Independent Business Network Inc. Your business growth and support system
Winter 2014
Tips For Effective Study Designing a Small Garden Inspecting Your New Home Polio Vaccine & Architecture? Motivational Tips for Job Search
LinkedIn Success The Cloud De-Mystified Tips to Avoid Business Failure 7 Tips to Successful Networking
Winter and The Mind A Breath of Fresh Thinking Survival Guide for Safe Travels
7 Property Investment Tips
Top Tips for Business
ers b m e rM u to e Me
Contents
Business 6 Top Tips for LinkedIn Success Julie Warner 4 Tips to Avoid Small Business Failure Robert Cole 6
Editor’s Letter Welcome back, All of a sudden, we have left behind our glorious, sunny summer days and there is a distinct chill in the air mornings and nights. With this cooler weather it is sometimes easy as a small business, if you work from home to go into a bit of a self-imposed hibernation. It becomes very difficult to make the effort to get out of your Ugg boots and leave your nice, warm and cozy office to make those appointments or attend that function. There are very few businesses that can afford a few months with slower cash flow, so it is essential that you stay motivated, keep setting those appointments and most importantly, keep your business visible by networking at any opportunity. To help your business avoid the winter slump, this edition is filled with “Top Tips” for business, expert advice and valuable insights for both your work and home life from our extensive range of members’ businesses. As always, we continue growing and developing our strong, trusted relationships at IBNInc as new members join each month and we look forward to the business opportunities and connection that come from this supportive group. Until next edition, happy reading.
The Cloud De-mystified Angela Mitchell
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Design What Does the Polio Vaccine and Architecture Have in Common? Robyn Hawke 18
Education
4 Tips for Effective Study Sharleen Newcombe
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Employment Motivational Tips While Searching for a Job Fiona Neumann 21
Health
Winter and The Mind Pamela Hoy 16
Lifestyle Inspecting your New Home Kalene Cassie
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Designing Small Gardens Sandhya Sunil
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A Breath of Fresh Thinking Margaret King
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Networking 7 Tips to Successful Networking Julie Warner 24
Travel President Independent Business Network Inc www.independentbusinessnetworkinc.com
Survival Guide for Safe Travels Julie Warner 22
Wealth 7 Property Investment Tips Robyn Atkins
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Business
6 Top Tips for LinkedIn Success Create a Compelling Headline Respect LinkedIn Etiquette Many people’s headlines are simply set to default to their current professional position. This might sound ok, but the main reason to have a LinkedIn profile is to get noticed, right? The more compelling your headline, the more likely your profile will be viewed.
Tip: Click the edit icon on your
header line and write that killer headline that tells the world exactly what you do.
LinkedIn is a professional networking platform. Don’t share the same information that you would if you were on Facebook or another social media site. Even if your contacts are Facebook friends. It’s a very small world, especially on-line so never write negative comments or recommendations to any colleagues – you never know who is connected to who!
When you join a group, don’t start directly promoting your services. As with real life networking, let group members get to know you and your expertise through their interactions with you. As you get to know people better, they’ll naturally want to know more about what you offer.
Example: “PMP-certified project manager – Known for successfully leading multimillion dollar projects in developing countries” Complete your Profile It seems obvious, but most people don’t ever finish updating their LinkedIn profile. Be sure that you do. As you create your profile, have a specific goal in mind. Switching careers? Looking for new clients? Want to expand your network? Choose one goal and make sure your profile tells a story that supports your goal.
Image Source: LinkedIn
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Connect LinkedIn is a social platform and the whole point to connect to others. Who you connect to and how large of a network you’d like to have is up to you. You may connect with: * Friends & family * Past and current colleagues * Former classmates & college alumni * People met at conferences and networking events * People on various LinkedIn groups and discussions * Your professional network accountant, lawyer, chamber of commerce members, etc.
LinkedIn is a powerful social media tool with enormous possibilities, it is up to you to maximise its potential. Commit now to reviewing and improving your profile, even if you just do one small thing each week. This is the first key step to LinkedIn success.
Image Souce-SocialTalent.co
Recommend Others Recommendations contribute to the “social proof” of your LinkedIn profile. One way to get recommendations is to give them, so we suggest that you write a recommendation for someone: a colleague, a friend, boss, etc. Or you can be more strategic, is there someone you’d like to request a recommendation from?
