Learn from other approaches

Advice from others

The Stories from the field: Case studies of pioneering industry action resource highlights some common advice shared by people involved in industry-led initiatives.  

Do not go it alone 

External advisors can help guide you through scoping and implementing initiatives. Knowing what kind of assistance you need can help you choose the right advisor. You may consider sourcing expertise in: 

• subject matter knowledge 
• research 
• service design 
• workplace training 
• go-to-market strategy 
• communications and PR 
• occupational health or mental health
• lived experience from within your industry.  

Start small 

Looking at all the changes you need to make can be overwhelming. So, focus on small goals to build momentum. You can expand and refine your initiative over time. Starting small also helps you refine your approach 

Do not start with a solution 

If you start with a solution before consulting broadly, most often you will be wrong. Instead, take an iterative approach. Test and pilot with your target audience. Be prepared to walk away from ideas that are not working. 

Be transparent and neutral 

As a new initiative, you will build trust faster if you are clear about what you are trying to achieve and by aligning with existing efforts. Being open and transparent also encourages engagement and reduces tensions or concerns. Not taking sides helps balance the views of various groups fairly.   

Find and recruit champions to your cause—but resource roles 

Passionate people bring energy and enthusiasm. Champions in senior or influential positions can be powerful patrons or advocates for your initiative. However, dedicated resources may be required to move the initiatives forward and maintain the momentum day to day.  

Recognise less can be more 

Although there may be vast opportunities, chances are your time and resources are limited. It is important to be clear about what your initiative is, your unique offering and who you are trying to serve. Stick to your remit and avoiding jumping at new trends. Be prepared to say goodbye to your ventures or initiatives that were once valuable but are no longer fit for purpose.   

Understand the problem to solve 

Finding the right problem to address and understanding it in detail is important for finding a path forward. Without this, the solutions may be meaningless to the industry—or even harmful. 

Find the benefits in the process 

As well as the outputs and outcomes of your industry initiative, the process of bringing people together around a common goal can create new networks and opportunities within the industry. It can be a place where people from different roles and positions can enjoy working together. 

Don’t reinvent the wheel. Learn from the experience of others—start small, ask for help, don’t start with a solution.