Going Global
- Hashim Alsharif
One of the things I’ve been reflecting on is globalization. To start, globalization is the process of expanding from a local level to a global one, effectively broadening your reach and influence worldwide. It’s about thinking beyond borders, industries, and even cultures—something I’ve come to realize is essential for success in today’s world.
A Global Start
My first job opportunity was global, where I worked with people from over 57 countries. You know what I realized? They weren’t better than me. That was the first thought that struck me. But beyond that initial realization, I started to see how operating on a global level gave me a unique perspective. Interacting with people from different cultures and markets taught me that innovation isn’t confined to one place, and success isn’t reserved for a particular group. Now, after engaging with entrepreneurs from all over the world, I can confidently say they’re not different from me. The key is believing in yourself and understanding where you stand within the global landscape. That mindset has been crucial as I continue to push my own limits.
Learning from Global Leaders
Whenever I get the chance to meet a product manager or founder from any part of the world, I almost always say yes without hesitation. Why? Because every global interaction brings with it new insights into how different people approach problems and build solutions. Understanding how people operate in different regions allows me to think bigger and incorporate broader perspectives into my work. I find that deeply fascinating, and it continues to shape how I approach product management and entrepreneurship. It’s about more than just networking—it’s about internalizing global practices to continuously evolve and grow.
My Plan to Go Global
I’ve been making consistent moves toward going global, not just as a professional goal but as a personal brand. I’ve deliberately shaped my brand to fit a "global" perspective. For example, I write in English instead of my native Arabic because I want my thoughts to resonate with a wider audience. This isn’t just about language; it’s a reflection of my ambition to build connections and ideas that transcend regional boundaries. Most people who know me are Arabs, but I choose English specifically to align with my global vision.
This journey isn’t just about optimism—it’s about actively preparing myself and my brand to be part of a larger, global ecosystem. By embracing the mindset that no one I meet globally is inherently better than me, I can confidently pursue opportunities anywhere in the world. The actions I take now—whether it’s writing, networking, or learning—are all part of building that global foundation.
The Aspiration to Go Global
I also plan to travel more, meeting founders from all corners of the globe. This isn’t just for the sake of networking—it’s about reinforcing my global mindset and aspirations. By continuously interacting with people who have succeeded on a global scale, I’m validating my own vision. I’ve realized that I have the ambition and capability to reach those same heights. The people I meet aren’t better than me; they’ve simply embraced the opportunities available to them, just as I’m doing. A boy from Makkah making his way to Silicon Valley and meeting the top minds in the world? Yes, absolutely—and that’s just the beginning.
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© 2024 Hashim Alsharif