Affinity EMAG September 2014 by 6StarDigital

Issue 19 - September 2014

MAGAZINE

AFFINITY

Affinity Alliance chats with Justin Herald & we are excited to announce his FREE webinar for our members

! Our greatest achievement so far. See how you can contribute to raising funds for your favourite charities… ASSOCIATION SPOTLIGHT

Creating a huge buzz in Southern Queensland is Circle of Hope. Join the brigade to show your support!

WHAT’S NEW AT AA! Check out our new organisations that have adopted the new & improved benefits package

Every now and then, something incredible comes along.

We want you to be a part of it.

lungfoundation.com.au/one-breath-gala-dinner ph: 1800 654 301

Please join us

Where: Australian Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour When: 6:30pm til late, Saturday November 1, 2014

Raffles, auctions, dancing & more!

xperience canapés and bubbles on the deck of the HMAS Vampire, snap a world-class sunset selfie, then join us inside the Lighthouse Gallery of the Australian Maritime Museum for a sumptuous three course dinner, special guest entertainment and the launch of Australia’s new lung health initiative by exciting creative talent and filmmaker Jason van Genderen and his team.

Don’t miss out, buy your tickets and reserve your table today.

Sponsorship opportunities still available.

Exclusive offer to

Affinity Alliance Members Only…

What are your concerns as a small-medium business owner? Become a Foundation Member of the SBPA and Affinity Alliance will subsidise your membership fee of $55. Joining Fee of $22 applies. As a Foundation Member you will be the voice for representation in parliament for any policy changes required for Australian businesses to:

• Eliminate unnecessary red tape • Invest in a vibrant growing Australia • Invest in our kids

To find out more, go to www.smallbusinessparty.org.au/join-usnow use coupon code SBPA-AA14

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

What’s In store for you this month… Editors Letter

Cover Story - “The Attitude Story” Justin Herald

Association Spotlight “Circle Of Hope”

Affinity PROFESSIONAL

Legal, HR/IR, Insurance, Foreign Exchange, Finance, Business Coaching, Safety In the Workplace…

Member Engagement

Affinity TRAVEL

Explore some of the greatest parts of the world through Affinity Travel where you will get discounts of up to 70% on accommodation and flights.

Affinity COMMUNICATIONS

Affinity LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT

Affinity NETWORKING

Affinity FUNDRAISING

Affinity HEALTH & WELLBEING

Affinity SHOPPER

MEDIA KIT

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Editors Letter !

reward even more members with the extended array of benefits.

can only have access through ‘Affinity Alliance’….

A BIG WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST ORGANISATIONS!

September is upon us and the festive season is fast approaching which for most Associations means renewal time as well. A very busy time for us all here at Affinity Headquarters.

• Royal Qld Aero Club

If you would like the opportunity to advertise your restaurant/cafe and can offer an exclusive deal to our members, let us know. We are always on the lookout for new providers and our members love it!

Affinity Alliance is the only benefits program in Australia & NZ with its own designated Travel Concierge service. Your members simply call our CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM on 1300 793 044 and give the general information required for their next trip and the rest is up to us. We will source you not only the best airfares and accommodation but we will also provide it to you at a discounted rate. What other benefits program can offer you that?

• Health Engine • Casual Teachers Network If you belong to one of these fantastic organisations, be sure to keep on the lookout for your new Affinity members card which gives you all the access you need to a miriad of fantastic offers.

New Providers • BUPA

• Your Online Success • Animal Woodworx • Hot Air Ballooning • Wine Tasting in the Margaret River • Via Design

In addition to this, our providers are growing at an exponential rate across the globe and we will soon have the most benefits on offer than any other program that you may have considered and at the best rate.

• Healthy Foods to Go

Our new online search directory will give members the convenience of searching under category, sub-category and location, making the entire experience seamless.

• Papier Mouse Designs

Check out our new website and see the difference for yourself. Visit www.affinityallianceco.com.au Also new on the block this month, we have finally launched Affinity Fundraising to assist with many different charities. Check out our webpage for participating organisations and see how you as an organisation and individual can help in our fight to raise valuable funds for much deserving charities.

New Organisations

July/August has welcomed a large number of new members to Affinity Alliance camp. We can hardly wait to get started and

• Wyndham Cruises • Virtual Card Company • Gosford Plumbing • Hunter Steel Fabrication • various new Restaurant Offers Thank you to all of our providers who have offered fantastic exclusive benefits for our members, we could not do it without you.

DINING,WINING & LIFESTYLE

Don’t forget to check out our new site with all the trimmings along with the Dining Out & Entertainment Guide. Not only will you have exclusive access to the finest restaurants in the country with some fantastic deals for our AA members, you will also be privy to the best in entertainment and events. Be the first to book the latest show or concert and show off to your friends and of course don’t forget to tell them that you

IMPORTANT Information

Be sure to check out our BRAND S PA N K I N G N E W w e b s i t e www.affinityallianceco.com.au and remember to LIKE us on Facebook. This is where the majority of our providers update their deals and send out special offers, so please encourage your members to take a few minutes of their time to jump on and click that button. It is well worth the effort. There is some big news for our members and of course our suppliers in the next issue of the EMAG, So make sure you don’t miss one single copy so you can stay well informed. If for some reason you have missed any of our EMAG issues, jump on the Affinity Alliance website and you can view all previous issues in our Archives folder. If you have any troubles, simply contact our office for assistance.

Fiona McTaggart AA Managing Director

If you would like to advertise your organisation or business with Affinity Alliance to offer our members even more value for money, please contact our head office on 1300 793 044 or email

admin@affinityallianceco.co

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

“The Attitude Story” Justin Herald is a man with Attitude! In 1995, all Justin had to start his business was $50 and an attitude. With clever marketing campaigns and a strong desire to make something of his life, Justin set out to turn his $50 into a multi-million dollar empire in just 6 years.

Justin Herald has fast become one of the rising stars in the fields of business and personal development. At the age of 25 with only $50 to his name, Justin Herald set about changing the course of his life. Justin created Attitude Inc, a clothing brand that became an international licensing success that turned over in excess of $20 million per year. Justin’s success was so well noted that he was named the “INTERNATIONAL ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR” for 2005. He recently was also awarded the Future Leaders Award, which recognises him as being one of the 50 most influential leaders of the next generation in Australia. He has recently launched Customer Culture which is his new Customer Service Training Company that has clients such as McDonalds and NZ Tourism to name

just a few. His insight into creating a great customer culture within organisations is being snapped up at an amazing speed. He has had his own column in numerous magazines and in papers nationally in Australia and overseas. His articles have a weekly readership of over 5.5 Million people. He also is the author of 8 international best selling books and now he has blessed Affinity EMAG with his presence and gives us an insider look into what makes Justin Herald tick! Justin is regarded as one of Australia’s most sought after speakers with engagements book all over the country and overseas speaking in front of 150,000 people each year and we are lucky enough to have Justin present a webinar for our readers in late October 2014. Read on to see how Justin’s influence can change the way you do business.

How do you go from $50 in your wallet to running a multimillion dollar business and helping others create their own business empires? It all comes down to attitude. Justin Herald’s success epitomises the true meaning of attitude. He runs his own race and does it on his terms. The creator of Attitude Inc., a clothing brand which turned over in excess of $20 million per year, Justin knows a thing or two about how the important of having an attitude of getting things done. In 1995 with only $1.25 in his pocket, Justin borrowed $50 from his brother to start a clothing label called Attitude purely to upset a lady who kept on telling him that he had an attitude problem. That simple trigger set Justin on a course of entrepreneurship that became a huge success. Attitude Inc. started off as a slogan T-shirt company with slogans such as… “it’s all about luck…. Ask any loser”, I don’t have an attitude problem… You have a perception problem” and “Sarcasm is just another service I provide” to name just a few. Attitude went on to become an International success story which became a licensing success with companies all over the globe wanting to make Attitude products. Justin sold the business a few years back and has moved on to bigger and better things. What do you love doing? “My main business now is speaking to corporates – I do about 150 speaking gigs a year. I love speaking to small businesses – when I am in front of that type of crowd, I am happy. My passion is small business and I love helping people get to the next level. I like to show people how to grow a business without money. That old saying ‘you gotta spend money to make money’ is rubbish – you can do it without if the idea is right. Every business idea has a natural progression – sometimes it goes naturally well, sometimes naturally bad. When people put their hands too much on their business, trying to push it to grow, they can naturally screw it up. If you push it a little and it rolls, then it works but if you try too hard, maybe it is not meant to be. I do not push anything too hard. All I worry about is getting in front of what I am working on, getting it big enough so it self manages the gradient. I built my business on common sense and now share with others what I did. I am as surprised as anyone that people come to hear me talk. It is not about me say look at what I have done – it is about showing people that it is attainable and achievable. Whackadoo – it’s done.”