Join Groups LinkedIn is a social network, and part of being social is joining groups. Search for relevant groups that will help support your LinkedIn goal. If your goal is to build a network of colleagues, you might want to join intercultural groups. If you’re looking for a new job, see if there’s a group related to the organization you want to work for. If you’re looking for clients, join the groups where they’re most likely to hang out. Once you join a group, actively participate in order to grow your influence.
Happy connecting! Julie Warner
www.facebook.com/YourBusinessHelper
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Why do Small Businesses Fail and what can you do to reduce the chance of you being one of the ‘Failures’?
1. 300,000 new small businesses cease operation each year 2. After 4 years, only 43% of small firms are still in business 3. Only 60% of small businesses are even profitable Small Business: An Economic Overview - RBA May 2012
Small Businesses ‘Fail’ for a variety of reasons (just like large businesses!), such as:* Bad idea to begin with
* Unrealistic expectations
* Not enough operating capital *
Poor location
* Bad timing
* Lack of entrepreneurial skills and foresight
* The wrong person operating the business
And while these are important, often businesses can survive one or more of these if the following reasons are well done - but unfortunately these are often the very reason that many businesses fail:-
2.
* Let current customers slip away to do business with competitors Lack effective & efficient business management practices
1. Lack effective customer Acquisition and Retention Systems * Don’t attract enough qualified prospects
* Fail to convert prospects into profitable and repeat customers
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So what can you do to minimise your chances of joining the majority? 1. Realise you aren’t in the business of ‘doing’ the job, but rather you are in the business of ‘marketing’. So, focus on what you have to do to ‘sell’ the service or product. 2. Then, work out what your prospective clients wants, needs, fears, desires are, and how your product or service can address those needs. And by the way, as a pre-cursor to this, identify just who are your ideal clients – the perfect ones that you know will love what you can do for them, AND, who have the money to pay what you deserve for your quality service.
3. And, stop marketing from your perspective (“I’ll complete your job in 24 hours” – which by the way sounds like you aren’t very busy so maybe not that good!) and speak in terms of the ‘benefits’ to the client (“To ensure you don’t waste time or money, we will work with you to determine exactly what you need and then deliver that on time and on budget”). 4. Whatever your current sales process is, work on documenting the sales script used and improve it. 5. Get someone external to your team to review and give an honest opinion on each step – the old problem of being too close to the job to see the alternatives is as true in business as it is in any part of life.
If all else fails, check out what your closest competitors are doing, and do something (anything) different to make yourself stand out as not just ‘one of the crowd’ being selected on price alone.
6. And the big one, measure everything so you can see where your results are less than great – it may be you need more leads (so marketing/ advertising is the solution); or it may be your conversion rate is so poor that you need to improve that (better sales processes/practice; better targeting of the initial leads within the marketing; better products?); or it may be that you need a wider range of products or services to sell to maximise the value from each client you do get.
Good luck for success in 2014. www.thesmallbusinesswizard.com
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“The Cloud” De-Mystified With the constant, fast paced changes in technology and the online world today, as small business owners it leaves us all scratching our heads at times and feeling a little “technology challenged”! To help clear up the confusion, I recently attending a “Free” seminar with Jeremy Kilpatrick and Andrew Micallef from TAFE NSW where they shared their knowledge of “The Cloud”. I have some key insights from the workshop for you that will help take the confusion away for all small business owners.
Let’s start with “The Cloud” – translation: ‘A place out there in the ether, reserved for Applications (or Apps), which is available to anybody who is happy to pay a small to large monthly fee to have access to all sorts of professional software’. The great advantage of the cloud, is that your files will be available to you, from any device connected to the internet - anytime! If you have a Micro to medium sized business, these benefits of “The Cloud” will interest you as it: Eliminates the need to have a ‘server’ in your workspace
Removes the requirement to ‘network’ your computers, which means less money spent on IT Allows all employees to access files (at your discretion)
Here are just a few of the Apps available to use for your business in “The Cloud”:
Google Apps
* Video chat, calendar and document editing
* Integration with other ‘cloud’ subscriptions * 24/7 customer support
Google Apps is a cloud-based productivity suite that helps you and your team connect and get work done from anywhere on any device. It’s simple to setup, use and manage, allowing you to work smarter and focus on what really matters.
* 99.99% uptime guarantee
Now, if your website has its domain name and/or you host your site with Google, they will smile upon you and set up will be very simple. But, if your registered domain name and hosting body are with a different provider, then your ownership of them will need to be verified.
