Category: Entrepreneurship

6 Efficient Automation Tips for Business Processes in 2023

Posted on by Alex

Automation has become an integral part of businesses in recent years. It not only helps reduce manual labor but also provides a high level of accuracy, improves efficiency, and reduces errors. The success of automation depends on how effectively it is implemented in the business processes. Here are some ways to enhance business automation:

Identify the right processes for automation

The first step in enhancing business automation is identifying the right automation processes. Not all processes are suitable for automation. Identify the processes that are repetitive, time-consuming, and have a high chance of errors. These processes are ideal candidates for automation. Once you have identified the processes, prioritize them based on their impact on business operations.

Evaluate the available automation technologies

Once you have identified the processes to be automated, evaluate the available automation technologies. There are different types of automation technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotic process automation (RPA), and machine learning (ML). Each technology has its strengths and weaknesses. Choose the technology that is best suited for your business processes.

Integrate automation with existing systems

Integrating it with the existing systems is essential to enhance business automation. Communication with other systems should be possible between the automation technologies such as ERP, CRM, and HRIS. This integration will ensure that data is shared seamlessly across systems and the automation technology can access the required data to perform its functions.

Ensure data quality

Automation is highly dependent on data. If the data is inaccurate, incomplete, or inconsistent, it can lead to errors in the automation process. Therefore, it is essential to ensure data quality before implementing automation. This can be done by identifying the data sources, cleansing the data, and creating data governance policies.

Test and optimize the automation process

Once the automation process is implemented, it is essential to test and optimize it. This involves monitoring the automation process, identifying issues, and resolving them. It also involves analyzing the automation process’s performance and identifying improvement opportunities. Continuous optimization of the automation process can lead to increased efficiency and accuracy.

Train employees

Automation may require employees to learn new skills or adapt to new working methods. Therefore, it is essential to train employees on new processes and technologies. This will help reduce resistance to change and ensure employees can work effectively with the latest automation processes.

In conclusion, enhancing business automation requires identifying the right processes for automation, evaluating the available automation technologies, integrating automation with existing systems, ensuring data quality, testing and optimizing the automation process, and training employees. Automation can significantly benefit businesses, but its success depends on how effectively it is implemented and managed. By following these steps, businesses can enhance their automation processes and improve efficiency and accuracy.

5 Side Hustle Ideas To Make Extra Money In 2023

Posted on by Alex

The pandemic has pushed many people to rethink their career paths and explore new avenues of income. Side hustles have become a popular option for those seeking additional income streams. With the sudden popularity of the gig economy and technological advancements, there are plenty of side hustles to choose from in 2023. Here are five of the best side hustles to consider.

Online Tutoring

Online tutoring has become a lucrative side hustle with the shift toward online learning. Whether it’s math, science, or language tutoring, the demand for online tutors will be much higher in 2023. Platforms like Chegg, TutorMe, and Skooli offer opportunities for tutors to connect with students globally. Online tutoring provides flexibility in terms of hours and location, making it a perfect side hustle for those passionate about teaching.

E-commerce

E-commerce has been on the rise for years, and the pandemic has only accelerated its growth. Starting an online store on platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon allows you to sell products from anywhere in the world. You can create your own products or source products from other suppliers and actually resell them at a markup. With the right marketing strategy, e-commerce can be a highly profitable side hustle.

Delivery Services

The pandemic has seen a surge in demand for delivery services, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. Companies like UberEats, DoorDash, and Grubhub offer opportunities for delivery drivers to earn extra income by delivering food from local restaurants. With the rise of online shopping, delivery services for packages and groceries are also in high demand. Platforms like Instacart and Shipt provide opportunities for drivers to deliver groceries to customers’ doorsteps.

Freelance Writing

Freelance writing has been a popular side hustle for years, and with the rise of content marketing, it’s expected to continue to be in high demand in 2023. Freelance writers can create content for websites, blogs, and social media platforms. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr provide opportunities for writers to connect with clients globally. Freelance writing offers flexibility in terms of hours and location, making it a perfect side hustle for those with solid writing skills.

