Businesses must be change-ready to thrive in the 2025 ‘Trump Era’

Written and brought to you by Pivot&Pace's Kendall Langston: Businesses can’t let latest economic data lull them into a false sense of security as the ‘Trump era’ promises both uncertainty and, for those who are ready, opportunity.

Kendall Langston is making the prediction as the world is reeling from US President Donald Trump’s just-announced tarrifs. The news of Trump’s tariffs comes after recent revelations from Statistics New Zealand that the US overtook Australia as our second largest export destination in 2024, with a total value of $9 billion.

Kendall Langston says while the recently released ANZ Business Outlook survey for January found business confidence was still high, Kiwi business shouldn’t be fooled by what may look like positive news.

“Trump has promised sweeping economic changes which is going to make 2025 a tough year for business.

“With international markets on edge as we wait for Trump’s next move, businesses need to be more agile than ever if they’re going to thrive in this new era. Expect the unexpected!” Langston says.

Langston advises some of New Zealand’s leading CEOs and boards and is co-founder & Partner at leading strategy and implementation company Pivot & Pace.

He says Trump’s protectionist policies, such as promised tariffs on imports, along with potentially volatile exchange and interest rates, could have a real impact on New Zealand businesses either through direct exports or impacts to other trading partners.

“If Trump actions his economic agenda with the pace he has started his presidency we could be in for a rocky ride, and most Kiwi businesses aren’t prepared.”

Langston says Kiwi businesses need to wake up and understand the impact that geo-political change, coupled with climate change and AI, will have on our economy.

“Change has been relentless and it’s going to keep coming at us. With Trump promising to transform the US economy, change is the only constant. With this change also comes new opportunities for the agile and change ready.”

To be prepared, Langston believes boards need to challenge their leaders.

“A question I’m asking, and that I’m hearing boards asking, is how do we prepare a business to be constantly change ready? Leaders must be connected to their people, their organisation, and the markets they’re in and have the skills to identify change early and adapt quickly.”

Langston says owning the voice of the customer is also critical. “Make sure you know your customer better than anyone else and have a laser-sharp focus on building strong relationships and growing your customer base.”

The final piece of the puzzle, according to Langston, is for businesses to create momentum and confidence.

“Leaders need to map out what success looks like and then break that down into smaller chunks, so it’s not so overwhelming. Ask yourself, what does the first quarter need to look like and how do you make sure you’re on track. “When you reach a goal, even if it seems small, celebrate it. Then review, iterate, adapt and do it again. Success breeds success, and people like to be well led and part of a winning team.”

Langston says while it’s going to be a tough slog in 2025, and whilst some businesses won’t make it, the secret to business success will be mastering the skill of leading in this environment of constant change.

“Leaders are not paid to make the inevitable happen. As soon as they realise that and grow the skills and muscle to lead through change, opportunities will come and business will thrive, even in the uncertainty of the Trump era.”

Looking for Global Trade Support?

Access expert guidance and best practices when you need it with our Global Trade membership, from $1,260/yr + GST.