Norfolk Network stories

All businesses need to plan ahead, which usually means forecasting and budgeting. How many of us think about how we can positively influence the future? How many look to create something that will truly last? How many of us are planning the future?

Dominic Richards is a sustainable developer which is significantly different to a regular Property Developer. Through his firm, Architekton, he demonstrates his belief in sustainable urbanisation, in other words, beautiful urban planning that is aesthetically pleasing, but serves a very real purpose. On top of all of this it should endure for years and years simply because it genuinely serves the practical needs of both the local community and local businesses.

At The Norfolk Network event, Dominic challenged us as owners and managers about our own businesses. We can’t all leave beautiful buildings behind as our legacy to the future, but could we leave behind something that is positive for the future? Perhaps all it takes is to adjust the attitude we have to our long term goals to include something that is socially beneficial? Look at hiring young talent from somewhere closer to home other than the usual red brick universities? Perhaps get involved in improving the physical look of your work space to the benefit of all those who work there?

It certainly made me think about my business. Whilst I don’t “build” anything tangible, I can minister through words and so I started to think about the positive impact my words could have in my local community – maybe helping to build an integrated community or contributing to my local magazine?

If there is one thing that Dominic impressed upon us was that money isn’t his primary motivator but he does believe in a good reward for excellent work. So we don’t all need to give everything away to feel good about ourselves and our business, rather we need to consider the impact on our work for future generations by planning carefully now. I know that Dominic showed members that business success and positive social influence can be one and the same. So, the big question is how are you going to plan the future?