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

AFFINITY MAGAZINE How do you go from $50 in your wallet to running a multimillion dollar business and helping others create their own business empires? It all comes down to attitude. Justin Herald’s success epitomises the true meaning of attitude. He runs his own race and does it on his terms. The creator of Attitude Inc., a clothing brand which turned over in excess of $20 million per year, Justin knows a thing or two about how the important of having an attitude of getting things done. In 1995 with only $1.25 in his pocket, Justin borrowed $50 from his brother to start a clothing label called Attitude purely to upset a lady who kept on telling him that he had an attitude problem. That simple trigger set Justin on a course of entrepreneurship that became a huge success. Attitude Inc. started off as a slogan T-shirt company with slogans such as… “it’s all about luck…. Ask any loser”, I don’t have an attitude problem… You have a perception problem” and “Sarcasm is just another service I provide” to name just a few. Attitude went on to become an International success story which became a licensing success with companies all over the globe wanting to make Attitude products. Justin sold the business a few years back and has moved on to bigger and better things. What do you love doing? “My main business now is speaking to corporates – I do about 150 speaking gigs a year. I love speaking to small businesses – when I am in front of that type of crowd, I am happy. My passion is small business and I love helping people get to the next level. I like to show people how to grow a business without money. That old saying ‘you gotta spend money to make money’ is rubbish – you can do it without if the idea is right. Every business idea has a natural progression – sometimes it goes naturally well, sometimes naturally bad. When people put their hands too much on their business, trying to push it to grow, they can naturally screw it up. If you push it a little and it rolls, then it works but if you try too hard, maybe it is not meant to be. I do not push anything too hard. All I worry about is getting in front of what I am working on, getting it big enough so it self manages the gradient. I built my business on common sense and now share with others what I did. I am as surprised as anyone that people come to hear me talk. It is not about me say look at what I have done – it is about showing people that it is attainable and achievable. Whackadoo – it’s done.” How do you deal with mistakes? “My favourite four letter word is NEXT. It is simple as that. Don’t get caught up on anything. If something is not working, stop. That is why building a business without money is so liberating. If you take away the financial pressure, you become a lot more entrepreneurial, you take more risks because you don’t have any money to lose. You make quicker decisions. If you put 100k into a business, you spend your whole time worry about losing it and probably are not making

the best decisions for your business. If you are not attached to the process, it is easier to change directions and go a different way if something is not working. I’ve been working in the launch of a new app called SERVE ME RIGHT for the past nine months. I was dealing with one company but it was just not working. There was no point trying to fit a square peg in a round hole – you can force it but why would you do that if there is no market for a product or other things are not w o r k i n g . F o r c i n g g r o w t h means there is no natural progression; for me if it is too hard, then I don’t do it. I don’t like hard work!” The one thing a b o u t spending time with Justin is you definitely don’t leave unmotivated. His passion for what he does is infectious. He mentors many small b u s i n e s s owners and watching him work with them was amazing. Justin has always had his own mentors and still does to this day. He believes that to succeed in business you need to surround yourself with smarter people. This is why he now has formalised his own mentoring programs and works with many business owners over a 3, 6 or 12 month period. On top of all of that, speaking at conferences around the globe and launching a new customer service App soon, he has also written 8 International Best Selling books. It really goes to show that with the right Attitude anything is possible!

To hear more from our guru Justin Herald and how “Attitude” started with only $50 and turned into a $15million Empire, join us for FREE webinar (Members Only) on Thursday 11.30-12.30pm EST. To register your interest, email admin@affinityallianceco.com.au

JOIN JUSTIN HERALD & AFFINITY ALLIANCE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE WEBINAR

Justin Herald is a man with Attitude! In 1995, all Justin had to start his business was $50 and an attitude. With clever marketing campaigns and a strong desire to make something of his life, Justin set out to turn his $50 into a multi-million dollar empire in just 6 years.

“THE ATTITUDE STORY”

Justin's business success has allowed him to retire from Attitude Gear® and turn his passion

From $50 to $15 million

to helping others achieve their business and

DATE: THURSDAY 30TH OCTOBER

motivational speaker and is respected as one of

TIME: 11.30AM -12.30PM FEE: “FREE” TO AFFINITY ALLIANCE MEMBERS ($55 FOR NON-MEMBERS) REGISTER YOUR INTEREST BY EMAILING

personal goals. He is in high demand as a Australia's leading authors on getting more out of life. Affinity Alliance is excited to announce that

admin@affinityallianceco.com.au or

Justin will be joining us on Thursday 30th

calling 1300

some trade secrets. Get in quick to secure your

793 044

BE SURE TO BE QUICK TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!

October at 11.30am to share with our members spot today!

ASSOCIATION SPOTLIGHT

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Circle Of Hope There's a new organisation in town & they are committed to making a change… by Samantha Hornzee - Circle of Hope Founder aids clients in making changes to their situations to improve their future by referring them to other agencies where applicable, for involved counseling and helping others with personal resumes to improve their chances of employment. The couples boast a personal touch to their service. The charity has no strict hours with the couples making themselves available to the needy whenever required. In the charity's manifesto they state that they wish to make the "forgotten" people (people who have no one to care for them or feel hopeless) feel hope and start believing in humanity again. The families provided a hot breakfast on Easter Sunday and plan to involve all who need it a special Christmas lunch this year providing they receive the support required to do this.

Circle of Hope Inc. is a fully registered charity operating out of Redcliffe, Queensland. Founders Samantha & Jim Hornzee and Luke & Vanessa Parnell saw a need in their community to aid the homeless, elderly and impoverished and so began their charity in April of this year.

From very humble beginnings, the couples funded the first few meals for around 30 people themselves. They used their own family's fry pans and ovens. The task is now much larger as they provide around 120 meals per night, two times per week. They still prepare and cook all meals themselves in their family homes, but they are now supported with food donations from many locals, and further support is given from interstate and overseas also. The enormity of this task has taken the families by surprise. They have almost outgrown their family homes and hope to secure a commercial property so they can accept the many offers to help prepare the food. The aim of the charity was to provide aid to those struggling 5-7 nights per week and they will be well on their way to do this once they are operating from a property which will allow them to grow further.

Unfortunately, more and more families are finding it hard to make ends meet. No one is immune to homelessness, it can and does happen to anyone. Sickness or death can strike any family and the financial stress thrown upon people can have catastrophic effects. In the worst cases that this charity has seen children are living in cars or couch hopping and our elderly are living without food for days just so they can pay their rates on their dilapidated houses. Thankfully, the people of Redcliffe and surrounds have this charity to call upon for help in all situations.

Circle of Hope not only provides struggling people within their community and surrounding suburbs with hot home cooked meals but emergency food packages, clothing, and blankets also. Their service

AFFINITY MAGAZINE Currently the charity serves out their meals from under a large marquee which was donated by George Hartnett Funerals, one of many businesses who have offered support of the charity. The future goal is however to become mobile so meals can be provided to more people in need. The couples future vision for Circle of Hope is to have a large van or bus that can be used as a mobile kitchen to transport meals to any area and to operate 7 nights per week with help of their growing team of volunteers. The service offered by Circle of Hope is well justified. Official figures state that there are around 150 homeless in Redcliffe, but this figure is arrived at only by the number of people who have registered themselves as homeless, the true figure is thought to be over double this amount.

According to Homelessness Australia, on any given night in Australia 1 in 200 people are homeless. It is said that the national number of people who are homeless is 105,237. Circle of Hope hopes to inspire other communities to make a difference also. With their 2000+ facebook followers and band of volunteers this charity has already made a huge difference. If you would like to help them grow please visit their webpage ........ or follow their progress on their facebook page “Circle of Hope”.

