Bob Sudharshan Ratnarajah’s Post

We are beginning to come out of an economic downturn, yet it is still difficult to spend money on things that do not seem urgent. Consider this… It is precisely NOW that strategic decisions can set your business up for success in the future, now that the economy is on the uptick. NOW is the perfect time to transform your businesses by defining and integrating a Social Purpose. Here is why: Build Loyal Stakeholders and Attract Capital. Customers, employees, and investors are increasingly drawn to companies that use their business as an engine for good. By aligning your business NOW with a meaningful social purpose where you optimize your contribution to society, by doing business – you strengthen employee and customer commitment to your company, thus become more attractive to investors. Increase Resilience. In uncertain times such as NOW, a clearly defined social purpose can be a source of stability and resilience. It is a North Star, or compass, that can help you maintain focus for your business and cohesion among your employees as you navigate difficult economic times and come out the other end, ready to meet both customer and societal needs, better. Invest in Long-Term Success. It might seem counterintuitive to invest in a social purpose NOW, just resurfacing from an economic downturn; however, it is a strong strategic move that can pay dividends in the long run. As the economy continues to improve, your resilience and differentiation in the market – as a social purpose business - can translate into increased market share and sustainable growth. Future-Proof Your Business. The world is evolving rapidly, and consumers are ‘voting’ with their wallets. By defining and integrating a social purpose into your business NOW, you position your company as a positive contributor to the world – beyond making profits – that can rise above self-interest, indicating a ‘we’re all in this together’ approach to business. An authentic social purpose fosters customer loyalty, brand advocacy, and employee attraction, helping you remain strong in the market and grow into the future. 💡 Take Action NOW, to set you up for success later. 🌟 #BusinessTransformation #SocialPurpose #FutureSuccess #Resilience #Leadership ________________ Get in touch - I know how to help!

To achieve sustainable growth, it's essential to create a position of margin in your life. Growth is incredibly challenging when you're constantly battling to meet immediate needs—whether it's figuring out how to pay your bills or putting food on the table. When you're consumed by these day-to-day struggles, there's little room left for reinvestment in yourself, others, or even the ability to be generous. This situation is akin to being over-leveraged, not just financially but also with your time. Many people spread themselves too thin, attempting to juggle too many responsibilities without focusing on the areas that can truly make a difference. This "jack of all trades, master of none" approach can hinder your ability to grow and excel. Instead, adopt a more focused strategy. Think of it as a normal distribution (about to get nerdy ahah): the majority of your efforts (around 68.27%) should be centered around a core area where you can make the most significant impact. This focused approach allows you to build a sustainable foundation, giving you the flexibility to explore other interests without becoming overwhelmed. That means you can have the REST of that 100% in other areas! So my fellow shiny object people, dont stress out haha By optimizing your time and resources in this way, you create the necessary margin to grow. This strategy not only helps in achieving personal and professional growth but also ensures that you’re not over-leveraged, either financially or with your time. #CapitolCreatorsAndChampions #WashingtonDC #NetworkingEvents #Tech #RealEstate #Consulting #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital

This purpose veteran sets out why it is important to unlock your business purpose and stakeholder passion for it now in spite of or because of the economic uncertainties that prevail.