Xero (Accounting)
Google Apps allow: * An unlimited number of professional email addresses i.e. you@yourwebsite.com.au or an employee such as brenda. brown@yourwebsite.com.au * Software that is constantly updated to rival Microsoft Office
All of this can be your for $5.00 or $10 per month depending on the level of your requirements. Some additional Apps that work really well for business are:
Xero is marketed to be much easier to use than the popular small business accounting package “MYOB”. The Xero App: * Can keep you up to date via your: mobile device, tablet, PC or Mac * Has no lock-in contract
* Provides on-line support
* Allows you to view your bank balance * Shows recent sales * Upcoming bills
The Xero App charges start at $25.00 per month 8
GeoOp (job management software for trades and services) This App is an efficient way for Tradies to manage all stages of their business from on-site to the office giving their clients a professional service. The GeoOp App: * Produces real time job sheets * Stores contact details for Staff * Lists all job locations and directs staff to location using GPS * Manages costs, quotes and invoicing The GeoApp charges $19.95 per month with no set-up fees
Capsule CRM
(Customer Relationship Manager) This App is divided into four main sections; people and organisations (contacts), calendar and tasks, sales pipeline and cases. According to some on-line reviews, this App reportedly has a few chinks in its armour currently, but it will likely improve if customers request changes. If you would like to read the review you can do so here: http://boxfreeit.com. au/2012/05/17/capsule-crm-areview/
The Capsule CRM App: * Has a “Free” version available * Integrates with Google Aps * Helps to keep track of contacts, potential clients etc. The Capsule CRM App costs $12:00 per month for the paid version. 1. Attend a FREE workshop at Castle Hill Council (not just
So, what are you waiting for? Want to know more? Then take action! about this subject, check out upcoming events
2. Google: In the search box, type any of the names of the above mentioned Apps and hit enter on your keyboard 3. Follow the links in this article
4. Not a Hills local? Ask your Council if they have any similar services for small business and if not then ask if they would consider running these workshops for business!
5. N i r i m b a TA F E C o l l e g e offer “free” training with the Digital Enterprise Program. The program is funded by Department of Communications and aims to assist small businesses and not for profit organisations to learn more about using online tools. To find out more contact Jeremy Kilpatrick on 9208 7492. Many thanks go to our patron, Council’s Economic Development
and Marketing Officer Stephen Garrard, for his unwavering support to the IBN Inc. Networking Group for the last 5 years.
Angela Mitchell www.meamdesign.com.au
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Lifestyle Inspecting Your New Home If you’re near the end of getting your home built and don’t have an architect or building designer to inspect your newly built home before you accept ownership, here is how you go about this daunting task. You can download a handy inspection template here in MS Word format To take: * Coloured stickers
* A marble or small ball * A tape measure
* A set of large rectangular postit’s * A hair dryer
* A thick pen and writing pen
* A notebook or tablet if you want to type as you go * A sheet of A4 paper
* A copy of the list of inclusions and finishes you agreed with the builder * A copy of the electrical layout from the builder if you have one
* A good quality camera with a full battery and empty memory card * A few different sizes of plastic waste plugs * A large jug
* A small step ladder To do beforehand:
The inspection: Start at the entrance and end with the garage. Check the doorbell and key in the front door. Turn on air con to heat. In the wet areas, turn the taps on, with the plugs in. Once all basins, sinks and baths are full, turn off the water and leave the water in. Listen for rattles in water pipes.
Photograph all parts of each room, including ceilings and light fittings. Inspect each room starting with the floor, then skirtings, walls, cornices and finally ceilings. Mark your sticker with a number using the black marker and stick it on to items that need attention. Note the number on your list with a description. Check each wall and everything
Download an inspection on it before moving onto the next spreadsheet and amend it for Turn on any heat lamps, heated wall. Ensure all power points and towel rails, heaters, extractor fans, light switches work. Use post-its your house. ovens, appliances, and run a full cycle with the dishwasher and washing machine.