Virtual Assistance

With the rise of remote work, virtual assistance has become a popular side hustle. Virtual assistants offer assistance to various businesses and individuals from anywhere in the world. Tasks may include scheduling appointments, managing email accounts, and social media management. Platforms like Zirtual and Fancy Hands provide opportunities for virtual assistants to connect with clients globally.

In conclusion, the gig economy has opened up numerous opportunities for side hustles in 2023. From online tutoring to virtual assistance, there are plenty of options for those seeking additional income streams. With the right skills and a bit of entrepreneurial spirit, a side hustle can turn into a lucrative career.

3 Surefire Tips On Empowerment and How To Engage Your Employees

Posted on by Gary

With the different industries slowly opening up after being upended by the pandemic, business owners are now re-calibrating for immediate strategies to achieve their long-term organizational goals.

SKYBIZ, the business solutions arm of SKY Cable Corporation, rolls out some important tips and solutions that will help employers grow both their business and their employee’s morale in this post-lockdown era.

Encourage a favorable set-up

The remote set-up became the new standard in most businesses, employees are able to go on with their daily tasks while working in the comfort of their homes, connecting with their peers purely online. Now that a lot of industries have gone back to their pre-Covid set-up and with the hybrid work arrangement gaining popularity, business owners should allow for more flexibility for employees to get their work done either at home or in the office.

A comfortable working environment is crucial for employees’ productivity, performance, and job satisfaction. Whether you are working from home or back to the office, the physical space where work is done should be conducive for every employee to excel daily.

Engage professional and personal growth

A well-balanced life is something that both employers and employees should strive for. Businesses will continue to grow if their people also grow, hence, it’s important to make the workplace a safe place where employees can unleash their maximum potential professionally and personally.

Most companies have incorporated different activities and practices that can boost the morale of their employees. A shared activity outside the workplace like a Monday morning reflection over coffee or a Friday night sports fest will strengthen the working relationship within the company allowing employees to feel more at ease and closer with their peers.

Invest in tools that empower

With most of the work transactions and meet-ups done digitally, businesses should invest in a reliable service provider and solutions tools that will empower them to grow their business in this digital age.

SKYBIZ is extending its BizTastic BunDeals with its Biz Broadband Connect and BizFiber Connect plans that include reliable business-grade internet connection for SMEs suited for their day-to-day activities, bundled with a three-month Microsoft 365 and a voucher from ABS-CBN Dash or Grab.

4 Simple Ways to Wake Up Happier Tomorrow

Posted on by Alex

Granted, some mornings are better than others! No matter what the mood or situation, you’ll be thanking yourself silly if you follow these four easy steps before leaving the house every morning. They will ensure you start your day off positively and with an air of complete determination and purpose.

1. I am just as good as the person next to me.

Always remember that the person you’re comparing yourself to will always be comparing themselves to someone too. You never know; it could even be you! Although a little bit of extra push and determination can come from comparisons, making daily comparisons to others can be very detrimental to a woman’s thought process. Constantly thinking ‘she’s much skinnier than me’ or, ‘she likes him more than she likes me’ is simply pure negativity. Remember that you are on the exact path in life you’re supposed to be on, and everyone has a different path. The time taken to stop and look around at everyone else’s paths will slow you down on your own.

2. Today, I will be brilliant.

I find this to be very important. Every morning I wake up, look in the mirror and say (out loud), ‘today, I will be brilliant!’ There are a few reasons for this – I promise there is a method to the madness. The first reason is that I like to use my voice before I have to speak to anyone else and embarrass myself with the husky cough we all know too well because the ole’ vocal cords aren’t warmed up. The second and more important reason is that positive self-talk is really important to a successful outlook on life.

3. I deserve the best

I think this is something women are constantly compromising on, and you know what? I’m sick of it, ladies! Everyone deserves the absolute best when it comes to important matters of life! Now I’m not talking about having the perfect espresso every morning from your local brew house; I’m talking much bigger picture! Things like relationships, jobs, and friends. Yes, finding a balance between the three is hard, but simply aiming for the best will push you in the right direction. Settling for ‘just ok’ or ‘average’ should be a thing of the past!

