Former Chamber President’s Warning: Be Cautious of Empty Promises

In the heart of Malta’s bustling Republic Street, where the echoes of history mingle with the hum of commerce, former Chamber of Commerce President, Marisa Xuereb, has a stark warning for the island’s business community. “Be wary of those who promise a lot,” she cautions, her words resonating in the very place where many a business deal has been struck.

Xuereb’s Departure and Her Message

Xuereb’s departure from the Chamber last month marked the end of an era. Her tenure, marked by resilience and pragmatism, saw the Chamber navigate through challenging times, including the global financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her final message, however, is not one of nostalgia but of caution. “I’ve seen many a business flourish on promises alone, only to crumble under the weight of unrealistic expectations,” she says, her eyes reflecting the wisdom of her years in the business world.

Promises vs. Reality: A Tale of Two Cities

Malta’s business scene is a tale of two cities – Valletta, the gleaming capital, and its less glamorous cousin, Birkirkara, where many a small business struggles to keep its head above water. Xuereb’s warning is not directed at the big players in Valletta’s glass and steel towers, but at the dreamers and the charlatans who prey on the hopes and aspirations of the little guy in Birkirkara’s narrow streets.

“I’ve seen too many businesses fall for the smooth talker who promises the moon and the stars,” Xuereb says, her voice laced with concern. “They promise high returns, quick growth, and easy solutions. But when the going gets tough, they’re nowhere to be found.”

Xuereb’s Advice: Due Diligence and Realism

Xuereb’s advice is simple yet profound. “Do your due diligence,” she urges. “Check the credentials, ask for references, and most importantly, keep your feet firmly on the ground. There are no shortcuts to success. It takes hard work, patience, and a healthy dose of realism.”

She also advises seeking professional advice. “Accountants, lawyers, and business mentors – they’re not just there to help you navigate the legalities and the numbers. They’re there to provide a reality check, to help you see the pitfalls and the opportunities, and to guide you through the maze of business.”

Xuereb’s final words are a call to action. “Let’s not be swayed by empty promises. Let’s be smart, let’s be realistic, and let’s build our businesses on solid ground. Because in the end, it’s not about the promises we’re made, but the promises we keep – to ourselves, to our businesses, and to our country.”