In a world where technology, regulations, and cultural shifts have revolutionized the business landscape, Sid Mohasseb, CEO of Anabasis, Inc., emphasizes the importance of synchronizing stakeholder interests rather than solely focusing on outcomes. Mohasseb advocates for a big-picture philosophy, known as the business model for change, which shifts the company’s focus towards reasons, motivations, and causes for decisions and actions.
Mohasseb believes that true competitiveness in this constantly evolving world can only be achieved by redefining approaches and focusing on evolving reasons instead of outcomes. He suggests that while outcomes like revenues and profits are important, businesses must also satisfy qualitative reasons that drive people to buy products, be employed, invest in visions, partner with missions, and accept organizations as value-added community members.
It is crucial for organizations to consider all stakeholders and provide true value to each pillar, including customers, employees, partners, investors, and society. When there is a lack of balance in value exchange with any pillar, challenges can arise, as seen in examples like Tesla, Reddit, and the Detroit Three automakers. To avoid creating imbalances, business leaders should maintain a mindset of serving all pillars simultaneously, stay aware of the reasons driving each pillar, and have the courage to uphold value delivery across all levels.
According to Mohasseb, sustained competitive advantage goes beyond short-term profits or revenue growth. He believes that the purpose of a business is not solely to make money but to deliver value through action from employees, partners, investors, society, and customers. To achieve sustained prosperity, businesses must shift their focus from outcome-based planning to reason-based exploration, from seeking higher revenues to pursuing evolving reasons, and from internal expectations of outcomes to harmonizing value with all pillars.
Forbes Business Council, of which Mohasseb is a member, is a prominent growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Mohasseb’s expertise, as a serial entrepreneur, author, professor, innovation leader, venture investor, and adviser, highlights the importance of embracing a holistic approach that prioritizes stakeholder interests and values over solely focusing on outcomes in the modern business landscape. Through this shift in mindset, businesses can pave the way for sustained growth, competitiveness, and prosperity in an ever-changing world.
