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Common Challenges Businesses Face (And Strategies To Face Them With)

Starting and running a business is an exhilarating journey filled with opportunities for growth and success.

However, along the way, entrepreneurs inevitably encounter trials and tribulations that test their resilience and determination.

From economic downturns to unexpected setbacks, here are some common challenges businesses face and strategies for overcoming them:

Economic Uncertainty:

Competition:

Cash Flow Management:

Talent Acquisition and Retention:

Recruiting and retaining top talent is critical for business growth and success. However, finding and keeping skilled employees engaged can be daunting.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits, providing opportunities for professional development and career advancement, and fostering a positive work culture are essential for attracting and retaining talent. Implementing robust recruitment and onboarding processes can help businesses identify and onboard the right candidates.

Technology Disruption:

Rapid advancements in technology have transformed industries and disrupted traditional business models. Businesses that fail to adapt to technological changes risk falling behind their competitors.

Embracing digital transformation, investing in innovative technologies, and leveraging data analytics to drive decision-making are essential for staying competitive in today’s digital age. Fostering a culture of innovation and agility within the organisation can help businesses adapt to evolving technological trends.

Regulatory Compliance:

Navigating complex regulatory requirements and compliance standards can pose significant challenges for businesses, particularly in highly regulated industries.

Failure to comply with regulations can result in fines, legal consequences, and damage to reputation. Establishing robust compliance processes, staying informed about relevant laws and regulations, and seeking professional guidance when needed are essential for ensuring regulatory compliance.

Customer Satisfaction:

Satisfying customers and building long-term relationships is crucial for business success. However, meeting customer expectations can be challenging, especially in today’s competitive marketplace.

Businesses must prioritise customer satisfaction, actively listen to feedback, and continuously improve products and services to meet evolving customer needs. Building strong customer relationships, delivering personalised experiences, and providing exceptional customer service are key strategies for fostering loyalty and driving business growth.

While businesses inevitably encounter trials and tribulations on their journey to success, with perseverance, resilience, and strategic planning, they can overcome these challenges and emerge stronger than ever.

Businesses can navigate obstacles and achieve their goals by addressing challenges proactively, staying agile and adaptable, and seeking support when needed. Remember, every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning, and with the right mindset and approach, businesses can turn adversity into an advantage.

Posted on 26 February '24, under business. No Comments.

Crafting Your Own New Year’s Business Resolution In 2024

With business operations underway, a new calendar year presents a perfect opportunity for entrepreneurs and business professionals to reflect on the past and set the stage for future success.

Crafting a meaningful business resolution is not just about setting lofty goals; it’s about creating a plan that resonates with your unique aspirations and challenges. So, how can you develop a New Year business resolution that works for you?

Reflect on the Past Year

Before diving into the future, take a moment to reflect on the past year. Identify key achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. Understanding your business’s current standing provides valuable insights for crafting a resolution that addresses specific needs.

Define Clear Objectives

A successful business resolution starts with clear objectives. Define what you want to achieve in the coming year, ensuring your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Whether it’s increasing revenue, expanding your customer base, or streamlining internal processes, clarity is key.

Align with Your Vision and Values

Your business resolution should align seamlessly with your company’s vision and values. Consider how your goals contribute to the overall mission of your business. When your resolution reflects your core principles, it becomes a powerful driving force for success.

Break Down Larger Goals into Manageable Steps

Large, overarching goals can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the resolution more achievable and provides a roadmap for progress throughout the year. Celebrate each milestone, reinforcing your commitment to success.

Consider Personal Development

Business success often intertwines with personal development. Identify areas where you can grow as a business owner or professional. Whether enhancing leadership skills, improving time management, or learning new technologies, personal growth contributes significantly to business success.

Embrace Flexibility

While setting clear objectives is crucial, it’s equally important to embrace flexibility. The business landscape is dynamic, and unexpected challenges may arise. A flexible resolution allows for adjustments while focusing on the ultimate goal.

