Three lessons learned from successful SMEs over the past 27 years
August 2024
News
South Africa’s journey since the end of apartheid has been marked by significant economic and social transformation. Among the many stories of growth and resilience are those of SMEs that have not only survived, but thrived, in the changing landscape. From embracing innovation to nurturing talent, these businesses have valuable lessons to offer. Drawing parallels to its own 27-year journey, Pnet explores key insights from these success stories.
Embracing change and innovation
One of the most critical lessons from successful SMEs in South Africa is the importance of adapting to new technologies and market demands, to ensure sustained growth. For instance, in the early days post-apartheid, many businesses had to adapt quickly to a new regulatory environment and a more competitive market. Those that leveraged new technologies, such as the internet, gained a significant advantage.
Pnet’s journey mirrors this lesson. Founded as a job board, Pnet recognised the growing potential of online recruitment early on. The company has continually evolved, adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance its services. Today, Pnet isn’t just a job board, but a comprehensive online recruitment platform that leverages data insights to efficiently connect employers with the best talent.
Leveraging data and insights
In today’s data-driven world, the ability to harness and interpret data is crucial. Successful South African SMEs have used data analytics to drive decision making, optimise operations and enhance customer experiences. For instance, retailers have used purchasing data to tailor their product offerings, while service providers have analysed customer feedback to improve service delivery. By analysing trends in job postings and candidate behaviour, Pnet continuously improves its algorithms to match candidates with the most suitable job opportunities. This data-driven approach ensures that both employers and jobseekers have a seamless and efficient experience on the platform.
Investing in talent and employee development
Investing in talent and employee development has proven to be a critical success factor for SMEs. Companies that prioritise employee growth and create a positive work environment tend to have higher employee retention rates and better overall performance. For example, businesses that offer training programmes and career advancement opportunities often attract and retain top talent. Pnet understands the importance of talent development, both within its own organisation and for its clients. Through its Recruiter Blog, Pnet provides useful tips for attracting and retaining quality talent in a highly competitive job market.
and better overall performance. For example, businesses that offer training programmes and career advancement opportunities often attract and retain top talent. Pnet understands the importance of talent development, both within its own organisation and for its clients. Through its Recruiter Blog, Pnet provides useful tips for attracting and retaining quality talent in a highly competitive job market.
For more information contact Pnet, +27 10 140 3099, [email protected], www.pnet.co.za
Further reading:
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...
A strategic milestone for Conical Technologies
Conical Technologies
News
Conical Technologies has been appointed as the sole distributor in southern Africa for Mibbo, manufacturers of a vast array of products for the automation industry.
Read more...
Robotics TechTalk at UKZN
News
The Scientific Multidisciplinary Advanced Research Technology Lab at the University of KwaZulu-Natal recently held an exciting TechTalk. It was an opportunity to introduce students to the IEEE Robotics and Automation chapter, SAIMC, and the Robotics Association of South Africa.
Read more...
Top laboratory industry trends in the spotlight at analytica Lab Africa 2025
News
The future of laboratories and transformative diagnostic technologies will come under the spotlight in July at analytica Lab Africa, South Africa’s only trade fair for laboratory technology, analysis, biotechnology and diagnostics.
Read more...
Schneider Electric honoured with Gender Leader Award
Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has been awarded the Gender Leader Award at this year’s Africa CEO Forum. This award acknowledges those organisations operating in Africa that have shown a significant and continuous commitment to gender diversity and inclusion.
Read more...
Africa Automation Technology Fair 2025 closes on a high note
News
The Africa Automation Technology Fair 2025 officially wrapped up after three dynamic days at Gallagher Convention Centre, cementing its status as Africa’s leading platform for industrial automation, AI and IoT.
Read more...
A new generation of solar professionals
News
A new generation of solar professionals is rising in Cape Town. The second cohort of the Solar Youth Project has just completed an intensive eight-week training course and is ready to take on the next stage, 10 months of work experience.
Read more...
From the editor's desk: The age of superintelligence
Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
In this issue of
SA Instrumentation & Control we say farewell to our longstanding contributing editor, Michael Brown, who is retiring soon. His outstanding contribution over the years in the field of
...
Read more...
Driving digital transformation in the new wave
SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council
News
The latest presentation in the series ‘Knowledge Sharing 4 Industry’ will be held on Wednesday 25 June. It will be presented by Johan Potgieter, Cluster Industrial Software Leader for Schneider Electric, South Africa.
Read more...
Top laboratory industry trends in the spotlight at analytica Lab Africa 2025
News
The future of laboratories and transformative diagnostic technologies will come under the spotlight in July at analytica Lab Africa, South Africa’s only trade fair for laboratory technology, analysis, biotechnology and diagnostics.
Read more...