Realising that many SMEs in Hong Kong have no clue about marketing, Cordon Lam stepped in to help by establishing Populis Digital, a marketing solutions company.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support, and community. It is a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented and inspiring folks, so we’ve decided to share the love by interviewing some of the lovely Launchpad members. Looking for inspiration? Check out how Cordon Lam, Director of Populis Digital, gets it done!
How I get it done: Cordon Lam
What is your backstory and why did you decide to launch your business?
Being an entrepreneur was something I knew I’ve always wanted to do. So before starting my own business, I joined various SMEs and start-ups, and was successful in growing quite a few of them. As a marketer, I began to observe that there are several important factors that could decide the success – or failure – of a company (them being: demand, leadership, differentiator, and marketing). But, I found that most SMEs don’t seem to know how to do marketing at all. While there are tonnes of online “hacks” and “tips”, there was no real path that’s been proven to always work. (At least, it wasn’t made publicly available for free.) With these things in mind, I was inspired to deliver marketing solutions to the many growing SMEs in Hong Kong and helping them solve their biggest problems.
What has been your biggest challenge so far and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was getting my first customers. I had to price myself really low to win bids and testimonials. I had to dig deep into my savings and live off minimal expenses to make it all work at the time. Thankfully, it’s all paid off and I’m very grateful to be in the position I’m in now.
How do you stay motivated and energised?
For me, motivation and energy can come and go, so I try to keep myself healthy by constantly pushing my boundaries, both mentally and physically. I like to exercise, spend quality time with loved ones, and learn new skills for self-growth. Getting enough sleep and healthy eating are also essential.
How do you keep stress levels low?
I spend a lot of time with my family – especially with three kids at home I can play with! Moreover, I enjoy many different hobbies such as boardgames, hiking, and other sports. These activities keep me busy and allow me to challenge myself.
How I get it done with Cordon Lam: Rapid fire
Favourite place(s) to work? My co-working space at THE Design – huge space with high ceilings and lots of sunlight.
Your work mantra? Getting enough sleep is key. You are your business, so if you’re sleep-deprived, both you and your business will suffer.
One thing you can keep talking about for hours? Self-growth and development – think Jordan Peterson, Sabri Suby, and John Dahaner.
Your go-to self-care activities? Sleep, boardgames, get smashed at jiu-jitsu, and gym.
One piece of advice to your younger self? Keep the drive and work ethic!
Find out more about Populis Digital and get in touch with Cordon Lam on LinkedIn.
Launchpad is a comprehensive digital networking platform (with IRL benefits, too) that encourages connection, business support and community. It is designed to make the entrepreneurial journey not only easier, and more successful, but also a whole lot more fun. We offer almost daily activities for members to connect, along with weekly masterclasses, member networking roulette, small-business mentoring and media profiles on Honeycombers. Check it out and join us!