to note which light switches are for which external lights while you go outside to look. Look at all
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windows and window coverings before checking they open and close correctly. Check that all doors open and close/ latch properly with no rattle or creak. Check cornices and all items on the ceiling. Where you can’t check items, eg speakers that need the sound system hooked up, note this on your list. Hold a piece of A4 paper near the air-con outlet and extractor fans to make sure they are flowing. In all rooms, check that the aircon/ heating works, changing the zoning as you move through the house. Check all items on your builders inclusion list. In the kitchen and bathrooms, check all power points and ensure all appliances are working. Check under the sink/basins for any sign of water leaks, as well as the taps/ mixers. The sink/ basin should be full before removing the plug. Check for leaks again when it is empty. Listen for suction noises or knocking. Make sure the mixer/ tap and shower has hot and cold water. Check the shower drainage. Place a marble at all corners of the shower to ensure it rolls to the drain. Do the same for the bathroom floor. Pour a few jugs
of water down the floor drain to ensure it drains. Work your way externally around the house checking from ground surface up to the gutters, including taps, gates and fences. Check the roofs where visible. Check all garden features and irrigation. Ensure pool pumps are working and pool fences are secure, and gates close automatically and securely. Be nice to the builder and have the courtesy to discuss the items with them in a friendly manner. Enjoy your new home!
www.cassieandcassie.com
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Garden Design: A Special on Designing Small Gardens
small into ‘garden rooms’. Nothing like an open space to end the journey of the eye too quickly. Archways, doorways to give a sense of ’something beyond’ makes the garden seem bigger than it is.
* Space can be divided by layering with plantings, canopy (both natural as well as manmade) and screens. Canopies can be created by underpruning small trees, a pergola, shade sails or even a large umbrella to give a sense of both height and a point of reference. This is especially important if you have high side walls. * Break up the rectilinear shape into a more flowing, organic outline. Just as for houses, our wish list for our gardens is exhaustive- we want to have a garden that can be used for play, to entertain, to eat in, to just be in & enjoy nature, to plant the veggies, have a place to hang the washing out in, storage and so on. Whether your garden is on a large property, a suburban block, a townhouse, an inner city courtyard or a balcony- everyone would love to have their own personal green sanctuary.
I am going to focus on small gardens- that’s where the challenge lies. There is a call for restraint and an ingenious manipulation of spaces.
Golden Rules for small spaces: * To enhance the space available, break up the space- however
* Extend the limitations imposed by the boundaries by bringing in depth & width. This can be done by painting the far wall dark so it recedes, creating multiple layers of plantings, planting larger leaved / lighter coloured plants in the foreground and finer leaved/ darker coloured plants in the background. Another trick is to employ mirrors to ‘extend’ the space. * Linear, directional landscaping elongates the space, while horizontal lines widen the space.
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Plants- the ‘bones’ of a garden
Potted plants are a necessary ingredient of small gardens.
Plants can make or break a garden. Whether it’s a filler bed or a feature plant, to know & plant the right plant in the right place is crucial to the success of a garden.
Dip into your collection of pots- be it eclectic or a contemporary.
You need to give them the right growing conditions and have a regular maintenance regime. As with spring cleaning, you need to be merciless in removing those plants that are just not performing.
Grouping pots together provides the garden with interest & visual cohesion.
Small gardens are viewed as much from inside the house as from outside. So make those framing views more engaging & the connection between the inside & outside more tangible. Coordinate the colours of your furnishings with those of your garden!
A trick to keeping your garden bed looking like its flourishing is to have multiple layers of plants in your garden bed so that a few mishaps get covered by those that are doing well.
And finally- A room with a view!
Sandhya Sunil
www.earthmattersconsulting.com.au
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A Breath of Fresh Thinking!
Not just a pretty fibre, ENJO’s chemical-free fibre cleaning system will change your weekly cleaning and shopping routine for the better. It saves what’s precious to you – time, money and health – and what’s precious to our future – water and the environment. Save time ENJO’s cleaning system is simple – just add water and let the fibre do the work, no chemicals needed. Your weekly cleaning regime will be done and dusted in half the time.
Benefit your health All ENJO’s healthy cleaning products require is just a little water to achieve 100% clean. Clean home, clean air and a clean bill of health.
Value your money You’ll be surprised how the savings add up when you bring ENJO into your home. ENJO’s long lasting quality products require just a little water and can be washed and reused for two to three years!
Love your environment With ENJO you will be ‘doing your bit’ to reduce chemical pollution, landfill and water usage.
See it for yourself at an in home demonstration or via individual appointment.
