Linda Sim believes that diversity is the key to building an amazing business.

This interview is part of Inspirations, a regular series from Helen Lao and ClearPath that asks extraordinary founders, executives, and rising stars in the growth-oriented food industry about their why.

Who or what inspires you and why?

Everyone I meet inspires me. Some in ways that make me better, some in ways that show me what not to do, and some in ways that make me realize how fortunate I am.

What types of people do you work best with and why?

I find that having diversity makes room for different perspectives that enables a concept to truly flourish.

What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far and why?

As a strong-headed and very independent woman, finding “respect equality” in the workplace has been challenging. I always felt I had to do more. I had to work harder and I had to keep elevating the business––to make a mark. I have realized that that is just the type of person I am. So I no longer needed to prove myself to anyone.

What’s something you’ve worked on that you’re proud of and why?

Opportunity and development. I have given people I work with incredible opportunities to grow. I have created positions to allow that growth that never existed.

What’s been one of your greatest rewards in business and why?

Growth. Watching something start at zero and grow to 100 is the best affirmation of why we do what we do and the purpose of our careers.

Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self and why? 

I would say to my younger self that not everything you lose means you lost, so don’t take it so personally. Sometimes losing something or not getting something you really wanted, didn’t deserve you. That is something hard to digest when you’re young and ambitious but, looking back, is probably the best advice.

What's the one word that describes you and why?

Stamina. Whether it’s work or physical endurance, the trend has always been my incredible stamina. It is contagious in all parts of my life and I’m very thankful I am genetically engineered that way.

What’s one company, brand, or individual that you admire and why?

Babe Ruth. He said “It’s hard to beat someone who never gives up,” and I have always lived by that.

What is one thing you’d like to accomplish this year and why?What is one thing you’d like to accomplish this year and why?

If I can ensure my 2-year-old makes it out of 2019 with limited injuries, I have done the hardest job in the world.

What is one book that you think everyone should read and why?

The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. Enough said.

About ClearPath

At ClearPath, we value relationships over everything because we know that great people are the secret sauce to success. We serve as ambassadors for growth-oriented brands in the food industry — connecting them with the leaders they need to build their businesses and change the world. Our collaborative, tenacious, and modern approach to talent acquisition empowers us to surface the right candidates — faster.

#AnythingIsPossible