Mastering Mindset with NLP: EO Melbourne’s Transformative Workshop

In a powerful session hosted by EO Melbourne, members recently gathered for the "Transform Your Business Mindset with NLP" workshop led by Madeleine Robinson. She is a Managing Partner and Coach Trainer at The Coaching Room, EO Melbourne’s Strategic Alliance Partner. With over three hours of in-depth exploration into the intricacies of mindset and decision-making, attendees left not only inspired but also armed with practical NLP strategies to elevate their approach to business challenges and personal growth.

A Dive into NLP for Business Success

Throughout the workshop, Madeleine guided participants through a deep dive into Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), shedding light on how our mindset and cognitive biases influence crucial decisions—from managing cash flow to recruiting and retaining talent. The session offered attendees an opportunity to reflect on their ingrained mental filters and how they shape everyday business decisions, sometimes creating unintentional roadblocks.

Through interactive discussions and exercises, Madeleine demonstrated NLP techniques to help participants recognise and adjust these filters, unlocking new ways of thinking and expanding their capacity for effective, balanced decision-making.

Confronting and Overcoming Mental Barriers

One of the highlights of the session was the candid exploration of common mental barriers like imposter syndrome, burnout, and fear of failure. Madeleine emphasised the importance of addressing these obstacles, providing a roadmap for overcoming them with the help of NLP. Attendees gained insights into how they could reframe their habitual thinking patterns and learned actionable techniques for transforming these blocks into pathways toward growth.

Her guidance fostered an environment of vulnerability and trust, where participants felt empowered to share their challenges and support each other’s journeys. In Madeleine’s own words, "The magic was in our interaction, and it was a joy to explore mindset mastery together." Her expertise and empathy shone through, making her a memorable and impactful guide in this transformative experience.

Strategies for Lasting Transformation

The workshop wrapped up with practical steps and techniques that attendees could immediately apply in their professional and personal lives. By the end of the session, participants felt a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, equipped with strategies to help them approach challenges with flexibility, confidence, and resilience.

Madeleine’s presence and dedication resonated deeply with attendees, as her mastery of NLP inspired them to unlock new levels of focus, overcome internal obstacles, and embrace their true potential. This session was more than a workshop; it was a catalyst for mindset transformation, giving the EO Melbourne community powerful tools to reshape their business strategies and, ultimately, their paths to success.

A Lasting Impact

This NLP workshop is part of EO Melbourne’s commitment to fostering growth-oriented learning experiences for its members, bringing transformative tools to help entrepreneurs thrive. Through sessions like these, EO Melbourne continues to champion the personal and professional development of its members, creating a community dedicated to lifelong growth and achievement.

As one of the participants noted, “I felt the content covered was very high-level and that I need to go away and dive deeper to learn about NLP.” With her profound insights and engaging presence, Madeleine Robinson left a lasting impact, inspiring members to approach both their businesses and their lives with a mindset primed for success.

Forum Next Level: Empowering EO Melbourne Members with Cutting-Edge Practices

The Forum Next Level event at Encore St Kilda brought together EO Melbourne members, SLP Forum members, and Key Executive Forum members for a day focused on enhancing Forum practices, deepening connections, and driving entrepreneurial growth. Led by esteemed trainers Fletcher McKenzie and Jody Dharmawan, the event helped attendees upgrade their Forum skills using the latest tools and strategies developed over the past 40 years.

By blending practical applications with cutting-edge innovations, the session empowered participants to refine their approach to Forum, ensuring it remains relevant and effective in today’s fast-changing entrepreneurial landscape. What set this event apart was the opportunity for diverse interaction across different Forum groups within the chapter, allowing members to engage with fresh perspectives and form meaningful connections beyond their usual circles.

A key focus was updating members on how Forum has evolved over the years. Fletcher and Jody highlighted the importance of staying current with the latest techniques to ensure that each session remains innovative, impactful, and aligned with members' personal and professional growth. Through hands-on activities, participants explored new ways to approach Forum conversations, enabling deeper personal reflection and more meaningful peer interactions.

Fletcher McKenzie’s facilitation emphasised vulnerability and trust-building within Forum groups. Known for his expertise in creating safe spaces for open dialogue, Fletcher encouraged attendees to embrace self-discovery and the power of authentic sharing. Jody Dharmawan complemented this by sharing his deep knowledge of leadership and communication strategies, showing how these skills can enhance Forum sessions and personal relationships. Together, they fostered an environment where attendees felt comfortable exploring new ideas and challenging their existing practices.

The event’s collaborative nature was further amplified by the opportunity for members from different Forums to engage with one another. This cross-pollination of ideas allowed participants to step outside their usual circles and learn from the diverse experiences of their peers. Many attendees noted that this broader interaction sparked fresh perspectives and new ways of thinking about Forum dynamics, helping them to push their boundaries and deepen their understanding of Forum’s value.

By the end of the session, the atmosphere was one of inspiration and forward momentum. Participants left not only with the latest Forum strategies but also with a stronger sense of connection to their fellow members. EO Melbourne’s Forum Next Level event proved to be a powerful catalyst for growth, encouraging members to continue evolving in both their personal and entrepreneurial journeys.

From the Fast Lane to Baking Fame: Kate Reid’s Inspiring Journey Takes Centre Stage at EO Melbourne’s Event

It’s not often you hear about someone swapping the world of high-speed racing for the art of crafting the perfect croissant. At EO Melbourne’s latest event, “The Pit Stop” – Kate Reid’s Adventure from the Fast Lane to Baking Fame, that’s exactly the story attendees were treated to. 

Kate Reid, the mastermind behind Lune Croissanterie, shared her incredible transition from an aerodynamicist with Williams Formula 1 to the helm of a globally celebrated pastry empire. Held at the Fox Collection Classic Car Museum in Docklands, the event attracted a full house of entrepreneurs, all eager to glean lessons from Reid’s fascinating career shift and entrepreneurial journey.

In a fireside chat, Reid took the audience through her unexpected pivot. She spoke of her childhood dream to work in Formula 1, which led her to the prestigious Williams team in the UK. However, after three years in the high-stakes world of motorsport, she realised the reality didn’t match her dream. Returning to Melbourne, Reid followed a new path, channelling her meticulous engineering skills into pastry, which eventually led to the launch of Lune Croissanterie in 2012.

What began as a humble bakery in Fitzroy has now grown into a celebrated business with over 200 staff across Melbourne and Brisbane. Reid spoke openly about the challenges she faced in scaling Lune while preserving the quality and innovation that set it apart. The audience was particularly engaged by her approach to leadership, where she prioritises team empowerment and a commitment to excellence in every croissant.

The Fox Collection Classic Car Museum provided a dramatic and stylish setting for the event, but it was Reid’s inspiring journey that truly stole the show. EO members were offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at how she transformed a passion into a thriving empire and how those same principles—resilience, innovation, and unwavering attention to detail—can drive business success.

After the fireside chat, attendees had the opportunity to interact with Reid and those present, enjoying refreshments that naturally included her famed Lune croissants. The event offered ample opportunity for networking, with many entrepreneurs staying to discuss their own takeaways from the morning.

Following Reid’s talk, EO Melbourne hosted a Membership Information Session for prospective members, outlining the many benefits of joining the organisation. “The Pit Stop” left attendees not only inspired but also equipped with actionable insights to fuel their own entrepreneurial journeys.

Member Focus Series: Fiona White

As we dive into this Member Focus feature, we’re thrilled to introduce Fiona White, the visionary Founder and Director of Own Body, and a celebrated entrepreneur with a keen eye for innovation in the health sector. Fiona’s journey began with a simple yet profound question: "Why can't it be simpler?"—a question that led to the creation of Own Body, a mobile allied health service that prioritises connection, a holistic approach, and client empowerment.

With over 100 dedicated clinicians and staff across Melbourne, regional Victoria, Sydney, and South East Queensland, Fiona's mission is clear: to enable people to maximise their potential and positively impact the world. Awarded the 2019 Telstra Victorian Small Business Women's Award, Fiona continues to inspire through her leadership, passion for empowering others, and commitment to simplifying healthcare delivery. Today, she shares insights from her remarkable journey, her approach to leadership, and the values that drive Own Body’s success.