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For more information about the Circle of Hope and how you can contribute to this amazing cause, visit http://circle-ofhope.wix.com/circleofhope#!affinityalliance-fundraiser-card/c590 Be sure to LIKE our Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Circleof-Hope-Inc/616756741743692

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

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AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Affinity LEGAL NETWORK When In Conflict, be careful about making assumptions… by John Campbell (Principal) from Mediation Matters As the old saying goes, if you assume something, you only make an ‘Ass’ out of ‘U’ and ‘Me’. The dangers of making assumptions have been discussed by many personal and business relationship advisors. Henry Winkler (the actor who played the famous “Fonzie” on the 70’s television show “Happy Days”) once said that “Assumptions are the termites of relationships”.

Assumptions are really just thoughts that we have, based on limited evidence or indeed, no evidence at all. We tend to treat assumptions as a test of truths, rather than simply a set of beliefs. It could be seen as taking something for granted.

Have you ever made an assumption about how something will be done or what will happen and then been surprised or frustrated about things turning out differently to what you expected? Or have you ever created meaning from what someone has done or said without checking the reality or facts? Shortcuts in understanding can lead to long roads of confusion and frustration! It is really easy to make an assumption because we assume that other people think like us and would do what we naturally think is logical. Unfortunately this isn’t the way the world works.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

So why do we take thing for granted? Because we think we’ve been clear when we haven’t; because we think we’ve spelled things out when we haven’t; because we think we can get away with something or cutting corners when we’re busy, when we can’t. Employees have quite jobs, projects have suffered, children have been left waiting to be collected after school, relationships have ended, tasks have been done incorrectly, tasks have been duplicated, house moves have taken twice as long as they needed to, all because assumptions have been made.

We make assumptions because we mistakenly assume that what is important to us, our values, and what we believe, is the same for other people, when it’s not.

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Examples abound where assumptions have been made and there have been disastrous results. In a recent workplace mediation that we conducted, it became very clear that a manager had given certain instructions to an employee. The manager had assumed that the employee was familiar with all of the terms used in the ‘brief’ (including the meaning of certain organisation-specific acronyms). It turned out that the employee was not familiar with some of those terms and the resulting work was sub-standard. There was a dispute arise over both the sufficiency of the instructions given and the quality of the work performed and each of the manager and the employee ‘pointed the finger’ at the other. Both however, had made assumptions about the work and each other – some of which was erroneous.

Once people are in dispute, the making of assumptions can be even more dangerous. With no or limited evidence, people often assume the intentions or motivations of the other person or persons involved in the dispute and react accordingly. All too often however, the assumption was erroneous and therefore the response was inappropriate. Conflict in those circumstances simply escalates.

Below are 5 tips that may help you in this area:

1. Ask open (who, what, when, where, how) questions to clarify assumptions e.g. How exactly are you proposing to do that?

2. In project/team meetings and when writing proposals, spell out any assumptions being made verbally and in writing.

3. Summarise what you think is being agreed to check understanding. 4. When delegating to someone else, get them to replay back to you their understanding of what they are going to do. This will highlight any assumptions they are making.

5. Get into the habit of having a ‘ what assumptions am I making?” self-check before winding yourself into a frenzy and letting your imagination get the better of you.

On a lighter note, check out the following links:

This clip (of “Ameriquest” TV advertisements) is some 2.5 minutes long and encourages viewers not to ‘judge too quickly’ based on what they have seen. Judging too quickly almost always involves making assumptions about what is going on (when, as in all cases in the advertisements, it is not as it seems). http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=UzzMir7zbN4

This 37 second clip from the 70’s TV show “The Odd Couple” demonstrates the old saying about making an ass out of you and me (when people assume things). http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=LfvTwv5o1Qs

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AFFINITY MAGAZINE

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! CALL TODAY ON 0413 087 309 OR VISIT www.aspirus.com.au

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Affinity BUSINESS COACHING “It’s all too hard and I couldn’t afford it anyway!” by Rob Murphy - CEO of Aspirus Many years ago, I was contracted to a state government department to develop and implement a Certified Quality Management System. I had the knowledge, skills and qualifications to undertake this project, but I wasn’t prepared for the difficulties it presented. Despite the fact that this department was quite large, and the organisation within it that required the System was a virtual ‘business’ in its own right, the going was tough. Most of the staff were quite vague as to what they really needed, and, whilst they knew the name of the thing they needed, they had very little concept of what it entailed! This is indicative of most businesses – they really don’t know what it is they need to ensure their business is running the way it should, and to keep it running that way. “It’s too complex, it’s too complicated, and it’s way too costly.” I managed to get their Quality System certified, but it took a long time, and a lot of hard work – mainly trying to get them to understand it! To be honest, I’m not sure they would be able to maintain their certification without external help. A Quality Management System is one of the many tools out there that claim to help businesses achieve much more. There are other systems, apps, consultants, solutions, and the like, that all claim to help businesses. The problem is: “They’re too complex, too complicated and too costly.” You’re right. The average small business owner doesn’t have the skills to understand these tools, nor can they afford them.

That’s ok, because the average small business owner has the skills to operate their core business. That’s why they started the business in the first place. They just didn’t realise, or didn’t expect the other part of their business – the part they just don’t understand. That’s ok, too. We don’t all know everything. I know a lot about that other part, but I’m no expert at marketing, and don’t ask me to paint a house, service an air conditioner or install a power outlet! I do know about Compliance, Business Planning, Business Improvement, Bookkeeping – and all those other parts that most business owners struggle with. What I’ve learnt from the years of experience working with businesses of all sizes and genres, is that there are two basic aspects that underpin business success – efficiency and effectiveness. I’ll cover these in detail in another article, but I wanted to mention this now, because it’s my core business. That’s what I sell! I’ve spent some money this year on marketing (remember, I said I’m not good at it), and I’ve seen how complex, complicated and costly it can be. I’ve learnt a lot, and I guess I can say I’ve had some return on my investment. However, the biggest outcome for me has been of my own realisation, and has come out of that marketing minefield I was so hopelessly lost in. Here are my three marketing questions: 1.

Who do you want to do business with?

What is your unique message for them?

How are you going to tell them?

Sure, there is a lot to gain from the ‘experts’, but I really had to sift through the complexity, the complications and the cost – to come up with something simple, understandable and affordable.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE That’s it! That’s my ‘unique message’! I want to help businesses with that other part in a way that is simple, understandable and affordable.

I focus on three main services: Compliance, Planning and Systems.

Now I’ve answered question 2, let’s go back to question 1. Who?

Compliance is an area that is often overlooked – albeit mandatory! I attended a business function recently, and heard that to run a restaurant, you need something like 34 licences! That’s a huge compliance challenge! I wondered how many restaurants are fully compliant.

Ok, I asked myself: Who struggles the most with their business? I’ve worked with a few over the years, and I’ve noticed that the smaller business – the sole trader, the ‘one man band’, the new fledgling business, the family business – were the ones that needed help the most, but just didn’t know where to find it without investing money that didn’t exist. I can see there’s a huge ‘void’ in the area of business knowledge and understanding at the level of the smaller business. The governments at all levels have been trying to help these businesses, and there is a wealth of knowledge out there to be accessed. The problem is, whilst it may be affordable, it’s still somewhat complex and complicated. I also feel that these businesses that exist in rural locations are disadvantaged – especially if they don’t have the same internet access as the urban ones. So, there’s my answer to question 1: I want to help smaller businesses, including rural and remote ones. Now, how am I going to tell them? The marketing gurus told me that Social Media is the communications tool of today. They’re probably right, but does everyone in my ‘funnel’ (a marketing term that refers to question 1 above) use social media? Again, the marketing gurus told me that since I’m in the business-to-business (B2B) arena, I should use LinkedIn. The other arena – Business-to-Consumer (B2C) – works better with Facebook. Hmmm. I’m no marketing guru, but I’m thinking the businesses in my funnel would most likely be on Facebook. Yes, I’m confused already. So, I’m taking the simple, understandable and affordable approach. I’m going to get my message (2) out to my people (1) with the help of Affinity Alliance (3). My friend and colleague, Fiona, has the marketing skills I lack, and she has the infrastructure to spread the word to her vast array of clients and contacts. Seriously, though, this has given me the opportunity to reach you. Whether you’re a smaller business or not, you’ve probably related to some of the aspects I’ve covered already. I know some of you struggle with the other part, and I understand how difficult it can be to get help. Let’s face it, it’s hard sometimes to even swallow your pride and admit you need help. The thing is, we ALL need help. We cannot exist without each other. There is an almost infinite source of knowledge out there, and it’s so much easier to find, thanks to the internet. The problem, as I’ve mentioned, is that some of the knowledge that it essential to our business success is ‘complex, complicated and costly’.

