In conversation with Simon Calver, former CEO of LOVEFiLM

From the helm of LOVEFiLM, Simon Calver witnessed the digital revolution transform consumer expectations and business strategies. He also honed his understanding of sustainable corporate growth, a vital topic in the fast-paced modern era of industry. 

In this exclusive interview for Just Entrepreneurs, Sophie Wheeldon sat down with Simon Calver, executive coach and business speaker, to learn the secrets of 21-st century corporate success.

Compared to your experience as CEO of LOVEFiLM, how have consumer expectations evolved during the 21st century and how can businesses adapt their engagement strategies to accommodate?  

“I think this is key to success for most businesses. We need to bring the consumer or client back to the centre of what we do, we need to understand their pain points so we can solve them.

“But also, we need to challenge ourselves, to improve their experience. The whole user experience, the whole in-store experience or the client experience is going to be critical for success. And that's where I think technology changes are going to help support that area going forward.

“I think expectations are going to be raised significantly. People now are not going to settle for second or third best, so all companies out there better be on their mettle and start putting the customer first in all of their transactions.”

Considering your vast experience growing market-leading businesses, what are your top three tips for driving sustainable corporate growth?

“I think this is the Holy Grail, isn't it - not only growth but sustainable growth?

“I think there are three things that you need to do. First of all, you need to build the right organisation. That means sometimes getting rid of people who have been there a while.

“First division people work with first division people, and second division people like to work with third division people because they don't like to be challenged. You've got to set the bar high on organisation and talent.

“The second thing you've got to do is really know what you need to focus on. The key performance indicators or measures that you're looking at day in, day out, are going to make a difference and drive growth.

“The third point is to be prepared to take risks, innovate, change, ensure that you're changing to improve those key metrics. Use adaptability and flexibility as a strategic advantage over your competition.

“I think if you can do those things well, so the right team focussed on the right things with the right mentality and flexibility, you have a real chance of succeeding.”

How do you manage the pressure of leading such financially successful businesses?

“It is a lot easier running a successful business than it is a business that’s in administration. I think, ultimately, what you need to do is have a real focus on what makes a difference.

“You need to drive that all the way through the organisation. So communication, employee engagement become key. I think the more you have clarity about where you want to take the business and what you want to do, the more likely you are to succeed in it.

“Keep it simple, don't overcomplicate it and make sure everybody understands what you're trying to do. From the person working in the basement to the people in the executive suite, they all need to understand exactly what you're doing and why you're doing it to drive the business forward.

“I think the other thing is when things are going well, don't take all the credit for it, because there are other reasons as well; and when things aren't going as well, don't feel as though it's only you that's done something wrong.

“You're never as good as a good day and you're never as bad as a bad day.”

What is one piece of advice you would give to yourself at the start of your career?

“I think the ultimate thing would be, try and experiment with different things in different companies with different functions, and working in different parts of the business. Then, when you find your passion, absolutely double down, live and breathe it because you're much more effective when you find your passion for things you like doing in business.

“You have to stick at it. You must have a long term plan and think about, ‘what skills and experiences do I need to have,’ then stick with it and follow your passions.”