Speaking Skills Can Skyrocket Your Personal Brand & Your Business
In today’s cutthroat business world, a strong personal brand isn’t just a niceto-have—it’s a must-have. As professionals scramble to stand out in the crowd, there’s one tool that’s often underestimated but packs a serious punch: the art of speaking. Whether you’re introducing yourself at a networking event, steering a team meeting, or just chatting with a colleague, your speaking skills are front and centre in how others see you. And let’s face it—trust is the bedrock of any powerful personal brand.
It’s All About Perception
You’ve got about three seconds to make a first impression—don’t blow it. Those first few moments when you open your mouth can set the stage for how others view you. Speak with clarity and confidence, and suddenly you’re seen as knowledgeable, competent, and trustworthy. These are the golden qualities that will shine a spotlight on your personal brand.
You Must Establish Authority and Credibility
If you want to be taken seriously, you’ve got to speak up—literally. Effective speaking establishes authority and credibility in your field. Whether it’s at a networking event, a webinar, or even in a casual setting, speaking opportunities let you strut your stuff. When you talk knowledgeably about what you do, you’re not just informing—you’re positioning yourself as an expert. And when people see you as an expert, both your personal and business reputations get a boost.
Be Consistent and Congruent
Let’s be real: trust doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built over time, and it requires you to be consistent. This is especially true when it comes to how you communicate. No matter when or where you speak, your message needs to be consistent and congruent. Consistency and congruency reinforces your authenticity, reliability and trustworthiness.
David Price
0418 888 018
david@davidprice com www davidprice com
SWAN VALLEY BLINDS
VEGGIE BLISS KITCHEN ADVENTURES
Innovative Strategies for Building Meaningful Connections NETWORKING BEYOND THE BUSINESS CARD:
It’s true that networking has, in the past, been synonymous with the exchange of business cards at conferences, meetings or unexpected encounters, however networking throughout the past decade, has evolved into so much more than just adding to your contact list. Meaningful networking goes way beyond swapping contact details. While business cards still have a place, true professional growth hinges on cultivating genuine connections that extend past a handshake or virtual introduction. It’s about creating lasting relationships that can offer support, spark innovation and open doors to new opportunities. So how can you ditch the business card mentality and discover how to create truly collaborative business relationships? Here are a few innovative strategies to help you network more effectively:
Personalise Your Connection
It doesn’t matter how you may have been introduced to a new contact, whether through a face-to-face event, meeting, or through online networking, a webinar, or even social media, if you want to build a connection, you must follow-up your initial introduction with a personalised message. Don’t send an automatic, generic message from your database. Connect with them through a personalised thank you message or refer to the conversation you had. You can do this in a variety of ways, through email, text or social media messaging, but make it personal. Ensure you are authentic and that they know you paid attention to your conversation. Mention where you met, and a mutual topic of interest, otherwise, you will become just another business card.
These meetups will help you get to know your contacts better and take the relationship to a more personal level. Whatever industry you are in, you want to be the person your contacts think of when they (or someone they know) need your services. This requires people to know, like and trust you and this happens when they get to know you better. Small group or 1-to-1 meetings establish stronger rapport and a chance to get to know one another in a less formal setting. This can lead to collaborative projects that benefit all parties. As with any type of connection, always follow up with a personal message to confirm you ‘heard’ what was said in the meeting and that you want to continue the relationship.
Create or Join a Mastermind Group
Mastermind groups are small, peer-to-peer mentoring groups designed to help members solve their business problems with input from the other group members. Typically, Mastermind Groups have a set number of people, who usually meet once a week, fortnight or month for a designated period of time. Consistency is key, as regular meetings keep the group focussed and productive and also create strong bonds within the group.
Try to join or form a group with members from various backgrounds. This diversity can lead to innovative ideas and strategies. Collaborative initiatives also often grow from this environment.
