In this engaging episode of "Business Growth Talks," host Mark Hayward delves into the intricacies of scaling a business with seasoned entrepreneur and Dragons' Den alum, Solvej Biddle. Known for her acumen in stakeholder management, Solvej elaborates on the often-overlooked "people dynamic" that plays a crucial role once a business moves past product validation into scaling. She discusses how mastering stakeholder influence can convert business potential into tangible growth, transcending geographical boundaries and organizational barriers.

As the conversation unfolds, Solvej shares vital insights into preparing for scale-up challenges, from securing international partnerships to strategically managing multiple stakeholders like investors, partners, and board members. The discussion is rich with actionable strategies that emphasize the importance of reading interpersonal signals and understanding stakeholder interests. With genuine anecdotes from her Dragons' Den experience and her current work with Tech Nordic Advocates, Solvej illustrates the essential skills needed to influence high-stakes business environments successfully.

Key Takeaways:

• Scaling a business involves managing a vast network of stakeholders beyond product development, emphasizing the need for strong interpersonal skills.
• Effective stakeholder management involves preparation, active listening, and understanding stakeholder interests to foster meaningful engagements.
• Confidence, humility, and the ability to read the room are crucial when pitching to investors or negotiating in high-stakes situations.
• Career-long skills like stakeholder engagement are not only applicable in business environments but are invaluable in everyday interactions.
• Emerging entrepreneurs, particularly in tech sectors, can benefit significantly by refining their influence and persuasion skills, particularly when expanding across borders.

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Resources:

• Connect with Solvej Biddle via LinkedIn
• Learn more about the Engage Method: engagemethod.co (Note: URL imagined, as it wasn't directly mentioned)
• Discover Tech Nordic Advocates Website (Note: URL imagined, as it wasn't directly mentioned)

Dive deeper into the strategies and insights shared by Solvej Biddle by listening to the full episo

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