20 predictions for 2020 from interesting Melbournites I met this year

Throughout 2019 I came across a number of highly-skilled professionals and connected with them in person as well as on LinkedIn. On top of our enjoyable discussions, it wasn't difficult to discern that these individuals had extensive knowledge in their chosen fields. As a round-up for the year, I decided to ask each of them for their industry predictions for 2020 and ended up getting some banger responses!

Note: I couldn't fit all the awesome people I met on this list, as there are many more who deserve to be here - my apologies. I've also listed it in alphabetical order according to industry, so no favourites here..

Without further ado, here is the list (click their name for their LinkedIn profile):

1. Branding - Ubi Formica

Ubi and I met at a BNI (Business Networking International) training event earlier in the year and I immediately appreciated his down-to-earth humour. He's an experienced branding strategist at Create & Co and has quite the appetite for Italian restaurants.

Ubi's thoughts on 2020: "For those of us working in branding and marketing, the past year holds some valuable lessons about the link between brand culture and business culture. What's the difference? There shouldn't be any. 

Whether you are a bank, a burger chain, a convenience store or a supermarket chain, you can't espouse a set of virtuous, inspirational brand values in your marketing and not apply the same values to the way you run your company and treat your customers and your staff. It's unsustainable, you get caught out, and the damage to your brand can be irreparable. 

If you are a business owner or CEO, take a moment over the New Year break to reflect on whether your brand values are just words written in a staff manual or under the 'About Us' tab of your website, or whether they describe the everyday experience of your staff and the people with whom they interact."

2. Business Coach - Milton Collins

When I met Milton, the first thing that stood out were his unmissable bright red glasses. He's always in good spirits and up for a laugh. A conversation with him is consistently valuable, and he has real-world business success that he brings to the table during his coaching sessions.

Milton's thoughts on 2020: "As we enter a new decade, customer experience will become even more important as a competitive advantage and more and more companies will be striving to excel.

It’s never been more important to deliver a consistent, seamless experience for customers and to look towards the future to find innovative ways to meet their needs."

3. Content Creator - Sharan Velauthan

Sharan is a powerhouse content creator. The sheer volume & quality he produces would make the great man Gary Vaynerchuk proud. He also has a heart of gold and a simple mission - to spread kindness.

Catch him on his primary platform (Instagram) - @Sharan_Velauthan

Sharan's thoughts on 2020: "Creators are really going to have to up their game. With the technology coming up and the number of creators and platforms coming out (example Tik-Tok). Creators have the opportunity to go viral and make a career out of it. 

One example is a busker in Melbourne who posted a video on Tik-Tok. She moved from 4,000 followers to 375,000 Instagram followers and has been offered YouTube production and a record label. The proof is there. And more people are jumping on it more and more."

4. Diversity - Lilian Kikuvi

Lilian has the empathy of a saint. She strongly feels the emotions of the people around her, and that makes her an unstoppable force when it comes to making sure that inclusiveness is a top priority for businesses. We whilst Lilian was leading at the Speakers Institute boot camp which I’ll mention in more detail later in the article..

Lilian's thoughts on 2020: “The trend that will make a significant impact on businesses is a real commitment to going beyond the “diversity and inclusion” buzzwords and quotas to cultivating the true power of their people’s potential.”

5. Documentary Film - Charby Ibrahim

This year I was incredibly lucky to sit opposite this great man in our co-working space. He fights for the underdog and fights hard. He's currently in production for a feature-length documentary about the trauma and injustices that our young people must face through the juvenile justice system. I've learned a lot from this man about what it means to be a good human.

Charby's thoughts on 2020: "We're bombarded with 'tough on crime' rhetoric when it comes to young people caught in the sticky web of the justice system, and too often we fail to see the very real human face behind the offending behaviour. 

Everybody is worth a second chance. In fact, offering that second chance strengthens our entire community. Active engagement in education, training, and employment is crucial in helping young people feel as though they are valued and respected members of society. 

So if we can find just a little more empathy, and offer tangible opportunities for them to succeed in this world, their chances of offending and re-offending plummet."

6. Events - Anna Osherov

It's always a pleasure to bump into Anna at almost every Melbourne event I attend. If that wasn't enough, she planned and marketed most of them. Her name is synonymous with events, and she’s certainly the go-to expert in the city.

Anna's thoughts on 2020: "I see the future of business events as bridging the gap between digital and in-person live events with virtual conferences integrating into real-life events. Through the use of VR and AI it will be possible for people across the globe to virtually participate in live events/conferences.

Virtual live conferences have been successfully used across multiple industry sectors to run global virtual “in-person” events for the last half a decade. I believe that we will see people globally join in local live events through VR live streaming and AI technologies."

7. Finance - John Di Natale

John's charming presentation on wealth, impact and legacy draws in an attentive crowd (which is how we initially met at the Business Authorities lunch in Melbourne). He is changing the way we think about wealth by making it approachable and simple to understand (move over Barefoot).

John's thoughts on 2020: "I think there's a trend towards simplicity and depth. It's important to have two or three key things to focus on, rather than trying to do everything at once. When it comes to financial situations, people need to do the simple things consistently that will take them to where they need to go.

