Episode #227: Johhny Yoo, CEO WeWork Japan

Previously Johhny was Vice-President and Corporate Officer Softbank Corp (mobile) Entrepreneur AgriTech Company, Trade/Investor Multiple Global Brokers and Hedge Fund. He was educated at the University of California, Berkeley.

Summary

Here are the key leadership principles and actions to follow, based on JohnnyYoo’s insights from his experience at WeWork Japan:

1. Adapt to Crises and Pivot When Needed: Be open to reassessing your career or leadership approach when significant events or crises arise. Adaptability is crucial, and sometimes major shifts can offer new opportunities for growth.

2. Embrace Cultural Sensitivity: Take time to understand the local culture, especially in diverse environments like Japan. Learning even basic aspects of the local language and customs can go a long way in building trust and rapport with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

3. Build Trust Through Transparency and Communication:

o Prioritize open, honest communication. Be clear and consistent in your messaging to ensure everyone is aligned with the company’s vision.

o Foster transparency through regular interactions, such as town halls or an open-door policy, to address concerns and keep the team informed.

4. Be Decisive, Especially in Times of Uncertainty: When facing crises or organizational challenges, take swift and decisive action. Avoid prolonged uncertainty; even painful decisions, when made quickly, can be better than indecision.

5. Engage Directly with Clients: Build strong, personal relationships with your customers. Engage with them directly to understand their needs and foster trust. Small gestures, like remembering names or addressing cultural preferences, can make a significant impact on these relationships.

6. Foster Inclusivity and Innovation: Create an inclusive environment where ideas are welcomed from all levels of the organization. Encourage team members to contribute, and use their ideas to drive innovation and momentum, particularly in challenging times.

7. Cultivate Resilience and Optimism: Lead with a mindset of perseverance, following the principle of “fall down seven times, get up eight.” View setbacks as opportunities for growth and motivate your team to stay focused and positive even during tough periods.

8. Maintain Simplicity in Your Leadership Approach: Keep communication clear and straightforward. Avoid overcomplicating messages or processes, as simplicity can enhance understanding and execution.

9. Balance Local and Global Expectations: When leading in a foreign market, balance corporate
goals with the cultural realities of the local environment. Take the time to understand local practices and adapt your approach accordingly, avoiding over-reliance on intermediaries or expecting immediate results.

10. Respect and Understand the Local Business Environment: Gain a deep understanding of the economic and cultural landscape in the regions where you operate. This includes the unique challenges of industries like real estate in Japan, and recognizing the importance of strategic partnerships to navigate these complexities.

By applying these principles, you can become a more effective leader who fosters trust,