Q: Can you provide a brief background about yourself, your family, and your business?

I run a home visit healthcare company called Own Body Mobile Health Services. We employ around 100 people, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, and our admin and management team. My husband and I have two young children, aged 1 and 4, and I’ve been able to structure my business so I can work part-time.

Q: What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?

All of my friends were doing it! I knew I wanted to create something, but I couldn’t quite figure out what it was at first. The company has evolved significantly from my initial vision of simply making some extra cash on my way home from my full-time physio job.

Q: What aspects of being an entrepreneur do you enjoy the most?

I love the constant change and challenge, but mostly, I enjoy solving problems. My current passion is empowering my team to lead and take ownership of operations, which allows me to focus on the fun stuff! I managed to take maternity leave with both kids, and it was one of the best things I could have done for my business.

Q: What significant challenges have you encountered as an entrepreneur?

People! Everyone has different opinions, which makes keeping everyone happy a complex task. However, working to solve this challenge and resulting in engaged, happy team members has been a major key to our success.

Q: What motivated you to join EO?

I was part of the Accelerator Program for a few years, which really helped grow my business from $250K (just scraped in) to over the $1 million mark. At the time I was eligible to become a member, I was also wanting to start a family. I was driven to go 'all in' as a mum and take a proper mental break from 'being inspired' all the time. So, I decided to pause becoming a member, with the plan to return when I was ready to dive back in.

Q: Can you share a valuable lesson you’ve learned from your own experience or from another entrepreneur or mentor?

It’s difficult to pinpoint just one lesson, as so much of what I’ve learned has come from experience shares with other entrepreneurs. One of the most valuable things EO offers is the magic of 'thinking big'. Most physios seek education from other physios, who might be great at what they do, but that approach only leads the profession to aim for the same level. EO encourages us to think beyond those limits.

Transformative Guidance: The Mentorship Journey of David Bachsinar and Bevan McLeod

Mentee David Bachsinar (left) with his mentor, Bevan McLeod (right).

In the dynamic world of business, where challenges and opportunities intermingle, mentorship stands as a beacon of guidance and growth. EO Melbourne's Mentorship Program, which pairs seasoned business leaders with entrepreneurs and business owners, exemplifies this. Here, we explore the inspiring mentorship journey of David Bachsinar, Founder and Managing Director at BACH Commercial, and his mentor, Bevan McLeod, Managing Director at BlueRock.

The Start of an Empowering Relationship

David Bachsinar joined the EO Melbourne Mentorship Program for the first time, seeking guidance beyond his immediate circle. "I faced challenges I couldn't discuss with my team or solve alone," David recalled. "I had wanted to join the Mentorship Program for some time, hoping to find someone who could provide the support and perspective I needed."

In contrast, Bevan McLeod returned for his second year as a mentor. "The first time around was incredibly rewarding," Bevan shared. "Helping individuals and seeing them apply that knowledge in their businesses is immensely satisfying. I also learned a lot about myself in the process."

Their journey began at the welcoming event, a crucial first step that laid the foundation for their mentorship. "The EO Mentorship Program's structure helps establish a bond early on," Bevan noted. "Locking in that first meeting and learning about each other on a personal level is key." For David, this initial interaction revealed unexpected common ground. "We both have a keen interest in sports and fitness, which created an immediate connection," he said. "Bevan's background in manufacturing, particularly his experience with his father's business, resonated deeply with me. Additionally, he had a wealth of experience and knowledge that I could learn from."

Learning and Growing Together

Over the past 12 months, the mentorship journey proved transformative for both David and Bevan. Navigating the complexities of managing his growing business, David found Bevan's guidance invaluable. "Bevan's executive director experience opened my mind to high-level management, organisation, and team structure," David shared. "Before this, I was trying to figure everything out on my own, which was incredibly challenging."

One of the most significant changes David implemented was aligning team values and celebrating individual contributions, which he learned from his mentorship sessions with Bevan. "Introducing an MVP or Most Valuable Player of the Month award has been a game-changer," he explained. "It brought so much positivity and recognition within the team. Letting the team nominate the MVP themselves created a sense of ownership and pride."

Another thing David learned from Bevan that he is set to introduce to his team is the Hermann Brain Dominance Instrument, which will aid him in better understanding team dynamics. "That's something I’ve got underway at the moment. I’m excited to see how it unfolds," he stated.

Bevan, too, found the mentorship experience enriching. "We challenge each other, and I always learn from understanding different business perspectives," he observed. "There’s a nervous anticipation before our sessions, not knowing where the discussion will go, but it's always rewarding." The intuitive connection they developed allowed their conversations to flow naturally, leaving lasting impressions on both mentor and mentee. "I never had to take notes because our discussions were so memorable and impactful," Bevan added.

Practical Applications and Business Impact

David applied several key lessons from Bevan to his business. "Implementing a value-aligned team culture and recognising individual contributions were pivotal changes," David said. These practices, stemming from Bevan's insights, provided a framework for David's growing business. "Coming from a one-man band to managing a team of 30 staff and numerous subcontractors was daunting," David admitted. "But Bevan's guidance through this growth has been invaluable. I've begun to put managers in place but lacked a structured framework. Bevan has been instrumental in guiding and supporting us through this transitional phase as we continue to expand."

Bevan found immense satisfaction in seeing his advice implemented effectively. "Hearing how our discussions on values and team management have positively impacted David's business brings me great joy," he said. "The fact that the advice was received well and acted upon is deeply rewarding."

Inspiring Others to Join the Journey

For those considering joining the EO Melbourne Mentorship Program, David and Bevan’s experience highlights its transformative potential. David emphasised its profound impact on his perspective and business acumen. "It’s an amazing program that opens your mind and provides support and strategy to overcome challenges," David stated. "I’ve also formed a great friendship with Bevan, which is the best part."

Bevan encouraged experienced business leaders to become mentors, noting the personal and professional rewards. "Mentoring offers a fresh perspective and reinforces the impact of your own practices," Bevan concluded. "It’s about giving back and learning from each other. Seeing the positive changes in David’s business has been incredibly fulfilling."

Overall, the mentorship journey of David Bachsinar and Bevan McLeod exemplifies the profound benefits of EO Melbourne's Mentorship Program. Through shared learning, practical applications, and mutual respect, both mentor and mentee experienced significant growth and satisfaction. Their story serves as an inspiring testament to the program’s potential, urging others to embark on this rewarding path.

Walking the Path of Mentorship: A Journey with Jacob Spencer and Amanda Walker

In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, the path to success can often feel like a solitary one. Yet, amidst the chaos of business, there exists a beacon of support and guidance: mentorship. In the EO Melbourne Mentorship Program, transformative mentor-mentee relationships illuminate the profound impact of shared experiences and mutual learning.

One such tale unfolds between Jacob Spencer, Owner & Managing Director of Mobile Skips, and his mentor, Amanda Leigh Walker, Co-founder at Lord of the Fries, a life & personal development coach for women. Their mentorship journey was not just a series of meetings; it was a dynamic walk through the forests of insight, growth, and camaraderie. Instead of adding more to their already fully loaded  “to-do” lists, it was about cutting back, distilling ideas and practices down to their essence and refining their formula for success. 

Embracing the Journey: A Purpose-Driven Partnership

Although Jacob has previously engaged in the EO Mentorship Program, he opted to enrol once more for this intake, aiming to derive further benefits from the program. He shared, “I joined again because I was looking for different perspectives and experiences around things that I was going through and to have my blind spots opened up. I've always leaned into the idea that if you want to have a great business and a successful life with your family or personally, then you've got to start to work internally first. The mentorship program does that. It helps you focus on yourself and think about what you're getting from your endeavours and who you are as a person.”

It is also Amanda’s second round as a mentor in the Program. Her decision to participate again as a mentor stemmed from her love of learning from others while supporting them on their path. Together, they found a seamless connection rooted in their shared values of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Their mentorship journey was characterised by service-mindedness, transforming business discussions into opportunities for personal and collective growth.

Walking the Talk: Lessons Learned Along the Path

Their sessions weren't confined by four walls; instead, they chose to meet for monthly walks and talks along Merri Creek. Through their exchanges, they unearthed many valuable lessons including embracing the whole path of reaching goals instead of focusing on the end game.

