The Redland Women in Business gathered on Thursday evening, September 14 to hear from inspirational local speakers on their journey of leadership and mentoring in small business.
The power of effective leadership and mentoring cannot be underestimated in business as business growth and prosperity depend on strong leadership and mentorship.
Effective leadership forms the cornerstone of any successful small business. It’s not just about being at the helm, it’s about guiding the ship through the waters.
One crucial strategy for effective leadership is setting clear goals. According to a recent study by the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, small businesses that set specific, measurable and achievable goals are 30 per cent more likely to succeed.
Mentorship can also be an integral catalyst for growth in small businesses. Finding a mentor who has navigated similar challenges can provide invaluable insights and support within your own business, or additionally, by fostering mentorship relationships within your business, you can create a culture of continuous learning and development.
One effective strategy is to encourage senior team members to mentor their junior counterparts. This practice not only helps in knowledge transfer but also strengthens team cohesion and morale.
Redlands Regional Jobs Committee Member Melissa Millar was a guest speaker at the Redland Women in Business event, held by the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce.
Melissa shared her journey into business leadership, and how she has always valued the power of surrounding herself with great mentors.
Her own business, Women of Trades, focuses on mentioning and leading women interested in starting a career in the construction industry.
Melissa’s top five leadership and mentorship tips for others are:
- Everyone feels uncomfortable at times on a leadership journey. Know this is normal.
- Say yes to new opportunities.
- If you are not the smartest person in the room you are sitting in, then you are in the right room.
- Ask for help – work out whose work you admire and create your own mastermind group of leaders you admire to mentor you.
- Value other’s time – time is valuable so if someone is offering you their time appreciate it and look at ways you can give back to them also.
We know that the success of small businesses on the Redlands Coast is not only essential for the business owner, but for the overall well-being of our community. Effective leadership and mentorship are the engines that drive growth in these businesses.
As business owners, leaders and community members, it’s our collective responsibility to support and nurture all our local small businesses. Whether it’s through mentorship, patronage, or collaboration, we can all contribute to their growth and prosperity.
At the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, we encourage businesses to meet and network and discuss their barriers to business, so they can align their strengths and draw on the experience of other likeminded businesses in the area.
The Connected Business Community on the Redlands Coast is a powerful tool and resource to find confident and supportive leaders and achieve excellence in growth.
Together we can create a bright future for the Redlands Coast.
To find out more about joining the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, visit redlandscoastchamber.org.au
