Name: Anna Hsu
Age: 30
Job title: marketing director, Asia-Pacific, Calvin Klein Asia
What would be your dream brand to work on and why?
My dream brand would be my own brand. Starting something new is
challenging and having full autonomy can be rewarding.
What would you do if you weren't in marketing?
Starting something up myself. There are always opportunities in the
marketplace - it is just a matter of identifying them.
What was your big break?
Landing the job at Calvin Klein, as I have no previous experience in
fashion or business knowledge of the markets in the region.
Who was your mentor and how did this person influence you?
A close friend of mine in the early years of my career told me about the
'bumble bee' analogy. Though it is a cliche, it is very true in life,
and it does not just relate to career. Anything within reason is
achievable if you set your mind to it, but always remember it comes with
a price, in whatever form.
Is there a secret to your success?
Success is relative and I do not consider myself successful. It is more
important that I am happy with what I am doing and that there is balance
in my life.
However, the one element which I believe has helped me get where I am
today is the ability to take risks, and to live with the decisions
made.
If a wrong decision is made, learn from it and take corrective measures
to steer back onto the right track.
How do you handle difficult clients?
All clients can be difficult at times. The key is twofold: to understand
why they are being difficult; and to address their issues and
concerns.
As well as people skills, it requires the ability to read their
characters.
It is vital to be objective and not to take things personally, although
of course that is easier said than done.
What advice would you give to the next person to do your current
job?
Be flexible and adaptable, as it is a dynamic environment.
What are you currently reading that will help you in your job?
I used to read books on lateral thinking, such as Edward de Bono, and
the strategy of war.
However, lately I enjoy reading biographies. It is interesting to learn
from people's life experiences - we should all set goals in life which
will shape and define our career path.
