Running a small business is no small feat. Every purchase, every invoice, and every supplier relationship counts. But as your business grows, so does the complexity of managing procurement. This is where a purchase order (PO) system can help. Not sure if you need one? Let’s look at the benefits of using a purchase order system and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your business. What is… Read more
Imagine this – you’re sitting in a cosy café with your favourite latte, daydreaming about your perfect retirement. Is it beachside lounging? Surfing the dunes of Dubai? Or maybe living quietly in the countryside, tending to a little garden? Whatever your vision looks like, the looming question remains the same for all of us: “How much do I actually need to retire comfortably?” Spoiler alert: there isn’t one universal answer.… Read more
Buying a business is an exciting step that can lead to financial independence and personal fulfilment. Therefore, when buying a business, you want to make sure you know exactly what you are going into. This means understanding the commercial viability of the business you are going to purchase so that you can make a well-reasoned decision as to whether or not you will buy it. Consequently, you must understand the… Read more
Running a business comes with countless moving parts. From managing projects and keeping the team on the same page to ensuring profitability, it can feel overwhelming. That’s where a job management system comes in—a single tool that can help streamline your operations, reduce errors, and boost overall efficiency. But how do you know if a job management system is right for you? And if it is, how do you select… Read more
Workplace policies provide a framework for employers and employees to understand their rights, responsibilities, expectations and standards of behaviour at work. Policies help to create a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Critically, they provide clear guidelines for employers and employees on how to handle different situations that may arise in the workplace. By having clear and enforceable policies in place, businesses… Read more
Starting a business is an exciting time. Maybe you’re launching a dream project with a close friend or teaming up with a few like-minded partners to bring an idea to life. But as thrilling as the early stages of running a company can be, it’s essential to think ahead – especially when it comes to setting up a shareholders agreement. Wondering, “Is this something my business really needs?”. The answer… Read more
Finding the right premises for your business can be a stressful process. However, once you have found the perfect premises, there are still numerous matters to think about. This article will explore what you need to consider as a tenant before entering into a commercial lease, including: whether the premises are suitable for your business; the costs of entering into the lease; and key clauses to include in the lease.… Read more
Think about the last time you gave or received feedback. Did it inspire growth and improvement, or did it leave someone feeling deflated? Constructive feedback, when done right, is a powerful tool for driving success. But it’s a fine line – getting it wrong can do more harm than good. For business owners, managers, and team leaders, learning to give and receive constructive feedback effectively isn’t just a nice skill… Read more
Are you an entrepreneur wondering how to fund your next big idea? Or maybe you’re an investor curious about tapping into the world of innovative startups? Crowdfunding could be the solution you’re looking for. Crowdfunding isn’t just about raising money—it’s about building a community, validating your ideas, and creating exciting opportunities. But how does it work, and how can you make it work for you? Stick around as we break… Read more
A trade mark is a vital tool in protecting your business and building your brand. It can bring value to your business, protect your products from competitors and help create a brand that customers are loyal to. In this article, we will explain what a trade mark is, and the basics of trade mark registration. What is a Trade Mark? A trade mark is a sign that you use to… Read more
For many business owners, the day-to-day demands of running a business can make long-term planning seem like a distant concern. But, failing to plan for succession can put your business—and its legacy—at significant risk. The question you need to ask yourself is: Is hope your exit plan, or do you have a strategy? The reality of succession planning Succession planning involves identifying and developing new leaders who can replace old… Read more
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, interacting face to face with clients and prospects may seem passé. In fact, face time is more important than ever. For one, you’ll stand apart from your competitors who only touch base with their customers via email, social media, and virtual conferencing. And by hosting in-person events that attract new leads as well as existing customers, you’ll be able to create trust and strengthen ties.… Read more
When you’re running a business, every day feels like a balancing act. Emails, meetings, planning strategies—it’s overwhelming. But what if the secret to long-term success wasn’t massive overhauls or inspiring “aha” moments? What if it was small, consistent changes that compound over time? That’s the premise of James Clear’s bestseller Atomic Habits, and it’s a game-changer for modern business owners. Here’s how some of the book’s most powerful lessons can… Read more
Imagine receiving a call from what sounds like your boss, urgently requesting a fund transfer. Or maybe you’re asked to verify your identity using a government ID—except the person on the other end has a near-perfect AI-generated fake of your ID card. Scenarios like these aren’t far-fetched anymore. AI-powered fraud is growing rapidly, and both businesses and individuals need to understand the risks and how to defend themselves. AI-powered fraud… Read more
In a crowded marketplace, standing out can be a real challenge. One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is the testimonial—a genuine account of your customers’ positive experiences with your business. These success stories not only build trust and credibility but also can significantly boost your sales and brand reputation. If you’re a small business owner looking to harness the power of testimonials, this guide is for you.… Read more
is crucial for small business owners. Even if your business is profitable, poor cash flow management can create significant challenges. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you avoid a cash flow crisis and ensure your business remains financially healthy. Understanding cash flow Cash flow refers to the money moving in and out of your business. Cash inflows come from sales, interest earned, and investments. Cash outflows cover… Read more
For small business owners, figuring out the difference between annual leave and long service leave can feel like trying to crack a secret code. Rules, jargon… seriously, who made this stuff so complicated? Whether you’re trying to keep your business compliant or foster a happy, productive team, this guide will break it all down so you’ll know exactly how Australia’s leave entitlements work, how they accrue, and how best to manage them in your… Read more
If you’re a business owner, chances are you’re juggling a lot—keeping your team motivated, negotiating with partners, meeting customers’ needs, and trying to build meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world. It’s easy to feel like you’re on a treadmill going at double speed. But here’s the thing—no matter how much technology changes the way we do business, one truth remains constant: your success will always depend on how well… Read more
Social media can feel overwhelming. With so much noise and so many platforms, where do you start? The truth is, a great social media strategy can transform how you connect with customers and help to grow your business. The reach and accessibility of social media platforms are unprecedented. They connect businesses with a vast audience, in real-time. Besides their broad reach, social media platforms also serve as a valuable tool… Read more
In the hustle and bustle of managing a small business, it’s easy to overlook one of the most powerful tools at your disposal—active listening. While it might sound simple, mastering the art of active listening can transform your workplace, enhance relationships, and significantly impact your business’s success. What is active listening? Active listening goes beyond merely hearing words; it involves fully understanding, interpreting, and responding to the conversation. Heather R.… Read more
Change is inevitable in any business, but it’s rarely easy—especially when it comes to managing morale. Whether you’re restructuring your team, implementing new processes, or pivoting your business strategy, major transitions can leave employees feeling uncertain, disengaged, or even overwhelmed. If you’re a change leader or small business owner, you’re probably asking yourself, “How can I guide my team through this while keeping morale intact?” You’re in the right place.… Read more