The managing director of Wellington development agency Smarketing Lab says small business owners should not delay decision-making just because it is an election year. Photo: 123rf
Small business owners pushing pause to wait and see how the next government might affect them risk losing months of productivity and growth, a business group warns.
Wellington development agency Smarketing Lab said the election-year phenomenon was baffling and wasted valuable time and resources.
"There's no excuse for it," managing director Assia Salikhova said.
"While there may be pressures and uncertainties surrounding elections, it is essential to recognise that very little changes.
"Prices, exchange rates, and technological advancements continue to shape the business landscape, irrespective of election outcomes."
Salikhova said any policy changes by an incoming government would be signalled well in advance and adopting a wait-and-see approach could stunt a businesses' growth.
"Unfortunately, the speed of decision-making is not keeping pace with change," she said.
"People feel overwhelmed, but trying to make sense of it all is impossible, perhaps even harmful."
Salikhova advised business owners to commit to making decisions promptly and efficiently, rather than to stagnate.
She also advised businesses to prioritise taking on digital tools and to embrace the changing environment.