Pre-IMBA students voice
Edi Liss-Debbie
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A bridge between two worlds
I was born and raised in Israel. Being a curious young man I decided to explore and travel around the world. Later I lived in Africa. Twelve years ago I landed in Asia. I found it fascinating. When arriving in Japan, my adventure took a new path. I was very intrigued by this fashion-oriented country and it inspired me to start a jewelry business. I wanted to create a way for high quality and unique jewelry from Israel to be introduced to Japanese department stores. I never thought about the risks on the way, I just felt it was possible! The reason I named my company "Gishur" originates in its Hebrew meaning - "bridging". My dream was to create a bridge which will connect between the two worlds of Israel and Japan.
Enjoy the differences among people
Japan was almost the opposite of everything I was familiar with, from the way a house door opens outwards to the way people think. I had a lot to learn regarding opening a business here. "If you don't know the way, always choose the hardest way" was my choice. I decided to challenge the situation. The same expectations I have from myself, I expect from my employees; do the best you can. Do not just follow a system, but think for yourself! I want my employees to know they can learn from each other and benefit from the differences among people, not avoid them.
Never stop learning
Yes, definitely. At first, many of my decisions were, for good or bad, based on my intuitions. GLOBIS has given me a broader perspective about management so, at present, I can balance those intuitions with some real analytical tools. I don't think people should ever stop learning. GLOBIS has helped me expand my horizons. Students and lecturers make the class interactive and really exciting. I can better understand how businesses are done in Japan and how people operate. This is also achieved through talking to my classmates both during and after class.
Always push yourself
Whenever you run a company, you need to always push yourself, and stretch to the max. You should never doubt your ability to succeed. Nevertheless, you should seek improvement and an ongoing self-evaluation. Anyone interested in learning how to take responsibility or manage other people can benefit from GLOBIS. Here students will learn in many of the same ways I have - interacting with other professionals and sharing experiences. At GLOBIS, one learns how to learn from both the program and peers. Not trying to do so means giving up!
