S29 Ep4: Unity Amid the Chaos: Finding common ground in a de-stabilised society

Today we bring you the second conversation with ISF CEO Steve Durbin around the increasing impact of technology on society and business. Societies have always been divided, but how future divisions may manifest feels more uncertain than ever right now. In this episode, Steve and producer Tavia Gilbert offer an analysis of potential future scenarios, as well as practical tips for what organisations can do now to prepare.


Key Takeaways:
1. The future will be defined by technology and social media, leading to a shift away from traditional divisions and towards a more complex world where data and information are highly instantaneous and influential.
2. Leadership will need strong empathy, consolidation skills, and the ability to challenge/be challenged.
3. Leaders should assume imperfection and constantly update their situational awareness to make informed decisions. They also ought to prioritize simplicity and clear communication to build trust and drive success.

Tune in to hear more about:
1. Leadership and organisation in a rapidly changing world (4:44)
2. The role of businesses in society, including their potential to fill the void left by declining trust in traditional leadership models (9:58)
3. Information security and the importance of skepticism in the digital age (14:33)
4. Technology’s impact on information sharing and nationalism (18:33)
5. Trust and verification in social media and supply chains (22:35)
6. Leadership, adapting to change, and the importance of soft skills in a rapidly changing world (28:23)

Standout Quotes:
1. “Businesses have a new responsibility in the modern era … provide guidelines and stability in a time of deep division.” - Steve Durbin

2. “The one thing that is going to be so important that will differentiate the winners from the losers in the organisational stakes is: those organisations that are able to consolidate this overall sense of corporate purpose with purpose of the individual, whatever that looks like. And if we can do that, then I think that we'll create something that's particularly special and magic.” - Steve Durbin


Mentioned in this episode:

• Dear Infosec

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