As a digital strategy consultant, I often see business leaders chasing after complex solutions. Yet, some of the most powerful lessons come from surprisingly simple principles. This article distills four impactful insights shared by Thai entrepreneurs and tech experts—ideas that can reshape how you lead and grow your business in the digital era.
Lesson 1: AI Adoption Must Start from the Top
If the founder waits for their team to act, the company will never truly adopt AI.
Jay (Vitchaya Saropas) emphasized that business owners can’t delegate the responsibility of introducing AI to others. True transformation begins when leaders “get their hands dirty” and experiment themselves. This hands-on approach helps them understand AI’s real potential and shape the right direction for innovation.
By personally testing AI-driven solutions and presenting them to customers—asking questions like “Would this service make your life easier?”—leaders can gather real feedback and continuously improve their products.
Ultimately, adopting AI isn’t just about technology; it’s about redefining your business model through firsthand leadership experience.
Lesson 2: “Credit” Is an Invaluable Asset
Choose credit over money—always.
Long (Monsak Socharoentham) reminded entrepreneurs that “credit”—trust, reputation, and reliability—is the foundation of sustainable success. Money is merely a tool for transactions, but credit builds long-term relationships with clients, partners, and even former employees.
“If you have food on the table, choose credit,” he said. Protecting your credibility is worth more than any short-term gain because it’s the key to enduring growth.
Lesson 3: The Power of Clear Focus
You must know what you’re doing and where you’re heading.
Ball (Thanut Kampheerasut) warned entrepreneurs about the trap of chasing every trend—whether it’s the Metaverse or the next big tech wave. After personally losing direction by trying to follow every new idea, he learned that clarity and focus are priceless.
For startups and SMEs with limited resources, lack of focus can lead to wasted time, money, and even failure. Staying grounded in your mission is far more valuable than running after every shiny object.
Lesson 4: Never Overlook Cybersecurity
When going digital, never forget about compliance and security.
Ken (Ekkarit Thammasatit), a cybersecurity expert, compared most businesses’ approach to security to visiting an emergency room—waiting until something breaks before fixing it. In reality, cybersecurity should be proactive, not reactive: a “Security by Design” mindset integrated from day one.
He urged leaders to take part in these decisions themselves, not leave them solely to technical teams. Cyberattacks like ransomware can cause irreversible damage—“No matter how much you pay, sometimes you just can’t get your data back.” Security, therefore, isn’t a boring cost; it’s the foundation of customer trust and business resilience in the digital age.
Final Thoughts
These four lessons reveal timeless truths for modern entrepreneurs:
- Lead by example when adopting new technologies.
- Value credibility over short-term profits.
- Stay focused on your true goals.
- Treat cybersecurity as a core business strategy, not an afterthought.
Which of these ideas challenges you to rethink your own business strategy?
