Charting a New Course – Lee Yan Ting’s Journey to Elevan August Media
The story of Elevan August Media is one of determination and resilience, epitomised by its founder, Lee Yan Ting. Initially, Lee grappled with the challenge of balancing a full-time job with her growing interest in digital marketing. The pull between the security of stable employment and the allure of entrepreneurship weighed heavily on her mind.
A turning point came when her previous employer’s shift in direction created an unexpected opportunity. Lee decided to leave her steady job and fully commit to her passion for digital marketing. Despite facing scepticism from those around her, her belief in herself and her vision for Elevan August Media fueled her determination.
With no formal background in agency work, Lee approached her new venture with curiosity and initiative. She sought mentorship from industry leaders, learning from their experiences and success stories. Leveraging their insights and her dedication, she turned her initial inexperience into a unique advantage, propelling Elevan August Media towards innovation and growth.
A Defining Moment for Elevan August Media
January 2020 marked a significant shift in Lee’s entrepreneurial journey when she was laid off from her full-time job. Having been freelancing alongside her employment for seven months and building a solid client base, the layoff came with mixed emotions. While disheartened by the news, Lee also felt a sense of relief.
Overwhelmed by the pressures of dual commitments, she had been contemplating dedicating herself fully to her passion. This sudden change allowed her to pivot from two income streams to embracing her entrepreneurial aspirations. Leaving the security of a steady paycheck was daunting, but Lee recognized that fate had aligned her path, guiding her towards the opportunities ahead at Elevan August Media.
A Culinary Passion – Elevan August Media’s Expansion into F&B Content Creation
Lee’s deep-rooted passion for food exploration inspired Elevan August Media to expand into content creation and PR management within the food and beverage (F&B) industry. With a treasure trove of food-related content at her fingertips, Lee saw an opportunity to share her love for food and elevate culinary content online.
Understanding the power of influencer marketing, she highlights that word-of-mouth and social proof are crucial for business success. Beyond her personal marketing efforts, Lee collaborates with other food reviewers on F&B projects, leveraging their combined influence to help businesses thrive in this sector.
Building a Strong Foundation – Elevan August Media’s Team Selection and Training Process
At Elevan August Media, Lee emphasises the importance of structure and systems in maintaining high service standards. She believes that even the most competent staff cannot guarantee success without proper processes. Establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and identifying the right individuals for critical roles has been crucial, especially in the early stages of the business.
In her team selection process, Lee prioritises candidates with the right educational background, a positive attitude, and a strong desire for growth. She values individuals who take pride in their work, as this commitment significantly contributes to the company’s success. By focusing on these qualities, Lee is building a team that is not only capable but also motivated to help Elevan August Media thrive.
A Surprising Honour – Celebrating the Singapore Youth Entrepreneur Award
Among Elevan August Media’s accolades, the Singapore Youth Entrepreneur Award in 2021 stands out as Lee’s most cherished achievement. Launching her venture during the challenging times of COVID-19 and just entering her second year in business, Lee had not anticipated receiving any awards.
Receiving a text from the award committee about her nomination caught her off guard, leading her to initially question its legitimacy. However, being recognized alongside other remarkable entrepreneurs in Singapore provided a significant motivational boost. This honour inspired Lee to continually push her boundaries, explore new possibilities, and strive to become the best version of herself—an ethos foundational to Elevan August Media’s ongoing journey.
Advice from Lee Yan Ting for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
