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In this first of this series, we have the pleasure of speaking with Viktor Kyosev, an experienced startup entrepreneur with a wealth of knowledge in building startups across cultures, having worked across multiple countries Bulgaria, Greece Denmark, Taiwan, Indonesia and Singapore. 

Viktor is currently the Chief of Staff at Docquity, Southeast Asia’s largest professional community of healthcare professionals, playing a pivotal role in supporting the founding team across various crucial projects, ranging from product development to talent management. He is also an Entrepreneur in Residence at Big Bang Angels Inc., an early-stage institutional investor with a focus on cross-border startups in Singapore and Korea.

*The responses provided here have been rephrased for brevity and clarity. For the exact answers and a comprehensive understanding, we strongly recommend watching the full video podcast or tuning into the audio podcast.

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Q: What does a typical day look like for you as Chief of Staff at Docquity?

A: The role of Chief of Staff is quite unique, often with tasks that vary widely. I've found it so distinct that I share my experiences on LinkedIn monthly. Being part of a Chief of Staff meetup in Singapore, I've realized the role differs significantly from company to company. In my first year at Docquity, I was involved in various tasks, from executive recruitment to stepping into different roles temporarily when needed. Initially, it was like being a jack of all trades and the right hand of the founders, involved in a bit of everything. Gradually, my responsibilities shifted towards special projects. In this capacity, I build products from zero to one in stealth mode. Once we validate the potential, we integrate them into the core product. It's been an evolving journey.
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Q: What's your personal philosophy when it comes to product building?

A: I've learned through my entrepreneurial journey, often through failures. I believe in building rapidly, utilizing low code and no code solutions. Learning happens best by interacting with users or clients. I'm a firm believer that growth can solve many problems. Understanding what's crucial for a product and accelerating its growth is key. I prefer learning by doing rather than prolonged debates within product teams. The urge to act, even when it seems unreasonable, is a driving force. Research plays a crucial role, making seemingly hard tasks achievable in various ways within the realm of technology.

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Q: Can you share insights from your experience at Greenhouse Co., assisting foreign companies entering new markets? What advice do you have for businesses eyeing expansion?

A: At Greenhouse, we developed a marketplace for professional service providers aiding foreign companies entering diverse markets. While Singapore posed fewer challenges due to its transparency and English use, venturing into countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam presented unique difficulties. The choice of the right partner was paramount; it could propel progress or, conversely, jeopardize the business.

Many companies underestimate the preparation needed. Success hinged on understanding the nuances of each market, their unique cultures, and crafting tailored campaigns. Localization and patience are key, and considering the price sensitivity and relative novelty of technology in these markets compared to more mature ones like the United States is important.

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Q: How have your global experiences in various countries influenced your approach to leading projects, and what perspectives have you gained for your future endeavors?

A: Living and working across diverse countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Denmark, Taiwan, Indonesia, and Singapore, has profoundly shaped my leadership style and future outlook. One notable experience was helping a French founder expand to Asia, which served as a significant wake-up call.

Founders, often highly intelligent and confident, can sometimes be arrogant. This particular founder, lacking cultural sensitivity, jeopardized potential deals by neglecting to build relationships, demonstrating zero respect for local culture. This experience made me reflect on my own growth. A decade ago, I might have exhibited similar directness, but these global experiences have taught me to adapt, appreciate diversity, and exercise patience.

Conducting workshops on culture, I find it challenging to teach others this skill. The depth of cultural understanding is akin to an iceberg, with visible differences being just the tip. Appreciating the intricacies requires immersing oneself, understanding family dynamics, and recognizing the roots of cultural behaviors. I often use frameworks like Hofstede or Trompenaars to make these nuances more tangible.

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Q: In your experience, what is the most crucial aspect of culture when conducting business, and how do you advise someone new to a country to understand and adapt quickly?

A: The most crucial aspect of culture in business is often unseen, akin to the submerged part of an iceberg. Understanding the intricacies requires patience, observation, and sometimes connecting with experienced expats who can offer insights based on their own frustrations and adaptations. For newcomers, a willingness to embrace the experience is paramount. Connecting with the startup ecosystem through events and communities is advised, but it's crucial to operate with integrity, investing in social capital for meaningful, reciprocal relationships.

In the startup ecosystem, openness prevails, making it easier for newcomers to build networks. Attending events and joining communities is beneficial, provided one operates with integrity and is genuinely willing to support others. Investing in social capital by making introductions and helping with small things builds trust. Connecting with the right community is essential to ensure shared values and needs for a mutually beneficial exchange.

Q: In your opinion, how different is building startups in various countries, and what are the pros and cons, particularly in Southeast Asia?

A: Building startups in different countries presents a myriad of differences, including mindset, talent availability, and legislative complexity. In emerging markets like Southeast Asia, foundational elements may be lacking, posing unique challenges. However, the vast population, growing economy, and palpable optimism create an exciting atmosphere. The energy and eagerness to grow are pervasive, and the broken aspects of the market provide ample opportunities for innovation.

In developed markets, while the foundations are solid, social dynamics can be challenging, making it hard to terminate employment. The choice between regions depends on the nature of the venture; for intricate, groundbreaking projects, North America might be preferable, while Southeast Asia offers opportunities to scale proven solutions, provided they address local problems.

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Q: For individuals contemplating relocation, what advice do you offer?

A: My advice for those considering relocation is simple: don't overthink it. No matter how meticulously you plan, challenges and differences will arise. Drawing from personal experience, I faced skepticism when I moved countries, with many considering it impractical. However, I dived in, overcame the initial hardships, and made it work. Financial stability should not be a deterrent; one can adapt to different lifestyles, even in seemingly expensive locations like Singapore.

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Q: How do you suggest newcomers quickly build networks and connect with the expat community in a new country, particularly in the startup ecosystem?

A: In the startup ecosystem, openness prevails, making it easier for newcomers to build networks. Attending events and joining communities is beneficial, provided one operates with integrity and is genuinely willing to support others. Investing in social capital by making introductions and helping with small things builds trust. Connecting with the right community is essential to ensure shared values and needs for a mutually beneficial exchange.
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Q: With your extensive global experiences, where do you consider home, and how has your perception of "home" evolved?

A: While Bulgaria, where I spent my formative 18 years, remains my official home, my concept of "home" has evolved. As a global citizen, each country where I've resided holds a piece of my identity. Positive achievements in any of these countries fill me with pride, and I consider them home in those moments.

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