“On our walks, we don't have any distractions with devices, it's very informal. That, in itself, is excellent. We are completely present and in a space and mindset to have a really good open vulnerable discussion,” Jacob explained.

Amanda shared that she loved walking for the fact that “we get to enjoy the freedom of our business that allows us to get outside, open our minds and be creative, instead of tied to a desk.”

One of the key things that Jacob learned during his sessions, was that he has something valuable to offer others in every stage of goal creation. By sharing his journey with Amanda, together they were able to pull out nuggets of wisdom that would be valuable for people who are on the same path.

They found that the beginning, middle and end of any goal is equally as important as the finished product. To get to the finish line and only share the outcome is to miss the lessons along the way. We are all standing on the shoulders of others who have had to take the path to success. It can be messy and difficult to build it’s powerful too. Like in nature, the leaves are just as important as the roots. 

The Path Unfolds: Applying Insights for Growth

Another area they worked on together was the importance of aligning one’s business with personal values. Doing this resulted in a fresh understanding of Jacob’s corporate culture and purpose. “When you're leading a business and the heartbeat of the business comes from the culture that you bring, it starts with your values. I've seen that when I waver in my values or if I'm not using them to help guide the way we operate, the business and its people become misaligned quickly,” he stated.

Authentic Leadership 

A theme that ran through their sessions was about walking the talk and being an authentic leader. They share the similar idea that to be your best in business is to have a clear and positive outlook, an abundance mindset, be open to feedback, be willing to upgrade sluggish ideas, align personal and business values and create habits that anchor you to being your best self. To tell others to be on top of their game but not to practice the self-care and self-awareness required oneself is to be a hypocrite. In their mentorship, they held each other to those standards and encouraged congruence in the business.

Navigating the Terrain: Benefits of Mentorship

For Jacob, the EO Mentorship Program offered more than just guidance; it provided a platform for personal responsibility and vulnerability. By embracing these principles, Jacob unlocked the true potential of mentorship, leveraging it as a catalyst for self-discovery and growth. 

“To talk about the benefits, I'm going to bring it back to some of the core principles in EO and what we get out of the forum. We start with this wonderful gift that we have — somebody who is very experienced in business and life, who has been on a great journey and willing to give you time. Then it's up to the participant to get what they want out of it. The mentee is the person who should take responsibility for how they meet, what their discussions are about and what the goals are,” Jacob said. 

As for Amanda, she found fulfilment in supporting Jacob in his continued growth, relishing the opportunity to witness his evolution as an entrepreneur and individual. Amanda quipped, “It is a privilege to be a part of someone's journey, to be part of their business and life journey. It is an   to be able to walk with someone along  their path during this experience.” Not only that but Amanda was able to gain insight into her own business practices, values, and leadership by being with someone who embodies all that she strives to be: successful, humble, kind, aligned and service-minded. 

Walking Together: A Privilege and Honour

As Jacob and Amanda traversed the winding paths of mentorship, they discovered a profound truth: the journey is as enriching as the destination. Together, they embarked on a voyage of self-discovery, camaraderie, and shared growth, guided by the principles of purpose and authenticity. Their mentorship walks became more than just a physical activity; they symbolised a dynamic exploration of entrepreneurship, friendship, and the human spirit.

From Homelessness to Hero: Harry Sanders Inspires EO Melbourne Members with Tales of Triumph

EO Melbourne recently played host to a learning event that left attendees spellbound and inspired. The gathering served as a platform for the extraordinary journey of EO Melbourne Member Harry Sanders, the visionary Director and Founder of StudioHawk. In a narrative that echoed the very essence of resilience and triumph, Harry took EO Melbourne members on a gripping ride through his tumultuous yet triumphant path to success.

Against the backdrop of adversity and uncertainty, Harry's story emerged as a beacon of hope and determination. From his challenging beginnings, grappling with homelessness at just 17 years old, to founding StudioHawk, Harry's journey exemplifies the transformative power of unwavering resolve.

As Harry recounted his journey, attendees were drawn into a narrative rich with invaluable insights and wisdom. With each word, Harry painted a vivid picture of resilience in action, showcasing how he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles with sheer determination and grit.

Central to Harry's narrative was the founding of StudioHawk, a journey fraught with challenges yet illuminated by moments of sheer brilliance. Attendees hung onto every word as Harry shared the secrets behind StudioHawk's rise to prominence, culminating in the prestigious title of the 'Best Large SEO Agency – Globally.'

Guiding the conversation with finesse and insight was Rob Roy Rankin, EO Melbourne's Member Engagement Chair. Through his expertly crafted questions, Rob unearthed deeper layers of Harry's journey, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the heart and mind of a true entrepreneur.

Harry's accolades speak volumes, with recognition pouring in from esteemed platforms such as Forbes 30 Under 30 and the Australian Young Entrepreneur Marketing Award. Yet, amidst the glittering accolades, Harry's true passion lies in giving back to the community. As an ambassador for the Lighthouse Foundation, Harry channels his success towards combating youth homelessness, embodying the spirit of compassion and empathy.

As the event drew to a close, attendees departed with hearts brimming with inspiration and minds buzzing with possibility. Harry Sanders' journey serves as a poignant reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable, and every challenge is an opportunity in disguise.

In the grand tapestry of entrepreneurship, Harry Sanders stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, a shining example of what can be achieved with unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams. As EO Melbourne continues to pave the way for transformative learning experiences, members can rest assured that the journey to success is as much about the obstacles overcome as it is about the triumphs celebrated.

The Secrets of Capital Raising and IPOs: Insights from Maria Halasz

EO Melbourne recently had the privilege of gaining invaluable insights into IPOs and capital raising from Maria Halasz, a seasoned expert in the field. Hosted by EO Member Samantha Dybac, the event provided attendees with a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of funding rounds and explore the dynamic world of investment.

Maria Halasz, with her impressive credentials, including a B.Sc., MBA, and GAICD, brought a wealth of experience to the table. As the CEO and co-founder of Stride Equity, Australia's pioneering venture-backed equity crowdfunding platform, Maria has been at the forefront of bridging the funding gap for emerging businesses. During the fireside chat, attendees learned about Stride Equity's innovative approach, which includes providing cornerstone investment of up to 20% to companies successfully raising capital on the platform.

Drawing from her extensive background, Maria shared insights on various aspects of capital raising and IPOs. Participants discovered how to assess their business's attractiveness to investors, strategies for preparing for a successful funding round, and the nuances involved in the IPO process. From understanding the different sources of capital to identifying hot sectors for investment opportunities, Maria's expertise provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the landscape.

Maria's illustrious career includes 15 years as the founder and CEO of ASX-listed company Anagenics Limited Ltd. Additionally, she has spent a decade in corporate finance and venture capital, executing IPOs and assisting with global expansions. As a Non-Executive Director of the Garvan Research Foundation and an advisor to the Digital Health CRC, Maria continues to contribute significantly to the business and investment ecosystem.

Prospective EO Melbourne members also had the chance to participate in the event, followed by a Membership Information Session presented by EO Melbourne President James Murray and Membership Chair Kate Save. They learned about the advantages of being part of the EO community, where entrepreneurship thrives through knowledge sharing, networking, and mentorship.

The event underscored EO Melbourne's commitment to providing its members with opportunities for growth and development. By bringing together industry experts like Maria Halasz and facilitating meaningful discussions, EO Melbourne continues to empower entrepreneurs on their journey to success.

EO Learning Day Navigates the Path to Prioritising People

Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) Melbourne recently hosted a dynamic Learning Day as part of its acclaimed Accelerator Program and Key Executive Program. Focused on the crucial theme of PEOPLE, the event aimed to equip participants with the insights and strategies needed to elevate their businesses by placing a premium on their human capital.

The session kicked off with a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of prioritising people within the business framework. Drawing on compelling research, attendees were urged to recognise the pivotal role that well-being and engagement play in driving organisational success. Participants were challenged to reflect on fundamental questions regarding their stakeholders' satisfaction, engagement levels, and the alignment of core values.

Throughout the day, delegates engaged in thought-provoking discussions and interactive exercises aimed at delving into the intricacies of motivating and nurturing talent within their organisations. Strategies for leveraging core values in the recruitment and retention processes were explored, underscoring the significance of building a team that aligns with the company's ethos and vision.