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Love the world you live in! Celebrating 20 years of chemicalfree cleaning in 2014, ENJO has successfully helped improve indoor cleaning quality for thousands of people worldwide. With just water, watch how ENJO fibres outperform traditional cleaning methods to give a longer lasting, more efficient clean. From bathrooms, kitchens, floors, windows and outdoors, ENJO has all areas covered in the home inside and out. The average Australian household spends hundreds of dollars a year on home cleaning products. Yet ENJO and water are all that’s needed to clean every surface in the home and even cleanse the skin! What’s more, ENJO fibres last up to three years, while store-brought microfibres last only 20 washes. Converting the whole home to ENJO is proven to save you money on utility bills too by reducing water usage by a factor of 20 and energy by a factor of 30. That’s a potential total saving of up to $190 per month*! *Based on surveys conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. +Based on laboratory testing by the University of Western Australia.
Before
After Above: Leather Chair
What if 1 in 3 Australian households used nothing but ENJO? We could significantly reduce waste, water use, energy and our carbon footprint!
The ENJO Effect * With just ENJO and water there would be a 30% reduction in the use of harmful chemical cleaners, reducing pollution of our precious water supply, while improving air quality for all.
* Reducing landfill - if 1 in 3 households cleaned with ENJO we’d reduce Australia’s domestic waste by up to 15%+.
Learn how to clean your home faster and more efficiently than before without chemicals at an in home demonstration or via individual appointment. Margaret King
www.facebook.com/MargaretKingEnjOpreneur?ref=hl
Left: Out door awning before & after
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Health Winter and The Mind
I love winter, the cold fresh air that is crisp and invigorating. The wind as it rushes between the tree branches scattering the leaves. The rain as it drums on the iron roof, offering a calming repetitive sound. I look forward to the winter storms, with the deafening thunder which can be powerful enough to shake windows. Streaks of electric energy that dash across the sky lighting the surrounds for just a moment, are exciting. Watching the white/grey fog swirling is sometimes eerie as it shrouds all in its way. I love winter, do you?
I realise not everyone shares my joy of the colder months. Some people find this season, depressing and isolating. The bright summer colours give way to duller hues, and as the temperature plummets, increased layers of clothing sometimes feels like a restrictive and bulky cocoon. Known as the “Cold and Flu season�, many people fall prey to these unpleasant and inconvenient illnesses making winter more unpopular.
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As a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Counsellor, I am very aware of the benefits of planning activities for winter. Planning is a great way to begin adapting to those shorter, colder days. * Find an area outdoors where you can enjoy the winter sun and be protected from the breeze/wind. Sipping a cuppa, participating in a gentle activity while enjoying the warmth and vitamin D from the sun is relaxing.
* Visiting friends and family frequently can be pleasurable and therapeutic.
* Tending your garden utilizes your stored kilojoules, and it feels great to observe your revitalised flora. Gardening can be a very rewarding pass time.
* Have you thought of volunteer work, utilizing some of your time and energy to assist others in need can be invaluable for both parties. I am sure you will think of many different activities that suit you personally that may help you enjoy winter.
If you happen to experience a sense of prolonged sadness for 2 weeks or more, it may be advisable to speak with your doctor or a counsellor. These days, anxiety, depression and other disorders are managed extremely well.
* Take leisurely walks or go for a jog, observe the winter changes of your surrounds. Invite a friend to accompany you. * Cook a pot of vegetable soup and have it handy for meals and snacks. It is healthy, and is also a comfort food. Vegetable soup is both satisfying and uplifting.
* Photograph anything that takes your interest. Distance shots and close ups for details. Photos are a reminder of your experiences and can continue to give you pleasure.
* Devise an exercise program you can do indoors. You may like to invite friends to join you, have fun. * Having interests and hobbies on hand are a wonderful way to occupy the mind and the body. Start a new interest which may be stimulating and even challenging.
www.hypnotherapyandcounselling.com
Pam Hoy
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Design What Does the Polio Vaccine and Architecture Have in Common? How many times have you walked into a room and felt like you belonged? How about a space that you felt productive in, one that made you feel creative? Do you know that it is clever interior design that creates this feel? Your built environment influences so many facets of your life and it is only recently that leaders are recognising the importance of a designed environment. Jonas Salk, the inventor of the polio vaccine, credits his discovery to a 13th Century Monastery in Assisi, Italy. He had hit a stalemate in his dark basement laboratory, and it is only after he spent time roaming through columns and cloistered courtyards that he was
able to have new insights into the problem. He so strongly believed that architecture influenced the mind that he purpose built the Salk Institute to stimulate breakthroughs and creativity. Researchers are now studying how to design spaces that promote creativity, keep students focused or create relaxation and intimacy. For example, new residential premises for seniors with dementia where part of the treatment is the building itself. In 2007, a study demonstrated that the height of a room affected how people processed information. The higher the ceiling, the greater the ability for creative thinking, making abstract concepts and freer thoughts. Conversely lower ceilings allowed people to focus
on details. This is where the use of bulkheads are great in an open plan space.