4. Say Cheese!

Smiling as you walk out of the front door can be one of the most rewarding things you can do all day. It can truly set the tone for the rest of your day. The mere act of smiling releases endorphins and initiates a chemical reaction in your brain that forces happiness to conquer any feeling of unease. I find this technique especially useful when I’ve had one of those terrible mornings where everything that can go wrong does go wrong! Even though you’re in a state wherein the SheWitch Banshee from Hell would be afraid of you, forcing a smile will help you leave negativity behind you.

Entrepreneur Spotlight: Homegrown Basketball Australia… What Is This All About?

Posted on by Alex

Homegrown Basketball Australia (HGBA) is a community-based sporting association that started off as a small group of interested basketball players and enthusiasts playing social basketball games in 2012. It was later established as an organisation by its founders, Karlo Basa, Alfred Sayas, and Cromwell Alvarez.

HGBA prides itself on being the seasoned basketball influencer in Western Sydney and the Sydney Filipino community. Its presence has continued to expand all over Australia and is commonly recognised by International Filipino Basketball associates as the long-standing leader in Filipino Basketball in Australia.

The brand continues to be associated as the driver of the basketball movement in Western Sydney as it constantly elevates and redefines its services throughout the years. This has resulted in wide exposure and strong influence over the Basketball and Filipino community at large.

Homegrown Basketball provides the following services:

Western Sydney Basketball Association (WSBA)

WSBA is the Basketball League entity of Homegrown Basketball Australia, which officially commenced its Basketball League operations in Autumn 2013. In its tenth year and 16th basketball season, WSBA has established itself as the leading amateur Basketball League in Western Sydney, managing between 40-50 teams every season.

Homegrown Basketball Academy (HG Academy)

HG Academy is the basketball coaching and player development entity of Homegrown Basketball. Accredited coaches and trainers deliver the program in an innovative and fun environment, providing several options for all ages and skill levels.

National Basketball Training Centre (NBTC)

Homegrown Basketball Australia is the tenured partner of the SM NBTC Basketball Pathway to Philippine UAAP and NCAA Basketball. The program provides for Philippine Collegiate Basketball aspirants to participate in the extensive training and development program with an opportunity to be selected to represent Australia in the annual SM NBTC Global Games, the scouting platform for Philippine NCAA and UAAP coaching and scouting staff.

HGBA continues to build on its rich history as they endeavour to develop the sport of Basketball and its presence in Australia. For more information on its services and how to be part of the Homegrown Basketball community, please contact the Homegrown Basketball admin at info@homegrownbasketball.com.au.

Can You Really Use Netflix’s Global Smash Hit Series Squid Game To Teach Economics??

Posted on by Alex

First-year business and economics students all over the world may soon be using Netflix’s global smash hit series Squid Game to learn complex economic theories.

A new paper by the Monash Business School has revealed how integrating the strategies of the smash-hit dystopian series Squid Game can revolutionise the way students learn game theory, one of the most challenging concepts of introductory economics.

Researchers from the Monash Business School have developed a range of innovative and interactive teaching tools based on insights from Squid Game to provide educators and students with a fresh approach to teaching and learning one of the most demanding topics at the introductory economics level.

And from semester one, first-year microeconomics students at the Monash Business School will use the Squid Game insights.

“Game theory is important because it helps us understand decision making in strategic situations,” says Associate Professor Wayne Geerling from the Monash Business School and co-author of the paper “Using Squid Game to Teach Game Theory”.

“The players in Squid Game are a metaphor for companies, and we have examined the strategic interactions of Squid Game in comparison to real-life business. How do players, ie companies, interact. Game theory has a lot of real-world applications, analysing how actions influence others and the strategic implications of such.”

Associate Professor Geerling has identified a number of scenes from the immensely popular television series that can be used to teach game theory principles. He has developed a series of teaching guides that can be adopted or adapted by any instructor anywhere around the world.

The economics profession has been notorious for its continued reliance on ‘chalk and talk’ to deliver lectures. Still, a significant amount of research pioneered by Associate Professor Geerling and his colleagues has focussed on innovative ways to teach economics concepts.