Well, it doesn’t need to be any more!

1.Compliance

There is a government website that helps define all the regulatory requirements for your specific business. It’s free, and relatively easy to navigate. The challenge is to make sure your business complies with all those requirements – and stays compliant. 2.Planning Many smaller business owners say they don’t need a business plan. To keep it simple: that is wrong! You really need to take all the thoughts and ideas you had when you first considered starting your business – and write them down. You need to capture your vision and your mission for your business and your life – and write them down. You need to take your dreams and goals for your business – and write them down. You simply need to create a foundation and a path for your business, so you can stay on track, and KNOW how your business is progressing. 3.Systems There are so many tasks and processes that keep your business rolling along. Some of these tasks fall into the other part that you just don’t understand. Simply, you need to take control of ALL the aspects of your business, so you know how it operates. With systems in place, you can identify the two key elements of success – efficiency and effectiveness. (Watch out for a future article on THE EE FACTOR ™) With systems in place, you can clearly identify areas for improvement. I deliver these three services in a way that is simple, understandable and affordable. With all these in place, you will know you’re on the right side of the law, you will know where your business should be heading, and you will know if you’re on track to success. More importantly, you’ll find the other part of your business isn’t that hard after all, and it’s not taking up all your family time. You can now have the tools that were only afforded to the larger businesses, because I can bring them to you at an affordable rate. The bonus for you is that most of these larger businesses still don’t understand the tools they have, because they are too complex. They just rely on the experts telling them how good they are. None of what I provide to you is going to work for your business if it’s not simple to implement, understandable to operate, and affordable to get.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE I’ve been around business circles for many years, and I’m in a position where I can do all this for you. I’m not going to put myself on a pedestal that is simply out of reach for you.Let me conclude with another example of my life and business experiences. I seem to get involved in bookkeeping, as it seems to be the area most lacking in the businesses I have encountered. I went to a seminar on how to market my bookkeeping business. One of the principles they pushed was to put our rates up! I didn’t want to hear that, as I know that’s going to hurt a lot of businesses. I let them know how annoyed I was. By making these essential services unaffordable, it’s leaving the smaller businesses behind, and placing them in that ‘void’ where they need help, but simply cannot get it. I’m here for those businesses, and I’m here to do what I can to help them succeed. Now what? The marketing gurus tell me I have to finish with a “Call to Action”. Well, call it what you will, but here it is: If you think your business can benefit from my help, then give me a call on 0413 087 309, or send a detailed email to rob@aspirus.com.au I’ll schedule a time to call you back so we can have a chat, and see where your business is at, and where it can go. We can work out the cost between us. It really is that simple. Then we can start to take your business to a whole new level! For more information visit www.aspirus.com.au

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Affinity HR/IR Occupational Health & Safety by Sharon Collitt from Employment Tool Kits Each and every business of the present era requires some Occupational Health and Safety measures in workplace. It is a sort of safety management system that assists in effectively managing the health and safety issues within the official premises of your business. These systems are specifically designed to defend the security of your employees and enable them to work in an environment free from any hassles. The core objective behind developing an OHS policy is to stop all insecure and unsafe work practices within the premises of an organisation A valuable OHS Management System is keep up-to-date with modernize health and safety standards. For instance, it protects your business against certain probable law suits in case an employee does some illegal practice like injuring himself etc. If your business is operating without any OHS management system that consulting with an employment Consultation Company seems to be a per fect option. Proficient team of Safety management Consultation Company will inspect your workplace and then decide accordingly what sort of safety management system is appropriate for your business. Here are some reasons that could help you to ascertain that why your business requires a proficient Occupational Health and Safety management system. Safe Your Employees With a proficient OHS Management System, you can work effectively towards developing a protective and work friendly environment for

your employees. It effectively helps in reducing several cases for employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s injuries and illness with an intention to work towards developing an injury free workplace for employees. A proficient safety management system also assists in setting and achieving multiple goals your employees desire to get. Recognize Workplace Hazards A proficient safety management specialist visits your companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workplace and tries to identify all essential hazards and risks associate with company. They are having great expertise to effectively identify the nature of risk and then develop a worthwhile plan accordingly. Be Active Each and every interpersonal whether he or she is a manager, a supervisor or an ordinary employee should participate actively towards developing a proficient safety management system. Some personnel from top level can effectively play the role of an OHS policy consultant or you may hire another. Training Entire staff of a company needs to get appropriate training with respect to workplace safety and health. Each and every employee of a company should be capable enough to ascertain that what is a secure workplace and how to develop a secure workplace. Staff of a company should be familiar enough with the use of numerous dangerous equipments and machinery in a protective way. Certain emergency procedures also taught by them.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

70 REASONS TO WISE UP ON SUPER - BY MARK BOURIS

Australians who once thought they’d retire at 64 have to adjust. Anyone born after 1965 will be retiring at age 70 (to receive the age pension), which will become the official retirement age in 2035.

People have some thinking to do, and that should revolve around work, getting your time-frame right and income.

Starting with time-frame, if you’re 45, men on average will live for another 40 years and women around 45 years. So we have more years to support ourselves than our parents did, and as the retirement age rises to 70, we’ll also have more years to grow our savings.

But these are only averages: significant numbers of women will live to 95 and many men will make it to 90. That means a 45-year-old who stops working at 70 would have to support themselves for 20 to 25 years in retirement, because if the man dies first, and he is five years older than his spouse, then there has to be enough left to fund perhaps another 10 years for his spouse.

Which brings us to the ability of your portfolio to provide enough income. Most people focus on the growth of their retirement lump sum. But more important is the amount of income your nest egg can generate above inflation over time.

Many people with super are encouraged to have their nest egg weighted in equities, until the last few years before retirement, when they are encouraged to switch to cash and bonds. They think that with these fixedinterest investments, the yields will be similar to equities or property, but the volatility will be negligible and the capital safer.

Actually, in retirement, you still need income-producing growth assets (equities). This is because you have to keep it growing ahead of inflation for a long time.

Have a look at this scenario: two neighbours invest $10,000 in 1980. One invests in 12-month term deposits, rolling them over every year; the other invests in the top 200 Australian companies by size (the ASX 200). They each take the annual income each investment produces. By 2013, the total interest received from the term deposits amounts to $23,935. However, the total income from the shares is $136,445.

The shares produced more income despite booms and busts over 33 years. The riskiest investor was actually the deposit holder, because he underestimated the peril of inflation and the real time-frame involved.

But what if another global financial crisis occurs on the eve of your retirement? A good financial planner sets aside some of your nest egg in cash, enough to last two or three years.

Which brings us back to work. Find a way to do some part-time work prior to turning 70. It can be structured in a way that’s tax effective and delaying draw-downs from your super for even a few years makes a big difference to how long your lump sum will last.

The change of the retirement age to 70 will not suit everyone, but it’s a chance to look at some serious topics and plan accordingly. Good luck.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

SHIPWRECKED!Picking up the Pieces… by Adam Pile from Your Risk Adviser Rates for hull insurance were expected to rise steeply in the wake of major marine industry losses due to the La Concordia disaster in January 2013. This catastrophic event claimed 23 lives and exposed insurers to a US $1 billion loss. The estimated value of the hull alone was US$561 million, roughly 6-7% of the total annual hull premiums globally. Despite the setback, however, premium rates remained steadfast as the industry is highly competitive and clients keep a watchful eye on rates all the time. Insurance companies shoulder the damage and loss to the hull and cargo but third party liability insurance for removal of wrecks is p ro v i d e d b y P ro t e c t i o n a n d Indemnity Groups (P & I). There are about 13 P & I clubs forming a n I n t e r n a t i o n a l G ro u p t h a t reinsures larger risks by buying reinsurance. In the La Concordia disaster, removal of the wreck cost around US$560 million. Costly cases like these have driven the rates of reinsurance up. Human error is a significant cause in most shipwreck cases as highlighted by the recent grounding of the Rena off the coast of Tauranga in New Zealand. Salvage efforts reached US$240 million, putting more pressure on P & I rates and prices rising by about 5-12% upon renewal. Overall, P & I reinsurance costs have increased by 15% while passenger liability went up by 200%. It is hoped that measures taken in 2013 and adjustments in

rates would result in improved stability over the next few years. The marine industry has certainly been hit hard by losses from costly cases and no improvement is foreseen in the near future.