🌟 The Power of Purpose-Driven Profits 💡  A Win-Win for Business and Society In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, companies are realising that profit alone is no longer enough. Enter the era of purpose-driven profits – where businesses align their financial goals with a greater societal purpose. This approach isn't just feel-good rhetoric; it's a powerful strategy that delivers tangible benefits across the board. 1. Attracting Top Talent The best and brightest are increasingly seeking more than just a paycheck. They want to work for organisations that stand for something bigger. Purpose-driven companies have a magnetic effect on talent, drawing in passionate individuals who are eager to contribute their skills to a meaningful cause. 2. Boosting Employee Engagement When employees believe in their company's mission, magic happens. Engagement soars, productivity increases, and innovation flourishes. A shared sense of purpose creates a motivated workforce that goes above and beyond, driving the company forward with enthusiasm and dedication. 3. Mitigating Risks In an age of heightened social consciousness, companies solely focused on profits face significant reputational risks. Purpose-driven businesses, on the other hand, build goodwill with consumers, regulators, and communities. This positive relationship acts as a buffer against potential crises and negative publicity. 4. Ensuring Long-Term Viability The world is changing, and businesses must adapt to survive. Companies that align their profits with purpose are better positioned to navigate shifting consumer preferences, regulatory landscapes, and global challenges. They're building resilience and relevance for the long haul. 5. Creating Loyal Customers Modern consumers are savvy and values-driven. They're more likely to support brands that align with their own beliefs and aspirations. Purpose-driven companies forge deeper connections with their customers, fostering loyalty that transcends mere transactions. 6. Driving Innovation When profit is tied to solving real-world problems, innovation naturally follows. Purpose-driven companies are often at the forefront of developing new products, services, and business models that address societal needs while opening up new market opportunities. The Bottom Line Purpose-driven profits aren't about choosing between doing good and doing well – it's about doing both simultaneously. By aligning financial success with positive impact, businesses can create a virtuous cycle that benefits shareholders, employees, customers, and society at large. In a world hungry for authentic leadership and meaningful change, purpose-driven profits offer a powerful recipe for sustainable success. It's time for businesses to ask themselves. What's our greater purpose, and how can we leverage it to drive both profit and progress? #Business #Future #Success

🥁 📣🙋🏽♂️ 🥁 📣🙋🏽♂️ 🥁 📣 🙋🏽♂️ Hi Everyone! I need your help! I've created a game-changing service that combines the best of ALL our expertise to empower businesses aiming to lead in the 'new economy.' I’d love your input before finalising the name. Context: 😁🌏 📈 A 'New Economy' is where we value People, Planet as well as Profit. These are effectively purpose-led businesses. We have focused on the plant-based and alternative protein for the first five years. In the last two years, it has been social enterprise and impact consultants. Our approach works! Purpose With Profit Pty Ltd is all about systematic change. This year, we have received inquiries from mainstream businesses whose founders are shifting towards purpose! ⚡️These founders see the writing on the wall. 2023 was a massive year of change, and many businesses are largely unaware. We are bringing distil global and local trends for foresight, the diagnostic for insight, and synthesise to decide on the change. ✨📈[The Service] is designed exclusively for founders and SLTs ready to elevate their businesses to thrive in the ‘new economy.’ This program empowers you with the tools, insights, and support to take impactful action in positioning, funding, and growing your purpose-led business. 🔭 Foresight – Gain an edge with insights into why businesses rapidly evolve beyond carbon to measure broader impact. This keynote session will inspire you to take pragmatic, purposeful action to prepare your business for a more sustainable economy. 🧭 Insight – Through the Purpose with Profit Growth Diagnostic, uncover your strengths and development opportunities in this new landscape. We’ll help you focus on three high-impact action items to sharpen your funding approach, elevate positioning, and drive growth. 💫 Synthesis Report – After the half-day workshop, we'll synthesise our session, research your market, and issue a report. 🫱🏾🫲🏻 Facilitate Discussions - There may be different points of view. We can facilitate the sessions and share global and local case studies. 📞 On-call Support – You’ll have 30 days of on-call guidance to ensure your strategic actions are embedded, providing the support needed to turn your vision into reality. Now - The names? "Purpose With Profit Growth Blueprint" or "Strategic Spark" I would love to hear your thoughts. Also - we only work with four businesses in a month - if you want to learn more about this service, let's book a time. Some may call it #earlychristmas or #blackfriday, but you'll have a special offer to lock in 2024 prices. 🙏🏼 Thank you so much! Kindly, Bob Sudharshan

