“Life involves both wins and losses, the most important is to be able to reflect.”
Though only in his 30s, David Lau, a graduate of PolyU International Hotel Management Master’s Programme, is owner of a boutique hotel who has almost 10 years’ experience in the industry.
“When I was studying business management, I wasn’t interested in the course and my grades were average. But when I studied for my master’s in hotel management at PolyU, I found it very relevant and practical, which increased my motivation to learn.” At that time, David already had five years of experience in running a small hotel. He hoped the study could make his “local operation” more professional. For three days a week, he rushed to PolyU campus for class after finishing work at 7pm. He managed to finish the course in one year, just half of the time usually required. In 2013, he graduated with distinction.
Back then, he was also planning for his sixth project, demonstrating PolyU’s spirit of innovation. The project was to convert a commercial building into the now Popway Hotel with 63 rooms. It was an important milestone compared with his previous business offering several to just dozens of rooms in a hostel. “The PolyU course has much practical value and stimulates my creativity.” David injected new ideas to different areas from design concept, income management, inventory management, marketing to the mini bar inside each room. Internally, he encouraged innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit. Also in every month, regardless of whether there is gain or loss, he would allocate a fixed portion of the revenue to all staff, making them bosses and motivating them to strive for good business.
However, it was not all smooth sailing for David. The Nap Lounge he set up in busy districts failed to take off in Hong Kong, though the idea of offering some private space for working people to take a nap in between work drew much attention and was discussed in US sectoral conferences. “In the face of failure, I have to adjust and balance my mindset.”
David is a model for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit advocated by PolyU. He has dreams, creativity and the courage to make them come true. What’s more is his positive mindset and the drive to confront hardships head-on.
The above is an English translation of a story abridged from the Chinese book “Heartening Stories” published by PolyU in 2017.
Photo credit: PolyU Communications and Public Affairs Office