“Many students struggle to think in a strategic manner when the material is taught through traditional methods alone. Pop culture, such as Squid Game, can be used as an effective medium to break down barriers to learning because it taps into everyday life and allows students to see connections between abstract theory and real-world applications,” he says.

Squid Game revolves around 456 players, all of whom are heavily indebted, risking their lives to play a series of six children’s games against each other – with a deadly twist. The reward for the winner is a sizeable bounty. For everyone else, the consolation prize is death.

In Squid Game the players are making decisions in real time without full information and to survive they must work out their optimal strategies to maximise their chances of winning.

Just like the cut-throat real world of business.

“The Netflix series focuses on six games, we’ve chosen three of those to represent the best practical applications of game theory for students,” says Associate Professor Wayne Geerling.

Using Squid Game to teach game theory reflects Associate Professor Geerling’s passion for revolutionising how we teach economics and promote active learning techniques in class using pop culture.

“Despite the growth in teaching resources and the ability for educators to integrate innovative teaching practices into their curriculum more easily, the vast majority of educators continue to teach using a traditional lecture.”

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Medianet

Editorial credit: DANIEL CONSTANTE / Shutterstock.com

The Perfect Side Hustle For You, According To Your Star Sign

Posted on by Gary
By Michelle Baltazar

Are you destined to be an influencer? Hint: Your side hustle might be written in the stars.

Ever wondered why some people just ease into podcasting while others make ideal virtual assistants? Our personality can dictate which side hustle will come naturally while others are a pain.

For example, if you’re a perfectionist, video live-streaming will just do your head in. But if you’ve got a sense of adventure, you’ve got YouTuber written all over your future digital career.

To find out your perfect side business according to your star sign, check out these fun musings from Psychic World and you decide:

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Become a freelance blogger/ghostwriter

The best writers are those who tell a story with their thoughts, in a uniquely identifiable way. That’s what makes Aquariuses perfect for the job of freelance bloggers or ghostwriters – they are rebellious, free-spirited, eccentric, and revolutionary.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Become a graphic designer
The ethereal Pisces will love to be able to make money from a creative side gig. Their love of escaping reality through art/design can translate into a great moneymaking side project.

Aries (March 21 – April 19): Become a streamer/YouTuber
Rams will be up for anything adventurous. An Aries is a self-driven natural leader so will thrive at the chance to create their own content online. Whatever the theme, their playful personas are bound to attract interest from the get-go.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Invest in stocks
Tauruses are laid-back but resilient. They like to play the long game, and their focus won’t falter as they fine-tune the perfect stock investment technique.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Livestream virtual events and games
These social butterflies will be feeling the impact of social distancing. What better way to stay connected with friends, millions of others and earn from it? Grab one device to play with, another to video chat with, and get playing!

Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Become an online tutor/teacher
With schools closed in New York until April 20th, there are many people with a lot of spare time; cancers will jump at this opportunity to help. Their compassion means they are well-suited to become an online tutor, helping children who are off school and those wanting to learn something new.

Leo (July 23 – August 22): Become a TikTok/Social media influencer
The coronavirus lockdown is the perfect opportunity for Leos to refine their already influential online presence! These theatrical divas love to be front and centre – and the opportunity to earn from the comfort of their own home is a persuading factor.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Become a virtual assistant
More than ever before, companies need help to stay afloat. Becoming a virtual assistant for struggling businesses will work in favour of Virgo’s hardworking, systematic and methodical nature.

Libra (September 23 – October 22): Teach a language
The exquisite taste of a Libra needs an exquisite side job to match. Teaching a language is an intellectual fit that also fulfills their need to please and help others.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Write eBooks

Often misunderstood and extremely enigmatic, a true Scorpio’s thoughts would make a fascinating eBook to read, and a perhaps lucrative online side hustle to have!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Become a podcaster
The Sagittarius has had a few adventures in their lifetime, and always has a million stories to tell. What better way to entertain listeners, and earn themselves money, than re-telling these stories on a podcast?