One of the highlights of the session was the exploration of DiSC Profiles, a valuable tool for understanding individual behavioural preferences and fostering effective communication and collaboration within teams. Additionally, participants gained invaluable insights into defining and operationalising their company's core purpose, values, and BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), essential elements in creating a cohesive and purpose-driven organisational culture.

A key takeaway from the event was the introduction of the Function Accountability Chart (FACe), a powerful framework for clarifying roles and responsibilities within the business. By delineating clear accountabilities and reporting structures, participants were empowered to streamline operations and maximise efficiency.

Reflecting on the Learning Day, participants expressed enthusiasm about the practical strategies and tools they acquired to enhance their approach to people management. Many underscored the importance of integrating the insights gained into their business strategies, recognising that a focus on people is not only morally imperative but also critical for long-term success and sustainability.

Overall, the PEOPLE Learning Day served as a catalyst for participants to re-evaluate their approach to talent management and cultivate a culture where people thrive. As EO Melbourne continues to empower entrepreneurs and executives on their journey towards excellence, the event underscored the enduring truth that investing in people is the cornerstone of organisational growth and prosperity.

Damian Blumenkranc's Remarkable Journey: From Online Entrepreneurship to Business Transformation

In a recent episode of the EO Business podcast, Linh Podetti sat down with Damian Blumenkranc, a prominent member of EO Melbourne, to delve into the captivating story of Sunset Sleepers' acquisition and its subsequent transformation under Damian's visionary leadership since March 2021. Join us on a compelling journey as we explore the triumphs, challenges, and insights that have defined Damian's entrepreneurial career.

Damian Blumenkranc, a dedicated father of two - Tali and Max, embarked on his entrepreneurial journey at the young age of 14, where he launched Argentina's first online shop using BBS. In 2003, he migrated to Australia and has since demonstrated unparalleled versatility by founding over five successful businesses spanning IT, Beauty, Video Production, and Technology. Damian's strategic prowess is evident through the sale of four ventures, showcasing his ability to not only build but also profitably exit businesses.

At the heart of Damian's entrepreneurial spirit is his latest triumph – the remarkable overhaul of Sunset Sleepers, a venture acquired in March 2021. Linh Podetti skillfully uncovers the inside-out transformation of Sunset Sleepers, revealing how Damian's leadership doubled its size in turnover, people, and space in just over two years. Gain valuable insights into the challenges faced when entering the manufacturing industry, as Damian's diverse expertise, ranging from IT to beauty, shapes a visual journey of business acquisition.

But Damian Blumenkranc's contributions extend beyond his businesses. As a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community, he serves as a mentor to aspiring business leaders and holds a pivotal role on the investment board of an emerging markets VC fund. His past presidency of EO Melbourne and current position as a Regional Council Director exemplify his ongoing commitment to shaping the entrepreneurial landscape.

Currently at the helm as CEO of a manufacturing business in the construction industry, Damian Blumenkranc continues to embody a commitment to innovation and growth. His story is not just a testament to success but also a source of inspiration for those navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship.

Listen to the EO Business podcast episode featuring Damian Blumenkranc to gain unparalleled insights into the mind of a seasoned entrepreneur who has not only conquered diverse industries but has also left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape.

- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/ep-121-mastering-business-acquisition-insider-tips/id1440350419?i=1000637747023

- Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/41z3f42GVWMowczXj1v6Lq

- YouTube - https://youtu.be/98AqZ_mdQJ8?si=xFO88v8XUfl8GAwz

Igniting Success: EO Accelerator/Key Executive Learning Day on Strategy

In November, the dynamic energy reverberated through Creative Cubes South Melbourne's MicDrop Room, setting the stage for our eagerly awaited EO Accelerator/Key Executive Learning Day focused on Strategy. Entrepreneurs and business leaders converged to explore the nuances of profit strategies, navigate emerging trends, and gain profound insights into genuine customer needs.

The event commenced with an exhilarating workshop led by EO Melbourne Member Jeni Clift, our EO Accelerator Trainer for the day. Participants immersed themselves in the value, purpose, and benefits of strategic planning, with a specific focus on crafting a One-Page Strategic Plan for clear and effective business growth. The workshop covered essential concepts like Core Customer, Brand Promise, Sandbox and Differentiating Activities, and the Business Model Canvas, also delving into Michael Porter's perspective on "What is Strategy?"

Injecting a dose of reality into the learning experience, a panel of EO Melbourne Members, featuring John Anderton, Dean Cherny, and Carlo Santoro, alongside Strategic Alliance Partner Debra Chantry-Taylor from Business Action-EOS, shared their insightful experiences from the Accelerator journey. Their narratives provided valuable insights into the pragmatic application of strategic principles.

Concurrently, the chapter unfolded an Accelerator Strategy Day & Membership Session for those eager to join the EO Accelerator Program. This exclusive event offered a sneak peek into the secrets, tools, and strategies that have propelled leading entrepreneurs to remarkable success. Accelerator Chair Anthony Lam adeptly guided participants through this invitation-only event, tailored for Melbourne's ambitious entrepreneurs, introducing them to the Accelerator Program.

The day wasn't just a learning opportunity; it served as a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, engage, and deepen their understanding of the EO Accelerator Program and how it can propel their businesses to greater heights. The collaborative atmosphere fostered meaningful discussions, networking, and the exchange of ideas crucial for entrepreneurial growth.

In the heart of South Melbourne, the chapter witnessed more than a learning day – it became a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and the pursuit of excellence. As the echoes of insights and experiences lingered, inspired participants departed armed with knowledge and strategies to propel their businesses to new heights. The EO Accelerator/Key Executive Learning Day wasn't merely an event; it marked a milestone in the entrepreneurial journey, unlocking the doors to future success for all in attendance.

Diversity and Inclusion: Empowering Entrepreneurs to Challenge Unconscious Bias

In a world where diversity and inclusion have become paramount, organisations are recognising the vital role these principles play in creating an accepting and integrated workplace. EO Melbourne acknowledges the significance of Diversity and Inclusion not only within its own ranks but also in the businesses of its members. As a testament to this commitment, EO Melbourne recently hosted an enlightening event titled "Empowering Entrepreneurs: Understanding Unconscious Bias," a Diversity & Inclusion Lunch and Learn featuring the esteemed Hana Assafiri.

Businesses that champion diversity, equity, and inclusivity are better equipped to navigate challenges, attract top-tier talent, and cater to diverse customer bases. With Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at the forefront of their minds, companies are exploring innovative ways to support their employees. In recent years, numerous organisations have taken significant steps towards integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into their policies and recruitment strategies. The question arises: Why settle for an average team when you could lead an exceptional one?

Extensive research consistently demonstrates that companies with diverse teams not only foster a more inclusive and innovative work environment but also enjoy substantial performance advantages. According to a groundbreaking study by McKinsey & Co., businesses with diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their competitors. The challenge of employee retention, a concern for many companies, comes with promising solutions. Research indicates that implementing specific diversity and inclusion (D&I) strategies can lead to a remarkable 22% reduction in turnover rates.

During the Diversity & Inclusion Lunch and Learn event, attendees had the privilege of having their questions answered by none other than Hana Assafiri, the founder of the renowned Moroccan Soup Bar. Hana, a revered figure within the Victorian community, is celebrated for her unwavering commitment to both generosity and business success. In 2019, she was honoured with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her outstanding services to women and the broader community. Throughout her life, Hana has tirelessly supported disadvantaged women through her business ventures, offering training and development opportunities. An engaging presenter and trainer, Hana captivated the audience with her profound insights into intersectional social justice issues and her fervour for driving positive change.

The "Empowering Entrepreneurs: Understanding Unconscious Bias" event underscored the pivotal role that diversity and inclusion play in our evolving business landscape, highlighting that fostering a more diverse and inclusive workplace not only benefits employees but also contributes to improved business performance and social progress.

Member Focus Series: Samantha Dybac

Samantha Dybac is the CEO and founder of The PR Hub, an award-winning strategic public relations and corporate communications firm she founded in 2013 that now represents some of Australia’s most successful entrepreneurs, business leaders, and high-growth, technology brands.