We hope you can now see how networking has now evolved to where it’s about building a community around your professional life. By using these strategies, you can create more meaningful connections that will benefit you in various aspects of business. Embrace the modern tools and approaches to networking, and you’ll find that your professional network can expand in exciting and unexpected ways.
Lorraine Garvie Dean Keating
EVENTS Men
Leadership Starts With You
withAndrew Palacios
OCTOBER 2024
7:30 am - 9:30 am
SWAN RIVER HOTEL
About the Speaker
Andrew served 16-years in the Australian Army which included demanding positions within both the Infantry and Special Forces. During his service, Andrew accepted multiple leadership roles such as a recon patrol commander, recruit instructor, senior noncommissioned officer and as a Special Forces operator within the 2nd Commando Regiment (2 CDO). This service saw multiple operations in south-east Asia, the middle east and domestically.
3 Main Outcomes/Learnings:
Hard and soft skills of leadership
Mental health and Resilience Gratitude
A commitment to growth and development signals to employees that they are valued and that the organization believes in their potential. When employees are given the tools and opportunities to grow, they are more likely to adopt a positive mindset that aligns with business objectives. By taking care of your own development first you are leading the way and setting an example. In developing self, you can then help others.
Conclusion
In business, a positive mindset is not just a “nice-to-have” trait but a fundamental driver of success. It affects everything from decision-making to team dynamics and ultimately impacts the bottom line. By fostering positivity, business leaders can build a resilient, innovative, and motivated workforce that is better equipped to face challenges and capitalize on opportunities. Conversely, a negative mindset can lead to stagnation, decreased morale, and missed opportunities. By practicing gratitude, focusing on solutions, and investing in development, businesses can create a culture that promotes positivity and drives sustainable success.
0404 065 516
lorraine@17coaching com au www.17coaching.com.au
Learn How to Sell Like a Superwoman
Sales are the lifeblood of any business. Without sales, there’s no revenue, and without revenue, there’s no business. But selling isn’t just about pushing a product; it’s about authentic communication, understanding needs and providing solutions. For women in business, mastering sales can be a superpower that propels you to new heights. Here’s how to sell like a superwoman and why it’s crucial for your success.
Why Sales are Important
Sales are the engine that drives business growth. They bring in revenue, enable expansion, and fund innovation. But beyond the numbers, sales are about building relationships. Each sale is an opportunity to connect with a customer, understand their needs and provide value. Successful sales create satisfied customers who return and refer others, creating a cycle of growth and loyalty.
Is Your Sales and Money Mindset Getting in the Way?
Your mindset plays a pivotal role in your sales success. Do you believe in your product? Do you value your worth? A negative sales mindset can sabotage your efforts. If you think you’re being pushy or annoying, you’ll hesitate to close deals. If you don’t believe your product is worth the price, neither will your customers. Cultivate a positive mindset by focusing on the value you provide and the problems you solve. Remember, selling is serving.
A simple, repeatable sales process is key to consistency and success. Here’s a straightforward approach:
Greet: Make a positive first impression. 1 Fact Find: Understand the customer's needs and challenges. 2. Demo: Show how your product or service solves their problem. 3. Close: Ask for the sale confidently. 4. Follow Up: Stay in touch to ensure satisfaction and encourage repeat business. 5.
The First Sale is to Yourself
Before you can sell to others, you need to sell to yourself. Believe in your product’s value and your ability to make a difference. This confidence will shine through in your interactions and make your sales pitch more convincing. You’re always selling - either you’re selling your product, or you’re buying your doubts and fears.
The Power of Follow-Up
Did you know that 80% of sales are made between the 5th and 12th follow-up? Many salespeople give up after the first or second attempt, missing out on potential sales. Persistence is key. Follow up regularly, add value in each interaction, and show your prospects that you’re committed to helping them. Don’t let the fear of being pushy stop you - follow-up is where the magic happens.