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Learn to code and build websites
The strong Capricorn can conquer anything before them. Their unwavering focus, and (slightly obsessive) workaholic tendencies mean the technical challenge to learn how to code can make for potentially high yields.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. If you want to be a podcaster, YouTuber, graphic designer, and blogger, go for it!

Source: The Australian Filipina

Finalists Officially Announced For The Australian Women’s Weekly Women of the Future Awards

Posted on by Gary

The Australian Women’s Weekly, in partnership with La Trobe Financial, is proud to present our six outstanding young finalists, selected from a competitive field of entrants in the ninth annual Women of the Future Awards.

Since 2013, the awards have been helping exceptional young women aged between 18 and 34 develop projects that transform lives. This year there was a spectacular array of impressive entries, with strong themes around disability, conservation, and consent.

The Women of the Future Finalists are:

·      Hannah Diviney of Missing Perspectives (NSW), a global publishing platform that seeks to address the marginalisation of women and girls across news, media, and democracy decision-making on a global scale.

·      Camille Goldstone-Henry of Xylo Systems (NSW), a cloud-based platform to connect, track and manage conservation projects.

·      Angelique Wan of Consent Labs (NSW), a youth-led not-for-profit organisation that revolutionises the discussion around sexual consent, harassment, and assault.

·      Mannie Kaur Verma of Veer Foundation (VIC), an organisation that works to prevent domestic violence and support victims in marginalised communities.

·      Molly Rogers and Emma Clegg of JAM the label (VIC), a clothing brand born out of the need for inclusive clothing for young people with disabilities.

·      Martina Ucnikova and Jessica Smith of She Runs (WA), a not-for-profit that supports women’s political and civic participation through the power of education and connection.

Their incredible stories are showcased in the December issue of The Australian Women’s Weekly, on sale Thursday, 4th November. In addition, each finalist will appear in a new a six-part series on podcast Short Black with Sandra Sully. Each Tuesday from October 26, the 10 News First acclaimed journalist, presenter and women’s advocate sits down with these emerging young entrepreneurs and campaigners to talk about their passion and determination to help make a difference.

The Editor-in-Chief of The Australian Women’s Weekly, Nicole Byers, said: “This year, we had a record number of entries and I am proud to announce our six finalists. They are inspirational, they all do incredible work, they are committed, smart, and full of excellent ideas and they’re shaping the way to help create positive change for a better future.”

The finalists will be flown to Sydney to attend the prestigious Women of the Future event on December 1, a much-anticipated date in the diary of some of Australia’s most influential and change-making women. The overall winner will be announced and receive more than $100,000 in cash and prizes to assist in reaching her business goals.

The panel of judges tasked with choosing one winner for the awards this year are: Ita Buttrose (AC OBE, Chair of the ABC); Yasmin Poole (Youth Advocate and Plan International Australia Ambassador); Julie Bishop (Australian National University Chancellor and Former Foreign Minister); Narelda Jacobs (Network 10 presenter and journalist); Tanya Plibersek (Federal Shadow Minister for Education and Women); Nicole Byers (Editor-in-Chief of The Australian Women’s Weekly and group Publisher Women’s Lifestyle & Food at Are Media); and Caterina Nesci (Director of ESG and International Partnerships at La Trobe Financial).

Australian Companies Win Big At 18th Annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business

Posted on by Alex

The Stevie® Awards for Women in Business, which shine a spotlight on female executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and organizations run by women, announced the 2021 winners.

The 18th annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business is an international competition produced by the creators of the prestigious International Business Awards® and American Business Awards®. The Stevie is widely regarded as the world’s premier business award.

More than 40 Australian organizations and individuals have won the Stevie Awards for Women in Business.

The Audacious Agency from the Gold Coast submitted nominations on behalf of Stevie-winning clients. Their clients won 27 Stevie Awards overall including seven Gold Stevies, 10 Silvers, and 10 Bronzes. The Audacious Agency won the program’s highest honor, the Grand Stevie Award, for the success of their client’s nominations.