Sam has over twenty years of experience helping CEOs, business leaders, and founders unlock the value behind their personal brands and build the awareness, credibility, and trust needed to catapult them (and their companies) into the spotlight. She and her team represent a diverse portfolio of clients spanning digital technology and transformation, venture capital and finance, property, architecture, law, health & wellness.

Sam hosts the Top 10 Apple podcast, Influence Unlocked, and sits on the Board of the Centre for Future Europe Australia and the Advisory Committee for Ronald McDonald House Charities in Sydney.

Here Samantha shares a little more about her inspiring business journey.

Q: Could you provide a brief background about yourself, your family, and your business?

The PR Hub is 10 years old this year, a long way from what actually started as a side hustle while I was having a ‘break’ from being a business owner.

I had been working with (former NSW Liberal leader) Kerry Chikarovski, running her government relations, and managing her media engagements and personal profile. Through a series of introductions, networking events, and cold calls to people I had long admired in business, I started to build a small fold of clients, and the business has grown from there.

I’m the eldest of four children, all born and raised in Sydney, third-generation Ukrainian, and over the years, I’ve had to overcome the same fears and hesitations many of my clients face when we discuss the importance of going beyond your subject matter or industry expertise to help scale your businesses. 

Today, I try to practice what I preach to clients every day; don’t shy away from your influence, embrace it. Use it in a way you can feel proud of.

 As well as being a business founder and CEO, I am mum to 7-year-old Mischa.

Q: What inspired you to embark on the entrepreneurial journey?

My first corporate role while still at university was working for a company called Nad’s, which became as famous for its founding story (the now-iconic Australian brand was developed by a Western Sydney mum of Assyrian background) as its ‘no heat hair removal gel’.

I joined the company when it was fairly new and there were just four of us in the team, so my exposure to what went into running a fast-growing business (within a few years of my being there, the company went global and was turning over US$60m per year) proved invaluable.

I loved the concept of being in business so much that I actually deferred my Business/Law degree to work full-time for Nad’s, whose founder, Sue Ismael, was a huge inspiration to me. Female founders were rare back then and Sue was an incredible role model within a largely male-dominated business environment. 

My first ‘real’ business was at age 23. I took out a bank loan to put money into a new business venture as a minor shareholder alongside three other cofounders, all men in their 40s who I had worked with previously in my first corporate role in brand marketing. I was insanely naive when it came to running a business, but my enthusiasm for building a business and creating something from scratch was unstoppable!

Q: What aspects of being an entrepreneur do you enjoy the most?

I love the freedom that comes with having an opportunity to build and execute an idea where you have the ability to affect real, positive change in an outcome. 

In my business, I also really enjoy the opportunity that I have every day to work with other amazing entrepreneurs and play a role in helping them better understand their go-to-market messaging, and shining a spotlight on the great work that they’re doing.

Q: What are the significant challenges you have encountered as an entrepreneur?

In the very early years, I would say that getting into business as a young, inexperienced cofounder without an equal shareholding and ability to influence key decisions was a real challenge. 

Now, as a solo founder, there are plenty of times when I have felt isolated or wondered what it would be like to have someone there to bounce ideas off, workshop challenges with, or spread the responsibility across all facets of the business.

Work-life balance has been a challenge for me, too, especially after becoming a mum. In the early years, I struggled with the concept of being distracted by my child when I was so passionate and invested in building my business. I went from side hustle to full-time business owner about the same time I had Mischa, naively thinking I could do both without taking proper time for maternity leave. I made some poor hires to support me at this time, to enable me to take a bit of a step back, however, the result was that the business almost went under, a costly lesson learned.

Q: What motivated you to join EO?

I took part in the EO Accelerator about seven years ago and over the years have had the pleasure of working closely with and representing several EO members from Sydney and Melbourne. They’ve always spoken really highly of the EO experience, in particular the opportunity to be surrounded by like-minded people with shared experiences and insights into how they have worked through their own challenges or success.

I really enjoy the learning and inspiration that comes from being around smart, passionate, driven business people. In my day-to-day work, while I can have some great broader conversations about business with a couple of longer-standing clients, it is not something that happens often (nor should it). 

EO has been on my radar for a while but this year, following conversations with a few EO’ers - shout out to Mark Calabro and Ben Lipschitz, both clients whom I really admire and respect -  it felt like the right time. 

I am also really keen to see more female founders get involved with EO.

Q: Can you share a valuable lesson you've learned from your own experience or another entrepreneur or mentor?

Someone once said to me ‘Everyone’s a listener’. We were talking about this in the context of media opportunities and which interviews or podcasts or speaking engagements are worthwhile spending your time on vs others. 

While as business owners our time is always stretched, and I encourage you to weigh up the merit of each opportunity that comes your way, it really only takes that one person to hear you speaking or read your interview to help create an amazing outcome or alter the course of your business.

Don’t shy away from being a spokesperson for your business and leveraging your own personal story, experience, your successes and failures, to differentiate your business from others in your space, and give yourself a competitive edge when connecting with existing and potential customers and stakeholders. 

For more, I wrote an article for Kochie’s Business Builders recently describing 5 of my favourite lessons for entrepreneurs!

Steve McGown talks on “Freedom is an Attitude” at the EO Melbourne learning event

"5 years & 8 months is a long time. I believe that I'm like any other person. I’m no different. We all have problems, and we shouldn’t judge one another, as we have different coping mechanisms and breaking points. I do, however, believe that our attitude separates us and determines how we cope. Some people give up too easily."

"If they are not going to kill me then I might as well use this time to go home a better person."

- Stephen "Steve" McGown

EO Melbourne recently had Stephen McGown, Al Qaeda's longest-held prisoner and now International Speaker and Best Selling Author, as its speaker where he shared his survival story and how it can be applied to one’s entrepreneurial journey.

In 2011, Steve, then a tourist on a motorcycle, was abducted by Al Qaeda up in North Africa, Mali. He was taken beyond his will far into the Saharan desert for the following six years to be either negotiated out of captivity or executed. In 2017, he was released to return home to his family.

In this EO learning event, Steve talked about resilience and overcoming adversity amidst harsh weather conditions, a different culture, language and religion. He also discussed the value of making important decisions, the importance of acceptance and communication, and the concept that Freedom is an Attitude.

As a normal guy whose life was thrown into disarray, he has become a much sought-after speaker with his self-taught methods of adjusting, being resilient, and making the most of what life throws at us. In this session, he will inspire you and leave you questioning your own attitude and dilemmas.

His survival story can be directed to many specific areas of interest, including one's entrepreneurial journey. Living outdoors in harsh conditions meant that he had to acquire a variety of new skills including how to protect himself from the elements as well as how to communicate across language and cultural boundaries. But most of all, he learned how to stay alive; remain positive and be present when everything was stacked against him. Uncertain as to whether he would ever be released or die in the expanse of the Sahara, he made a decision to not let his situation get the better of him. He decided to rather hold onto hope and take control of his attitude. 

Hearing his story, participants found inspiration from the “amazing story shared by the speaker.” There key takeaways from Steve’s talk are the importance of the power of the mind, a positive attitude is everything, that you can control your attitude and approach in life, and resilience and a positive mindset are key and relationships can save lives.

Steve is the best-selling author of 6 years a hostage (Captured by Islamist Militants in the desert) which was nominated for Book of the Year in South Africa. He is involved in running workshops about resilience and was voted best speaker of the year at a number of EO chapter events internationally.*

*According to ICMI (https://www.icmi.com.au/stephen-mcgown/).

The Power of Gratitude in Business

“Thank you” are two powerful words that can uplift someone, build bridges and strengthen relationships. It is a significant aspect of life, even in business and in the workplace. 

Gratitude and appreciation are types of affirmation of something that is good, magnifying positivity and encouraging people to perform better. With this, entrepreneurs and business owners see the value of thanking their staff members, partners, and clients and putting effort into expressing it in various ways.

For Hayden Brass, Founder and Managing Director of Zea, “This is an aspect that we find so important, particularly for our staff and customers. With our staff, we are a fully remote team even before COVID, so it is vital for us to continue to connect with them and remind them they are part of a team with a great purpose.”