A 2000 study found that if people had views to natural settings, either real or images they were able to concentrate better. It is suggested that urban settings are too stimulating with traffic and crowds and to deal with them takes more cognitive effort than looking at a stream or forest of trees.
Although the office of Aircalin is in the CBD, the use of natural images removes the boxed in feel 18
It has long been recognised that correct lighting is vital in fighting fatigue. Researchers have found that using blue light emitting diodes such as LED’s will keep your staff alert and awake. A classic example of using light to full advantage is in Las Vegas. Complexes have lights dimmed to simulate night time, to encourage gamblers to bet at all times. Increasing economic challenges and an ever changing society means that business should look at the designed environment as an economic strategy to increase workplace productivity rather than an expense. When designing for an office or
commercial premise it is important the designer understands the culture of the company, work structure and type of work. The company’s mission statement is important and the target market vital if the correct design is to be produced. If the designer is not asking questions about spatial organisation, circulation, information transfer, interface and staff interaction you have the wrong person. These connections are vital to understanding the nature of the business and good effective design. Interior design affects office productivity by influencing access to people and resources, comfort, privacy and flexibility.
first published in She Business Australia
The space is your brand, your community and your organisation. To ensure your corporate image matches your perceived image, a welldesigned space is necessity.
Robyn Hawke www.inspiredspaces.com.au
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Education Four Tips for Effective Study 1. Schedule 90-120 Minute Time Blocks
3. Create an Environment for Focused Work
The easiest way to get something done is to set a specific time and place to do it. ‘Plan your work and work your plan’. When your goals and plans are not concrete enough, you will fall into the procrastination trap.
Your performance is affected by the environment you’re in and the tools available to you. Give your body and mind what they need to perform by setting up your workspace for success.
Research shows that people can only stay focused and productive for 90 to 120 minutes at a time, before needing a rest or diversion. Schedule blocks of time when you’ll be doing nothing but working, and when it’s over, STOP. Take a 15-20 minute break, or wrap it up for the day.
Before you start, clear out the clutter and remove any potential distractions. Have only one window open on your computer. Get away from email, phone, and social media until your work block is over. You can schedule a separate session for phone calls and email.
4. Take a Fun Break! Give yourself the rest you need, in order to have the concentration reserves to fuel your work. Make a point to schedule periods each day for breaks, leisure, and fun as well as working on your studies. It’s just as important if you want to be consistent in the long run!
2. Prioritise Your Top 3 Items It helps to list the top 3 tasks to accomplish each day, preferably the night before. Then, when the time comes to work, work on one thing at a time, starting with the most important action item of the day. When finished, move on to item #2, and so on, until done. Do NOT try to do two things at once! It gives people the illusion that they are getting more done, but in reality you lose concentration while switching back and forth between items because it takes time for the mind to get caught up again.
Also, honour your word to yourself as seriously as you would to anyone else. Isn’t it just as important?
www.aestutors.com
02 8660 9660
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Employment Motivational Tips While Searching for a Job
find that perfect job. It is out there, you just need to keep looking. As the saying goes for winning the lottery “you have to be in it to win it”, it’s exactly the same when looking for a job.
Image source above
‘Looking for a job is a full time job’. If you are currently looking for a job you will easily be able to relate with this quote. It’s not only about how many jobs you apply for every day, it’s the mental energy that you use. You go through so many emotions when you start searching for that dream job.
Image source right
an interview on a high only to find out a day later that you were not successful. A natural reaction is to start listing to all those negative thoughts in your head. This can lead to a downward spiral and fast. When your motivation is low, you will find that everything involved with finding a job just seems to get harder.
The loud voices in your head run rampant “I don’t think I am qualified enough”, “I am too old, they won’t hire me”. Sometimes, we are our own worst enemy.
