This story begins on New Year’s Eve 1995. My friend Barbara and I made a decision. A decision to start a business. We were married, Barb had a beautiful daughter and we were sick of ‘working for the man’. It was time to strike out on our own.
Like many ‘big’ moments in life, it seemed like a simple choice. It was before start-ups existed and life seemed less complicated. And then before we had even been in business 6 months, we were both pregnant. Of course we were.
We had been working in communications in the corporate world, so we both had serious navy suits, court shoes and could talk mining and finance with the best of them. We would waddle (yes waddle) into board rooms, discuss annual reports, investors and strategy. And we would walk out with the gig. Only once did someone ask us how we were going to actually do the work, because weren’t we about to have a baby? Our response, a big smile and an honest answer – quickly and efficiently because we don’t have much time.
29 years later, Spinifex has grown from strength to strength, now employing 10 in Australia and 3 in Asia. Barbara pivoted out of Spinifex and created her own award-winning garden design business.
So what wisdom is there to be shared from nearly 30 years in business?
1. Kindness is a superpower. A smile, a helping hand, a genuine compliment — these seemingly minor gestures wield immense power. Kindness is the bedrock of trust and loyalty. Kindness builds your business into a warm and welcoming environment for both clients and staff.
2. Encourage Diversity. Acknowledge and honour the unique strengths and backgrounds that each individual brings to the table. Create an inclusive atmosphere that values and empowers everyone to contribute their best. A sense of belonging can help unlock the collective potential of your team and strengthen your business’s foundation.
3. Two ears, one mouth. Listen to understand. Appreciating different perspectives can lead to fresh insights and innovative solutions. It’s not easy but it pays off. It takes courage to share an opposing view, so make sure you acknowledge it.
4. Never Settle. Reject mediocrity and embrace continual growth and improvement, both personally and professionally. This doesn’t mean be perfect. None of us is. But it does mean striving for the best outcome.
5. Embrace What Comes. In the unpredictable world of business, as in life, challenges are inevitable. There will be setbacks, unexpected twists, and moments where plans go awry. Embrace these moments with acceptance and resilience, using them as opportunities for growth and adaptation. They might be some of your best work.
6. Truth will set you free. After nearly 30 years in business, we’ve had our share of mishaps. Some of them are spectacular. Quick honest action has always saved the day. Pick up the phone and explain the issue and what you are going to do about it. Often our clients have helped us find the solution.