There are so many ways to show gratitude towards others. David Fastuca, CMO and Co-Founder of Locomote, shared his personal take on this. “I take a really simplistic approach to this and just think, how do I want to be thanked?”

David cited some examples. “I do a role reversal. If I'm a customer of someone else's, how do I want to be thanked? There are a couple of ways. I just try to be really genuine and thank them, where I send a little video message thanking them for working with us. I don't do any of the gifts or sorts of stuff because they probably get 100 different gifts. If I gift them, it's based on me really knowing them. They might love arts and crafts, so I may send them something that's relatable to that. Otherwise, I try and help them in their role. If I know that they're in sales I try and refer customers to them. If they're a founder of a business and we've done some work together or they're a customer of mine, I'll try and reciprocate and then recommend someone to them. If they're looking for a particular type of service, I really think about it and put myself in their shoes – what would I like and how would I like to be treated, and then I try and do more of that to my customers and try and help them succeed in their roles even if it's got nothing to do with what we provide,” he said.

Studies have shown that gratitude evokes a feeling of positivity, happiness and satisfaction. It also helps in improving health and decreasing stress levels. This is why gratitude, when expressed sincerely, can be a significant factor in strengthening relationships in business and in the workplace.

Hayden also shared how they extend gratitude to their team members, partners and customers. Within their organisation, “We conduct 1-2 retreats per year, try and have a team-building exercise of some kind at least once a quarter, and regularly celebrate birthdays and other occasions in their personal life. It’s to remind them that we are human and to show that we care about them in both their work and personal lives.”

With regards to their clientele, Hayden noted, “For our customers, we are always trying to go above and beyond with their experience so that it will be memorable and will hopefully see them come back to us in the future. This is why we place such a key focus on customer service and making sure we not only answer their questions but try and give them an experience that is beyond the norm.”

When it comes to those they do business with, this is what they do as a sign of gratitude. “And finally, with our partners, such as manufacturers and suppliers, we try and treat them with respect and loyalty. We understand how difficult it can be to run a business, particularly an SME, so we are always trying to be professional but also respectful of the challenges we are both facing and coming to a solution together. When we are establishing a relationship with a key partner for the first time, it has been important for me to build trust in the relationship from the outset. Some of our longest and strongest relationships in business have been with us for the whole journey, and it all started from making a bit of extra effort and understanding from the beginning,” Hayden revealed.

There are so many ways to express how thankful we are to people who have helped us along our entrepreneurial journey. No special occasion is needed to say “thank you” to someone because every day you’ll find a reason to be thankful for something good done to you. People will remember your good gesture of thanking them and appreciating their work, help or loyalty. It will create a positive ripple effect that will later come back to you a thousandfold.

How do you express gratitude to your stakeholders? How does it help you in your business? We’d like to hear your stories through our comment section below.

Mentorship is having someone walk with you on your entrepreneurial journey

Mentorship pair Conor O’Malley and Nyree Hibberd.

Much has been said about the entrepreneurial journey being a lonesome path, but not when you’re surrounded by like-minded individuals, such as being part of a group like EO and having someone to walk with you, such as a mentor, for instance.

This is how EO Melbourne Member and mentee Nyree Hibberd, CEO at Koh Living, and mentor Conor O’Malley, a known Executive Coach who calls himself “The CEO’s caddy”, described their mentorship experience.

Conor still remembers the first time he and Nyree met, which was at the induction day of mentors and mentees at last year’s intake. He recalled, “I met with Nyree, and we had a great conversation, however, I had to leave early. Nyree very kindly offered to continue our discussion and offered to leave that space by walking with me to the train station. From there, I thought, this sounds like something I'd really like to do, which is to work through the EO channel and support Nyree.”

Nyree, on the other hand, is thankful to have someone who can be with her during this part of her entrepreneurial journey. “I'm a big believer in the motto or saying that ‘you don't know what you don't know.’ As a business owner, it seems like I don't know a lot. So, it was all about connecting with the right person to help me progress in my path, personally and in the business,” she stated.

One of the things that Nyree learned throughout their sessions was finding answers to things she wanted to know. She described how she was learning new things along the way, “Conor's approach was really to question – asking, probing – almost, ‘you know the answer but you've got to find it in there and then let me know.’ This really worked for me, so using questions more is what I actually do now with the staff as well, which is quite good because before, I’d also tell people the answer, ‘just go and do this and this,’ and they wouldn't learn the same way as I would. I wasn't learning by just being told, so that was quite good in comparison for me.”

She further expounded on the learnings she picked from her conversations and interactions with Conor. “I think I went into it with a ‘what next, what now’ and ‘how do I get it from here to where I know it can go.’ So, the key learnings were really about pushing back on me and seeing myself as the leader rather than the doer because there's no scaling if I was going to be still 5% in everybody's role. That was the big thing.”

“The second thing was about holding the space,” Nyree continued. “I've got a couple of challenging relationships at times within the business, and it’s just this kind of concept of allowing them to hold their space, that I didn't need to jump in and do anything. I just respected that they had that opinion and felt the way they did, and it allowed me not to jump into their story and not enflame situations as well. It kind of worked quite well. 

Then the third one is with my son, personally holding the personal state not just with my son but with my partner as well. I would often get home, I'd have dinner, put my son to bed, and I'd sit on the couch with my computer and keep going when my partner was around, but there was no real quality time. I don't know if it naturally just stopped or I made a decision to, I can't remember. But when I’m with them, it is to literally be present and not try to do two things at the same time. So, yeah, these are the three really big things for me.”

But it was not just Nyree who was learning from their mentorship. Conor also has picked new ideas and lessons from Nyree’s experiences. “From a commercial perspective, Nyree and her business partner are in a really interesting stage of growth in their business and, in my words here, ‘taking it to the next level and then looking at what the next horizon is.’ There's no doubt for me that there was a really good learning opportunity of working with an entrepreneur who's taking a business, with a business partner, from scratch to an amazingly successful business to where it is now, and going, ‘Okay, what next? Where next?’” he remarked. 

Conor added, “It’s the opportunity to co-learn, co-create and, in some cases, introduce people in my network to Nyree, some of whom resonated and some didn't. That was real learning for me in terms of who in my network resonated and who didn't. And there's no right or wrong there. For me, that was commercial learning, walking – and we literally did – as we had many walking sessions and conversations around an entrepreneur taking a business to another level and looking at what the next three-year vision really is and how to get there.”

He also stated that the whole experience did not only contribute to his professional growth but also to his personal development. “On a personal level, COVID was part of our journey, and I was learning from Nyree in terms of her perspective and how she and her family and I were managing through COVID. It was a challenging time, and there's no doubt that I certainly learned through that time as well,” Conor enthusiastically shared.

For Nyree, their sessions also had her thinking about how she deals with her business and personal areas of her life. “I read this book called, What Got You Here Won't Get You There, and I realised that one of my bad habits or difficult challenges is trying to over-add value rather than allowing other people to take initiative and responsibility. That's one of the main things that seemed to keep coming up as a theme that had a big effect on me and how I run the business because I was constantly in people's roles, feeling like I had to help them do their roles rather than give them the tools they needed to do the role themselves. I enjoyed actually being able to be challenged on that and step back and watch what happened.”

“The other area was in my personal life where I've got a four-year-old son, and just that balance of spending time with him, I really found it quite challenging because the business is so busy that even when I was with him I wasn't present. So, Conor had this saying, ‘for the sake of what,’ but we changed it to ‘for the sake of who.’ When I started doing activities with my son, even if I was walking down the street with his pram, I would ask myself, ‘for the sake of who am I doing this?’ And it'll be for him and it's to spend time and to talk about cars or whatever he wants to talk about rather than me thinking what am I supposed to be doing right now. So, it was a nice tool that I used personally to just bring myself back to where I was, at the time,” Nyree explained.  

Both Nyree and Conor were glad to have walked together along the business path, sharing their stories and exchanging insights with each other. Although they have already finished their Mentorship Program, they were grateful to have formed a connection as a mentor and as a mentee, which has blossomed into a friendship.

