Insights

Risks are inevitable, but failure isn't.

Why care about risk?  - 60% of businesses fold after a major crisis.
But the 40% that survive? They don’t just ‘get lucky’—they plan

• It’s not paranoia—it’s preparation: Risks lurk in supply chains, cash flow, tech, even TikTok reviews.
• Risk = Opportunity: Spotting threats early lets you pivot faster than competitors (e.g., Netflix vs. Blockbuster).
• Reputation is fragile: One data breach or ignoring inappropriate workplace behaviour can erase years of trust.
• Investors/clients care: Proactive risk plans signal maturity and attract partnerships.

Ignoring risk is betting your business on luck.

Business Risk Isn’t Abstract—It’s Everywhere.  It’s the gap between your goals and the unknowns that could derail them.

Operational: Supply chain breakdowns, tech failures.

• Financial: Cash flow cliffs, inflation, debt traps.
• Strategic: Competitors out-innovating you.
• Compliance: Fines for missing new regulations.
• Reputational: A viral complaint tanking trust.

It’s not IF risks hit, but WHEN.

Identitfy

What could go wrong? Think: operations, finances, people, compliance, reputation. Engage your people and potentially an independent consultant to support you.

Assess

How bad? How likely? Rank risks on a matrix (high/medium/low). Focus on what keeps you awake at night.

Mitigate

Act fast:

• Avoid (exit risky markets)
• Reduce (add safeguards)
• Transfer (insurance, outsourcing)
• Accept (budget for small risks)

Monitor

Risks evolve. Audit quarterly, adapt plans, and foster a culture in your company where teams flag issues early.

Risk isn’t just survival—it’s opportunity. A backup supplier saved firms during COVID. A ignored cyber risk bankrupted others. Start small. Document one risk today and make a plan.