THE INDUSTRY’S OUTLOOK Lloyds published a news report, entitled ‘Challenges and Implications of Removing Shipwrecks in the 21st Century’, in an attempt to explain how increasing costs of shipwreck removal is affecting the entire industry. The general cost of removing wrecks continues to rise and Lloyds and company reinsurance markets are exposed to bigger risks due to losses from wreck removal. One major challenge facing the industry is the size of the vessels and the daunting task of removing them as wrecks. It is important for ship owners, the ship design industry, hull insurers and the salvage industry to work together to explore ways of simplifying this challenge. As human error continues to be the prime cause of most ship casualties, finding ways to minimize this factor is also critical. Ship owners and operators must ensure that seafarers are properly trained and that operations are well supported by technology. A singular catastrophe like the Costa Concordia is unlikely to reduce the marine insurance and reinsurance industry’s capacity, but a series of losses from ship wreck removals could result in the exit of underwriters in the market or

a reduction in the percentage risk they would be willing to underwrite. Super storm Sandy in 2012 caused the marine industry a total loss of around US$2.5 billion which wiped out the entire marine premiums in the US for that year. The hull industry has done some “hardening”, with some players reconsidering their involvement as they struggle to maintain profitability. Ship vessel sizes also continue to grow which certainly have an impact on the local cargo market. Industry players are reassessing their risks on these bigger vessels, in effect challenging the dynamics of a market which was thought to be fixed for the next 20 years. With bigger vessels and increasing costs of wreck removals, the marine industry is certain to face tougher times ahead.

Your Risk Adviser are insurance experts, assisting both businesses and individuals to address their insurance needs. For your cost and obligation free consultation please contact 1300 815 344 to see how our staff can help. Your Risk Adviser is an authorised representative of NAS Insurance Brokers AFS Licence No.233750 General Advice warning -This article contains general information only. It does not take into account any of your personal circumstances, objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the appropriateness of the information in light of your personal circumstances and seek proper advice prior to acting on this information.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

FREE CONTRACT REVIEW*

*When registering your insurance renewal date or quoting new business.

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT !

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Member engagement as commonly discussed in associations is all about getting members to act. But it goes both ways. What is your association doing to engage with members where they are, on their turf? Before I started working in associations, the only thing that came to mind when I heard the word engagement was people getting married. Now, after years of exposure to the concept of membership engagement, it means so many other, very different things. Engagement might be the association world’s most fungible term. It’s a catch-all for just about any kind of interaction or involvement (two terms that normal people would be more apt to use) on the part of an association member. Heck, ASAE has published a book with 199 different ways a member could be engaged. A member volunteers for a committee? Engagement. Member posts a discussion comment? Engagement. Member attends a local networking event? Engagement. Member downloads a research report? Engagement. Member tweets on a conference hashtag? Engagement. Just keep filling in the blank: “Member does .” We could go on for a long time here. But the pattern reveals a particularly associationcentric viewpoint of engagement. On the surface, it appears to be all about the member, but in fact it’s all about getting the member to do something. Something the member

isn’t doing already, or isn’t doing enough of, or isn’t doing on the association’s turf. It might serve associations well to flip that dynamic, to think differently about what type of engagement is valued, where it happens, or who’s doing it. If, for instance, members of your industry are conversing on their own LinkedIn group, that’s engagement, too, right? Could your association join the group and add value to the conversations, without insisting they join an official group or converse in your private social network? Or, if members of your profession are meeting in a lodge 1,000 miles from your headquarters, that’s also engagement, isn’t it? Do they have to travel to your events, or could one of your staff or volunteer leaders Skype into their meeting to participate with them? In other words, how is your association engaging with members? Fill in the blank: “Association does .” An association professional I discussed this idea with suggested associations should get better at “taking their show on the road,” whether that’s physical or virtual. To put it even more simply: A lot of associations are adopting member engagement

scores, but they’re only scoring engagement that the association values. If, instead, your members were to give your association its own engagement score, based on engagement that they value, what would your score be? For specific ideas about how an association can do more of its own engaging, I’ll turn to you: How is your association making engagement a two-way street? What practices or programs have you developed to “take your show on the road,” to engage with members on their turf, rather than demanding they come to you?

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AFFINITY MAGAZINE

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN OUR MONTHLY EMAGAZINE? CALL 1300 793 044 OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR A MEDIA KIT

Affinity TRAVEL !

Save up to 70% off by booking with Affinity Travelâ&#x20AC;Ś Here are some of our valued partners. Call 1300 793 044 www.affinityallianceco.com.au/travel

Welcome to

A dedicated club which gives Affinity Alliance employees access to amazing travel benefits including your own consultant to tailor-make the ideal holiday.

Why become a member? Experienced travel consultants

Same day quotes*

• Our consultants have a strong travel background and are specialists Our consultants have a strong travel background and are specialists at at tailor-making holidays. tailor-making holidays.

• Travel Club Getaways guarantee that you will receive a same day quote Travel Club Getaways guarantee that you will receive a same day quote for enquiries received before 3pm during business opening hours. for enquiries received before 3pm during business opening hours.

You will have your own dedicated consultant who will help arrange your • You will have your own dedicated consultant who will help arrange your holiday, taking care of the smallest details to save you time and money. holiday, taking care of the smallest details to save you time and money.

If the quote is complex, your Travel Club Getaways consultant will • If the quote is complex, your Travel Club Getaways consultant will contact you promptly and advise when you will receive the quote. contact you promptly and advise when you will receive the quote.

• We are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of customer We are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of customer service and will go above and beyond to ensure you are happy. service and will go above and beyond to ensure you are happy.

• Your enquiry is important to us and we will respond in a timely, Your enquiry is important to us and we will respond in a timely, personal and professional manner. personal and professional manner.

Total travel solution

24 Hour Emergency Assist

• You will have access to specially negotiated holidays, as well as being You will have access to specially negotiated holidays, as well as being able to access all of our great year-round travel offers. able to access all of our great year-round travel offers.

• We provide you with emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days We provide you with emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from anywhere in the world, to assist you with any last minute a year from anywhere in the world, to assist you with any last minute unexpected changes to your travel plans. or unexpected changes to your travel plans. or

• As a member of Travel Club Getaways, you will have access to the As a member of Travel Club Getaways, you will have access to the negotiating strength of Flight Centre Limited. This means we global negotiating strength of Flight Centre Limited. This means we global can offer you the widest range of airfares, tours, cruises, hotels and can offer you the widest range of airfares, tours, cruises, hotels and holiday packages. holiday packages. • Our Our mission is to inspire you to travel by providing the highest mission is to inspire you to travel by providing the highest customer customer service levels and value for money deals. service levels and value for money deals.

Price Promise

▼

• Our Our price promise means we won’t be beaten on price price promise means we won’t be beaten on price ..

• Our 24/7 Emergency Assist service is located in Brisbane and is staffed Our 24/7 Emergency Assist service is located in Brisbane and is staffed by dedicated personnel. by dedicated personnel.

How to get started Affinity Alliance employees, please go to http://fctravelclub.com.au/user/register/affinity-alliance and sign up today. Once signed up, go to http:fctravelclub.com.au to login.

▼

• If If you happen to find a cheaper available price, we will beat it. you happen to find a cheaper available price, we will beat it.

Want to know more?

• We We are committed to ensuring you have the best value experience are committed to ensuring you have the best value experience every time you travel. every time you travel.

Call us on 1300 556 155 or email vic@fctravelclub.com.au

▼ Your quote must be in writing and must relate to standard fares and travel products available to the general public. Your genuine written quote must be presented to us prior to booking. Travel must originate in/depart from Australia. If your quote is cheaper, we will BEAT it by $1.00. Fare must be available and able to be booked by the general public when you bring it to us. Fares available due to membership of a group or corporate entity or subscription to a closed group are excluded. Must be for same dates and flight class. Only valid until deposit or payment is made. *Same day quote is subject to the complexity of the quote. If a quote cannot be obtained the same day, we will be in contact with an appropriate timeframe. Travel Club Getaways is proud to be part of the Flight Centre Limited Group. Travel Club Getaways highly recommends you seek advice from your tax department regarding any potential tax liability arising from your participation in the Travel Club Getaways Program. Australian OpCo Pty Ltd (ABN 20 003 279 534) trading as Travel Club Getaways. Licence No. NSW 2TA002547, VIC 32360, ACT 18800566, QLD 3124259, SA TTA192799, TAS TAS160, WA 9TA1362, NT LTA149. TC04_280512.