Involve Your Team

If applicable, involve your team in the resolution-setting process. Encourage their input and feedback, fostering a sense of collective ownership. A shared vision increases motivation and commitment, propelling the entire team toward success.

Use Metrics for Evaluation

Establish measurable metrics to evaluate your progress. Regularly assess key performance indicators (KPIs) related to your resolution. This data-driven approach provides valuable insights into what’s working well and areas needing adjustment.

Learn From Setbacks

Setbacks are a natural part of any business journey. Instead of viewing them as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Analyze setbacks objectively, identify root causes, and use the insights gained to refine your approach moving forward.

Celebrate Achievements

As you progress towards your resolution, take the time to celebrate big and small achievements. Recognise the hard work and dedication that led to success. Positive reinforcement boosts morale and sets the stage for continued excellence.

Coming up with a New Year business resolution that truly works for you involves a thoughtful and strategic approach.

By reflecting on the past, setting clear objectives, aligning with your vision, involving your team, and maintaining flexibility, you’ll create a resolution that drives success and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and achievement.

Cheers to a prosperous New Year for you and your business!

Posted on 5 February '24, under business. No Comments.

Chasing Up End Of Year Invoices

As the calendar year draws to a close, businesses often find themselves in a familiar but often challenging position – chasing invoices.

A healthy cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, providing the necessary resources for day-to-day operations, expansion, and resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges. Timely invoice collection at the end of the year is instrumental in maintaining this financial vitality.

Let’s explore the nuances of businesses chasing invoices at the end of the year, shedding light on the strategies, challenges, and importance of maintaining a healthy cash flow during this crucial period.

The Year-End Rush:

Strategic Cash Flow Management:

As businesses assess their financial health at the close of the year, effective cash flow management takes center stage. Chasing outstanding invoices becomes a strategic imperative, ensuring that the company enters the new year on solid financial footing. It allows businesses to meet their financial obligations, invest in growth opportunities, and navigate the uncertainties that lie ahead.

Meeting Year-End Targets:

Achieving year-end targets often hinges on the successful collection of outstanding payments. Businesses may have specific financial goals, such as meeting revenue targets, reducing outstanding debt, or improving overall liquidity. Chasing invoices in a timely manner is essential to fulfilling these objectives and closing the financial year on a positive note.

Challenges in Chasing Invoices at Year-End:

Client Financial Strain:

The end of the year can be financially challenging for clients as well. Businesses need to be mindful of their clients’ financial situations and work collaboratively to find mutually beneficial solutions, balancing the need for prompt payment with an understanding of potential constraints.

Holiday Distractions:

The holiday season can introduce distractions and delays in communication. Businesses must anticipate potential slowdowns in response times and plan accordingly to avoid undue delays in invoice resolution.

Strategies for Chasing Invoices:

Clear Communication:

Open and transparent communication with clients is key. Articulate payment expectations, deadlines, and any consequences for delayed payments. A proactive approach to addressing potential issues can foster positive relationships while ensuring prompt payments.

Automated Invoicing Systems:

Utilising automated invoicing systems streamlines the billing process, reducing the chances of errors and delays. Automated reminders for overdue payments can serve as gentle nudges to clients, encouraging them to settle outstanding invoices promptly.

Offering Incentives and Discounts:

To encourage prompt payments, businesses may consider offering early payment incentives or discounts. This not only incentivizes clients to settle invoices sooner but can also strengthen the business-client relationship.

Flexible Payment Plans:

In cases where clients may be facing financial constraints, offering flexible payment plans can be a proactive approach. Collaboratively finding solutions that accommodate both parties’ needs can help maintain positive business relationships.

Chasing invoices at the end of the year is more than a routine financial task; it’s a strategic maneuver to fortify a business’s financial foundation.

