Sociologists have been telling us that we are tribal for decades. While I do not pretend to have an answer for that age-old question, I can draw on my own experiences in the business sector.

When I first set out some years ago to build my retail business, I quickly realised that value of learning from others. I listened to my customers, hired talented staff, delegated often, found myself a mentor, formed a board and joined several organisations. I learned something from all of them. I also set aside time each week to work on my business, not in it. With hard work and an effective plan, it was the combination of many of these things that enabled my small business to become a medium-sized business over ten years.

However, as I look back, it was also the ability to find, analyse and implement new ideas that transformed my single retail store into a national retail chain. I learned that a good idea implemented at the right time can give a business a competitive edge. It can also create a workplace culture that welcomes innovation and change.

Although I was always eager for new ideas, many of them were not my own and while my friends are important to me, not all of them were in business and didn’t have the lived experience of regularly taking calculated risks. So, some of the best breakthrough ideas came from my team, suppliers, other entrepreneurs, networking and from industry associations. This became my tribe.

More than ever, South Australia needs new ideas. As chief executive of Business SA, the first Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia, I am working with business owners across South Australia and have a talented team who believe in the value of sharing good ideas. My team sees first-hand how training, advice, services and advocacy helps business owners to grow their business, save money and reduce their risks.

At Business SA, I’m making sure we are a trusted partner for everyone in business, whether they are large or small. I am enthused to be leading an organisation that understands what it takes to be in business and values sharing ideas and information with so many members across South Australia. 

When it comes to problem solving, I put my faith in entrepreneurs every time. They are solutions-orientated, inherently creative and often see opportunities that others don’t. As a result, I have great confidence in the entrepreneurial spirit that built this state will become the driving force that leads South Australia toward a more prosperous future.

Next time you see someone taking a risk and attempting something new, do what Business SA does by supporting and encouraging them. Become part of their tribe as we need them more than what you may think.

Photo of Martin Haese, chief executive of Business SA by Kelly Barnes.

This article was originally published in the South Australian Business Journal on Tuesday 9 July 2019.