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Affinity COMMUNICATIONS !

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Affinity Communications How to Create an effective Facebook page for your Association by Fiona McTaggart - Affinity Alliance Many of our organisations have asked for assistance with setting up their FACEBOOK page - here are some of the basic start up instructions… 1. Simply go to create a page on Facebook, which can be found at the bottom of the home page. If you cannot find the link simply CLICK HERE. 2. C l i c k o n “ C o m p a n y , Organisation or Institution” located on the top row in the middle. 3. Choose your Category. We recommend that you select Non-Profit Organisation but again this depends on how you are listed with the ATO. 4. Type in your Association Name. 5. A g r e e t o t h e t e r m s a n d conditions. 6. Click “Get Started” 7. Upload a profile picture i.e. Association Logo. 8. Enter a Description about the Association, including contact details. It is also recommended that you place something along these line in your description

PAGE GUIDELINES We encourage the expression of opinions and open discussions on the <Insert Association Name> Facebook page, but also ask that you act respectfully and responsibly. Posts will be deleted from the <Insert Association Name> Facebook if they contain: • Offensive, abusive, obscene, profane, hateful or racist content, links or images • Comments that threaten or defame any person or organisation • Solicitations and advertisements by other organisations or endorsements of other organisations • Multiple or repetitive posts by a single user • Repetitive posts copied and pasted or duplicated by single or multiple users • Anything else <Insert Association Name> deems inappropriate <Insert Association Name> does not accept responsibility for the comments of fans on this page. Thank you for observing these guidelines. If you have any questions or comments about this policy, please contact us via <Insert Association email>

! 9. Finalise your Facebook web address. You can then add this web address to your contact details, this will assist with future, current and past members finding you on Facebook. 10. You will then be asked about advertising. If you wish to advertise, you will be asked to organise a payment method. If you do not wish to advertise then simply press skip. 11. Press ‘LIKE’ this will start the ball rolling and show people that you are on Facebook as a ‘PAGE’ 12. You can now invite people to ‘LIKE’ the page. 13. Your ‘PAGE’ is now complete. Sit back and watch as people come to you for information. 14. Be sure to post regularly as a status update to stay in your followers feeds. This will increase your presence and create additional ‘LIKES’ to your page.

If you currently have a FACEBOOK account as a ‘PERSON and/or GROUP’ - advertise that you are moving over to a ‘PAGE’ and that you will be posting on there from a certain date onwards and shutting down your ‘PERSON and/or GROUP’ page.

Affinity LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT !

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Affinity DINING Choose from over 6000 Restaurants across Australia & New Zealand….

Some exciting news… The exciting news is only the beginning, with the continued growth of our Dining & Wining Directory, Affinity Alliance is certainly expanding in leaps and bounds.

Adding up to 6000 more restaurants to our Dining Directory Thanks to our dedicated team members, Affinity Alliance has been able to offer our members more value for money than we could ever imagine. The new Dining & Wining Directory is available in your Generic Member Directory or to view via your allocated login details. With so many additions, it has been a work in progress, but we know you’re going to love it!

About the Dining Directory Restaurants, Cafes and Bistros from all over Australia & NZ have become involved in what we can only describe as colossal. It has been a huge work in progress but

we can now start to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Members will be able to show their Affinity Alliance Membership Card or Virtual card at participating restaurants and venues to receive their discounted offer. The online directory will make it easier for members to search state by state and dine at their favourite little bistro, cafe or fine dining venue.

Become Involved If you own a restaurant or venue and you feel that this is an opportunity not to be missed, then you would be right. The Affinity

We will even set up your webpage and directory page if required. Not only will you receive a full page in the AA Dining & Wining Directory, you will also receive a full page on the Affinity Alliance website www.affinityallianceco.com.au and regular monthly advertisements in our Affinity EMAG and infinite exposure to our 400,000 strong member database. This is a FREE offer and one that is too good to refuse, so best you get in early as submissions will be closing at the end of April 2014.

“Add your Restaurant to our Dining Directory and get more exposure” Alliance team is awaiting your submission. The requirements are simple and the return is great. There is no cost involved. All that we ask is that you can offer an exclusive discount/benefit or service to our members upon dining at your venue. It really is that simple.

For more information on how you can become a part of the Affinity Alliance Dining & Wining Directory, Contact our head office on

1300 793 044 or email your request to admin@affinityallianceco.com.au and we will email you the requirements.

Affinity NETWORKING !

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

How to Convert More visitors into customers Vanessa Rothwell from Your Online Success

How to Convert?

quote” in bold? It needs to be obvious whatever it is you want them to do.

So you’ve built your website and it looks beautiful, you absolutely love it. The colours and images look great, the site has all the information you want on there.

3.What is the conversation in their head?

You’ve also poured some money into getting people to the site – whether you’ve done some search engine optimisation, some google ads, or advertised on facebook or other social media channels. People are starting to come to your website in droves, but alas! They are not taking any action! They are not signing up to your newsletter, calling your business or buying your product so what do you do? The problem here is your conversion.

What is Conversion? Conversion is “the percentage of customers that take a desired action”. So how do we fix our website that we love so much, in order to get more of our visitors turning into customers? We need to get into the visitors mind and ensure the website matches their expectations and desires.

You need to enter into the conversation in their head and be answering any questions they are thinking right on the page. If they are not taking action, it is likely because they don’t trust you yet or they don’t see all the information they want to know. For Example: Say, you are asking them to sign up to a newsletter. If the text just says “sign up to my newsletter” they may be thinking “I already get a lot of emails, what information are you sending? How often does it come? “ Instead if you had text that says “Each month you will receive 3 free tax-saving tips from a former ATO auditor that will help you reduce your tax by 35%” the visitor has all their questions answered, including how often they will be emailed, what they will receive and some credibility about the information they will be sen. So they will then be thinking “that’s sounds great, I think I’ll sign up!”

Think about

So in summary, when looking at the information you have on your website, you need to think about these 3 things.

1.How did they get to your site?

1.Who am I trying to persuade?

What was the thing they saw before they went to your website – does what they see on your website match their expectations? Are they finding what they are looking for?

2.What action am I trying to persuade them to take?

For Example: If they were looking at a Google ad that says learn some tax tips to save you tax, and when they get to the site, they only see information about your accountancy firm, a phone number and a signup to your newsletter, then their expectations have not been matched and they will likely click away.

3.What do they need to experience to feel comfortable taking that action? If you have these 3 things on the page answered, you are going to get more people taking your desired action.

2.What is it you want them to do?

*Special Offer: Affinity Alliance members get 60% off our 7-Day conversion review, Get yours for only $99 (Normally $249) for an intensive analysis to find out what’s really going on with your website.

What’s your main call to action on the page? Does it stand out and match what they want?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

For Example: If you have a few paragraphs of text talking about your services, do you have a call to action telling them how to find out more about your services such as “Call us now for a No-Obligation Free

Vanessa Rothwell is the director of Your Online Success, who will help you turn your billboard website into a cash-flow machine. Find out more at www.youronlinesuccess.com.au

Affinity FUNDRAISING !

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

AFFINITY FUNDRAISING Affinity Fundraising has expanded its reach… Well there has been a lot going on at Affinity Headquarters in the last couple of months as you may have already gathered and I am very proud to announce that Affinity Fundraising has now officially launched and is ready for the onslaught of individual memberships. Memberships are now open for Affinity Fundraising and you can show your support by purchasing yours today at www.affinityallianceco.com.au/ fundraising. We will be continuing to grow our list of organisations that we will be supporting over the coming months and welcome all enquiries. Affinity Fundraising will be focusing our efforts on fundraising for the following: • Hill Family Channel Swim • Edens Journey • Circle Of Hope • Cancer Council • Schools & various other charities

How does it work? Go to www.affinityallianceco.com.au select the Charity you wish to support and purchase an Affinity Fundraising membership. Your membership will give you access to thousands of benefits across a wide range of industries focusing mainly on Lifestyle & Entertainment and designed to save you money, whilst feeling good about supporting your favourite charity. You will receive a membership card (plastic or virtual) your choice and you can gain access almost immediately after joining. To make the pot even sweeter, $30 of your $45 membership is directly contributed to a charity of your choice. It really is that simple and everyone wins. If you have a charity or an organisation that you are passionate about and you would like to help raise some valuable funds to get them on their way, then why not recommend Affinity Fundraising or even better, give us a call and we will contact that particular organisation directly. No charity or event is too big or too small and we would love to help. So pick up the phone today or visit our website www.affinityallianceco.com.au for further information. Do it for yourself if for nothing else!! Happy Fundraising!

