One of the great things about being an expat in Asia is the way other expats rally around to help you settle in and find your feet. Fortunately more than a few of those people have the entrepreneurial spirit and are able to extend that help to a much wider audience. Christine Edwards is definitely one of those.
Tell us about your business:
Honeycombers (www.thehoneycombers.com) is the go-to website for the latest and best in Singapore – from hot new tables, to cool new bars, latest spa treatments to things to do this weekend. And now we have editions in Bali and Jakarta and a site dedicated to parents – HoneyKidsAsia.com.
What’s your story?
I moved to Singapore in 2007 as a trailing spouse (you know the drill!) and with a background in marketing, I found myself working as a General Manager for a local publication. Since then I started Honeycombers – an online publishing business with 4 titles in 3 countries and growing. My family has grown too, and I’ve had 3 kids in that time too!
What excites you most about your industry?
The online publishing industry is evolving at such a rapid rate, and more and more marketers are seeing the value of advertising online – not only because it’s more cost effective, but its powerful and measurable – it’s a very exciting space to be in.
What’s your connection to Asia?
As an Aussie I feel very connected to Asia, and now having living in Singapore for eight years and run a business based on discovering the best of Asia – its been a big part of my life.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Easy, Singapore. Not only are people super friendly and relaxed, its got such a strong business community – so many people are happy to help and connect you with other businesses and entrepreneurs. It’s a fantastic place to live and work.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Believe in yourself. If you don’t, no one else will.
Who inspires you?
My Dad, who is nearing 70 and still starting entrepreneurial businesses. He’s a big risk taker, which drives my Mum a little crazy – but it’s very inspiring.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
We recently did a staff survey – which was really enlightening and encouraging. So I am full of stats like 75% of our team score working at Honeycombers as a 7 out of 10 or higher when it comes to work life balance – which is a great result.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I don’t have any regrets – so I don’t think I would do anything differently.
How do you unwind?
I have a young family – a 5 year old, 3 year old and 8 week old – so right now its lots of building trains through the living room, listening to music and drinking wine.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Ah tough question – there are so many. I’m going to say Bali. I love the beaches, the shopping and the nightlife, and its family friendly too – its the holy grail of a great destination.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Good to Great by Jim Collins
How can people connect with you?
Say hello at [email protected]
This interview is part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing has started, built, bought and sold half a dozen businesses in a range of industries across two continents. He is the owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 11 countries and he is also the CEO of Entrevo Asia, a company that runs 40 week Growth Accelerator programs.
Connect with Callum here:
twitter.com/laingcallum
linkedin.com/in/callumlaing
Get his free ‘Asia Snapshot’ report from www.callumlaing.com
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