Kids on the Spectrum (Melbourne, Victoria) won two Gold and one Silver Stevie Award. Kids on the Spectrum-Australian autism directory was launched in 2019 to provide parents a free national online directory to assist them in locating inclusive services, products, and events for their autistic family members. The directory’s founder, Anita Aherne felt the urgency to provide valuable free information with an aim of improving autistic outcomes in Australia.

Aherne said “Being acknowledged for developing Australia’s first national autism directory is exciting and overwhelming. To have Kids on the Spectrum awarded three Stevie awards is definitely a highlight of our business journey so far.”

Natalie Brennan, General Manager of Muffin Break in Sydney won two Gold Stevies Awards for Woman of the Year and Most Innovative Woman of the Year – Franchising. Muffin Break first opened its doors in Queensland in 1989. In 2021, with over 200 stores in Australia, all stores are locally owned & operated by our franchise partners who are proud of the communities they serve and the products they offer.

More than 1,800 nominations from organizations and individuals around the world were submitted to the awards this year for consideration in categories including COVID-19 Response, Entrepreneur of the Year, Executive of the Year, Most Innovative Company of the Year, and Startup of the Year, among others. More than 160 business professionals working in eight specialized judging committees determined the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Maggie Miller of Stevie Awards.

Meet The Shepreneur Behind The Cover Of The October 2021 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Em Hardwicke

Posted on by Jenny

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It took Em Hardwicke 40 years and the birth of her beautiful son to be truly comfortable in her own self, to love the person she is, and to be proud of her achievements and successes in life. Em’s son is her world. He is what inspires and motivates Em every day and she wants her son to know that anything is possible with passion, determination, and hard work.

It is this passion, determination, and hard work that has got her through some tough times and has given her the strength and courage to take on some big dreams and physical challenges over the years. She has trekked Kokoda, Everest Base Camp, Mont Blanc, Mt Meru and Mt Kilimanjaro. She has also competed in several ultra-marathons including the Ultra-Trail Australia 50km and 100km. She does these things, not to stand on a podium or to break any records – but to remind herself of what she is capable of and of the beauty this world has to offer. Doing these things reminds Em to always be the best version of herself.

For Em, like for so many others, 2020 was a year never to be forgotten… Australia battled the Snowy Mountains bushfires in January then COVID in March which saw her get stood down from her job and ultimately made redundant – leaving her without work and her family not knowing what was next.

Not one to let a setback deter her from achieving her goals, She refocussed and at the age of 46, after 25 years in Event Management, she’s now embarking on a career in Real Estate and Property Management, which is exciting for her giving her a new focus. However, she also couldn’t let all of her knowledge and experience in event management go to waste, so she took the opportunity to rebrand and relaunch. Hence, her Event Management Consulting business, Meraki Events and Public Relations as well as The Meraki Academy of Personal Development and Coaching were born.

MoneyCentral magazine recently caught up with Em to discuss her journey as an entrepreneur and here’s what went down:

When did your entrepreneurial flair first reveal itself?

I have always had determination and have always been a bit of a self-starter, but I guess my entrepreneurial flair first revealed itself after a stint living and working overseas and when I returned home to Australia there wasn’t much full-time work available within my industry. So I decided to set up my own business and freelance – this gave me a lot of flexibility and the opportunity to take on a number of projects at the same time and really diversify my skills and experience in different areas, making me more employable and more valuable within the Event Management industry.

In addition to working full time, I have four small businesses of my own… Meraki Events & Public Relations, The Meraki Academy of Personal Development & Coaching, Soul Purpose Body Products, and Jindy Treats.

Photographed by: STUDIO 49 / TONY PALLISER 2021

How did your life look like before being an entrepreneur?

I have always loved being busy and have always loved having variety in my days and in my work, so I think the biggest change I noticed when working for myself was the ability to be able to choose the projects I wanted to work on and the variety that my workdays took on.

As an entrepreneur, what is it that motivates and drives you?

Definitely the rewarding feeling when you pitch and land a new client… or when a new retailer chooses to take on your product. But I think the biggest motivator for me is customer satisfaction. I have always said that customer satisfaction is paramount to my success. If my customers and clients aren’t happy or aren’t satisfied with my work or my products, then I am not doing my job!