! !

Affinity HEALTH & WELLBEING !

LOOKING AFTER YOUR FAMILYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HEALTH

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve teamed up with Affinity Alliance to bring you great value corporate health cover. You can look forward to competitive corporate premiums and benefits such as:

6 weeks free cover when you take out both hospital and extras cover*

gap free general dental, physio and optical for kids up to the age of 25 at Members First providers on selected Hospital and Extras cover**

get peace of mind, with 60% - 100% back (depending on the level of your extras cover) for selected services at Members First providers#

access our Living Well program for practical support and subsidised health programs to improve a health condition, including Nicotine Replacement Therapy, Weight Management Programs, Kids Swimming Programs, Gym Membership Fees and Yoga and Pilates courses. Visit bupa.com.au/livingwell for more information on our eligibility requirements~

no waiting periods for services you were covered for with your previous health insurer##

health support - plenty of health tools, apps and more - go to bupa.com.au/apps.

134 135

corporateplan.enquiry@bupa.com.au

Visit your local Bupa centre

*Only for new customers on new hospital and extras cover policies issued by Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590, paying by direct debit or payroll deduction (if available) before 01/04/2015. Six weeks free after initial payment. Not with other offers. **For most items covering general dental, physiotherapy and selected optical packages. Available on Ultimate Health Cover, Established Family, Growing Family, and Platinum Visitors Cover packages, and Silver, Gold, Platinum and Bronze Extras covers when taken with hospital cover on a family membership. Gap free general dental only on Platinum Visitors Cover. Major dental only available in VIC and SA, excludes orthodontics and hospital treatments. Annual limits, waiting periods and fund rules apply. Child dependants only. #For most items covering general dental, physio and chiro services. Annual maximums, fund rules and waiting periods apply. Includes major dental in VIC and SA only. Excludes orthodontics and hospital treatments. Available on selected packages and standalone extras covers. ~Kids swimming programs, Gym Membership fees, Yoga and Pilates require a Living Well approval form to be completed by your GP, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, chiropractor or medical specialist. Other benefit and recognition criteria apply. ##Applicable if you transfer within 60 days of leaving your previous health insurer and upon receipt of your Clearance Certificate. Waiting periods may apply for benefits or services not fully covered with your previous health cover. Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590.

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Up to A first in the hearing health market!

Introducing...

the m

$ 9.99

a x im u

/day

m you â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pay

The complete hearing health package

A combination of affordable repayments for the latest hearing health technology through SmartPay and the additional benefits of our Protection Plan and Maintenance Package*. The simple choice to get back to living life at full volume with peace of mind. SmartPay Payment Plan

Protection Plan

> The latest technology available for a simple low monthly repayment > 36 month payment term available > Allowing you to be fitted with the latest hearing technology of a higher value that might otherwise have been out of reach. > At the end of the term simply return your devices with no further obligation and get connected with the latest hearing technology.

> Covers all Bay Audio - Hearing Experts fitted devices up to 3 years from original fitting > Provides automatic peace of mind for your hearing technology investment from the moment you walk out of the store > Offers unlimited claims for customers.

*Conditions apply, for selected devices only, see in store for details.

**Please see in store for maintenance services covered.

The complete hearing health package

Maintenance Package

> Includes everyday maintenance required for your devices** i.e. tube replacement and wax removal > Free batteries for the life of the plan.

SUE FARLEY

N A

Sunday 12th October Brow perfecting, Improve hair strokes, Advanced level shading 9am-4pm

Monday 13th October Eyeliner perfecting, Baby Eyeliner, Working inside and out of lashes, colour blending 9.30am - 4pm

Sunday Night AWARDS DINNER ! 6.30pm Dinner (2 courses) and drinks in the Forresterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Room at the Radisson Hotel. Awards Ceremony & Certificate of Participation Presentation

COME & ENJOY THE FUN FOR OUR 10TH ANNIVERSARY MEMBERS PRICING 2 DAY SEMINAR $650 DINNER $45

NON-MEMBERS PRICING 2 DAY SEMINAR $950 DINNER $80

SUNDAY 12TH & MONDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 2014

Send payments to: ACT, 141 Princess Highway, Unanderra NSW 2526 or Direct Deposit to: BSB: 637 000 Acct No. 717964934 All payments must be finalised by Monday 29th September, 2014. CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE APPLICATION FORM

Sue Farley International Master Trainer October Seminar with Sue Farley. Sunday 12th October – First day - Brow perfecting, Improve hairstrokes, Advanced level Shading.

9.00am - 4pm

Monday 13th – Day two – Eyeliner perfecting, Baby eyeliner , Working inside and out of lashes, Colour blending. 9.30am – 4pm.

Sunday Night – Dinner, Awards 6.30pm Dinner two courses and drinks in the Forrester’s Room at the Radisson Hotel. Awards given and certificates for Participation. Fun night for our 10th Anniversary. Seminar two days Members $650.00, Dinner $45.00 Non members $950.00 Seminar, Dinner $80.00

Payments can be made by Cheque Sent to A.C.T 141 Princes Highway, Unanderra N.S.W 2526. Bank transfers welcome bank details : BSB: 637 000 ACC: 717964934. Or via Paypal – details to follow.

DEPOSIT - $300.00 can be made but all balances must be finalised by Monday 29th September 2014. I ………………………………………………, for the seminar in the amount of $

have paid my DEPOSIT or FULL payment and Dinner for MYSELF and GUEST

(names ……………………………………………………………………………………………… )

Seminar costs include morning/ afternoon tea and full lunch with certificate. PLEASE come along for a great time and dinner to help meet and make new friendships and help celebrate the 10th Anniversary. VENUE : Radisson Hotel and Suites 72 Liverpool St, Sydney. Ph: 0488111525. OR Email : tattooassoc@gmail.com

2014 ASSOCIATION OF COSMETIC TATOO INC. Rosselyn Norris Awards is open to all financial members Entries Close 20th September 2014 Winners will be announced Sunday 12th October 2014

Two Divisions of Entry 1.

NOVICE (less than 2years experience in Cosmetic Tattoo)

ADVANCED (2years or more experience)

Please supply before and after photos of 2-3 different procedures (ie Brows and Lips or Eyeliners and Brows or Lips and Eyeliner) You can enter as many photos as you feel are necessary to display your talent. (after photo can be immediately after procedure or at follow up visit) • Retouching of photos not allowed • Send your entry in a display book • Send a copy of each client history information sheet • Send a copy of your Training Certificates

Name ……………………………………………………………………………… Salon Name ……………………………………………………………………… Address …………………………………………………………………………… Post Code ………………………………………………………………………… Email ………………………………………………………………………………..

NOVICE I enclose photos (before and after) of my entry in either Brow, Eyeliner or Lip Liner or all three, along with the signed client history form and a copy of my Training Certificate for the entry into Novice Tattoo Division (Under 2 years working in Tattoo Industry) Please circle type of entry a)

Brow

Eyeliner

Lip Line

ADVANCED I enclose my 2 photos (before and after) of my entry along with signed client history form and copies of any Training Certificates in the Advanced Section of the competition. a)

Full Lip

Lip Line

Hair Stroke Brows

Shadow or Full Brow

Designer Eyeliner

Number of years working in the Industry ……. All photos should be clearly marked on the back with Therapist Name and Client Name. All photos must be posted to Head Office ACT, 141 Princess Highway, Unanderra NSW 2526. If you require a return, please include a stamped self addressed envelope with your entry. Entrant photos will be judged by the current Association Committee or guest judge from United Kingdom. The Judges decision will be final.

Signed ……………………………………………………………

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Affinity Alliance remains dedicated to its members in providing the best there is in exclusive benefits and services across a wide range of Industries. If you feel that your business or company can offer our members an exclusive benefit and you want to be added to our long list of professionals and receive FREE advertising to our complete database, contact our HEAD OFFICE today 1300 793 044 Building our Provider List Our capability to deliver high quality, tailored and customised benefit programs with dedicated and personalised service, sets us apart. We appreciate that organisations today need to be flexible, innovative and affordable without compromising quality and value.