Effective communication, strategic planning, and flexibility are crucial in navigating the challenges that may arise during this period. By prioritizing the pursuit of outstanding payments, businesses can ensure a smoother transition into the new year, positioning themselves for continued success and growth.

Posted on 18 December '23, under business. No Comments.

Unlocking Business Value: Essential Steps to Determine Your Company’s Worth

Determining the value of your business is a critical step when contemplating a sale. Unfortunately, a significant number of business owners are unaware of the monetary worth of their enterprises.

The process of ascertaining the financial value of your business is not a straightforward formula but rather a nuanced assessment involving several key factors.

Additionally, putting in extra effort to enhance your business’s perceived value can significantly impact the sale price, potentially putting more money in your pocket.

In the pursuit of establishing an appropriate sale price for your business, it is imperative to consider various factors that collectively contribute to its overall value.

Size Matters

The size of your business is not solely determined by the number of employees on your payroll. It extends to encompass your client base and the reach of your products or services in the market.

While larger businesses are often viewed as less risky due to perceived stability, smaller businesses possess unique attractiveness to potential buyers. The allure lies in a lower asking price, reduced commitment, and a perceived greater potential for growth.

Growth Potential and Future Profitability

A realistic evaluation of your business’s potential for growth is fundamental to determining both its current and future value. Examining historical growth rates, considering the prevailing financial climate, and staying attuned to market trends all contribute to understanding the growth potential of your business.

A high growth rate, whether proven or potential, enhances its attractiveness to potential buyers. This is because it enables them to recoup their investment swiftly, allowing a quicker focus on profitability.

Quality Over Quantity in Customer Base

While the sheer size of your customer base is a significant factor in valuing your business, the quality of your clients carries even more weight. Evaluating key clients based on their reputation, standing in the marketplace, and the revenue they generate for your business is crucial. A reliable base of key clients holds more value for potential buyers than a multitude of smaller clients that may not be as dependable for future sales.

Cashflow Management

Prospective buyers focus intently on your business’s bottom line and current profitability. Assurance of a steady and reliable cash flow, well-managed balance sheets, and overall financial orderliness is paramount.

Maintaining complete and up-to-date financial documentation, coupled with a well-structured financial department, not only makes your business appear more reliable but also serves to increase its overall value.

Accurate business valuation is paramount in setting an appropriate asking price. Striking the right balance is crucial; an excessively high price may discourage potential buyers or convey a lack of seriousness, while a price set too low diminishes the perceived value of your business and its assets.

Professional Consultation for Accurate Valuation

To ensure a precise valuation, seeking the expertise of professionals is highly recommended. Valuation experts can provide a comprehensive and objective analysis, taking into account industry standards, market conditions, and the unique attributes of your business.

Their insights can guide you in navigating the complexities of the valuation process, ensuring that the asking price aligns with the true worth of your business.

In conclusion, the journey of selling a business begins with a thorough understanding of its value. By carefully considering factors such as size, growth potential, customer base, and financial management, you can present your business in the best light to potential buyers.

Putting in the effort to enhance its perceived value, coupled with professional consultation for accurate valuation, positions you for a successful and lucrative sale.

Posted on 27 November '23, under business. No Comments.

Do You Have A Goal For Your Business?

Have you ever wondered about the origin story of your business? What drove you to start it in the first place? It’s a question that often gets overshadowed by the day-to-day hustle and bustle of entrepreneurship.

Many entrepreneurs set out on their journey to build a better future, pursue a passion, or gain financial independence. More money, more free time, and more control over your work are often the driving forces behind starting a business. In an ideal world, you’d have it all – control, shorter work hours, more money, and the pursuit of your dream job. But, as many entrepreneurs can attest, the reality often doesn’t align with this picture-perfect scenario.

In most cases, business owners find themselves working longer hours, struggling to maintain their income, and feeling like their business has taken control of their lives. Instead of answering to a single boss, they now answer to a multitude of customers, each with their own demands and expectations.

