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08
Mar
Read More5 steps to find your unique selling points
Have you ever had those awkward moments when you are trying to explain what your business does and the most you get out of the other person is a dazed look?
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04
Dec
Read MoreHow to Learn More about Your Competitors
There are many reasons why you need to learn more about your competitors but my three favourites are: To avoid their mistakes. Copy and build upon what they do right. Know their weak points when quoting against or taking their customers off them. Generally, benchmarking can be useful to find out about your competitors. Of course, benchmarking data does have its shortcomings. For example: it might be difficult to determine ideal sample sizes or find an exact business match, so you will need to dig deeper to mine the valuable information you need. Here are some easy ways to find out about your competitors:
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30
Nov
Read MoreSimple things you can do to improve customer service
Recently, I had quite an ‘interesting’ experience with customer service. I was on a call – including being put on hold – for more than 25 minutes trying to get one simple piece of information from my bank. In the time I was put on hold, I swear I could have written an entire blog post on customer service (or in this case, the total lack of it). While it seems I keyed in the ‘correct’ selection, their internal system was busy and sent me through to a different department. However, I wasn’t informed of this until 15 minutes into the conversation. When it came to light, I was transferred back to the correct department, forced to give my security details again and repeat my issue. Imagine my frustration at then having to be put through to a third department, at which point my patience began to dissolve. It’s not the first time this has happened, and it made me think about changing banks. When it comes to customer service, most people can reel out a list of complaints I’m sure most of us have experienced. What are the simple things you can do to improve your customer service?
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27
Nov
Read More6 steps to cope with the Christmas shopping madness
Christmas season is undoubtedly one of the best times for businesses. People are generally happy because of the long holidays, and more importantly – ready to spend their hard earned money on themselves and others. And judging from the “Click Frenzy” brouhaha last week, we know that consumers are mad about online shopping. According to a report by Getprice, more than 80% of consumers research online before making a purchase. Thus, it’s no surprise that MYOB research also shows that SMEs with a website were 53% more likely to see a rise in revenue. However, there’s usually more competition for the shopper dollar this Christmas season so companies should plan a range of tactics to attract customers. Try raising your profile via targeted marketing, advertising and promotions to help gain a competitive advantage. They don’t have to cost a bomb – try public relation activities or strategic partnership. In addition, here are 6 steps you can do to gear up for success this silly season.
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11
Oct
Read MoreDos and don’ts when merging or taking on a business partner
I believe I merged successfully in 2009 with my current business partner. At the same time, we saw another operation go through a similar merge, but their approach led to confusion, resentment and eventual break up. While every merger has its problems, we approached it with our eyes open, having scoped each other out for years. We also addressed issues before or as soon as they arose to minimise damage. We actually benefited from lessons learned but freely admit we made plenty of mistakes in the process. A merger is not an acquisition; it is a full consolidation of two previously separate small businesses. A true merger in the legal sense occurs is when both businesses dissolve and fold their assets and liabilities into a newly created third entity. This entails the creation of a new business. Dos Do take your time to get to know the other business owner(s), their personalities, and commitment for the future. Do your due diligence; checking to make certain there are no hidden pitfalls is essential. Professional help is advised, but here are the main areas that should be covered: 3 reviews of financials history of the business description of how the business operates details of any debt employee contracts and liabilities property leases, fixtures and fittings customer files any other documents which are pertinent to the smooth operation of the business Even though there aren't a lot of people who enjoy reading financial statements, it is essential to review them, as you will be taking on any liabilities or issues that pop up later. Do understand that the initial stage of a merger generally takes 3 to 9 months. Do accept that mergers can damage your own business performance because of time spent on the deal and a mood of uncertainty. Keep an eye on customer service, as it is far easier to retain an existing client than acquire new ones. Do realise the real work of making this merger successful has just begun when you sign the agreement. Do expect an initial lack of productivity and some teething problems with employees and workplace issues. Do provide a consistent message to staff from the top down to both sides simultaneously. Do have consistent accountability and compensation throughout the business for similar positions. Do develop new ways of organising the business to help bridge the different cultures through negotiation, and explore new best practice solutions. Do stay positive, and display confidence in the merger in front of clients and staff. Don’ts Don’t rush it, but also don’t let the process get too drawn out. Don’t be afraid to walk away. In the majority of cases, several meetings among the business owners and lawyers will be essential to figure out all the details. Don’t merge if the benefits are one-sided or if either side is going to be disgruntled. Address inequalities early in the negotiation. Don’t let third parties push you too hard to finalise the merger just to earn their fee. It is of critical importance that employees don’t learn about the merger from other sources—let them know early on, keep them updated and give them plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Don’t take it personally if some staff leave, as often a few people will leave after a merger. They may have been looking for a reason to go, and the merger was the trigger. See it as part of the merger process, and be prepared. Don’t expect productivity to rise immediately; in fact, expect it to drop off a little. Set short-term milestones to achieve. Don’t force staff to interact, but do plan a variety of different ways for the groups to get to know each other. Have I put you off the idea? Growth of any type usually isn't easy. Giving up full control can be hard, but with patience and persistence, the benefits to both parties are tremendous. Planning is essential; follow a defined plan. The process should be discussed, agreed and reviewed as it progresses. Have you got any war stories or tips for others? Please share them. Liam Shorte | Principal of NextGen Wealth Solutions
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07
Feb
Read MoreThe most important thing
I’m assuming, if you’re reading this article, that you’re an accountant or at least working in the industry in some capacity. Let me ask you a question ... “As an accountant what is the most important thing you do for your clients?” Over the years I’ve been given any number of responses to this question. Some say, “Keep my clients safe & compliant”. Others say, “Make their lives easier”. While many say, “Get them a big tax refund”. However, the most common response I receive to this fundamental question is, “to add value”.
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