Authentic Communication
Sales isn’t about manipulating or pressuring people, it’s about authentic communication. Listen more than you talk. Ask quality questions to understand your customer’s needs. Provide honest, helpful information. When you approach sales as a conversation rather than a pitch, you build trust and rapport, leading to more successful outcomes.
Be of Service
How are you being of service if you don’t help others with your product? Your product or service exists to solve problems and improve lives. By selling it, you’re providing a valuable service. Shift your mindset from “selling” to “helping,” and your approach will become more genuine and effective.
Become a Powerful Communicator
Great salespeople are great communicators. They’re clear, persuasive and empathetic. Work on your communication skills - practice active listening, hone your pitch and refine your follow-up strategies. When you become a powerful communicator, you’ll find that selling becomes a natural and rewarding part of your business.
Selling like a superwoman means embracing the power of authentic communication, maintaining a positive mindset, and persistently following up. It’s about believing in your product and yourself. By mastering these elements, you’ll not only boost your sales but also build lasting relationships and create real value for your customers. So, put on your cape, and start selling like the superwoman you are!
0422 656 635
hello@thealisonwheeler.com
www thealisonwheeler com
Alison Wheeler
Andy Ford (08) 9331 8800
info@fordanddoonan com au www.fordanddoonan.com.au
How to Build an A-List Team
Don’t hire B or C Players. If only it were that simple.
Imagine entering your office every day and being greeted by a skilled team genuinely excited about solving problems and driving your business forward. That’s the result of having a team of A-players.
“A-players solve problems proactively and effectively. B-players follow instructions, and C-players create problems. Making a full commitment to having a team of A-players is the best business decision you could make.” ~ Paul Claessen.
The challenge is to attract these A-Players, then manage and lead them well.
Having a team of A-players requires a total commitment from you, the business owner. Recruiting employees in a tight labour market is one of the most challenging tasks I help clients with. You need a system, and you need to stick to it. If you want a copy of a system we have successfully used over 25,000 times, please email me at paul@paulclaessen.com.au.
Once you secure your A-player talent, ensuring they meet the role's needs is the next task at hand. Implementing a specific, effective management system is an excellent way to invest in your A-players.
Remember, don’t hire B and C Players. Instead, invest in those who will solve problems proactively and effectively, ensuring your business' success. This commitment to excellence will set your business apart and pave the way for sustainable growth.
I’m Paul Claessen. I’m a business advisor. I help transform businesses into valuable assets.
paul@paulclaessencomau wwwpaulclaessencomau
3 Effective Ways to Manage Tasks and Prevent Business Burnout
Staying on top of goals and objectives can feel like a never-ending battle. The constant barrage of tasks, deadlines and responsibilities often leads to overwhelm and burnout. But what if there was a way to achieve more without feeling swamped? The answer lies in a powerful, yet simple technique known as "chunking" and leveraging the rule of three.
Many business professionals and leaders feel inundated by the sheer volume of tasks on their plates. It's common to see to-do lists that seem insurmountable, leading to feelings of stress and frustration. The pressure to perform and meet goals can make even the most capable individuals feel inadequate. This sense of overwhelm can stall productivity and morale, creating a cycle of inefficiency.
When tasks seem too large or complex, it's easy to become paralysed by the enormity of the challenge. This paralysis can lead to missed opportunities, stalled projects and a decline in overall business performance. The inability to break down tasks effectively means that important goals are often left unachieved, leading to a perpetual state of anxiety and underperformance. If left unchecked, this can have serious implications for both individual and organisational success.
So, how can businesses overcome this challenge and ensure goals are met without the accompanying overwhelm? The answer lies in three key strategies:
1. Chunking and the Rule of Three:
Instead of tackling large, daunting tasks head-on, break them down into smaller, manageable chunks. Specifically, use the rule of three, which involves dividing tasks into three smaller steps. This method simplifies complex tasks and makes them more approachable. By focusing on just three components at a time, individuals can maintain clarity and direction without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Aligning Tasks with Belief Systems:
Understand that everyone has a belief system that dictates what they think they can achieve. Set tasks that fall within these belief systems to ensure they are achievable. Starting with smaller, confidence-boosting tasks can help individuals build momentum. As confidence grows, gradually increase the complexity of the tasks.