In today's fast-paced business world, success is often measured by profit margins and stock prices. But there's an increasingly urgent question we must ask ourselves: is it right to raise prices simply because we can, especially when many people are struggling financially? As we navigate through challenging economic times, marked by inflation, job insecurity, and a widening wealth gap, the role of businesses in society is under more scrutiny than ever before. With a significant portion of the population facing financial hardships, the decisions we make as business leaders can have far-reaching impacts. Raising prices can be a tempting strategy to boost revenues, especially in a competitive market. However, this approach can deepen the financial woes of already struggling customers. It's a classic ethical dilemma: should we prioritize profit maximization or strive to support the broader community? There are compelling reasons to consider the latter approach: 1. **Building Long-Term Loyalty**: Customers are more likely to remain loyal to businesses that show genuine concern for their well-being. By keeping prices fair and offering support during tough times, businesses can foster deeper connections with their customer base.    2. **Positive Brand Image**: In the age of social media, corporate actions are more visible than ever. Companies that demonstrate social responsibility can enhance their brand image, attracting socially conscious consumers and investors. 3. **Sustainable Growth**: By supporting the community, businesses can contribute to a healthier economy. When people are financially stable, they are more likely to spend money, which can lead to sustainable business growth. A Call to Action As business leaders, we have a responsibility to look beyond the balance sheet and consider the broader impact of our decisions. By adopting a socially conscious approach, we can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable economy. It's not just about helping others—it's about creating a business environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. In the end, the question isn't just about whether we should raise prices because we can. It's about what kind of legacy we want to leave as businesses in our community. Should we look after just ourselves, or should we extend a helping hand to those in need? The choice is ours, and the answer will define the future of our economy and society.

Business holds the power to move us towards the just transition that is needed to achieve climate and social equity goals. BUT how many businesses does it take to do that? Do we need more businesses or better businesses? 👩💼 Between 1979 and financial year ending (FYE) 2023, the total register (number of companies registered at Companies House) has increased by 4.3 million companies! 👨💼 According to Enterprise Nation 'the number of people thinking about starting a business in 2024 has risen to 35%. 👩💼 According to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in 2023, compared with the previous year, the private sector business population increased by a staggering 46,000 businesses, around 120 a day! 👨💼 At the University of Warwick - Warwick Business School they write about the lack of growth in the small business sector and suggest that 'the current system of business support and advice is fragmented, imbalanced and patchy' and have written a clear and punchy Manifesto with ten actions the government can take to support small business growth (https://lnkd.in/ePmtsXF7). If so much energy is going into creating new enterprise, is that taking away from the energy that business needs to urgently contribute in order for 'humanity to thrive'. Before any of us thinks about starting a new business, these are some of the tools and thoughts that need to be considered at the design stage so that business growth is not only more likely but so that scale will be net positive for the econmy, the environment and for society. Running a business is a privoledge and comes with enormous responsibility and opportunity. Sucess needs to be measured in terms of the positive contributions made to industry and community. The recent report from Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) suggest that business leadership needs to focus on a 'whole economy transition'. Doughnut Economics Action Lab (DEAL) talks about the 'deep design of business' - 'explored through Purpose, Networks, Governance, Ownership, and Finance' B Lab UK shared its second consultation report which will see the standards give greater focus on businesses that are designed "to create a specific positive benefit/outcome for one of its stakeholders." "Companies with IBMs (impact business models) are key actors in the transition to a new economy. "

