It takes a village to build business success

ONE of the biggest lessons Jodie Polik learned early in business was never to be. afraid to ask for help.

With two young children and a rapidly growing firm, JP Conveyancing Works, she knew she needed support – both professionally and personally.

“That made a world of difference,” she said.

“It takes a village. You can’t conquer anything on your own. Having that support network, workwise and in my personal life, meant so much.”

Growing up in regional Victoria, Polik began her career at a law firm, with no experience.

“I worked my backside off,” she said. “I told them I wasn’t scared to try anything.”

That willingness to try new challenges has underpinned her success.

“Even though I always have those butterflies in my stomach and overthink everything, you’ve just got to keep pushing through.”

The law firm closed because the owner fell ill. Polik, who was on maternity leave, completed a diploma in advanced conveyancing and launched a home-based business while raising her children.

“We moved into an office within six months because we hit the ground running well and truly,” she said.

Having never run a business, she turned to local conveyancers for advice.

“We’ve got a really good group down here. I know that I could ring any of them and ask a silly question,” she added.

“I remember going to visit them and picking their brains.”

She has never been embarrassed to seek help.

“I’ll never say that I know everything. I probably do doubt myself a little bit too much and will look for that reassurance and bounce ideas off other people, which in turn helps them as well, because often they’re feeling the same way.”

After years of hard work, the business she founded in her hometown Moe, in 2013, has grown, moving to a larger office, and opening a second office in a neighbouring town.

For Polik, success comes down to treating people well.

“It’s about always taking time for people, no matter what, and not thinking that you’re above anybody,” she said.

Trust, integrity and good communication, she confessed, are key to building genuine relationships.

She also fosters a relaxed, supportive work environment, from shared coffee breaks to lunchtime walks, creating a culture where people enjoy coming to work.

“It’s just building those relationships, so you’re happy and excited to go to work, but you’ve got those friendships as well,” she said.

“We all just take that time to talk to each other and care about each other’s family and what’s going on in life.”

Giving back to the local community is equally as important.

Having grown up locally, Polik said the support she has received inspires her to give back by sponsoring sports clubs and helping keep young people active.

Key behaviours of highly effective people

• Don’t be afraid to seek help
• Treat people well
• Stay grounded
• Create an enjoyable work culture

JODIE POLIK

My first car:

A purple Hyundai Excel

My Dream on wheels:

Hmmm that’s a hard one, as long as it has heated seats, I am happy!