From practical steps to philosophical approaches, here’s the best business and career advice these professionals ever received.
In our search for game-changing business and career advice, we tapped into the minds of some seasoned pros.
Their insights emphasise the importance of building strong networks, staying true to your authentic self, and leading with empathy. They aren’t just ordinary tips – they’re the kind of transformative strategies that can elevate your professional journey. From practical steps, to more philosophical approaches that can reshape how you view your work, there’s something for all.
This is straight talk that’s practical and powerful, to help you turn challenges into opportunities, and setbacks into stepping stones.
Rochelle Downs
Director: Limitless Community Services
Don’t be reactive: The best business advice I never got
In the fast-paced world of business, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day reactivity. We’re constantly putting out fires, responding to the latest crisis, and trying to keep up with the ever-changing landscape. But the best business advice I ever received (or didn’t receive) was to resist the urge to be reactive.
You never know what someone is dealing with
When we’re quick to judge or make assumptions about our colleagues, clients, or partners, we miss the bigger picture. Everyone is carrying their own unique set of challenges and experiences. By approaching each situation with empathy and an open mind, we’re more likely to find creative solutions and build stronger relationships.
People bring their unique skills to the table – Take the time to look at things with a 360-degree lens
It can be tempting to try to do it all ourselves, but the truth is, we all have our own strengths and weaknesses. The most successful businesses are those that recognise and leverage the diverse skills of their team. Instead of seeing others as competition, view them as collaborators who can complement your own abilities.
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Bích Thủy Thiều Quang
Coach, and Learning, Brand and Partnership Lead: No Moss
“Your goal is not to make friends – don’t worry about them liking you.” A fellow No Mosser shared this with me and it has proven invaluable. It serves as a constant reminder to be authentic and to prioritise adding value rather than seeking approval from others.
As a coach, I often need to provide tough feedback or address challenging behaviours directly. If I were to prioritise being liked over being effective, I would end up coddling people, which ultimately benefits no one.
This advice reinforces the significance of being genuine and confident in my expertise and role. It’s about fostering real progress and possibilities, even if it means facing temporary discomfort or resistance.
By not worrying about being liked, I am free to deliver the honest, constructive feedback that people need to hear in order to foster growth.
Reflecting on this, I see that the best leaders embody this principle. They become likeable because they are competent and willing to give tough love for people to grow. Leaders who prioritise likability often end up running in circles, trying to please everyone, and jeopardising the progress of the team and, by extension, the business.
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Elizabeth Gehde
Director of Marketing: Queensland Museum
The best pieces of advice I’ve received have been develop a strong network, stay connected, attend conferences and workshops, and join a membership association related to your field.
Find yourself a good mentor, someone that can challenge you and help you see the forest from the trees.
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Vikas Khatri
Hotel Operations Manager: Adelphi Hotel
One of my mentors once shared a quote that has profoundly impacted my approach to life and work:
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
This principle is one I strive to embody in my role as a hotel operations manager. I am committed to treating everyone with equal respect and consideration, firmly believing that respect must be given to be received. I aim to train staff and future leaders with these principles, fostering a culture where everyone benefits. When staff are happy and respected, they treat guests with genuine warmth and joy, creating an authentic and memorable experience.
In my journey as a hotel operations manager, I’ve found this principle to be the cornerstone of our success. It’s not just about managing tasks efficiently; it’s about fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. This mindset permeates every aspect of our operations, from staff training to guest interactions. By leading with empathy and understanding, we cultivate a team that goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels genuinely welcomed and cared for. In doing so, we not only create unforgettable experiences but also build lasting relationships that keep guests coming back time and time again at my current workplace, Adelphi Hotel 
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Claire Joy
Quality Management Consultant: Quality Systems Assurance
The best piece of business advice I ever received was to be my authentic self. Starting out in my own business, I thought I needed to conform to a certain corporate image to attract clients. I used very dull and corporate branding, communicated formally and I really believed that this image and brand voice was necessary to gain credibility. However, when I started to embrace my true self, everything changed. I used my own language, style, and branding colours, and even made a point of telling people by creating my unique hashtag #qualitywithaquirk.
Surprisingly, authenticity resonated with people far more than any polished facade ever could. Clients appreciated the genuine approach, and it built stronger connections and trust. This authenticity not only helped in attracting clients, but has resulted in valuable long-term relationships with people who drop my name, in the best way! Being genuine has made all the difference in my start-up journey, proving that the best way to stand out is to be yourself. Embracing my quirks and unique perspective turned out to be the best advice I ever received.
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Shannan Gove
Co-founder: Rosterfy
1. Start at the end goal and work your way backwards to where you are today. Unless you constantly have the end goal in sight you can get lost in day-to-day decisions. Just keep trying to improve each day and work your way towards the end goal knowing that you need to stay consistent and focussed.
2. Consistency – you’ll never achieve anything without consistently turning up. It’s easy to throw in the towel but anyone that’s achieved anything in their lives has had to push through tough moments in order to persevere to where they are today. Just keep a level head and don’t get too absorbed in your wins or too low when you lose.
3. Don’t ride the highs and lows so drastically – take everything as a learning experience either to keep doing or to stop doing. You either win or you learn. Especially in a scale-up business – not everything is going to go to plan, and you need to be prepared for that and not let little bumps knock you off course.
The post Expert opinion: What’s the best advice these business leaders ever received? appeared first on The Big Smoke.