Your client/company lacks strategic thinkers. They are probably great problem solvers of urgent issues, but when they are asked or expected to do more/different, they struggle. 🤔 You may see the problem clearly, but can there be an immediate solution that does not require attendance at a three-month re-training at Harvard Business School? 🏫 👩🎓 At a 2023 World Economic Forum Global Future Council, Alex Edmans said (40:35) "So my suggestion would be to think long-term. I've highlighted the importance of government action but what happens if you don't have government action? Lots of my own work suggests that what we think of as externalities are actually internalized if we think long-term enough." He continues: "For example, if in your company, you provide a healthy and enriching place for workers, you are not just being nice and fluffy or dare I say 'woke', you are actually investing your work force in the long-term so that your company can become more successful and more productive. So, with a long-term mindset, even in the absence of government interaction, then actually a lot of these socially desirable investments will be taken." In my two decades of working with strategic planning teams developing 15-30-year plans, I can report that this is exactly what happens. ✅ Alex focuses on social outcomes in his statement, but the same is true of any indicator of long-term value. In the right setting, they can be transformed...in real-time...from being external to internal. From being out-of-scope to within-scope. To make this more practical: even the non-strategic become strategic when he/she is asked the right kinds of questions in the right setting. 👩💼 For example, in a three-day offsite, the most profit-driven, self-oriented, businessperson can become a strategic thinker who balances short and long-term planning for the good of the company. And society. And planet. Why? Because the common problem is not the individual personality. Instead, it's a lack of *futures literacy* combined with a habitual focus on immediate results. When you offer executives the right opportunity, they step up. This is good news for those who want to make a difference in global efforts like Net Zero 2050. 🌍 Government action won't get us there as Edmans hinted. Instead, let's get every organization involved. 🏦 Last week we had a killer hurricane wreak havoc in Jamaica. The weatherman promises more of the same, as a result of climate change. ⛈ 🌦 🌨 Let's do our part, in whatever organizations we belong to, by insisting on long-term thinking! (40:35) https://lnkd.in/g8Gy4b6D Visit www.longtermstrategy.info for more. #strategicforesight #strategicplanning

Dr. Kingsley Mike Azonobi's Morning Thought. When building a business, think beyond the present. Create something that secures not only your retirement but also sets a strong foundation for future generations. Don't focus solely on short-term gains; prioritize sustainability, resilience, and growth that can stand the test of time. A business built with longevity in mind ensures that your hard work today will provide stability and opportunity for years to come, fostering a legacy that benefits both you and those who follow in your footsteps. Build not just for today, but for the future.

I’ve just read a brave new book by Stuart L. Hart, Beyond Shareholder Primacy: Remaking Capitalism for a Sustainable Future.  It’s brave, because Hart starts with the pained admission that his three decades of trying to transform business have been “almost entirely inadequate.”  He now believes that his work has “done little more than help rearrange the proverbial deck chairs on the Titanic, providing cover for accelerating climate change, species loss, and rising economic inequality.”             For Hart, the greatest obstacle to greening capitalism is the destructive idea that corporations best serve society by maximizing shareholder value.  I’m not persuaded that “shareholder primacy” is the ultimate problem, but I appreciate Hart’s effort to find key levers of change.  He argues for a total rethinking of the mission and curriculum of business schools, and his discussion of a radically different MBA at the University of Vermont is inspiring.  He also argues for a new financial infrastructure that would reward long-term investments in sustainability.             Unfortunately, capitalism was environmentally destructive long before shareholder value became the be-all and end-all of management.  That destructiveness comes from systemic flaws, especially the problem of negative externalities.  No one pays the true environmental cost of making and consuming things.  The commitment to ever-rising market valuations makes the structural flaws of capitalism more acute, but addressing the problems of short-termism and financialization won’t in itself correct those flaws.  We need to change the rules that govern the market – and that requires action at the scale of society.             Hart knows that.  He also knows that past efforts to reform capitalism have required government action.  Public policy “has played a critical role in redefining the rules of the game in favor of greater participation, equity, and social responsibility,” he writes.  But he acknowledges that, because political polarization has made transformative regulation unlikely, he always has focused on what businesses can do voluntarily to become more sustainable.  And he still can’t quite give up the hope that entrepreneurs and executives will lead the next great reform of capitalism.  Because government is so divided, “business leaders will have to rise to the challenge – by becoming champions not only of corporate transformation, but also of government reinvention and system redesign.”             In my reading of history, however, I see few times when business leaders have made forceful arguments about the environmental flaws of capitalism.  To be sure, they sometimes recognize that their own companies need to change radically, and they might hope to inspire others.  But they rarely argue that many of the basic structures of the market still work against sustainability.  Making that argument largely is a task for the rest of us!