Business Essentials

You may associate cybersecurity with protection, but it can also be a driver of business growth. That’s according to the Managing Director of Cyber Matters, Saaim Khan. He explains how trust is now a major differentiator in a competitive market, with businesses increasingly required to meet strict security standards to win contracts and retain customers. Saaim tells us that as cyber threats rise, organisations that prioritise security can not only safeguard their data but also enhance their reputation and build stronger, long-term relationships with clients.

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To maintain long-term profitability, you need a strategy that can adapt to new trends and consumer demands. Companies that don’t change will fall behind, says consumer and marketing guru Barry Urquhart. Barry identifies three pillars of business success, and offers the example of a particular Australian hardware company, which is pivoting from hardware to homeware – a subtle, yet powerful realignment.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

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A strong brand isn’t just the CEO’s responsibility — it belongs to employees, customers, and even competitors. Rod Curtis is the Director, Strategy & Creative Lead at Kommunal Brand Strategy Architects, he understands more than most why businesses should involve their entire team in shaping their brand identity. Rod explains how effective team workshops can foster genuine buy-in, and that aligning employees with the brand’s core values can create a sense of belief and purpose, leading to stronger commitment and better customer experiences.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Workplace productivity has taken a dive in the last couple of years. Productivity in the workplace involves effectively leveraging resources to deliver outcomes. So how do you do that? HR consultant Karen Gately says bosses should set clear expectations, fostering engagement, and focusing on intrinsic motivators.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
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+61 3 9882 8333

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Sometimes it’s a good idea to look at your sales approach with fresh eyes, so for a sales check-up, we’ve turned to Ingrid Maynard, Founder and Managing Director of The Sales Dr, Ingrid outlines four essential practices that she says every business should embrace. She explains how to plan outcome-driven conversations, ask powerful questions, use influencing techniques effectively, and strengthen client relationships after the sale. The discussion centres on how small changes in your approach can lead to more meaningful engagements, increased conversions and long-term business growth.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being a salesperson today is a tough gig, but could a change of mindset be the secret to success? CEO and Co-Founder of Growth Forum, David Fastuca, says starting out by building a healthy pipeline fosters confidence, reduces desperation, and helps you close deals without alienating people with what he calls "commission breath." David has some great advice on how to engage buyers on their terms, deliver real value, and strike the right balance between persistence and patience in your sales approach. He also shares practical tips on using empathy, insight, and the right timing to connect with potential clients without becoming an irritation.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Traditional sales skills may not be sufficient to overcome the challenges faced by sales teams today. A new approach is needed to end rising disengagement, stress and burnout, and equip sales leaders to lead their teams confidently to success. That’s according to Anna Glynn, who says leaders need to ensure that their teams have the mindset and toolset – not just the skillset – to succeed in sales. She calls these the off-field factors and they relate to the resources available that help achieve long-term sustainable performance.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s been a great deal of public discussion about four-day work weeks recently, so could it give your business a competitive edge? Gartner’s VP of Research and Advisory, Aaron McEwen, explores the surprising benefits of employees working fewer hours — from boosting productivity to attracting top talent. He breaks down the key principles, the risks, and why small businesses might have an easier time making the shift than big corporations.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to lead a leadership organisation? Well, former AFL player and two-time Hawthorn Grand Final winner, Dean Anderson explains why in 2022, he took the role of CEO at Leading Teams. Leading Teams is an organisation well known for its leadership and high performance models, that have had a huge impact on businesses across so many industries, including media, education, government, utlitlies and most publicised - on elite level sporting teams.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trust and respect are the foundation of strong workplace relationships — for both owners and employees. But how can business leaders and teams cultivate them? Performance coach Stephanie Bown explains why vulnerability is key to building trust, as well as how to encourage and express it in a workplace framework. She discusses how leaders can create psychologically safe environments, and the role respect plays in fostering innovation and collaboration.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.