Who do we serve? Affinity Alliances has been built on strong values of innovation and integrity. We pride ourselves on delivering the highest levels of service for our people. We work hard to establish strong relationships with our clients and members by undertaking regular surveys and feedback reviews. Our member base is made up of professionals across a wide range of industries such as Architecture & Engineering, Medical and Dental, Finance, Information Technology, to name just a few.

What are the Benefits of an AA Provider

• Affinity Alliance invests in the marketing of your service via an integrated communications and marketing strategy. To maintain our quality standards and to deliver sustainable benefits, we enter into supplier Agreements will all of our partners. If you would like a copy of our Partner Agreement, please contact Head office on

1300 793 044 or email

admin@affinityallianceco.com.au

This Agreement outlines a differentiated offer (must be national and preferably in New Zealand too); which represents a genuine benefit for our members when compared with an equivalent public offer, and any other service, marketing or management information. Click on the link below to view the requirements of becoming an Affinity Alliance provider.

• Expose your brand to our market • Increased traffic to your business through Affinity Alliance channels • Introduce your business to our stakeholder network • Access our fast growing member base • Your product information is promoted and marketed on Affinity Alliance’s website - saving you time and money • Increased number of sales, and in turn, revenue for your business • Brand recognition by association with our existing partners

! !

CLICK HERE TO VIEW

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

Experience something special on your next car purchase.

AustrAlAsiAn

Avbs

AustrAlAsiAn VEHIclE BUYING SERVIcES

Call 1300 76 49 49 or visit www.avbs.com.au Personalised Service

Impartial Advice

Right Price

No Stress

This is a free member service endorsed by your association and is available on all makes and models TDAVBS0001

! !

Affinity SHOPPER !

AFFINITY MAGAZINE

AFFINITY SHOPPER Big Brands, Low Prices… As you are all abundantly aware, Affinity Shopper is going gangbusters with traffic and sales. Our members are shopping up an absolute stor m on a host of everyday and specialty items. The best part about it is everything is up to 70% off! Non-members can shop as well, so don’t be shy to visit our site, but in addition to the great savings, members get to enjoy additional rewards points which go towards their next spend, so there is even more to celebrate. So dust off that wallet, prepare your credit card and go shopping. If you missed it, the new site is of course aptly named www.affinityshopper.net.au and as previously mentioned, will save you bucket loads on everyday items as well as specialty goods. Take a trip down Affinity Shopping Lane today and see what bargains you can grab. Don’t forget to LIKE us on Facebook so you can keep updated on daily specials…

Save up to 70% on well known brands and retailers across a huge range of categories including: • Fashion • Health & Beauty • Home & Outdoor • Pet Products • Printer Cartridges • Technology • Toys • Wine & Drink Accessories

START SHOPPING NOW www.affinityshopper.net.au

PHONE 1300 793 044

Want to increase your revenue at no additional cost? Top 5 reasons to partner with

Generate revenue from corporate sponsorship

Offer a free benefit to your members

Increase new member acquisition & grow membership revenue

Improve membership retention rate

Increase engagement with your member base

Carbine Media is a multimedia and publishing company with a primary focus on associations. We work with associations to generate revenue from corporate sponsorship of printed and digital member products. In addition to providing associations with another revenue channel, our products are positioned to increase engagement and improve renewal rates amongst your members. Our clients include the Australian Medical Association, Australian Veterinary Association, Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Radiologists.

For all enquiries, please contact: John Quinlan, Managing Director: Email: johnq@carbinemedia.com.au Tel: (02) 9476 5933 Fax: (02) 9477 1147

Carbine Media Unit 1, 18 Salisbury Road, Hornsby, NSW 2077 T: (02) 9476 5933 F: (02) 9477 1147 E: media@carbinemedia.com.au

2014

AFFINITY ALLIANCE MAGAZINE MEDIA KIT The magazine of Affinity Alliance. A highly respected digital publication and a muchloved read by thousands of members of our valued organisations across Australia & New Zealand. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about success, business, life & rewards.

MEDIA KIT AFFINITY ALLIANCE MAGAZINE Affinity EMAG is a niche market magazine produced monthly by Affinity Alliance. It is a professional, full colour digital publication distributed exclusively through membership to over 600,000 individual businesses and professionals across Australia & New Zealand.

Our reader is dynamic, switched on and 25 plus. They are always looking for new and interesting and exciting opportunities that stretch both personally and professionally. Our readers typically balance both career and family. 65% of our readers come from the ever-increasing Small Business sector with the balance of 35% being read by those employed in executive and senior management positions. Our research shows that 50% of our readers retain their magazines for one year and beyond maintaining them as a reference point for making future purchasing decisions. It provides an outstanding opportunity for advertisers to showcase their products and services to the very lucrative membership market.

MEDIA KIT AFFINITY ALLIANCE MAGAZINE ADVERTISING SPECIFICATIONS

Affinity Alliance advertisements are full colour. The prices below DO NOT include artwork design (price on application if artwork is required). A high resolution PDF file is the preferred format for finished artwork and the following must be correct before submitting; size of advertisement is exact, all text is converted to outlines, files are supplied as CMYK process (no RGB or spot colours), all images in the file are 300dpi at correct size. If the PDF file is over 8MB, it will be too large to send through your server, please send your file through yousendit.com (a free service for single files up to 100MB). Maximum ink weight 340%. 5mm bleed is only available on double page and full page advertisements. No responsibility will be taken for problems resulting from incorrectly supplied files.

ADVERTISING RATES

MEDIA KIT AFFINITY ALLIANCE MAGAZINE FRONT COVER OPPORTUNITY $3490

Includes photo on cover, a double page 800 word UPFRONT feature article, one full-page display advertisement and up to a maximum of 500 complimentary printed copies of the magazine carrying the feature.

PUBLICATIONS & DEADLINES Cover Date

Publication Date

Booking Deadline

Material Deadline

January

February

March

20 January

20 February

20 March

1 January

1 February

10 January

1 March

10 February

10 March

April

20 April

1 April

10 April

May

20 May

1 May

10 May

June

20 June

1 June

10 June

July

20 July

1 July

10 July

August September

October

20 August

20 September

20 October

1 August 1 September

1 October

10 August 10 September

10 October

November

20 November

1 November

10 November

December

20 December

1 December

10 December

Email: advertising@affinityallianceco.com.au Phone 1300 793 044

AFFINITY ALLIANCE EMAG ADVERTISING BOOKING FORM BUSINESS DETAILS BUSINESS NAME Contact Person Role of Contact Person Street Address 1 Street Address 2 City State

Post Code

Website E-Mail Address

PLEASE BOOK THE FOLLOWING EDITIONS

Phone Number

Casual Two Pack Four Pack

*Four Pack bookings receive 10% discount, quarterly payment system, free artwork design, priority consideration for editorial submissions & a free listing in the "Online Business Directory"

Display Advertisement Size

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Preferred Positioning

First 20 pages Right hand page

Layout Requirments

Yes - calculated @ 30% of the cost of the advertisement No - Finished art will be supplied

Advertorial Front Cover Option

(220 words plus image) $600 $3490 - includes photo on cover, a double page 800 word UPFRONT feature article, one full-page display advertisement and up to a maximum of 500 complimentary printed copies of the magazine carrying the feature.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

QUOTED COST

By signing below I acknowledge that I have read and agreed to the quoted cost above and the terms and conditions of advertising in Affinity EMAG outlined at www.affinityallianceco.com.au SIGNATURE Forward to the Editor - Affinity Alliance Email: advertising@affinityallianceco.com.au

PAYMENT DETAILS Please deduct the cost of my advertisement from

Visa Mastercard Amex

Card # Expiry CCV Name On Card SIGNATURE OF CARDHOLDER

Affinity EMAG is proudly published by Affinity Alliance Co. Phone 1300 793 044 Fax: 1300 793 044 Email: admin@affinityallianceco.com.au Web: www.affinityallianceco.com.au PO Box 777, LOGANHOLME DC QLD 4128 Affinity Alliance Co ABN: 27 338 393 484 All prices include GST and correct at time of printing August 2014.

Phone 1300 793 044 www.affinityallianceco.com.au