Empowering Your EdTech Business: Navigating the Future of Work, Customer Engagement, and Financial Challenges

Welcome back to your favourite weekly dose of EdTech insights, news, and tips tailored for the hardworking heroes of our small and medium-sized businesses. ??

In this newsletter, I strive to keep you up-to-date with all the latest happenings that may impact your business - both the good and the, well, not-so-good (we prefer to call it 'character-building').

So, without further ado, let's dive into this week's round-up and see what's brewing in the world of SMBs.

Balancing Mindset and Skillset: The Future of Hiring in the Tech-Driven Workplace

Ready to have a look over this fantastic article from Business Leader? ?? It's centred around the fascinating dance between mindset and skillset in the hiring process. Essentially, it's not just about what a candidate can do, but also how they think! Their approach to work and life can totally be a game-changer for your business. ??

So, I recently penned down an article - it was all about the need for folks in sales and customer success to have this deep-seated desire to assist teachers. Afterall they are the ones who are shaping our children's future. I was trying to drive home the point that being good at your job isn't enough, especially in the EdTech space. You really need to feel that deeper connection with schools to truly make a mark. Now, this article in Business Leader is singing the same tune, but it's not just focused on one market - it's casting a wider net.

Here's a little nugget from the Business Leader article that might surprise you: almost half of the top decision-makers in companies are considering using AI tools ?? to handle some jobs rather than hiring more people. Whoa! We're truly living in a futuristic world, aren't we?

What's the secret recipe for a successful leader, according to the article? It's a delightful mix of emotional intelligence, tech savviness, and excellent people skills. ?? And, given the growing skills gap, big businesses are walking the talk, investing more in learning and development initiatives. ??

The article doesn't shy away from discussing the evolving landscape of our workplaces either. With hybrid models becoming the new normal, there may be a bit of a skills mismatch initially as we all adapt to new technologies. ???

Lastly, the power of generative AI is highlighted. The article suggests that it could give the UK economy a significant boost. ??

So, all said and done, this piece is a thought-provoking read on the importance of balancing mindset and skillset when hiring, and how technological advancements are reshaping our workplaces. Makes you think, doesn't it? ??

Do You Need More Meetings with Schools?

Look no further than the Accelerate Academy! Launched just this week - the comprehensive hybrid online training and coaching platform is the go-to place for people in Sales, Customer Success and Marketing positions.

For those who are serious about mastering their craft and getting more conversations, this academy is exactly what you need. It has the DLA Ignite Social Selling and Influence course direct in the platform. This is the only programme endorsed by the esteemed Institute of Sales Professionals for Social Selling. Learning should not be limited by location, which is why the academy has been created as an online space full of resources and tools accessible from anywhere in the world.

1:1 coaching sessions are part of the programme - so you get access to top Social experts. With deep dives into pertinent topics such as personal branding, insights on LinkedIn strategy, understanding how to track performance metrics and other essential skills required for success within these functions, no stone is left unturned!

Interest Rate Hike: A Potential Speed Bump for SMB Investment?

Alright, so here's the lowdown on this article from Dolan Accountancy. It's all about how a rise in interest rates is going to affect investment in SMBs). So that will include a number of EdTech outfits. The key point here is that while higher interest rates can be a tactic to control inflation, they might pose a bit of a hurdle for SMBs. So, it's something to keep an eye on if you're in the EdTech SMB space or planning to invest in it. Interesting stuff, but I don't like to end on a sad note.

So here's a picture of a funny animal.

OK, that's better.

I hope this edition of the Thriving Times was useful.

I'm all about positivity here, so while I do sometimes have to share the less cheerful news (sorry about that), I always aim to provide a silver lining or a helpful takeaway that you can use to your advantage. This time it was that animal photo. That's the best I could do. Sorry! ??

Until next time... have an amazing weekend, EdTech extraordinaires!