Wanting to get more out of life and work, Jeffrey Ansen started his own digital business, Coriate. Working for himself, Jeffrey can be more flexible with his time.
What’s your story?
Every now and then my friends complain about long hours, crazy supervisors, traffic jams they have to face everyday in their jobs. It baffles me that many of my friends do not enjoy their jobs. I concluded that having a 9-5 job will never satisfy me.
I have a belief that working for someone else means you have to face that very same experience. That is why I’ve decided to become an entrepreneur, because there is no limitation to what you can do and what you can become.
So, after I graduated from the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS), I came back to Indonesia and started my own IT Business named Coriate in early 2014. The main focus of Coriate is to help businesses (especially in Indonesia) create websites as their tool for online marketing.
What excites you most about your industry?
There is no limit to what technology can achieve.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I was born and bred in Jakarta, Indonesia. 100% proud to be Indonesian.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Jakarta, of course! There is still a big opportunity in the IT industry.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
You have to become the ‘first of yourself’ instead of trying to become the second of anyone.
Who inspires you?
Definitely BoA. Yes, Kwon BoA the South Korean singer. I really admire and respect her.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
Passion is the key. Build a business that fulfills your passion.
Be optimistic in all your endeavours.
Stop focusing too much on your competitors, just make them as your references.
Do not think too much, just execute!
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
There are a few things that I would have done differently in Coriate. I would have prepared a more mature business plan in the early days. But, people make mistakes. Never be afraid to make mistakes and try again!
How do you unwind?
Bodycombat, hanging out and travelling with friends.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Definitely Bali, Indonesia. I find the ocean really relaxing and sitting by the beach with a glass of wine is my way to clear my mind and chill.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Honestly, I don’t really like reading books. I am more of an IT kinda guy, I search for information from Google. Google knows everything.
Shameless plug for your business:
If you are a business owner in Indonesia or outside Indonesia who is looking to promote your business online, please contact Coriate at http://coriate.com/
Coriate is ready to serve you. We offer web design and development, search engine optimization and digital advertising.
How can people connect with you?
Email: [email protected]
Mobile Phone: +628111666090 (WhatsApp)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Japracool
Twitter: https://twitter.com/japracool
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japracool/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+JeffreyAnthonyAnsen
Website: http://japracool.com/
Twitter handle?
@japracool
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This interview was part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing invests and buys small businesses in a range of industries around Asia. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is the founder & owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 12 countries. He is a Director of, amongst others, Key Person of Influence. A 40 week training program for business owners and executives.
Take the ‘Key Person of Influence’ scorecard <http://www.keypersonofinfluence.com/scorecard/>
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