had poured our hearts into the venture, but unforeseen market shifts posed a serious threat.

Instead of succumbing to panic, I gathered the team and transparently shared the situation. We collectively brainstormed solutions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation. It was a pivotal moment that showcased the strength of our team and our shared commitment to the venture's success.

In the face of adversity, the team rallied together with unparalleled determination. We pivoted our strategy, implemented changes swiftly, and adapted to the new market demands. The startup not only weathered the storm but emerged stronger and more resilient than ever.

This experience taught me the transformative power of transparent communication, collaboration, and the indomitable spirit of a united team. It reinforced my belief that, as a leader, fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and valued is not just beneficial; it's the cornerstone of overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success.