0409 101 460
melissa.domiati@thelongevitylab.com.au www thelongevitylab com au
Create Change Counselling, founded in 2023 by Chloe Flemming, is a holistic mental health service dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenges. Chloe, an Accredited Clinical Social Worker, holds degrees in Psychology and Sociology and a Bachelor of Social Work with honours from the University of Sydney. With over two decades of experience, she has worked in hospitals, community and government services, focusing on complex mental health and disabilities. NDIS registered, the practice offers individual therapy, group therapy, psychosocial recovery coaching, and specialist support coordination. We are committed to social justice and providing highquality, person-centred care.
In person Perth Metro; telehealth Australia wide.
I joined D32 to meet like minded people and learning. CHLOE FLEMING | 0406 352 452 INFO@CREATECHANGECOUNSELLING.COM www.createchangecounselling.com
What you knew you always needed and never knew you could have Your clone in the home
Your recipes, with your ingredients in your kitchen
Because you know what your family will eat Beds changed, laundry done, all folded and put away 'Those' cupboards or rooms finally organised
Maker of condiments and specialising in chilli sauces made from misfit vegetables from Western Australian ingredients.
SBG makes sauces that everyone can have. Ranging from a mild sweet chilli to one that will tingle the tastebuds. With simple but eIective branding SBG stands out on a shelf or in hampers and are an interesting change for wedding favours.
“I joined D32 to be an active member of a networking group. Solopreneur can be lonely at times.”
At Wabi Sabi Marshmallows, we specialise in providing delicious and inclusive marshmallows to cafes and restaurants, offering a safe dessert option for all customers. Our marshmallows are gluten-free, dairyfree, nut-free, and egg-free, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
We also offer beautiful gift boxes, perfect for delighting your special clients. Get yours for Christmas. Partnering with us means you can cater to diverse dietary preferences while offering a unique, high-quality treat. Let us help you enhance your menu and impress your clients with our delectable and inclusive marshmallow offerings.
JULIE CAVANEY | 0400 716 532 INFO@WABISABIMARSHMALLOWS.COM.AU
www wabisabimarshmallows com au
Rozanne Biddle Occupational Therapist
In today’s fast-paced business environment, leveraging data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is essential to stay competitive. However, it’s important not to feel overwhelmed by AI and automation. AI is just another helpful tool to make your operations more efficient, improve your decision-making and create more personalised customer experiences.
Think Big, Start Small
While some businesses may be revolutionised by AI, for most, it will bring incremental improvements. And taking small steps with technology, including AI, is what is going to give you a competitive edge.
Doug Kinney famously said in the 1996 movie Multiplicity, “Yeah, I trust him. I trust him like I trust myself, really.”
Here’s a simple step-by-step framework to help you identify these opportunities:
Step 1: Understand Business Goals and Challenges
Identify your primary business goals (such as to increase revenue, improve customer satisfaction, reduce costs).
Gather insights from departments to understand current challenges and inefficiencies. Surveys or interviews are a great way to uncover specific problems!
Step 2: Assess Current Data Assets and Capabilities
Inventory existing data, and evaluate its quality, accessibility and relevance. Also look at your current data storage, processing and analytics capabilities to identify any gaps that may impact your ability to leverage this data.
Building a successful business is about making strategic decisions and leveraging the right tools. High-performing websites and efficient CRMs are not optional - they’re essential. With experts like Peter Butler, you can ensure your business is set up for success. Join the many entrepreneurs who have taken their business to the next level and see the difference for yourself.
Take Action Now
Sign up for a website audit and discover the transformative power of a high-performing website and CRM. Your business deserves the best.
Peter Butler
0413 733 272
peter@smarterwebsites com au www smarterwebsites com au
Fighting a War with Your Inbox and Phone?