Owning a business provides you with more control, but it also comes with increased responsibilities and obligations. The workload can be overwhelming, but it’s a part of the entrepreneurial journey. So, how can you navigate these challenges and ensure your business doesn’t become a burden?

This is where consulting with a trusted business adviser comes into play. They can help you tackle seemingly impossible situations and give you choices, taking the fear out of the equation.

Your business likely started as a dream, one that probably didn’t involve becoming a slave to your work or earning less than your previous job. It’s essential to reflect on your initial motivation and assess where your business currently stands.

Take a moment to relax, reflect, and think about the direction you want your business to move in. What are your long-term goals? Once you have a general idea, it’s time to put some effort into planning how you’ll get there. Think about where you want your business to be in five or even ten years.

As Benjamin Franklin once said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” This timeless wisdom holds true for businesses as well. Regardless of your business’s stage, revisiting the planning process can be a valuable strategic tool. Every business needs regular planning to thrive. A well-documented business plan can significantly improve your chances of achieving your goals.

Your business plan should outline your strategy for the next few years. It can be a tool for seeking financial support or simply a roadmap for your business’s growth. The plan should spell out your objectives and the necessary actions to take your business from its current state to where you envision it.

Creating a business plan can help you focus, clarify your ideas, and identify priorities. It will give you a sense of direction and a benchmark to measure your progress.

Don’t forget – while there are ideal times to prepare a plan for your business, it’s never too late to start. Consider developing not only twelve-month plans but five- and ten-year plans as well.

If you need assistance preparing or developing your business plans, don’t hesitate to consult with trusted business advisers who can guide you on your journey to success.

Posted on 6 November '23, under business. No Comments.

The Importance Of Establishing A Company Culture

Company culture has become an important part of how businesses are perceived. Businesses with a positive culture are more likely to attract clients and customers. Statistics also show that over 50% of executives believe that having a good culture can influence productivity, creativity, profitability, firm value and growth rates.

However, while describing and quantifying a company’s products and services can be easier, defining culture is a lot more complicated. It requires capturing the company environment, values and relationships.

Identifying your company culture, or what you want it to be, will determine your work processes, hiring new people into your team, and how you and your employees interact with clients.

The first thing to do is to identify key traits that describe your culture. Bring together a diverse group of people from across your company and brainstorm words and qualities that represent the culture. Collate the words you hear the most so that you end up with a list representative of the culture that employees most relate to.

The next thing you need to do is distil this list down to the core values you can see in it. You can conduct surveys (if you have a large company) or talk to your employees (if the company is small) and ask them whether the values you have chosen resonate with them and if not, which ones do. At this point, you should aim to have around 5 values, but this is a flexible number.

Last of all, once the core values have been established, share them throughout the company. Employees should relate to these values, and they should also feel motivated to embody them. Communicate with your employees why these values may or may not be working/suitable.

Remember that this is a process. You may not get it right the first time, which is why it is important to be receptive to feedback from all members of the company.

Posted on 16 October '23, under business. No Comments.

What Is A Proprietary Limited Company?

In Australia, the Pty Ltd Company (proprietary limited company) is one of the most popular business structures chosen by entrepreneurs and business owners. Pty Ltd companies offer both distinct advantages and certain disadvantages that individuals should carefully consider when determining the most suitable structure for their enterprise.

Benefits of a Pty Ltd Company:

Disadvantages of a Pty Ltd Company:

The Pty Ltd Company structure offers numerous benefits, including limited liability, access to capital, and tax advantages. However, it also comes with disadvantages, such as complex compliance requirements, costs, and ownership restrictions.

When choosing a business structure, entrepreneurs should carefully assess their business goals, size, and long-term plans to determine whether a Pty Ltd company fits their needs or if an alternative structure may be more suitable.

It’s advisable to seek legal and financial advice to make an informed decision. Why not start a conversation with your trusted business advisor today to get on the right track?