Top Tips to keep you motivated while searching for a job 1. Place a motivational quote where you can see it every day. You need a constant reminder of how great you are and that you will succeed. Positive affirmations are extremely powerful. 2. Ask your partner or friend for additional support. See if they can check in with you every week or so. Having that extra support is really powerful. Let them know how you are feeling. 3. Spread the word to your inner circle that you are looking for a job. You never know, they may know someone who is hiring.
4. Last but not least, make sure you look after yourself. If you have had a hard week then treat yourself to something nice. Your physical and mental health is crucial.
I am not going to lie to you, looking for a job is like riding a roller coaster. There are highs and lows. There are times when you leave
I am a glass half full type of person and I believe that everything happens for a reason. If you are not successful in one job, then it wasn’t meant to be. Keep going until you
I wish you all the best with your job search. Fiona Neumann www.skillssavvy.com.au 21
Travel Survival Guide to Safe Travels Unwary tourists can make easy targets for thieves because they stand out in a crowd, are not used to their surroundings and are generally carrying money, credit cards and valuables such as cameras and mobile phones. You can reduce your risk of being a victim of a travel related safety incident by being aware of what is happening around you at all times and taking a few simple precautions:
* Use ATMs at secure locations (inside banks),
* Try to rely more on credit and travel cards rather than large sums of cash, * Split your valuables, cash and cards so not all are lost if an incident occurs,
* Keep your travel plans, including accommodation details to yourself, * Don’t hitch hike or travel at night, * Ask your hotel for advice on any “unsafe” areas to be avoided,
* Carry with you at all times the contact details of the Australian embassy or associated consulate, * Keep a photocopy of your passport and all other important documents in a safe place. Carry only a copy of your passport leaving the passport itself in your hotel safe,
* Minimise your financial risk by setting up a separate bank account with a small sum of cash available and only take your ATM card for that account. Use internet banking to top this up as required from your main account, * Use a money belt for valuables,
* Carry a “dummy” wallet holding a small amount of cash. If directly confronted by a mugger, you can hand over the dummy wallet and avoid further distress, * If you are mugged, don’t fight back. It is better to lose a few dollars and a wristwatch than get injured, * Be discreet when map reading, even if you’re not sure where you’re going, walk like you’ve got a purpose,
* Match your dress style to that of the locals. Don’t wear an obvious “tourist” outfit,
* Notice the people around you. Be wary if someone seems to be taking more than a passing interest,
* Don’t share taxis with strangers and never allow another passenger to enter along the way, * Carjacking is a problem in some cities. When driving, keep all doors and your boot locked and windows up,
* Take note of emergency exits, stairwells, fire escapes and emergency plans in your hotel, just in case,
* Always lock your hotel door at night. If there is a chain included - use it, and * If arranging to meet people you’ve never met before (such as business associates), wait for them in the lobby. Don’t ask them to come up to your room.
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For up to date information on your holiday destinations, covering factors such as political unrest or criminal activities that target tourists it is a good idea to research the safety of your intended destination with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and register with www.smartraveller. gov.au before you depart. You could also consult with your travel agent, ask your hotel reception desk or talk to friends who have already visited your intended destination for their advice on any safety risks. Stay safe while travelling by taking a few simple, common sense precautions whilst on the road and a little bit of research and planning prior to departing. Safe and Happy Travels www.juliewarnertravelplans.com
Julie Warner
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Networking 7 Tips to Successful Networking Like jam and cream go hand in hand, so too does networking with running a successful business. But many of us dread walking into a room and introducing ourselves to a bunch of strangers. Here are some valuable tips that have worked for me over the years: 1. Get there early. Showing up early at a networking event is a much better strategy than getting there on the later side. It is quieter and people won’t have settled into groups yet, making it easier to find a conversation partner. 2. Ask opening questions. Don’t wait for someone to approach you. To start a conversation, simply walk up to a person or a group, and say, “May I join you” or “What brings you to this event?” Don’t forget to listen intently to their replies. 3. D i t c h t h e s a l e s p i t c h . Remember, networking is all about relationship building. Keep your exchange light and informal – you don’t need to do the hard sell within the first few minutes. The idea is to get the conversation started. People are more apt to do business with – or partner with – people whose company they enjoy.If a potential customer does ask you about your product or service, be ready with an easy description of your company – practice this often! 4. Share your passion. Win people over with your enthusiasm for your product or service. Leave a lasting impression by telling a story about why you were inspired to create your company. When you are passionate about what you do,
it is contagious and when you get other people to share their passion, it creates a memorable two-way conversation. 5. Smile. It’s a simple, but often overlooked, rule of engagement. By smiling, you’ll put your nervous self at ease and come across as friendly and inviting to others. Remember to smile before you enter the room, or before you start your next conversation. 6. Don’t hijack the conversation. Some people who dislike networking may overcompensate by dominating the discussion. Don’t forget: The most successful networkers are good at making other people feel special. Make eye contact, repeat their name, listen to what they have to say, and suggest topics that are easy to discuss. Be a conversationalist, not a talker
7. Remember to follow up. It’s often said that networking is where the conversation begins, not ends. If you’ve made good connections, ask the best way to stay in touch. Some people like email or phone; others prefer social networks like LinkedIn. Get in touch within 48 hours of the event to show you’re interested and available and mention something you discussed, so your contact remembers you.