In Conor’s words, “The metaphor I have in my coaching practice is to be a caddy. I'm a golfer, and I see myself as the person's caddy who walks alongside that person, and Nyree knows that she's got a caddy walking alongside her and she can reach out. Let's say, in this case now that the programme is over, the caddy's walking outside of the ropes, but anytime she wants to, she can pull this caddy in. I'll be on the bag and I'll walk inside the ropes with her.”

The beauty in diversity: a mentorship experience

Learning comes from various things and in many ways, and oftentimes, how we differ from each other helps us widen our knowledge and understanding of the space we live in and move around. Such can be said for mentor Emma Duffy, Learning Director at ProActive Training, and mentee Hayden Brass, Founder and Managing Director of Zea.

Mentor Emma Duffy and mentee Hayden Brass share their mentorship experience and learnings from it.

Other than running a business and being business owners, they haven’t necessarily spotted their similarities or commonalities. But despite having different businesses, they found themselves at a very good start when they met for the first time at the Mentorship training.

“Working together in the training session that Carlo ran, I thought that was a really strong start to the whole program for us as I feel that we got to know each other pretty well and understand what we both wanted out of the program and that we at least got a framework to build on from that,” said Emma.

Hayden concurred, “We have very different businesses, which are, in some ways, what you’d want. Although we had no common ground for this, I think we've learned a lot from each other in that way as well because we've had different experiences and different industries, which has been really great. So, it's been a great element of the mentorship.”

He continued, “We started off really strong catching up almost the same time every month and being able to come away with different viewpoints that I have not necessarily thought of. 

We have quite different businesses, quite different lives, and quite different ages as well. A lot of different elements allowed for really valuable insights and learnings from that perspective. I think that just having those differences made it really valuable in making me think outside the box and think about things differently.”

The whole journey has also provided them with more insightful experiences and new learnings. For Emma, it has encouraged her to think in an unusual way. She narrated a time when she was frustrated with not being able to give training ideas to Hayden because what her business did could not necessarily fit his needs or his team’s needs. 

“After our last catch-up when it came up again, I thought, ‘Well, I'm not going to walk away and stay frustrated or feel like I don’t have an answer in my area of expertise.’ In fact, it has prompted me to come back to my desk and actually do a whole lot of research into various apps and system processes that are available in the marketplace and find ways so that when we catch up next, I could go back to Hayden and say, ‘Well, these are some ideas that you could take into your business and use in your business.’ So, it's really stretched me to think a little bit differently about what businesses need in terms of training. It's then pushed me and my business partner to really reconsider how we set up some of our own compliance requirements in the business and how we could potentially develop them into a type of software that we could take to the marketplace. It's a huge gift that that sort of thinking pushed me to do something really different for me, my day-to-day work, and our business. I would never have done research on apps and processes otherwise,” Emma explained.

On Hayden’s part, he has gained a lot of ideas and perspectives from their mentoring sessions throughout the year. “What happened was with the first six months, and they're very well aligned, we had these three sets of goals which we set around leadership, etc. I think for me it was a lot about being able to come to the table with a little leadership challenge or a hiring challenge and then hearing a perspective that's quite different and new. That's been really valuable. It's also been good in that we've been able to bounce different ideas off each other within a meeting. I'd come either pre-planned, and we've done it before, and mentioned a few key things that we wanted to cover. It's given us a chance to reflect on it and review it, whether it's a staff leaving or a staff deciding to ask for a big wage increase or whatever challenge it might be that I’m having. It's just that back and forwards and getting that new perspective on whatever it might be.”

For the duration of their mentorship journey, both Emma and Hayden enjoyed their interactions and the key takeaways they get from their conversations.

Emma shared, “I really enjoyed the consistent and regular catch-ups. Hayden's business has gone through amazing growth in the last 12 months in the time that we've been working together. It was really interesting to see and learn about that. That was I guess one of the main things, from my point of view. It was just great. I've really enjoyed those conversations and I walked away each time hoping I might have added a little bit of value.”

As for Hayden, “It was a very broad goal that I've set in becoming a better leader. I think it doesn't come down to one or two things. It comes down to a multitude of things that have happened in the mentorship program and also in the growing of the business and coinciding with one another to get that. It's a long way to go, but definitely, I think I've achieved that in that 12-month period. A lot of it comes down to little bits and pieces that have come together to make a big difference in mindset or ways that we are reacting to different scenarios. It's all been really valuable from that perspective.”

And what’s the secret behind a successful mentorship experience that others may consider when getting into mentorship?

“Commitment is definitely one of the biggest ones,” Hayden remarked. “You need to go in there with the commitment that you're going to do this on top of your normal workload and normal forum and whatever else you've got going on. The other aspect would be to be really clear on what you want to get out of it when you're applying for it, who the type of mentor that you're looking for, and what is the specific area that you want to get the most value from because if you're very specific on that, that helps the team to assign a good mentor to you. I think it’s being very specific on those and differentiating it to what you want to get out of your forum or other learnings or whatever that might be and have a really specific goal for your mentor-mentee relationship because that can make a big difference as well.”

Emma was in agreement on the importance of commitment to make one’s mentorship journey a valuable one. “I completely agree. With preparation, just to do a bit of thinking beforehand to maximize the one hour, Hayden was really disciplined about contacting, setting the meeting time up, and turning up. We were there for one hour and then we were gone. It didn't linger on. There was really a focused time commitment.”

EO Melbourne’s Mentorship Program is one of the significant programs of the organisation that members can take advantage of and benefit from. Each experience is different and unique, and the value it can provide to both the mentor and the mentee can be priceless.

Dealing with rejection in business

Rejection is an experience that happens anytime and anywhere, even more so in the business and entrepreneurial space. It is a part of the journey that new and long-time entrepreneurs alike have to deal with every now and then. 

A transaction that never prospered, a possible partnership that didn’t come through, a loan that failed, a proposal that was not accepted, and so on and so forth. These are just some of the many scenarios where rejection happens in one’s entrepreneurial journey.

Getting a “no” may often be hurtful, but it doesn’t mean that it’s the end of the road. It is just a bump or a hurdle that one has to overcome to move forward and come out better and stronger. So, how do you move past rejection and make it work for you and your business?

Never take it personally

There are various reasons when one rejects your idea or proposal, but don’t deem it as something against you as a person. It could be that they are not amenable to your price points, they don’t see a fit with their business needs, or there’s just a different opportunity or option that they prefer to take. 

“Rejection is a reality in every business and it needs to be used to fine-tune aspects of your business or product offering without taking it personally,” Nitasha Badhwar, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Sunpower Renewables, remarked.

Similarly, David Fastuca, CMO and Co-Founder of Locomote, shared this insight. He said, “Being in marketing and sales for a good part of my career, I'll probably take the line of sales, such as being able to cold call and reach out to people. As a business owner and founder, for your first hundred customers, you're doing whatever you can to get them on board and you get rejected a lot. You're interrupting people's day and you don't know the right time to reach out to them, so the biggest sort of rejection is to have these people telling you to piss off, go away, and them being rude on the call. You really need to have a thick skin and understand that you should not take it personally.”

Be resilient

Take every rejection as a lesson that will only further improve yourself and your business. Many leaders would say that a failure only becomes a failure when one stops trying. And for every success, there are countless trial-and-error and rejections that happen along the way.

“The way I've dealt with it is in light of those ways of being really resilient,” David professed. “It's not about how many times you get knocked down, but it's how many times you get up. I try to instil this ethos into my children as well, wherein to expect failure and that it's going to happen, so anticipate it and agree with it with a smile and know that every ‘no’ gets you closer to a ‘yes’. If you don't hear back from someone, it's always a ‘yes’ until it's a ‘no’,” he explained.

So, keep trying. Keep approaching people. Keep on refining and upgrading your products and services. Never allow rejection to weigh you down.

Stay positive and find an opportunity from the experience

A rejection is oftentimes a detour into something even better and bigger. Find an opportunity in a rejection. Will it lead you to a new client? Will it give you more time to do other projects? Does it give you a new idea to work on?

For David, “it's just having that approach where even if someone gives me a ‘no’ on a call, I'll smile, I thank them and I even try and turn it into something like ‘hey, it may be not right for you, but can you recommend me to someone else you think this might be a right suit for them?’ So, even if I'm taking a negative sort of conversation, I try to flip that into a positive one.”

