"Innovation is no longer optional. Businesses (and people) that don’t adapt to new technologies will be left behind" ___________________________________ 🎥 Watch the full episode on Youtube  👯‍♀️ Sisterhood Club - Website 🔗 Connect with Georgie - LinkedIn  Thanks to our sponsor - CH Talent Solutions  ___________________________________ Connect with Mona: LinkedIn Avant Tech  ___________________________________ In this week's episode of the Career Confidence Podcast, Georgie sits down with Mona Zia, founder of Avant Tech, to discuss her journey from corporate life to successful entrepreneur. Mona shares her experience moving from Pakistan to Australia, navigating the challenges of the tech industry, and her mission to help businesses leverage digital assets. Mona explores the mindset needed to thrive as an entrepreneur, the importance of building strong relationships, and why embracing technology and innovation is essential for business success. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to level up in your career, Mona’s story is packed with valuable insights and motivation to help you take bold steps toward your dreams. Key Takeaways: Embracing Change and Taking Risks: Mona shares her journey of moving to Australia and shifting from corporate roles to founding her own digital development agency, Avant Tech. She emphasises the importance of embracing change, taking calculated risks, and being open to learning from every experience. The Power of Relationships and Communication: Mona highlights the significance of building strong, trust-based relationships with clients and partners. She discusses how transparent communication, clear expectations, and alignment with your values can differentiate you in a crowded market. Leveraging Technology for Business/Career Success: As the world rapidly moves toward digital transformation, Mona stresses the need for businesses to stay ahead of the curve by investing in digital assets and embracing new technologies like AI. She provides insights into how companies can strategically position themselves for future success. Mindset and Self-Care for Entrepreneurs: Mona discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship and the importance of maintaining a healthy mindset. She shares her personal strategies for staying motivated, managing stress, and finding balance as a business owner and mother. Timestamps: 04:04 – Mona introduces herself and shares her career journey from Pakistan to Australia. 06:55 – Transition to Financial Services: Mona discusses her move from advertising to working at American Express and the lessons she learned. 09:14 – Founding Avant Tech: Mona explains the inspiration behind starting her digital development agency during the COVID-19 pandemic. 13:33 – Overcoming Cultural Barriers: Mona’s experience adjusting to life in Australia and integrating into the business landscape. 17:47 – Advice for Startups: How Mona helps businesses embrace technology, digital assets, and AI to stay competitive. 23:45 – Entrepreneurial Challenges: Navigating fear, uncertainty, and taking the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship. 31:52 – Building Strong Client Relationships: Mona’s approach to fostering long-term partnerships and trust with clients. 39:36 – Hiring the Right Team: Lessons learned from hiring mistakes and finding the right talent to support business growth. 44:42 – Mindset and Self-Care: Mona’s routines and practices that help her maintain resilience as an entrepreneur.