In one word, describe your life as an entrepreneur and explain why.

Passionate and Determined! Okay, so I know that is two words, but I truly believe I have passion and determination in equal measure.

It has not always been an easy ride and there have been disappointments along the way, but I have always got up, dusted myself off, and landed on my feet and I know it is my passion and determination that has allowed me to do that.

Photographed by: STUDIO 49 / TONY PALLISER 2021

What were your top three motivations for starting your business?

Circumstance, necessity, and opportunity… that combined with absolutely loving what I do and doing what I love.

What do you put your success down to?

Passion, determination, hard work, and a strong work ethic. It is also important to know your clients and be clear on the services and/or products you have to offer. Don’t spread yourself too thin – you are better off being really good at some things than mediocre at many things.

What would you say are the key elements for starting and running a successful business?

For me, it was all about having a clear plan about the products/services each of my businesses was to focus on and a clear target market. Without clarity, there is no direction. Without direction, you have no destination. I once read a quote that has stuck with me and always reminds me what is missing when I find myself stuck, or in a rut.

“Clarity has purpose and strength and brings with it the undeniable ability to move forthwith into our chosen direction.”

This is when I stop, reflect, refocus and gain the clarity I need to move forward.

Photographed by: STUDIO 49 / TONY PALLISER 2021

What are the three biggest challenges you have faced growing the business and how did you overcome them?

I think there are always different challenges at different times. When I first started my business, my biggest challenge was getting my foot in the door and getting people to take a chance on me, particularly if I was completely unknown to them.

Another challenge for me was not selling myself short or undercutting myself just to get a job – you have to know your worth and be able to sell that to a prospective client.

Overcoming these challenges was a challenge in itself as it largely came down to believing in myself and not taking the knockbacks and lost contracts personally.

I found as I won pitches and landed contracts, the door opened a little wider each time. I also did a lot of research about salaries, wages, and contract rates, and how to quote a job fairly so the client felt they were getting great service at a rate that was affordable, but I was also still charging at a rate that I knew I was worth for the work I was doing.

Knowledge and confidence was a big factor in overcoming these challenges.

Knowing the market, knowing your worth, and being confident in your ability.

Does the loneliness of the entrepreneur really exist? Is there such a thing?

I have never found entrepreneurship a lonely venture. Perhaps this is because I have always surrounded myself with a lot of people and have also, more often than not, had another job to give me some stability and human interaction while I have been starting and building my businesses.

Photographed by: STUDIO 49 / TONY PALLISER 2021

As you grew the business, what have been some of the most important leadership lessons you have learned?

Be clear on what your definition of success is for your business and do what is necessary to achieve those successes. Your definition of success will always change as the business grows, but so too does the plan and actions needed to achieve the new goals set for yourself and for your business.

My businesses are still small and all still growing at a pace I am happy and comfortable with. One of the biggest lessons I have learned along the way is to never let my business become bigger than I can, or want to, handle. I always remind myself that a business doesn’t have to be BIG conglomerates to be successful.

The other important leadership lesson I learned at a very young age, and one I apply to all aspects of my life. Always treat people the way you would like to be and would expect to be treated, and NEVER ask someone to do something you wouldn’t be willing to do yourself.

What do you hope to see happen in the near future for small businesses all over the world?

I truly believe small business needs to be nurtured and supported. There is absolutely a place in society and the world for big business and multi-national firms and operations, but I also believe that big businesses and multi-national firms are not the place for everyone, and nor should they be.

The pandemic has, in the blink of an eye, totally destroyed so many small businesses around the world and destroyed the lives of the people whose blood, sweat, and tears have gone into building these businesses.

I would love to see some of the big businesses and multi-national firms around the world, whose businesses have remained largely unaffected by the global pandemic, establish a series of small business grants to support many of these small businesses re-establish and re-build. There are a lot of amazing business minds in this world whose businesses have failed, by no fault of their own. Small business is an important part of society and all contribute to a country’s economy, but do not have the support and backing of deep pockets to keep them afloat when times get tough.

Photographed by: STUDIO 49 / TONY PALLISER 2021