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When I started my MBA, I wasn't entirely sure what I expected. What I did know was that I felt there was more to learn. Throughout my career, I had gained experience across leadership, hospitality, education, customer service, business operations, and management. However, I wanted to better understand the "why" behind many of the decisions businesses make and the factors that contribute to long-term success. If I'm being honest, I think I was hoping the MBA would provide me w

When most people think about the accommodation industry, they think about rooms, occupancy rates, marketing, and bookings. After a decade working with Budget Motels, I've learned that the most important part of the business isn't any of those things. It's relationships. Over the years, I've worked with motel owners from all walks of life. Some operate large properties, some manage small family-run businesses, and all face their own unique opportunities and challenges. While e

When most people think about education, they think about teaching. What education taught me was something quite different. It taught me about people. During my time in education, I worked with two very different groups. On one hand, I taught disengaged secondary school students, many of whom had struggled in traditional education environments. Some had been removed from mainstream schools, some had little interest in formal education, and others were dealing with challenges f

Throughout my career, I have worked in pubs, nightclubs, restaurants, motels, and hotels. While each environment was different, they all taught me the same fundamental lesson about customer service: People want to feel like they matter. When customers walk through the door, they are not simply buying a meal, booking a room, ordering a drink, or attending an event. They are looking for an experience. More importantly, they want to feel welcomed, valued, and recognised. Some of

When people hear that I served in the Royal Australian Navy, they often assume the biggest lessons were about discipline, following orders, and maintaining high standards. While those things certainly have their place, the most valuable lessons I learned were actually about leadership. At the time, I probably didn't fully appreciate it, considering I joined when I was 17. Looking back now, after working across hospitality, education, and business management, I can see just ho

In today's world, customers have more choice than ever before. Whether booking accommodation, purchasing hardware, selecting a training provider, or choosing where to have their morning coffee, customers can compare businesses, read reviews, and make purchasing decisions within minutes. As a result, organisations can no longer rely solely on their products, services, or pricing to remain competitive. Increasingly, it is the customer experience that sets successful businesses

One of the questions I am often asked while completing my MBA is whether the concepts learned at university can genuinely be applied in the workplace. My answer is simple: absolutely, but only if you are willing to move beyond the theory. Throughout my MBA journey, I have been exposed to concepts ranging from emerging technologies and business law through to customer experience management. While the academic theories and frameworks are valuable, the greatest benefit has come

In today's fast-paced business world, the ability to create and manage effective business artifacts is crucial for career success. Business artifacts are the documents, presentations, and other materials that communicate ideas, strategies, and results. Mastering these artifacts can set you apart from your peers and help you advance in your career. This blog post will explore the importance of business artifacts, the types you should focus on, and practical tips for mastering

In today's fast-paced world, showcasing your skills is more important than ever. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding how to present your abilities can set you apart from the competition. Chris Fozard's journey is a perfect example of how to navigate the professional landscape effectively. Chris has built a remarkable career by focusing on his strengths and continuously improving his skills. His story is not just about success; it is abo