Leading with impact: Insights from Ben King

More than a decade ago, Ben King was approached by the head of Google Southeast Asia with a question: what did he want to do? Ben's response was straightforward-he asked to be given the hardest problem that particular leader was facing at the time. From there, he was sent on various assignments across Southeast Asia, working to build teams (and Google's businesses) across Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Today, he is Google Singapore's Managing Director, leading Google's sales and business development within the country.

As part of our 'Ask Me Anything' series, members of the Sydney Alumni Community asked Ben about leadership, building confidence in management roles, and navigating an ever-evolving world.

Jobs in the age of AI

Working at Google, Ben is immersed in the fast-paced environment of regulatory changes and technological innovations. An alum asked "What do you think are the most crucial skills for success in today's rapidly evolving business landscape?" Ben acknowledged a pressing concern - artificial intelligence.

"One thing many people are worried about is skills obsolescence in the age of AI. It's a legit concern," he said.

But this is not a new phenomenon - major shifts in the way we work have happened before, like the shift to mobile and web, which transformed jobs and created new ones. Ben emphasised the greatest potential of AI lies in its ability to augment human capabilities including critical thinking, negotiation and influence.

Despite the uneasy realities of the rapid changes in the workforce and technology, Ben encourages an "always-on" approach to learning.

"By continually focusing on updating/evolving oneself, people will be equipped to take advantage of new opportunities and as they arise," he said.

Ben outlined an always-on approach to learning in three steps:

1. Stay curious - don't be afraid to be uncomfortable and explore the unfamiliar.
2. Build the right foundation - stay informed and up to date, particularly about knowledge relevant to your work.
3. Be bold and creative - apply new tools creatively and embrace new approaches to your day-to-day.

Storytelling is an overlooked skill

Another alum was curious about modern leadership, they asked "What traits do you see lacking in emerging leaders?"

Ben pointed out that while many people get promoted based on their ability to deliver results, true leadership is about more than achieving targets.

"Although rolling up sleeves and getting stuff done never really goes away, leadership requirements clearly go well beyond execution. It entails making decisions or breaking ties, creating space and processes to arrive at better-quality decisions..., optimizing towards empathy when needed, and being very comfortable with not being the expert in the room" Ben explained.

Ben noted this shift in mindset isn't always easy to make, both emotionally and intellectually.

As people transition into leadership roles, Ben highlighted how storytelling is an often overlooked but important skill.

"When it comes to winning hearts and minds, I think effective and engaging storytelling is an underrated attribute," he said.

Developing the confidence to lead

Our alumni also touched on the often daunting task of building confidence in leadership, particularly for those who may not enjoy people management. One alum expressed their concern, asking, "How do you develop the confidence to lead? I personally have never enjoyed people management."

Ben acknowledged that a good team needs both high-functioning individual contributors and leaders.

"Leadership isn't for everyone, and that's totally ok," he said.

For those who aspire to lead but struggle with confidence, he reassured them that doubt is universal.

"I'd suggest everyone suffers doubts, and if people tell you they don't, they are likely not telling you the truth!" he said.

Ben's advice to anyone who wants to build their confidence as a leader is to find a good coach and gradually expand your toolkit-whether through reading, researching best practices, or seeking opportunities to lead outside of work.

He also emphasised focusing on what you can control. "Moments where I felt under qualified... which can certainly dent confidence, I offset that by focusing on things I could control. My work ethic and preparation were controllable and helped me bridge the confidence gap," he said. Lastly, he reminded everyone, "You cannot make everyone happy, and you will not be perfect. Accept that upfront!"

The 'Ask Me Anything' alumni series is designed to unlock the Sydney Alumni Community, bringing together esteemed alumni and industry leaders to share their expertise and insights via the Sydney Alumni Community Network on LinkedIn. Join today.