Don't live the google search life and get lost on the internet, but instead really go deep on a few topics that will benefit you financially.

Next year, my main focus will be around trying to help educate people around their personal finances to set them up for the next 5, 10, 20 years."

8. LinkedIn Expert - Nathanial Bibby

The recent winner of 'Best Use of LinkedIn' at the Social Media Marketing Awards - say no more? This man is your go-to in LinkedIn education. Nathanial produces authentic, practical and effective content to help users to generate real returns on the platform.

Nathaniel's thoughts on 2020: "I think the biggest thing in 2020 will be storytelling. We're bombarded with crap content all over the internet and social media, but quality storytelling will really help you to stand out in the world." 

* If you'd like to learn more about how to be an effective storyteller, check out my article: 7 Storytelling Lessons From An Award-Winning Narrator

9. Mindset Coach - Mary Jensen

Whilst being a powerhouse in the corporate arena, Mary experienced something she never expected. She burnt out - and hard. Nowadays she's a changed woman and has embarked on a mission to ensure that other top C-suite performers do not suffer the same fate as she did. Mary is someone who has been through it and can help her clients first-hand to stay at their best through her mindset and behavioural expertise.

Mary's thoughts on 2020: "Everyone is talking about AI Artificial Intelligence coming, but it’s already here. What this will impact is a higher need for human connection. Coaches and Mentors have an opportunity to support many business leaders through this new terrain. Feelings will still be here. We are human."

10. Marketing - Jenny Boymal

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of bumping into my Grade 5 teacher. I had fond memories of Jenny being wonderful in the classroom, so it was a breeze catching up. She has long moved on from teaching and has now planted herself in the marketing space. Jenny is a bursting vessel of knowledge; she goes above and beyond to help her clients reach their ideal customers.

Jenny's thoughts on 2020: "It’s all about relationships. It’s about getting to know, like and trust people, brands and aligning your values with others. People want to do business with people who share the same values. I predict that in 2020 there will be a massive shift towards doing Business for Good. Businesses will align with causes that speak directly to them."

11. Networking - Braith Bamkin (BNI)

This year, one of the highlights of my week has been attending a regular networking meeting every Tuesday morning. I've thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of our members this and if you're interested, they can be found on the BNI Inner City page. Referrals are one of the most effective form of marketing and BNI as a fastastic place to get them. As director of the Melbourne Central region, Braith Bamkin sure knows how to network.

Braith's thoughts on 2020: "As technology becomes more integrated with our business and personal lives, business owners will seek out meaningful ways to engage one on one with others. I believe the power of human connection will become the real currency of business and that business people will actively seek to protect these relationships. Those who understand this will be the real future business winners."

12. Non-for-profit - Dorcas Maphakela

I was approached earlier in the year for an opportunity to become a mentor for AIME. They are an unbelievable organisation that mentors marginalised youths across Australia to achieve their potential. The organisation has grown exponentially since its inception and continues to change young lives throughout the country. Dorcas is the program co-ordinator for the African Australian contingency and is a tireless leader who keeps giving back.

Dorcas's thoughts on 2020: "In 2019 we witnessed young people take the lead across the world to make their voices heard on issues that affect the future of this planet. AIME worked with a group of young indigenous people who gathered in East Arnhem Land for the Youth Forum at Garma Festival (hosted by the Yothu Yindi Foundation).

These young people shared an Imagination Declaration with the Prime Minister and Education Ministers across Australia.

Moving into 2020, I believe that young people will continue this momentum and 'Imagination' as a part of the curriculum will play a key role in demonstrating that historically marginalised youth are not the problem, but rather the solution that through imagination, anything is possible"

13. Personal Branding - Mary Henderson

I attended a personal branding workshop at the Business In Heels summit this year, Mary was presenting. I was incredibly impressed not only by her knowledge, but also by the ease of understanding her message. Mary's vast experience has afforded her the necessary tools to help individuals become respected leaders in their industry.

Mary's thoughts on 2020: "I think 2020 will be the year where reputation branding will become a pre-requisite for senior executives and even board members. When you consider what is happening in the current corporate landscape, such as the Westpac scandal and the reputation of Brian Hartzer, the now ex-CEO, companies need to consider the impact that this creates for their corporate brand and culture. The individual brand is just as important, if not more important than the corporate brand."

14. Property - Richie Buick

In the spirit of LinkedIn, I've included one connection who I've never actually met in person. Since connecting with Richie Buick, I've consistently seen his insightful content pop up on the feed. He breaks down the elements of the often confusing property market in an effort to bring value to his audience.

Richie's thoughts on 2020: “There will be a shift in attitude towards renting, as the challenge to raise money for a deposit gets harder & the growth of the Australian economy continues to be uncertain.”

