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Leadership series – Leader Profile 2025 – 7 Key Characteristics

180In a time of uncertainty, conflicting world events, politics and the rapid adoption of AI we are already seeing that 2025 is a time of disruption and it’s not ‘business as usual!  

In this rapidly changing environment horizon scanning, course correction, agility and adaptability are important skills for Industry leaders. 

 A ‘typical’ small Business leader in Australia in 2025 is likely to be a tech savvy self-believing entrepreneur with a strong focus on digital marketing, the customer experience and sustainability.  

Aligned with this profile is human-centred leadership that prioritizes employee needs, wellbeing and promotes practices to foster a safe, positive work environment. There is emphasis on diversity and inclusiveness within their teams. 

What to look for. Do you recognize these attributes in yourself? 

7 Key characteristics are: 

  1. Tech savvy: includes keeping abreast of new technology, being open to improvement or if needed seeking advice from expert others. Example AI, what’s it all about, what does or can it mean for my Business! 
  1. Digital fluency aptitude understanding and leveraging technology to drive innovation and decision making. Such as utilizing online platforms and social media applications. E.g. data analytics to reach customers, manage operations and respond to changing market trends. 
  1. Agile and Adaptable: leads change, adopts flexibility in operations and strategy to respond to market shifts and emerging trends. Embraces continuous learning to stay relevant to meet the challenges of a changing landscape.   
  1. Customer-centric approach: building strong customer relationships through excellent customer service, personalized experiences, active engagement and making meaningful connections. 
  1. Sustainability: incorporates environmentally conscious practices into the Business model, such as promoting sustainable services and goods and reducing carbon footprint. 
  1. Collaborative decision-making: shares authority, engages, listens and empowers teams to contribute. Builds trust, loyalty and supports employee growth. 
  1. Diversity & Inclusion champion actively promotes a workplace that values diversity and creates space for everyone. Different backgrounds provide different perspectives. 

How did you compare?  

Importantly, the takeaway message; It's not Business as usual but it’s never too late to learn, improve or adjust to embrace a rapidly changing Business environment and landscape.