Conversations with Scott Asai

Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Asai.

Hi Scott, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my business as a coach 15+ years ago but pivoted to public speaking in the past few years. Speaking in front of people was something that always intimidated me and throughout my career, I’d reluctantly speak or decline opportunities.

In 2019, I told myself if I want to be a better speaker I’m going to have to shift my mindset from “speaking is not my thing” to “I want to become a great speaker.” Being a man of my word, I decided I needed to do a TEDx Talk, so I did.

I applied to about 20 TEDx locations and after almost a year of interviews, rejections and feedback, I got accepted to speak in Hawaii. As a coach, to add some accountability I even changed my LinkedIn Profile to “Aspiring TEDx Speaker” until I finally landed one.

I was fortunate to complete my TEDx Talk in February 2020 and got my recording literally a day before COVID. Since then I transitioned to virtual speaking, training, and coaching mostly for managers in tech. My past experience as a remote manager aided my learning curve on Zoom and now almost all of my clients find me via LinkedIn.

As someone who is naturally introverted, I actually love speaking (even though it drains me)! For me, it’s about delivering a message, usually soft skill related, to someone in the audience who needs to hear it. Although it’s speaking to a crowd, I still treat it like I’m talking to an individual. I can still my authentic in my style and delivery and what used to be a challenge is now my job!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s never a smooth road as a business owner. Leaving Corporate America is trading a steady paycheck and structure for the unknown. But since flexibility has always been the reason “why” I became an entrepreneur when things get tough, I know it comes with the territory.

My work is completely dependent on networking, follow-through, and timing. Most don’t want to admit how little control you have, but the reality is all the marketing/sales tactics in the world can’t convince a customer to buy unless they are ready.

Knowing that I make sure to stay consistent in my posting, communication, and delivery. I may not be able to control who hires me, but I can control the quality of work when hired.

Finding new clients and re-engaging customers will always be a challenge, but I’m hoping my overall body of work will continue to be my best selling point.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I teach soft skill strategies to help develop leaders in the workplace. My TEDx talk was entitled “Saving Soft Skills from Extinction” and since we’ve gone hybrid/remote soft skills have only increased in value. I work primarily with managers in tech on communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence. My speaking style is: brief, conversational, and practical.

What were you like growing up?
I’ve been told I was a leader or bossy as a kid (depending on who you ask). I’ve always been introverted, preferring to hang out with a small group of friends or have a one-on-one conversation. I played sports growing up: basketball, volleyball, golf, etc. I also enjoy planning professional or social events, so whether a role at work or my own wedding there’s a part of me who enjoys organizing chaos.

Contact Info:

• Website: scottasai.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scottasai