Uncategorized

Alaska Journal of Commerce — Tyler Systems Featured

Sunday, May 22, 2011 No Comments by Tyler Arnold

Just before I took off to Romania again, I had a chance to get interviewed the The Journal’s Sean Manget.

He recently won the Small Business Administration Alaska’s 2011 Alaska Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and won third place in a business plan competition in 2009.

Arnold still isn’t quite sure what made him into the entrepreneur he is today, or what made him so precocious when he was little.

Four tips for meeting geeks while traveling

Saturday, April 2, 2011 No Comments by Tyler Arnold

Traveling, for personal or for business, is a great time to meet with like minded geeks and explore new business opportunities. If you look at a lot of successful, well-respected entrepreneurs, they’ve often traveled the world and can bring a global perspective to business, products, and tech.

Here’s a few tips on how to meet with geeks abroad:

Tap into existing clients, and their networks (if applicable) — Be assertive! Blast out a note on Facebook, Twitter, and follow-up with local contacts before you leave. Our world is becoming smaller, and you may be surprised the contacts your local friends, mentors, and clients have abroad.
Search for local leaders — Browse Twitter, Facebook, and the blogosophere to identify local leaders within the tech industry. They are great launching pads for events or referrals.
Google search for local industry associations – All of my connections when I was traveling in Munich came from doing a simple Google search for “American business in Munich.” I then stumbled upon the American German Business Club, and went to one of their events while I was there.
Plan for spontaneity — If I was too structured or unwilling to change my schedule, I would have never gone to the Business Club meeting in Munich that brought me so much. Knock down doors, send as many emails as you can, and welcome the spontaneity that comes from that!

Geeks are international

Thursday, March 3, 2011 No Comments by Tyler Arnold

During a recent trip to Europe, I had the chance to network with a group of exciting, young geeks in the Netherlands and Romania. This experience is something I value and appreciate on several levels. I learned a lot about my new friends and their approach to IT and business.

One of the many advantages of being in the IT industry is it’s an international business. Founders, entreprepreneurs, and employees in the tech sector are used to working with clients around the globe. They’re used going out of their way to learn about different cultures and to climb communication barriers. My experience in my travels makes me a more open and effective business partner. I find myself interested in global approaches and new ways of thinking.

One tip I give my fellow geeks is try to take advantage of our diverse industry by networking with the local tech scene. You will find new opportunities in new markets, or at the very least a chance to make friends in the same industry overseas! These friendships are beneficial and informative. It’s a great way to foster new thought and sharing.

Stay tuned for my next article, four tips for meeting geeks while traveling.