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【Employee Introduction】From Zero to Market Development: How an SMU Student Found Her Footing at a Japanese Startup


Contents

 

 

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Adelyn Callie Tay

Business Development Intern

 

“Ten Weeks to Challenge Myself in Tokyo”

For me, it was a stage where aspiration and growth could come true at the same time.

As a finance major at SMU (Singapore Management University), I decided to spend my university vacation jumping into an internship at the Japanese startup, DataLabs.

 

 

Encounter with DataLabs

While searching for a hands-on internship I could apply for during the summer break, a friend introduced me to DataLabs. The combination of 3D data and the construction industry was a completely unfamiliar field to me, which sparked my curiosity. The moment I learned that the position was based in Tokyo, my decision was made without hesitation. I intuitively knew this was a place where I could hone my business skills through real-world experience while working in my beloved Japan.

 

Immediately Entrusted with Key Overseas Expansion Tasks

My role was to conduct market research and formulate market entry strategies for the ASEAN region. I analyzed industry trends, customer needs, and competitors, and turned these analyses into strategic proposals. I also created internal and external presentation materials and had opportunities to present my work directly.

One of the most memorable moments was my very first presentation at the All DataLabs Meeting. Just two weeks after joining — right when I had completed onboarding — the overseas market research I was working on became a hot topic, and I was suddenly given the opportunity to present it at the company-wide meeting. Although I was nervous about presenting separately to both Japan- and overseas-based members, the strong support and feedback from my business development team and even the management team enabled me to carry it through successfully. The sense of accomplishment in that moment is still vivid in my mind. This experience gave me the confidence that I could thrive even in unfamiliar environments.


At the same time, I came to understand what it means to work at a startup. Compared to internships I had done at large corporations in the past, working at a startup like DataLabs meant fewer layers of approval and greater voice for each employee. Everyone is respected, and ideas are actively welcomed. I had more opportunities to learn and take ownership of my work. Since it was important not only to complete my tasks but also to understand how they benefited the company as a whole, my thinking skills were constantly stimulated. I believe DataLabs’ defining traits are its positive culture and strong drive for growth.

 

 

The Impact of Visiting a Construction Site

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I had never been to a construction site before, but through a project, I got the chance to go.
At the site, due to extreme heat and hazardous working conditions, I felt not only physical exhaustion but also a sense of danger. My supervisor even asked me to evacuate urgently, and I ended up observing the work from the shade (laughs).

Through this experience, I deeply understood how harsh the site environment is and the importance of DataLabs’ mission to transform these industries and reduce the burden on the sites.

I also learnt that there was more to the job than sitting behind a desk. At times, there would be moments where we have to visit on-site no matter how inconvenient or harsh the environment was. But that’s what makes Datalabs special– reducing the number of people and time needed on-site, enhancing the safety and efficiency of construction workers.

 

 

Confidence Gained from a Three-Month Internship

Over the course of these three months, I gained valuable knowledge about the technical aspects of 3D and point cloud data, and got a firsthand look into the construction industry. One moment that stood out as a sign of my growth was completing the onboarding process fairly quickly (or so everyone says). I also deepened my understanding of the company’s operations. 

It was especially rewarding to know that my work contributed meaningful value to the company, whether by providing better insights into the ASEAN market and competitors, or by helping to plan actionable strategies based on those insights.

One memorable experience was participating in our bug bash event. It was my first time attending an on-site gathering where everyone came together to debug issues and provide constructive feedback about our products or suggest features they wished the company would offer. Going through everyone’s feedback one by one made me truly appreciate how actively the company listens to each employee’s voice.believe this event was an excellent way to not only improve our product and align our vision, but also to boost employee morale and strengthen the work culture at DataLabs.



 

 

Hoshino (a member of Business Development team) on Adelyn’s Growth and Future Potential

Over the past three months, Adelyn has not only absorbed new knowledge and experiences at an impressive pace, but has also demonstrated a strong ability to shape her own ideas and turn them into tangible results. Within a short period of time, she grasped the overall scope of our operations and made meaningful contributions while collaborating effectively with those around her — something that clearly showed her potential to excel in new and challenging environments.

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Looking ahead, I expect her to further expand her expertise and gain more experience through her continued work at DataLabs. She will be involved in business development in Southeast Asia as well as in European countries, supporting the execution of strategies in those regions. Given her adaptability and curiosity, I believe she will be able to deepen her understanding of local markets, build practical experience, and further refine her skills in real-world business settings.

At DataLabs, we have a strong culture of documenting our work processes and sharing knowledge, and there are frequent opportunities to use English in daily operations. Because of this, overseas members and newcomers face a lower barrier to catching up compared to many other companies.

From my own experience working with multiple members, I believe that those who thrive at DataLabs are curious, eager to take on new challenges, and proactive in sharing their ideas. While specialized knowledge and experience are certainly important, what matters even more is having the “let’s try it” mindset and finding enjoyment in creating results together as a team — qualities that fit perfectly with our environment.

 

 

Off-Time in Japan

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I spent most weekends exploring various parts of Japan. So far, my favorite has been Kibune, near Kyoto. Not only was the temperature much cooler, but the sound of the river was soothing, and the views from the hiking trail were breathtaking.

I also created unforgettable memories with my DataLabs colleagues, visiting Hakuba together and enjoying evenings at izakayas.

And, of course, I was able to savor my favorite Japanese whisky.

 

 

Looking Ahead & A Message to Future Interns　

My goal is to master five languages and build a career in a multicultural environment.

My advice to anyone considering joining DataLabs as an intern is:

  • Be curious
  • Take on new challenges
  • And most importantly, enjoy yourself

I believe these are the shortcuts to having the best possible internship experience.

Otsukaresama deshita! (Thanks for all your efforts)

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DataLabs is hiring both full-time employees and interns.

Please check here for our current openings.

We are always happy to have casual interviews, so if you are interested, feel free to reach out. We look forward to meeting you!