Brian Pearl, associé directeur de NATIONAL Toronto, a discuté avec Jonty Summers, directeur général de Hanover au Moyen-Orient, sur sa carrière et l'importance des petites améliorations pour réussir en affaires. L'article omplet est disponible seulement en anglais.
NATIONAL Toronto’s Managing Partner, Brian Pearl recently connected with Jonty Summers, Hanover’s managing director, Middle East, to discuss Jonty’s extensive career and the impact small changes can make in building a successful business. Hanover is an agency under the AVENIR GLOBAL umbrella, which NATIONAL Public Relations is a part of.
With more than 25 years’ experience, Jonty runs the Middle East operations for Hanover and brings a wealth of knowledge when it comes to reputational management, corporate positioning, and executive coaching. And, having received last year’s Luc Beauregard Award—an award that is hand-selected by Jean-Pierre and presented to those with the most outstanding profile from across the Firm—it’s safe to say Jonty has a wealth of valuable insights to share.
Here are four takeaways from Jonty on building a successful business through strong team culture, celebrating wins, and creating lasting client relationships built on trust:
1. A positive and supportive team culture can make or break a business
Drawing from his experience in journalism, Jonty emphasized how vital it is to ensure team members feel backed and not undermined in order to create a harmonious work environment. This approach not only fosters a sense of belonging but also enhances productivity and employee satisfaction.
2. Effectively communicating achievements should be a priority
In the fast-paced world of public relations, it's not enough to simply do good work; it must be showcased to clients and stakeholders. Entering awards and ensuring that clients are aware of the agency’s accomplishments is a great way to highlight the extent of the work being done. Jonty notes that by presenting achievements effectively, businesses can build stronger relationships with stakeholders and enhance their reputation.
3. Long-term relationships are built on trust and loyalty
Jonty expressed that long-term relationships are particularly valued in the Middle East. A number of major international brands continue to work with the same local partner for decades: once trusted links are made, relationships endure. Building trust and loyalty with clients requires patience and commitment, but is crucial for sustained success, especially in regions where long-term partnerships are highly regarded. As Jonty says, overnight change takes 10 years—by being adaptable and patient, businesses can navigate cultural nuances effectively to build stronger, long-lasting client relationships.
4. Learn how to navigate the complexities of international markets
Jonty highlighted the forward-looking nature of the Middle East, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which have long-term economic visions such as the UAE's 2050 plan and Saudi Arabia's modernization efforts. Recognizing the strategic advantage of regions with long-term plans helps align public relations efforts with broader economic goals and will ultimately help to achieve success in a dynamic and evolving business landscape.
