Maher Kaddoura wears several hats. This is mainly because he hopes to create maximum impact through his life’s actions. At present, Maher is an expert entrepreneur and angel investor, an inspiring social change maker, a formidable board member, and a thought contributor, but mostly a world traveler. Maher’s zest for life is palpable and he’s always on the lookout for his next adventure!
In a chat with GLEAC, Maher spoke about the skill set of the future and the greatest learning of his professional journey. Take a look!
GLEAC: Who do you have to thank for a decision that you made that got you where you are today?
Maher: Sometimes, some of the best advice comes from family and you’d be smart not to overlook it. I’m thankful to my cousin who introduced me to the concept of exploring the world and learning about the different cultures and people that exist. This, in due time, offered me several opportunities for growth – both in my personal and professional space.
GLEAC: If a future version of yourself had to thank you for something you are doing right now, what would it be for?
Maher: Being curious about life and being obsessed with the poem “do not live half a life“ by Jubran. I am always working to stay relevant to a life of purpose.
GLEAC: What is your superpower soft skill? How do you use it in your job in your sector?
Maher: My ability to communicate to connect with people is definitely my superpower soft skill. I am able to energise people and help them discover their hidden potential.
GLEAC: What hard skills and soft skills are needed for your job?
Maher: My job is a mix of both hard skills and soft skills combined – to the point where you can’t separate the two. Some of the key skills needed in my line of work include critical and strategic thinking, motivating people, disciplined follow-up and follow-through, and problem-solving.
GLEAC: How does your job impact the balance sheet of your company- which departments does it affect and how?
Maher: My work is to impact people and multiply their potential – this is my ultimate balance sheet!
GLEAC: With all the changes happening in the world, is your sector going to survive, and if yes, why?
Maher: Whether or not your sector survives or your work is relevant a few years down the line totally boils down to your digital and people skills. If you want to continue being relevant, you need to become more digital and people-centric but also be able to adapt quickly.
GLEAC: If you had to attract more talent to your team from another sector, who would you want, and with what skill sets?
Maher: At this point, the three most important skills relevant to my field of work are critical thinking, problem-solving, and UX.
GLEAC: Which are the 3 must-have soft skills for newbies looking to enter your sector?
Maher: Critical thinking – speed learning – problem-solving.
GLEAC: Are there any soft skills you need to work on to better yourself?
Maher: I’m working on becoming a better and more patient listener and trying to improve my focus while at it.
GLEAC: If you had to explain your job to a 5-year-old, how would you do it?
Maher: I solve problems and puzzles in a simple way.
GLEAC: What is the one learning of your professional journey you would like to share with the world?
Maher: Passion inspires, but discipline delivers!
GLEAC: Every career has its pros and cons. What are the good and bad aspects of your career?
Maher: The good – Variety of work so it is not boring. The bad – Nothing!
GLEAC: Work in your sector can get rigorous. How do you keep up the mojo?
Maher: I continue to be mission-driven. I know the why (the purpose of my personal and professional actions) and this motivates me to jump out of bed in the morning and make the time to do the things I want to do.
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