She started her journey as a digital marketing trainer before she figured her passion lies in online business coaching. From Ipoh, a Pisces and a big dreamer, get to know the other side of Shalini, your online business coach cum digital marketing trainer.
What are you up to lately?
I recently completed 3 months of private coaching sessions with my coach from Australia and am looking forward to launching my first group online masterclass. Also, I’m pretty excited to be selected as part of the train of trainer program by MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation) to support their initiative to digitize small business entrepreneurs around the country.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am an engineer who turned into an entrepreneur. I graduated with first-class honors in Mechanical Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Petronas. Then, I was working as a project engineer for 6 years in one of the renowned oil and gas companies in Singapore. I also served as the youngest deputy director in the Prime Minister’s department overlooking people-centric socio-economic policies.
But I have always been passionate about building my own empire. While I was working a full-time job, I looked forward to going back home to work on my side hustle. I know that one day, I want to stop working on someone else’s dream.
It was scary. Letting go of a stable and five-figure income to start all over again from scratch. I need a solid financial plan, self-trust and sacrifice a lot throughout my journey. Many of my family members and friends didn’t support my decision at that time. But this is the question that I asked myself “Where do I see myself 5 years from now?”
And my answer is “I see myself traveling with my family, working from different parts of the world and inspiring women around me to take actions on their dreams.” I started my journey as a digital marketing trainer and figured out my passion for online business coaching.
Where are you now?
I am from Ipoh, Perak. (Ipoh Mali!) But currently living in Kuala Lumpur with my hubby and a baby girl. I have my own workspace at home where I spend most of my time working.
Your zodiac?
Pisces! And yes I’m a big dreamer with beautiful eyes!
Are you an introvert or extrovert?
I am an introvert. I prefer thoughtful conversation to shallow small talks. I enjoy being socially active, occasionally. But I definitely need to recharge by spending time alone.
Your official designation now is?
I am an online business coach cum digital marketing trainer.
Marketing is broad, what’s your specialty?
I am focusing on building an online presence with social media platforms and personal branding.
What do you love about Marketing?
I love marketing because it’s an opportunity to study people to understand their needs and interests. And at the same time, I get to connect people to products/services that can have an impact on their lives.
What do you hate about Marketing?
To succeed in the fast-paced marketing world, I have to stay ahead of the game.
When thinking, you’d like to be alone or with people?
I prefer being alone to get my creative juices flowing.
Your ideas, most of them came from?
My ideas are mostly from my experience and inspiration of other successful coaches who I found on social media and YouTube.
Are you a digital nomad or office freak?
I am 50/50. I love being in different places but also can’t be away for a long period of time because I miss the comfort of my home!
Your favourite social media?
I use Instagram to share my business journey and day to day activities. Whereas I use LinkedIn to speak about my brand story and share my offers.
What do you do when you’re not working?
When I am not working, I spend time with my baby. If not, I hit the gym or a dancing floor!
Who’s your marketing icon?
Gary Vaynerchuk and Neil Patel.
What is the first thing you’d do when you’re hired/chosen to handle a new project?
I will need to clarify all my doubts and then understand the ultimate end of the project.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I am a night owl. Always been one. I love Robin Sharma but I am yet to join his 5 am club. I tried a few times to sleep early but I am not an early riser. I hope to be a morning person in the future.
How do you stay motivated?
I like to do journaling. Whenever I am feeling down or out of ideas, I take time to journal my thoughts and remind myself about my “BIG WHY” to embark on this journey.
Ever got ideas from movies or songs?
Hmmm..not that I remember. But I am sure I have gotten a few ideas from Bollywood movies!
The best book you’ve ever read?
There are many and to name a few – The monk who sold his Ferrari by Robin Sharma & How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie
How to contact you?
Email me at shal@shalinis.co
