LeadingWith Purpose:Lessons Learnedfrom ThreeDecadesin E-Commerce
BAs I reflect on my journey spanning three decades in the ever-evolving e-commerce world, one thing stands out above all else: the crucial role of leadership. From the early days of pioneering online ventures to dealing with the complexities of today’s global marketplace, the lessons I have learned have been immeasurable in shaping my business approach and guiding the teams I have had the pleasure to lead.
One of the central themes emerging from my experience is that leading with a purpose is key. It’s not only about making money and hitting short-term results. Rather it is about having a clear vision and a deeper calling in mind behind every decision and action taken. My goal, when I established Smartvu Ltd., was not just to develop a successful internet investment firm but to provide entrepreneurs with a combination of skills and knowledge to stand on their own while being innovative and making a significant contribution to the world of e-commerce as a whole.
Leadership through purpose sets up the direction and involves the element of authenticity and transparency.Throughout my career I realized that authentic leadership creates the greatest impact.Through open communication and transparency through both successes and failures, by admitting when I don’t have all the answers, I can create a culture of trust and collaboration within my teams. Still, leadership is not about having all the answers; it is about letting others become part of the solution and taking the collective step toward meeting the common goals you have set
Another key lesson I’ve come to appreciate is that agility is paramount when facing change.The ecommerce terrain is in constant dynamic change attributable to technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and world events such as the recent pandemic. As leaders we
have to be agile, to innovate, and to pivot when necessary.When the pandemic struck we had to quickly change our strategies at Smartvu so they would meet the changing needs of consumers and businesses.We not only coped with Covid but thrived, turning it into an incentive to enhance our competitive edge by harnessing our digital skills and working remotely.
To lead through uncertainty one should have a source of inner strength in order to be ready to take the growth opportunities that arise from time to time. Since the beginning of my career I was faced with various difficulties and struggles resulting from failed ventures and market downturns. Each obstacle, however, has been a source of creativity and inspiration.Times of adversity give rise to real leadership; our resilience and zeal are tested and we emerge better for it By facing adversity and accepting failure as a stepping stone to success, we build confidence in our teams and motivate them to overcome new obstacles which are bound to arise.
The last and perhaps most significant lesson learned is humility. In a competitive and dynamic industry like ecommerce, self-importance and ego are so easy to get sucked into. But real leadership is built upon a foundation of humility, the acknowledgement that we are all fallible human beings, trying to find a path in an unpredictable universe. However, by being humble, listening to others, and accepting that we do not have all the answers we can encourage others within organizations to help build a culture of continued learning and growth.
I keep getting reminded of what an important role leadership plays in my career as I continue to learn and grow.Through having purpose as the basis of my approach to leadership, by being authentic, maintaining flexibility, being resilient, and practicing humility, we are able to not only achieve success in doing business but also to positively influence the lives of those around us. And for me, that’s the very definition of leadership.
