After spending another 3 weeks in Australia (my fifth trip), and having owned an Australian franchise for 2 years, I conclude without a doubt that Australia is the world’s best kept secret with regards to business!
The business women that I met in Sydney and Melbourne were ultra-professional, well-travelled and hence culturally intelligent, very astute with regards to international business and all in all a pleasure to meet and learn from.
Sadly though, the ‘tall poppy syndrome’ remains prevalent. For those readers who are not familiar with this Anglo-Saxon term, it is used to describe a social phenomenon in which people of genuine merit are resented, attacked, cut down, or criticised because their talents or achievements elevate them above, or distinguish them from their peers. Again and again I was amazed to see this dreadful syndrome and I still battle to understand it.
The spectacular views of Sydney when I was ‘on-top-of-the-world’ were matched by the extraordinary women that I re-connected with from WCEI (Women Chiefs of Enterprises International www.wcei.com.au) (See photo) It was a unique meeting with the immediate Past President, the President and the incoming President Elect! Very interesting and informative dialogue at the top of the Sydney Tower!
In Melbourne, I was gratified to meet the National Program Manager of Women in Global Business, Cynthia Balogh. Her program aims to increase female participation in international trade and deliver greater economic benefit and job creation. See www.wigb.gov.au
I was equally delighted to meet the CEO of Family Business Australia, Philippa Taylor, also based in Melbourne. Philippa’s organisation is committed to fostering the success and sustainability of all Australian families in business. I was astounded to learn that family businesses account for around 70% of all Australian businesses, employing 50% of the workforce. See www.fambiz.org.au
UnitedSucces collaborates with all women’s organisations world-wide and so we meet with as many of their leaders as possible. After all, we all aim to empower women through business.
Melbourne has a special appeal to me, not only because it is so cosmopolitan and offers world-class theatre, fashion, cuisine and business, but also because it is the home of our Australian Founder Member, a role-model who never ceases to impress me.
Global entrepreneurs setting up a business in any city in Australia will find that it offers very few barriers to entry, a familiar legal and corporate framework to the Western world, and a sophisticated – yet straightforward business culture.