Posted on 25 September '23, under business. No Comments.

Why Should Your Business Engage An Adviser?

Feel like your business is stuck in a rut? Are you unable to solve a problem that you know will cost you in the long run? Struggling to navigate your way through a difficult time?

It might not be financially tanking, and it might not be that your revenue stream is down; however, if you’re not sure what direction to take with your business, you might need a fresh set of eyes and a bit of extra guidance.

A fresh pair of eyes to take a look at particular issues that your business is facing to deal with them doesn’t have to come from within the business. Sometimes, an outsider’s viewpoint or perspective can be even more informative.

Business advisers can be engaged across many fields with specially focused advice or strategies to a specific area (such as accountants, business bankers or commercial lawyers) or be a business adviser who is dedicated to considering the overall goals and long-term ramifications of your business’s strategies.

A business adviser can be hired on either a one-time basis (to deal with any one-off problems your business is set to face) or on an ongoing basis to provide continued support.

If you are only looking for a particular solution to a particular problem, one-time advice from a business adviser can be an easy and cost-effective solution.

However, if you’re looking for long-term ongoing support that’s backed by years of experience and a perspective that’s looking to preempt these issues, ongoing advice may be more appropriate for your needs.

Engaging a business adviser can provide your business with fresh ideas based on an objective analysis of your business’s current performance and situation.

Experts within their relevant fields are also able to provide you with specialised advice, based on the ongoing consultations you may have had with them previously or plan to have in the future.

As an example, contracting an accountant in a business adviser role means that you are looking for strategic and financial advice like profitability improvement, tax planning and advice regarding business performance. These can be critical to ensuring your business’s longevity and preparing for whatever the future may throw at you.

For example – if you were looking to sell your business, your contracted accountant should be able to map out the tax liabilities involved in doing so, the assets that would entail as part of the sale or even if you may be eligible for certain concessions.

An adviser who can offer timely and relevant advice to your financial situation can make a huge difference to your business in the long run. They can also assist you in plotting out business goals, preparing for hardship, or even working out what to do in the event of bankruptcy.

Looking for assistance in plotting out the financial future of your business, or for a tax specialist who can?

We are more than ready for that conversation to be had with you. We’re well-equipped to assist you with mapping out your business’s plan for the future, so why not speak with us and see how we can help you?

Posted on 4 September '23, under business. No Comments.

It’s Bigger On The Outside – Faking Business Growth To Grow The Small Business

Making your business seem more significant than it actually is can go a long way in helping you secure larger clients.

Appearing larger can help customers feel more secure when dealing with you and possibly give your voice or presence more authority. Exaggerating elements of your business regarding first impressions is easier than you might think, and many of the available strategies are cost-effective.

Put Extra Effort Into Your Website:

Your website is one of the first places potential customers will visit to size you up. The impression that your website makes on them can seriously influence how your company is perceived. A website with a dated design, difficult navigation or poorly written copy can instantly give a negative impression. Poor-quality websites suggest you’re a small, amateur company that doesn’t care about online presence. This can alienate an entire group of potential clients.

Work On Your Social Media Presence:

Developing an active and current social media presence can help a business connect with its customers and assist in making it appear more prominent and experienced. Social media sites increase the amount of information that can be found on a business and are usually far more engaging and cost-effective than traditional forms of advertising.

People generally assume that businesses with a lot of online material have been there for a long time. Businesses with many followers on social media can create a sense of age and experience, enhancing the brand’s image.

Invest In Your Promotional Materials:

Professionally designed business cards with consistent stationery and letterheads will give business credibility. For example, printing the details on cheques and envelopes rather than writing on them by hand are small and cost-effective options that can assist in building professional reliability.

Continuity over different marketing platforms also promotes a sense of brand unity. Using professionally designed images on all company material will demonstrate your reach and stability in the market.

