Caught in a magical Web

With self-confidence, the right business strategies and effective management skills, Francis Kwok Ching-kwong, founder and CEO of Radica Systems, has built a 50-strong e-marketing company with sales operations across Asia. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) graduate develops strategies and manages key accounts. He is keen to attract talented people and ensure that they are happy at work.

Why did you start your own business shortly after you graduated?

I was inspired by a professor who showed me the immense possibilities the internet offers, as well as by my visit to Peking University while I was at HKUST. Students there were so thrilled about having an e-mail account - albeit having to share just one among them - because it made their lives so much easier. I was in awe of the sweeping changes brought about by the internet and wanted to be involved in the business as early as possible.

What challenges did you encounter in setting up Radica?

The internet bubble burst when I started the firm. But I believed that with the right strategy, I would secure business opportunities. I decided to approach clients who were 'early adapters' - rising stars occupying senior positions in their companies. They would likely be willing to try new things and take risks. Using this strategy, I secured two major clients. I also received HK$2 million from a government fund to support research and development at my firm.

You run a young company with many members of staff belonging to the post-1980s generation. How do you manage them?

I don't see myself managing them as such. I try to lead them to do what they want to achieve. Communication is key, and I make my staff take charge of things so that they put themselves in the shoes of the boss. For example, I once put them in charge of the entertainment committee, but they hesitated on things as simple as whether to buy a Wii [a home video-game console] or not. They did not want to use illegal software, but the budget would not allow the purchase of legal software. They realised how difficult decision-making could be. It is also important to give young people a career path and a sense of hope. We have been able to do so.