15. Podcast - Jordan Michaelides

After listening to too many Joe Rogan podcasts, I found myself frustrated that I was only hearing American voices on podcasts. I wanted something relatable and local. So I googled 'top podcasts in Melbourne'. On that list I found 'The Uncommon Show', hosted by Jordan Michaelides. It was exactly the show I'd been looking for. Local knowledge, local guests and local value. I reached out to Jordan over Instagram and we met up for a coffee to break down the digital barrier between listener and podcaster. He's a brilliant communicator, intelligent and bursting with curiosity, which makes him the perfect interviewer.

Jordan's thoughts on 2020:

• "I expect more hobbyists to get pushed out of the market as further corporates, influencers and media companies enter this space."
• "Video will be just as important as audio. Podcasts in a way are replacing Talk Shows via YouTube, and I find myself personally watching them more and more at night."
• "Spotify and the Podcast Platform wars will intensify. Our audience has gone from 82% Apple to 64%, with Spotify eating most of that market share (they win on discoverability in comparison to Apple, but take advantage of creators through no distribution in advertising dollars)."
• "Advertising budgets for podcasts will increase. It's only a $1B market right now; platforms like Podcorn will make this easier and more relevant."

16. Productivity Expert - Glenn Tranter

It came as no surprise that is was Glenn Tranter who responded first after I asked this list of 20 connections for their 2020 predictions. Glenn is certainly a productivity expert who practices what he preaches! As a former professional basketballer, Glenn knows all about performance. Since retiring from the court, he is now focusing his competitive high-energy on his work. Glenn is constantly and effectively helping organisations and individuals to become more efficient.

Glenn's thoughts on 2020: "Productivity improvements are paramount for companies who want to embrace the 4-Day workweek. What makes the productivity improvements possible is that workers get to benefit from the answers to the massive ‘What’s in it for me?’ question.”

17. Speaking - Warren Tate

I attended a 1-day Speakers Institute event hosted by Warren and was blown away by his passion and knowledge. That same day I signed up to the 3-day Bootcamp which I attended a month later, and the skills learned absolutely changed my life and communication skills for the better. I couldn't recommend more highly getting in touch with either Warren or the Speakers Institute if you are interested in transforming your skills.

Warren's thoughts on 2020: "Digital disruption will never replace the need for human interaction, with the majority of all decisions made with the heart rather than the head. From primitive times, stories have been the glue that has built relationships and enabled your message to stick. Continually build your brand with emotional client stories in every communication and your 2020 will be the best year ever."

18. Training & Education - Hassan Younes

Hassan and I actually met on the 3-day speaking bootcamp mentioned above. He is one of those people who you immediately get a great vibe from. Throughout the training, he was always a smiling and familiar face. A few weeks after the bootcamp, I attended another event where I was able to delve a little deeper into the incredible experience this man has across various industries - 'training & education' is one in particular. 

Hassan's thoughts on 2020: "As we are now well and surely living in a digital era, more and more products and services are migrating online. Education and training is no exception to this. 

E-Learning and Online courses will be the platform of education and training. We will see a greater shift from classroom environments and face-to-face training, to online learning.

This will result in online education and training being a very competitive industry, as training providers will compete for best digital platforms, rather than the personal experience gained from face-to-face delivery and methodology."

19. Video Marketing - Dylan Hornsby (Good Gravy Media)

I spent 2019 working as Business Development Manager and production assistant at the video production company Good Gravy Media. It was here where I met the gravy team and in-particular Dylan Hornsby, one of the co-founders. Dylan has extensive knowledge of film through his own education, but also through being a lecturer on the subject at Deakin University. His background in commerce and film gives him the perfect combination to create highly effective brand video content.

Dylan's thoughts on 2020: "We're going to be seeing a lot more videos on LinkedIn, that's for sure. Verticle video is also here to stay and we'll be seeing way more social content being verticle and square. Even YouTube is now accepting different ratios. With 18,000 days worth of video is being uploaded every day, so brands will need to give a lot more time to their content strategy to effectively reach their audience. Brands are also moving away from producing single videos, but rather heading towards multi-campaign structures. This is why we're seeing an increase in marketing managers partnering with video production companies."

20. Web Development - Kim Maxwell

Kim is another talented member of our co-working space who also built and maintains the Good Gravy Media website. Having launched her web development company called Online Tree in her early twenties, she has an impressive list of faithful clients. She's a pleasure to work with and gives her all to satisfy her clients’ needs.

Kim's thoughts on 2020: "The way we consume content will not be the same in the future. Websites may even become obsolete. As a web designer and creative, it’s imperative we keep up to date with the latest technology and trends so that we can continue to effectively communicate our clients' message."

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I hope that was as enjoyable for you to read as it was for me to write. I have learned from and been inspired by these wonderful people. 

As you can see from the number of responses, we're heading for the most digital decade in history and it means fantastic things for the progression of humankind. However, we must also heed the warnings not to get lost in it. 

My own thoughts on 2020 would be to use the digital arena to maximum value; learn new things, but also guarantee yourself time to switch off every now and then. A life immersed in technology is a life lacking in the simple things that can contribute to wellbeing, like a stroll on Torquay beach or watching the possums run up trees in the Botanical Gardens.

Enjoy the holidays and best of luck for next year!

I'd love to hear your predictions for trends that you foresee for 2020, so please write them in the comments below.