Now a co-founder, developer, and operations lead at the coding school Scrimba, Frode's journey is a testament to the uncharted terrains of innovation and entrepreneurship. He belongs to the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management inaugural class of 2007 and has been an integral part of three startups since graduating. We had the pleasure of catching up with Frode to gain insights from his experiences as a student and from his career in the tech industry.
A Programme that broadens your perspective
For Frode, the programme was more than just coursework; it was a life-altering experience. – As a technically minded person, it broadened my perspective beyond code and features. The curriculum's expansive range helped me think more holistically and become adept at understanding the intersection of technology and business.
To Frode, one of the standout features of the program was its diverse array of topics and activities. – We took Gründerskolen (an award-winning summer programme for those who wish to learn more about entrepreneurship and innovation) as part of the degree, spending three months in Singapore.The cultural immersion in Singapore was both enriching and eye-opening, offering a unique perspective on global business practices.
When it comes to critical skills, Frode reminisces about learning ?The Strategy Diamond?, budgets, accounting, and seminal concepts like ?Crossing the Chasm? and ?Porter's Five Forces?. Although he hesitates to pinpoint specific skills, these references regularly surface in his professional life, attesting to their long-term value.
Navigating Uncertainty Post-Programme
Frode admits he had no clear path post-graduation. – I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do, so I went for an internship in Germany. The uncertainty did not deter me; instead, it opened avenues for exploration and growth.
Setbacks are an inevitable part of any journey, and Frode's journey was no exception. Although he can't recall specific instances, his philosophy is straightforward: – Failure equals learning. Each setback was a steppingstone, adding to my reservoir of wisdom.
Learning the Value of Consistent Effort
Frode firmly believes that the most underrated skills for entrepreneurs are the perseverance to keep learning and the tenacity to keep going. These traits are invaluable yet often overlooked. The value of consistent effort was a surprising revelation for Frode: – Just showing up means you are in the top quartile of candidates. This realization highlighted the importance of commitment and presence to me.
– The most underrated skills for entrepreneurs are the perseverance to keep learning and the tenacity to keep going.
Maintaining motivation during challenging phases is no easy feat. – I do not always stay motivated and rely on my brain chemistry to solve this problem, Frode candidly shares. His strategy involves taking breaks until motivation resurfaces, often through engaging in different activities like playing computer games or traveling.
The Importance of Learning How
Frode addresses common misconceptions about studying innovation and entrepreneurship. He explains that while some view these fields as unnecessary for formal education, they often provide the triggers needed for personal and professional transformations. – Creativity and innovation come in many forms, and it is important to learn how these processes unfold.
The programme introduced Frode to a diverse crowd of talented individuals. When asked about impactful connections made through the programme, Frode remains humble. –The most impactful people were my fellow students, he says, highlighting the lasting influence of his peers. – I developed a lot as a person during the programme, he reflects, underscoring the importance of networking for personal and professional growth.
Frode's journey from a curious student to a dynamic co-founder serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring entrepreneurs. His experiences underscore the invaluable role of education, networking, and continual learning in shaping a successful career.
Facts
- Frode's bachelor degree is in information technology from the University of Oslo, Department of Informatics.
- Former start-ups Frode was a part of: Startup Norway AS and Socious AS.
- The Strategy Diamond: A framework for checking and communicating a strategy.
- Crossing the Chasm: A marketing book by Geoffrey A. Moore that examines the market dynamics faced by innovative new products, with a particular focus on the chasm or adoption gap.
- Porter's Five Forces: Porter's Five Forces Framework is a method of analysing the competitive environment of a business.