IGNITE Contributor: Colette Quinn

We asked INGNITE Contributor Colette Quinn her advice on business and what she thinks 2025 will bring.?

What emerging trends or challenges do you foresee for businesses in 2025, and how do you think companies should prepare for them?

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Definitely think there will be a focus on Human interaction? / connection – we can see that already with the likes of Morrisons in the UK removing their self-scanning checkouts and online chat functions in favour of more HUMAN interaction – LONELINESS is on the rise across all age groups – people longing for and seeking out connection with others.

At a wider level consumers will seek out ever-greater convenience, expect ever increasing levels of personalization, prioritize authentic connections, transparency (becoming more and more important!), and value-driven purchasing (not surprising in light of economic conditions / cost of living squeeze), and continue to immerse themselves in technology, while being more mindful of its impact on their habits, their health, and their humanity.

A really good TRENDS report I always include / reference in my MRX sessions here – 25 key trends for 2025 listed: https://www.vml.com/insight/tomorrows-commerce-2025

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What is one key lesson you’ve learned in your career that you wish you had known when you were starting out?

Trust your gut more & walk away from anything that doesn’t feel right – not worth the heartache – life is too short (this comes with experience for sure to have the confidence to do so but pays dividends).

I’d also say ‘people do business with people’ – be yourself, genuine and authentic it will stand to you – you might not be for everyone but that’s good and a point of difference for sure!

?For those aspiring to become successful entrepreneurs or business leaders, what qualities or skills do you think are most important to develop?

RESILIENCE above all else – entrepreneurship is not for everyone – it’s a tough gig – takes a lot to keep at it and it’s relentless – build your network / support structures – come up for air and enjoy time off to reset! This isn’t a dress rehearsal so enjoy the wins but make sure to put things in perspective it’s a job / means to an end – you need to mind you and yours too!