- When you launched Lotus People five years ago, what were your expectations?
I always had a five year plan from the beginning, but it felt so far away and out of reach! It’s amazing that we are still here, and still going strong five years in – I’m very proud of the amazing brand and business that is LP!
- What has been most surprising about the journey so far?
The most surprising thing was how receptive everyone was to a new player in the market – everyone was so supportive from the word go. The business hadn’t even built a reputation and businesses and individuals were willing to trust us and give us a chance, and that is so heartwarming and says a lot about Australians’ ability to support the underdog. We would not have become as well established so quickly, if it weren’t for our early supporters.
- How has the culture of LP developed over you five years in business?
Culture has been a key focus from day one. I have always wanted what is projected outwards to be reflected inwards – to be genuine, kind, supportive and able to provide opportunities for people. We continue to do this to this day and have won a number of awards for our internal culture. It is a passion of mine, and I am so proud of our hardworking, committed and wonderful team.
- What have been some of LP’s greatest wins over the years?
There have been quite a few! It’s been an incredible journey. Being nominated at SEEK’s SARA awards for Best Small Agency in our first year of business was so incredible – to be in a room of heavy weights, when we had only been running for one year so a real “pinch yourself” moment. Four years on from that, in July 2020, we were announced as winners for Number One in Australia for both Candidate and Client Experience, all based on survey feedback. That was absolutely huge and completely unexpected. The competition was stiff, with the top 5 all ranking over 97% NPS score – incredible!! It aligns exactly with why Lotus came to be in the first place – the care factor and people experience. So, to win this five years in was really amazing.
- What is your fondest memory of the past five years?
One of my fondest memories was on Day 1 – I will forever remember the feeling of posting our “We are now open for business” LinkedIn post – we had absolutely no idea how it was all going to go, and the reaction was so positive – it was such a memorable day!
- If you could go back in time, what’s one piece of advice you would give yourself five years ago?
Slow down! It was such an incredible journey to get to this point, but running at a million miles an hour can run you into the ground. These days, I need to create space in my life and genuinely have balance, and I don’t think I knew what that was five years ago!
- 2020 has been a tough year for us all – what have you been most grateful for this year?
My work family! From my wonderful, committed team, to my diligent Head of Finance, to my shareholders/ business partners offering sage advice and mentorship, I know that 2020 would have been a whole lot harder without them all!
