3 takeaways for leaders

As part of our New Ways of Leading in a Changed World series, Pexip spoke to Dr Jana Matthews, ANZ Chair in Business Growth and Director of the Australian Centre for Business Growth. Dr Matthews is a global authority on entrepreneurial leadership and business growth and has helped businesses thrive through major or devastating events.  

Planning and perspective can move your business forward. According to Dr Matthews, your perspective is what can change your thinking and your outcomes, when your business faces an unexpected bump in the road.

“Tough times are an opportunity to step back and take a good look at what’s happening in your company,” she said. “Look at your people, your products, your customers. Are they going to help your business get to the next level?”

Dr Matthews encourages companies to avoid the negative narrative that inevitably follows major events. She has seen companies flourish by embracing the opportunity to deep dive into their business and reframe negative situations into positive experiences.

“There’s always going to be something... It’s important to address the issue and then rework your steps or actions to continue moving toward your goal,” Dr Matthews said.

“It’s not all doom and gloom, it’s just different. With robust systems and a clear plan, you will always have direction – even if the steps to get there may change along the way.”

Dr Matthews reframes business survival through crisis with an approach she describes as ‘rebound and grow’ and suggests lifelong learning is critical for leaders of growing companies.

“Learning shouldn’t stop once you’re running a business, because the problems and opportunities you face today will be different tomorrow,” she said.

“Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, board members and other people who know more than you. But choose carefully. Find like-minded people who understand your industry and have a positive mindset.” 

This episode was filmed with interviewer Ben Campbell and Dr Jana Matthews in different locations in Adelaide, Australia using Pexip video to bring everyone together.