The J Factor

Some have described Joyce Ong as a ‘dragon lady’, ‘fierce’, even ‘scary’. She can certainly talk, but it is because that talk is both forthright and sincere that Joyce is our first featured dialogue partner.

She doesn’t just go with the flow – even at this Coffee Club outlet in Singapore she chooses berry tea. And you sense that this is why her company, J Factor, has stood the test of time.

I learn that Joyce started J Factor in 1995, the same year that Language Works was set up. As you listen to her, you realise that she has strong belief. Yet belief on its own is not enough: “To do something that you believe in, you really need perseverance and passion.”

Moreover, you have to enjoy what you do. Joyce’s enjoyment of her chosen craft is palpable. “The beauty of it is - I love it. I still love it.” She sounds surprised at herself.

Surviving a 12-year cycle in one of the fastest-moving, most demanding economies on earth, especially in advertising, promotions and consultancy, needs something more elemental and enduring than street smarts, business acumen or a smart strategy. And I’d say it’s the J Factor.