In the challenging landscape of startups, where over 90% face the risk of failure, Molly Matthews, CEO of Pushpay, stands as a compelling example of success. With a trajectory marked by triple-digit growth and a transformative leadership role, Matthews shares invaluable insights on growing a company and scaling as a leader.
Seek Guidance
Matthews emphasizes the importance of mentorship and coaching in professional growth. Drawing on her personal experience, she advocates for seeking guidance from mentors who understand the challenges of your industry. In addition to offering support and guidance, mentors can play a pivotal role in refining ideas and preparing for significant presentations. Matthews also highlights the value of coaches in developing specialized skills, providing feedback, and challenging leaders to explore different perspectives. Aspiring leaders are encouraged to establish relationships with mentors and coaches who can contribute to their career journey.
Learn From Mistakes
Taking calculated risks and embracing failure is a crucial aspect of career elevation, according to Matthews. She encourages leaders to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, as this mindset fosters innovation and growth. Matthews introduces the concept of a “Blameless Culture” at Pushpay, emphasizing the importance of learning from failures and implementing those lessons for future success. By instilling this approach, organizations can create trust and psychological safety, fostering creativity within the team.
Invest in the Right Tools
Operating on a constrained budget during the early years of a startup can be challenging, but Matthews advocates for strategic investments in software and technology. She shares the example of Salesforce, an early investment that paid dividends as Pushpay continued to grow. Investing in the right tools, despite initial budget constraints, sets a solid foundation for long-term success in customer relations, sales, and marketing.
Never Stop Improving
Matthews underscores the significance of a continuous improvement mindset in leadership. Acknowledging that leaders never have all the answers, she encourages curiosity, continuous learning, and a willingness to admit when one doesn’t know something. Leaders are advised to stay innovative and pursue personal learning actively. The importance of developing both hard and soft skills, along with staying informed about industry trends, is emphasized for sustained success.
Hard Work Works
Matthews stresses the irreplaceable value of hard work. Success, she argues, is a result of dedicating time and energy to professional growth. While acknowledging the shift toward a more balanced work-life culture, Matthews advocates for investing time outside the standard workday in passion projects, networking with industry leaders, and pursuing intentional growth opportunities.
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