Use it as a way to improve and progress

When rejection happens, find out the “why” behind it. Knowing the reasons can help you develop yourself and your business by fixing things that are within your control and letting go of things you can’t.

Nitasha gave an example of how rejection has enabled them to refine and enhance their products. “In our organisation, we have tried to use it to deviate from the status quo and redefine the norm. After all, Einstein once said that insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. An example of this would be in the early years of the business where we started with a home power system with a PAYG business model.”

She continued, “We kept reorienting the model expecting better results. That didn’t do as well as we expected due to various reasons: lack of telecom infrastructure in remote places, affordability, and issues with collecting payments to name a few. However, in listening to the market, we evolved our product offering and our business model to redefine our product, thus, creating our independent solar power station. It functions independently, allowing a customer to choose what features to add. It is not restricted by telecom infrastructure and can scale up as much as the prosumer needs. Getting rejected helped us in developing a better product.”

Next time you get rejected, go back to the drawing board and rethink the best approach forward. Have you experienced rejection in your business? How did you handle it? Share with us your thoughts and learnings through the comments section below.

How Melbourne Business Owners find opportunities in difficult situations

“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” — Maya Angelou

Successful entrepreneurs get to where they are now because of their determination to reach their goals, which includes braving the odds and overcoming hurdles. The recent global scenarios in the past two to three years have been very challenging. Many business leaders have looked into finding opportunities under tough situations. But how do you do it?

Look at the present needs where you can provide a solution

Entrepreneurs have shared how their businesses fill a gap. Dion Castle, CEO of Struber, said, “With the fast-changing environment in society and the world, in general, it is easy to see that the culture, technology and customer experience in our industry were due for an upgrade.”

But when the conditions of a society change, the needs of society also change.  If there are difficult circumstances, how can your business help in this time of need? Are your products and services relevant in such circumstances? It is good to look into new problems that arise and find the areas where your business can offer a solution.

Be open to new creative ideas, innovate and pivot

Unexpected things happen, so when a crisis arises and you hit a wall, take advantage of this hiccup to go back to the drawing board and revisit your plans and current offerings. This is where innovation comes in. Brainstorm for new ideas that can help boost your enterprise and make it thrive when the going gets tough.

Nitasha Badhwar, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Sunpower Renewables, shared that “Innovation for us is more than just implementing new technology, solution, or process. It is our culture and one of our cornerstones – something that we come back to in good and bad times.”

Also, opportunities open up when you pivot. Arosh Fernando, Creative Director of WooHah Productions, once shared the changes they had to do within their business to keep them going during the lockdowns. “All these changes helped us, as we would have no income if it wasn’t for these pivot ideas. We have managed to claw up to 20-30% of our monthly revenue,” Arosh said.

Keep an eye on new markets

It is often said that “when one door closes, a window opens.” A crisis or a setback can be a turning point where new opportunities are formed. Look where the resources go. Observe the trends and be ready for new markets that will emerge.

According to Clayton Cross, Head of Strategy at Expia, “The pandemic has opened hundreds of opportunities. Most golden. Essentially new markets have been created, especially in the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) space, which we are targetting.”

Offer help and strengthen relationships

When problems and adversities arise, that is the best time for everyone to help each other and work together to overcome the challenges ahead. The pandemic has shown how important relationships are – within the family, among friends and even with people you meet through your business. 

Ben Beattie, Managing Director of True Blue Plumbing Australia, talked about his experience. “When they shut down construction in Victoria, we had 10 plumbers a day off work with only enough emergency work for 12 guys. This was the week the earthquake hit and thousands of insurance claims were lodged. We contacted our major clients and offered to assist them with virtually assessing all the damage from the site back to their head offices as they were swamped with work. We were able to keep 3 additional guys busy for the final week of lockdown reducing to major financial losses we were incurring.”

We never run out of opportunities. The important thing is to look out for it at all times or even create those opportunities when you can.

How to deliver engaging and impactful presentations

Presentations are essential in a business. People present their ideas or topics during speaking engagements, proposal meetings, and various events across different industries and sectors. But how do you make killer presentations that are impactful enough to draw your audience to your message?

Entrepreneurs and business executives nowadays are being tapped to talk about their experiences, expertise, insights and entrepreneurial journey stories to inspire others. Members of EO Melbourne share with us some tips on how to hook and attract your audience when presenting as well as keep them engaged and interested in your presentation.

1. Connect with your audience

“Be real.” This is what Jeremy Chen, Managing Director & Co-Founder of Good Things and Co-Founder of Hustleboard, imparts to those who want to learn how to deliver an effective presentation. The best way to make a connection with the audience is to be sincere and authentic in one’s words and disposition, and not try too hard to impress your audience.

This is backed by David Fastuca, CMO and Co-Founder of Locomote, when he said, “Just like how we do in EO, we're sharing experiences all the time. It is by making these presentations based on your experience or the experiences that you've delivered for your customers and bringing those results through because then they can say, ‘Well, I'm like this customer. I can get results like this based on how they did that.’”

True enough, the best presentations are those that can capture the attention of the audience, sustain their interest, and get them to retain the message you have conveyed. “The most effective ones I have done for the business are those where it is clear that I have been able to establish an emotional connection with the audience and they feel like they are part of the journey and the challenges that we have had along the way. Getting buy-in and interest from the audience from the beginning is so important,” shared Hayden Brass, Founder and Managing Director of Zea.

2. Make your slides visually pleasing

Renata Freund, Founder & Director of Honeycomb Strategy, shares valuable insights based on the work they do. “As a research agency, our success is centred on our ability to clearly communicate insights that are easy to understand and compelling. Here is one of our go-to tips and tricks to wow your audience with your presentation: Visual design is never optional.”

“When information, insights or data is presented in a format that is visually appealing, your audience will naturally be more open and receptive to what is being communicated. The visual design needs to come first, not be an after-thought in your presentation,” Renata remarked.

The visual design includes the template you use, the background of your slide, the colours, the layout of the presentation, the illustrations, photos and graphs that are included in the slides, as well as the font and size of the text. All these must be cohesive and well-thought-of to ensure that they are appealing to your audience.

3. Use fewer words and text

Renata adds another tip to wow your audience: Let imagery do the talking. “As a general rule, we try to keep the text on the slide to no more than a short heading plus 3 bullet points. We use photography and iconography as visual cues to support the story, without having to spell out every insight with words,” she said.

David concurs based on his experience as well. “The best ones have always been if you've got slides up on the screen or doing a zoom, know your basic things. It's common sense now these days, but a lot of people still get it wrong, which is not to have too many words on a page. Try to have more pictures that convey what you're saying on screen so that they're not reading something word by word, but they're getting the gist of what you're saying by the imagery that's on there.”

Jeremy summarises it in two words – “Be concise.”

4. Let your personality shine through

The third tip Renata has in making an impactful presentation is to “Let your personality shine through.” 

She expounds, “The one thing that all great communicators have in common is the ability to let their personality shine through. Your presentation should be no different. Bringing fun, humour and your own personal touch to your presentation will build credibility and warmth with your audience.”

5. Put some fun in your presentation

Speaking of fun, David shares that it can make a presentation more memorable to the audience. He reveals, “I try to make all my presentations a bit fun, such as having a meme or a gif that people can relate to or that could get a bit of a smile from the audience. It can be risky if it doesn't come off, but when it does, it has a real impact.”

He further added, “People will remember you as the one that made them smile and the one that made them feel good about the topic that you're talking about. Depending on what you're talking about, it could be a relatively boring or stale topic, so you want to lighten it up and have a bit of fun with it.”

6. Give good key takeaways

Lastly, adding a summary at the end of the presentation will make it easier for your audience to recall and digest everything that you’ve said. According to David, “Give people some really good key takeaways. It doesn't matter what you're presenting or what you're explaining, there's always something that people can learn. I found that doing a summary makes it easy for people to get key takeaways. I put them on one slide and allow myself to put a little bit of text there so that people can know what I'm talking about and they can write it down or screenshot it. I think that helps create a presentation that is impactful and engaging.”

Moreover, take time to practice and hone your skills. Take the opportunity to present when it comes knocking at your door. Better if you record your presentations and review them later on so that you can see how you can further improve your presentation skills.