Get A Virtual Office:

For businesses that cannot afford a full-time receptionist, setting up a virtual office can have the same effect at a much cheaper cost. Having a virtual employee answer phone calls and manage customer service from an outside location means eliminating the costs of actual employment while giving the impression that the business is much bigger than it is.

Turning A Vehicle Into A Company Car:

Visiting clients is essential in specific industries, such as businesses within construction or maintenance. Pulling up in a company-branded car can build respect and show professionalism. However, check with an accountant about the tax treatment involved with company cars, if buying a company car is the right move for the business or what records may need to be kept for work-related expenses involving the car.

Assess The Location:

There are many external elements of a location that can affect your business. Look at the traffic in the area and work out how it can support or hinder you, as well as what services are in the area in which you choose to locate. Consider asking other businesses in your desired location for some advice on the best providers for services such as gas, electricity, water, phone and internet. Access for both customers and employees is also a large factor when assessing the location. Consider whether it is easy enough for clients to find and employees to travel to every day. Making your business accessible can allow you to obtain a wider pool of staff.

Remember your legal and environmental obligations when choosing a place to set up your business, and check with the local council for any planning and building restrictions if necessary. For example, consider how possible noise produced by your business would affect the local community. Before making any big decisions, consider seeking further legal or professional advice. This gives the added benefit of your brand getting noticed on the street.

Spreading The Word:

To get the attention of more prominent potential clients, it may be necessary to spread the word on some of the other big-name clients the business has had. Once a business has obtained a few large contracts, using them to help promote services and secure other clients can be highly beneficial. Business owners can mention previous jobs in meetings or display work for other clients

Posted on 14 August '23, under business. No Comments.

When It Comes To Tax, Is It A Business Or A Hobby?

There are critical differences between having a hobby and running a business, and they mostly have to do with your tax, insurance and legal obligations.

Understanding the characteristics of businesses and hobbies is essential to ensure you correctly determine your activities.

Are You In Business? 

While there is no single, defining factor that determines whether or not you are in business, some of the factors that you still need to consider include:

The Benefits Of Running A Business 

If you run a business you can:

Is It A Hobby? 

A hobby is a pastime or leisure activity conducted in your spare time for recreation or pleasure. While you may create a business from the starting point of a hobby (such as crocheting or painting, etc), that is not the primary purpose of the hobby.

The Benefits Of A Hobby

Having a hobby allows you to:

What Are The Differences? 

The key differences between a business and a hobby are as follows:

You do not need to declare the amount made from your hobby to the ATO. However, you must declare your income to the ATO in your annual return as a business.

You cannot claim a deduction for any losses from your creative work if it is a hobby. As a business, you can claim for deductions on your expenses and generally need an ABN to do this.

You do not need to keep records of your hobby for the ATO, however it’s good practice to keep records in case your circumstances change.You must keep records for your business for tax and other obligations.

Generally, you will not need to hold licences and permits for your hobby. However, you may need licences and permits specific to your type of business.

As a hobby, you are not eligible for an ABN for a hobby, however if you sell goods or services to businesses, they may ask you for an ABN when they pay you. You can use a Statement by a supplier form to avoid the business withholding an amount from the payment to you for not having an ABN. The statement lets the business know you are selling the goods or services as a hobby.

As a business, it is not compulsory for businesses to register for an ABN, however getting an ABN is free and makes running your business easier, particularly if you have to register for other taxes like GST. Without an ABN, other businesses must withhold 47% from payments they make to you for tax purposes.

If you’re selling goods, you’ll need to comply with Australian Consumer Law (ACL). Your customers have automatic rights if they buy a product that breaks easily, doesn’t work or doesn’t perform as generally expected.

If you are not sure about whether your activity would be classified as a business or hobby, you can seek professional advice from an accountant, legal expert or business adviser who can help you decide what exactly it is that you’re running.

Posted on 24 July '23, under business. No Comments.

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