Everyone talks about “digital transformation” like it’s some of complex formula. But here’s the truth:
If you’re not solving real problems, you’re just stacking tools on top of chaos. In a time where every second startup is “disrupting” something, clarity and cohesion are what actually win.
For Calculated Conversations #39, I sat down with Ms. Michelle Janse van Rensburg, the CEO of Nimacc Business Lounge, a respected Business Growth Specialist, and someone who’s led over 400 digital transformation projects across multiple industries. We spoke about what it really takes to build a business that lasts in the digital age.
She shares why problem-solving matters more than knowing every system, how to avoid the biggest financial mistakes most founders make, and why grit might be your best asset in business.
Here is what she had to say:
1. As a business growth specialist and CEO, what advice would you give to young entrepreneurs or professionals looking to break into the field of digital transformation?
Focus less on the tech, and more on the problem it solves. Digital transformation isn’t about chasing the latest shiny app — it’s about strategic problem-solving. There will always be a newer tool with a flashier feature, but if you’re not solving a clear business pain point, you’re just adding noise. Build your expertise around integrating tech that truly serves the business, ensuring systems talk to each other and drive real results. Don’t fall for the trap of multiple tools creating multiple versions of the truth. Clarity and cohesion win every time.
2. You’ve worked with a variety of businesses, from startups to established firms. What skills do you think younger generations need to develop to stay competitive in the ever-evolving tech and finance industries?
Problem-solving is the skill that sets people apart — especially in digital transformation, where the tools constantly evolve but the need to solve business pain points never changes. It’s not about knowing every system, it’s about having the ability to figure things out, connect the dots, and deliver real solutions.
But skills alone aren’t enough. You need grit — that inner resilience and perseverance to keep showing up, learning, and pushing through when it gets tough. Grit isn’t a traditional skill, but it’s the trait that determines how well you apply every skill you’ve got.
3. Digital transformation can seem intimidating. What’s one simple first step young professionals can take to familiarize themselves with the technologies shaping the future of business?
Start with the basics: accounting tech. Every business, no matter the size or industry, needs solid financial infrastructure. Tools like Xero are foundational. Once you understand the numbers, you can build anything. From there, expand into automation platforms, ERP solutions and CRM systems — but always anchor it in business value.
4. With your expertise in financial management and strategy, what are some common financial mistakes young business owners make, and how can they avoid them?
They confuse momentum with profit. Passion is great, but passion without performance is just noise. Too many avoid the financials because they’re “boring” or intimidating. But what you don’t measure, you can’t manage. From day one, get clear on your numbers — revenue, margins, cash flow. Treat it like a business, not a hobby. Often, the growth you’re chasing is sitting in the tasks you keep delaying. It’s not a time issue — it’s a priority issue.
5. You’ve been at the forefront of helping businesses integrate digital solutions. What emerging technology do you think young people should learn about now to prepare for future business landscapes?
Start learning no-code and low-code automation platforms like Zapier, Make (formerly Integromat), Airtable, or AppSheet. These tools are transforming how businesses operate — allowing lean teams to automate tasks, connect apps, and build workflows without needing full-time developers. As companies continue to cut inefficiencies and scale smarter, these platforms are becoming the backbone of operational efficiency — not just for startups, but for global enterprises too. The demand for automation isn’t slowing down — it’s accelerating, and those who can design and deploy these systems will be in high demand.
Also, you can’t go wrong investing in cybersecurity knowledge. As everything moves to the cloud and cyber threats rise, businesses — especially small to medium ones — need support to stay protected. Whether it’s data compliance, secure cloud architecture, or threat detection, cybersecurity will remain a mission-critical field for decades to come. It’s not just technical — it’s trust. And trust is the most valuable currency in business today.
6. What do you think is the most important mindset or attitude for young professionals to adopt if they want to succeed in today’s fast-paced business world?
Adopt the mindset that everything is figure-out-able. Get comfortable solving problems, not avoiding them. Don’t let emotions dictate your consistency — feelings will come and go, but structure builds momentum. As a woman of faith, I believe God is a God of structure and order, and your life and business should reflect that. Show up with discipline, stay focused, and lean into your faith when the pressure comes. That’s how you thrive, not just survive.
This conversation with Ms. Michelle Janse van Rensburg reminded me how easy it is to overcomplicate business. It’s not about chasing every new tool or trying to sound smart. It’s about solving real problems and doing it with clarity.
She has seen what works and what doesn’t. She cuts through the fluff and gets to the stuff that actually moves a business forward. I learnt a lot from her, and I think you will too.
If something here made you pause, share it with someone who needs to hear it too. These are the conversations that help us build smarter, not just louder.
You can check out more of her work here:
📌 LinkedIn Profile
📌 Company Website
Thanks again to Ms. Janse van Rensburg for being part of Calculated Conversations. This one was special.
Stay Calculated!
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