Cenk Sidar is a proponent of Web3 and the future of work. He is the co-founder and CEO of Enquire AI, a platform for next-generation insights that offers the world’s top businesses an AI-powered platform to tap into global subject-matter experts instantly. He also contributes to NextWave DAO, an organization that uses community gatherings, in-person panels, and a networking platform to connect Web2 and Web3. At the American-Turkish Council, Mr. Sidar started his professional career more than 15 years ago as the Director of Infrastructure, Energy, and Defense Programs. From there, he moved on to ConStrat before creating Sidar Global Advisors, where he served as CEO from the company’s founding in 2010 until the end of 2017, counting among their clients companies such as Microsoft, Kinross Gold Corporation, Hilton Worldwide, and the US Chamber of Commerce.

Additionally, Cenk Sidar acts as an angel investor in businesses including DAOBnB, Voscreen, Kapsul Media, and a few others. The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, New York Times, and other international publications have all featured him. He routinely presents at conferences all around the world on topics including Web3, knowledge sharing, AI and human relationships, and the future of employment.  Sidar has contributed to top publications and media outlets, including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, CNBC, Bloomberg, Foreign Policy, CCTV, and Al Jazeera, as well as been interviewed by them. Additionally, he has spoken before crowds all over the world at venues like the UK House of Commons, Cornell, Tufts, Johns Hopkins (SAIS), and CFR.

Cenk Sidar was chosen in 2012 by the Diplomatic Courier and the Young Foreign Policy Professionals as one of the top 99 foreign policy leaders under the age of 33 in the globe. He belongs to the Atlantic Council, Turkish Social Democracy Foundation (SODEV), Atlantik-Brucke e. V., European Young Leaders Program, Jean Monnet Program, Project Interchange Alumni, and American Academy of Achievement. He is also a member of the Johns Hopkins University SAIS Advisory Council. He speaks German and English fluently.

Sidar holds an MA degree in international economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, a postgraduate degree in European studies from SAIS’s Bologna Center in Italy, and a BA degree in business administration and international relations from Istanbul Bilgi University.

How did you get interested in technology and entrepreneurship?

I’ve always been interested in how technology can be leveraged to solve problems and create value. My first foray into the tech world was when I co-founded a web development company while I was still in college. After that, I went on to work in the corporate sector for a few years before eventually starting my own management consulting firm. It was through my work as a consultant that I really got exposed to the power of technology and how it could be used to transform businesses.

What inspired you to start Enquire AI?

As a management consultant, I saw firsthand how businesses were struggling to keep up with the pace of change. They were struggling to find the right talent and expertise, and they were wasting a lot of time and money in the process. I saw an opportunity to use technology to solve this problem and that’s what inspired me to start Enquire AI.

What is Enquire AI and how does it work?

Enquire AI is a next generation insights platform that provides the world’s leading enterprises with an AI-powered platform to leverage global subject-matter expertise in real time. We have patented technology that can match Fortune 500 clients with experts based in the region in question, all of which have years of experience in the target industry. Our AI-based algorithm uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to match the specific request to the best possible in-network expert; across 180 countries worldwide with varied expertise in business, academia, finance, economics, technology, medicine, sustainability politics and more. This makes the process faster, of higher quality, and more cost-efficient by optimizing resources.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a CEO?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is scaling the company while maintaining our high standards. We’ve been very fortunate to have grown quickly, but that growth comes with its own challenges. As we continue to scale, we’re constantly working to ensure that our team has the resources they need to be successful and that our clients are getting the best possible service.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs who are just starting out?

My biggest piece of advice is to focus on solving a problem that you’re passionate about. Too often, people start businesses for the wrong reasons, like trying to chase the latest trend or make a quick buck. If you’re not passionate about what you’re doing, it’s going to be very difficult to persevere through the tough times. But if you’re solving a problem that you care deeply about, then the tough times will be worth it.

How do you delegate work?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to delegate work will vary depending on the specific situation and context. However, some tips on how to delegate work effectively include:

  1. Define the goal or outcome that you want to achieve.
  2. Assign tasks based on each individual’s strengths and weaknesses.
  3. Make sure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
  4. Set clear expectations for what needs to be done and by when.
  5. Provide regular feedback and guidance along the way.
  6. Be available to answer questions and offer support as needed.

How do you handle fear?

Everyone experiences and deals with fear differently. However, some tips that may help you deal with fear include: acknowledging and accepting your fears, reframing your thinking to focus on the positive aspects of the situation, breaking down your goal into smaller and more manageable steps, and building up your confidence through visualization and positive self-talk. Remember that everyone experiences fear at times – it’s a normal and natural emotion. By learning how to handle fear in a healthy and productive way, you can use it as a motivation to achieve your goals.

What are your thoughts on the future of technology and its impact on business?

I think we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible with technology. We’re still in the early days of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and I believe these technologies will have a profound impact on businesses in the years to come. We’re already seeing companies using AI to automate tasks, improve decision-making, and drive growth. I think the possibilities are endless and we’re just beginning to see the potential of what AI can do.

What is your advice for businesses who are looking to leverage AI?

My advice would be to partner with a company like Enquire AI that has the experience and expertise to help you get the most out of artificial intelligence. We can help you find the right experts, get the best insights, and make better decisions for your business.

What are your thoughts on the future of Enquire AI?

We’re just getting started. We have a lot of exciting plans for the future and we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. I believe we can change the way businesses operate by providing them with access to the best experts in the world in real time. We’re going to continue to invest in our technology and our team so that we can realize our vision of becoming the go-to platform for enterprises worldwide.

How can people learn more about Enquire AI?

People can learn more about Enquire AI by visiting our website or contacting us directly. We would be happy to answer any questions and provide more information about our platform and how it can benefit your business.

 

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