4. Make your team aware of the importance of working “on” the business. Your role is to support them, address major issues, and drive growth. If you're bogged down with administrative tasks and calls, the focus on innovation will suffer. Keep your team updated on your projects and how they’ll benefit their work. This engagement will encourage them to support you with administrative functions.
I’m often asked if there are secrets to getting rich. While not exactly secrets, there are crucial factors that can change everything. One key factor is whether you have a scarcity mindset or an abundance mindset.
Let me illustrate this with a story. After leaving the military, my first job was cleaning offices—vacuum on my back and feather duster in hand. I was earning $10 per hour for nighttime work, 6-7 hours per night. It wasn’t much, but it was a job.
One morning, after a shift, I was having coffee in a South Perth café when I overheard a conversation about a cleaning business. The men realised I was listening and invited me into their discussion. One of them, thinking I was a cleaning business owner based on my attire, offered to buy any contracts I had for 50% of their annual value.
I didn’t understand what he meant, but he quickly recognised his mistake. Instead of walking away, he offered me a chance to make real money. He explained that if I went door knocking, followed his quoting rules, and secured contracts, he would buy them from me for 50% of their value. I agreed and spent an hour learning from him.
I called my wife, Cathie, from a phone box (no mobile phones back then) to let her know I was staying out to give this a try. On my first day, I signed a contract for $6,000. I went to his office and received $3,000. I went from earning $60 a night to $3,000 a day. Over that year, I made just over $500,000. However, around the 12-month mark, I thought to myself, “This guy will run out of money, staff, or interest,” so I decided to quit.
What I learned was that I had a scarcity mindset. If I had an abundance mindset, I would have realised there were countless other cleaning businesses like his across Australia, ready to offer the same opportunity.
Sometimes we only discover our scarcity mindset when someone shows us a different perspective. When that happens, our world can change dramatically. The real question is, are you ready for that change?
Michael Worthington
0412 699 183 michael@101mediagroup com au www 101mediagroup com au
The Attention You Deserve and the Power of Surprise and Delight
The ATTENTION of busy distracted business decision-makers.
Easy right?
Each of us craves significance. Our psyche demands that we are seen, heard and recognised in life and business.
Just as children act out to get noticed when they lack love or attention, adults may resort to similar tactics if they feel overlooked.
The buntu. team offers a formula for gaining attention in memorable ways, using surprise and delight. It starts with ‘Uncovering / Rediscovering / Revitalising YOU.’
If you’re a business struggling to SHOW UP and tell YOUR story, consider your next steps. When your genuine intent is expressed confidently, you’ll attract the attention you deserve.
For instance, if you’re simply an accountant, you might not catch my eye. But if you’re THE Facilitator of Wealth for female-led, service-based businesses on the Gold Coast earning $1m to $5m, you’ve got my interest.
To keep it, I need to know your story, reputation, team, ethos, tone, client treatment, and community contributions. That’s the ‘velcro’ that keeps me engaged. If you’re dull, I’ll be bored. If you’re enthusiastic, I’ll resonate with your energy.
I want to be entertained—my phone is more captivating. So, how are you telling your story?
If you’re feeling invisible and have more to offer, we’ll help you uncover yourself and attract the attention you deserve.
Greg Smith
0429 872 386 greg@buntu.com.au www buntu com au
District32 Supports Gratitude Bear
My hope is that Gratitude Bear helps to positively develop childrens minds, giving them the tools to overcome obstacles, teach them the confidence to express themselves, allowing them to live in the moment. Gratitude Bear is a toy on a mission. To create a new wave of mindful people.
Every new challenge we face from childhood to adulthood will set a benchmark of who we are to become. Always remember every obstacle is a detour in the right direction. Check our roadmap
“Create a memory, live the moment.”
Spain
0484 253 816
thegratitudebears@gmail com www.thegratitudebear.com
With the addition of every District32 member, we mark the occasion by planting a tree.
