Workplace silence stifles innovation; fostering a speak-up culture enhances safety, engagement, and productivity.

Karen Maher, founder of Smart Culture, highlighted the importance of fostering a speak-up culture.

She explained that creating a safe environment for employees to express concerns—whether related to behaviour, ideas, or safety—is essential for organisational health.

Good relationships between employees and managers can significantly influence this dynamic.

When employees feel safe to speak up, they are more engaged, creative, and willing to contribute to the workplace, resulting in greater productivity and a more positive environment.

Conversely, failing to allow open communication can lead to serious risks, such as to safety or workplace morale, and can result in financial and reputational damage to a business.

With the shift to remote work, maintaining communication and connection has become more challenging, complicating the employee-manager relationship.

For more information about Smart Culture and its offerings, interested parties can visit smartculture.com.au

AI transforms productivity by enabling professionals to focus on their missions, fostering growth mindsets and creativity.

As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms the professional landscape, workers are finding innovative ways to enhance productivity and adapt operations. However, effectively utilising AI requires an evolution in both mindset and approach.

John Merkus, an expert in the field, highlights practical applications of AI in conducting research and identifying opportunities. By automating time-consuming tasks, AI assists in connecting professionals with organisations that align with their goals. This integration ultimately strengthens human connections and amplifies impact.

Now is an ideal time to embrace AI, according to Merkus. He illustrates this through the concept of a “virtual boardroom,” where individuals can benefit from the insights of renowned thought leaders, even those no longer living.

For those seeking further information or assistance, Merkus offers resources on his website, JohnMerkus.com, and through his podcast, “Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness.”

Cyber attacks on small businesses surge; average cost now $49,600, with risks rising and protection becoming essential.

Cyber attacks are increasing, particularly targeting small to medium businesses.

The average cost of a cyber attack for a small business is approximately $49,600, with costs rising by about 8% annually.

Luke Irwin from Aegis Cyber Security recently shared insights into Australia’s cyber security landscape.

Currently, the Australian Cyber Security Centre receives a logged case every six minutes, though many incidents go unreported.

Most cyber attacks on SMBs stem from automated systems and criminal gangs, primarily seeking financial records and personal information to leverage for ransom or data theft.

Small businesses can improve their cybersecurity by training staff through programmes like Cyber Wardens, which offer free awareness training.

For guidance, businesses should conduct gap assessments to understand their current security posture and can access resources from the Australian Cybersecurity Centre and other tech websites.

Basic measures to enhance security include training employees, using complex passwords, and setting up firewalls.

Any improvement is beneficial, as cybercriminals often target the easiest victims.

For support, Luke Irwin from Aegis Cyber Security works with SMEs to address these risks and can be contacted through LinkedIn or aegiscyber.com.au.