Keep on Networking!
www.independentbusinessnetworkinc.com
Julie Warner
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Wealth 7 Property Investment Tips 1. Know your borrowing capacity to save disappointment 2. Use a broker who invests
3. Have a good Team, accountant, bookkeeper, solicitor etc 4. Reject paying thousands of dollars for the knowledge you need
5. Understand Negative and Positive Gearing.
5/90 Webster Rd, Deception Bay $210,000 – 6.8% rental yield
pool deck, bar area and BBQ facilities.
2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, built in robes to all bedrooms, fans to bedrooms & living area, stainless steel kitchen appliances, security screens to doors & fly screens to rest, vertical blinds throughout. SLUG, fully fenced courtyard with OSM & pool. Built in 2005.
22-24 Ferry Road, situated in Inner City West End, incorporating a large vibrant variety of shops, bars, restaurants, cafes, coffee houses, parklands, walkways,markets and more making it a lively area to live.
6. Be aware of all the pitfalls, if you don’t ask an investor NOT a sales person! 7. Know beforehand which property will work best for your situation
University of Queensland just sits on the opposite side of the river and can be easily accessed by a cross river ferry - 750m away at the end of Orleigh Street.
What’s happening in the property market?
Please see below some second hand properties available, all below $405,000 and offering returns over 5%. 3 Kilkivan Dr, Ormeau - $405,000 5.39% rental yield 4 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, main with ensuite, large WIR & Air Con with fans & built ins to rest. Open plan kitchen/meals/family & separate lounge area, A/C living, S/S appliances in kitchen incl dishwasher, covered alfresco area, sec screens, blinds, DLUG. Please note that the property manager believes $430-$450 per week is more achievable rent, increasing that rental return. Built in 2007.
Close to schools, Universities, Coles and Southbank Parklands, Ferry Rd is easily accessible to all amenities.
INNER CITY WEST END EXCLUSIVE PRE-RELEASE FOR PC MEMBERS - City Views from Level 3 for Nth facing Units
$553,000 to $593,000. 5.08% - 5.81%. Very strong returns for Inner City Brisbane. Profile ID - 18282 NB: At time of writing these properties were available
Developer to contribute monies for blinds, just for pc buyers, screens already included. These are excellently priced for this type of development and West End Location. Large 2 bed corner units, up to 86m2 internals. “RiverLe” West End in Brisbane’s inner city consists of 41 units across 7 levels. These 2 bed, 2 bath units with secure undercover parking include SMEG appliances, dishwasher, dryer, air con to living & main bedroom and fly screens. Each unit has its own BBQ and herb garden on the balcony. Complex comes with OSM and a communal rooftop terrace that features pool,
Robyn Atkins robyn@atkinskr.net.au
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Independent Business Network Inc Business Directory ACCOUNTING
FINANCIAL SERVICES
LIFESTYLE
Sydney Taxation Services P 9873 4139 M 0411 695 151 E janice@sydneytaxationservices.com.au
The Investors Club P 9626 2655 M 0418 447 815 E robyn@atkinskr.net.au
Margaret King - Enjo P 9862 9966 M 0418 166 016 E margaretking3@optusnet.com.au
ARTIST/HOME DECOR
Tag Financial Vivecka Sripathy P 8884 7444 M 0423 413 210
www.sydneytaxationservices.com.au
2 Bee Creative P 9629 2136 M 0409 962 921 E lesley@2beecreative.com.au www.2beecreative.com.au BUSINESS
Julie Warner Your Business Helper P: 02 8850 4908 M: 0414 210 979
www.facebook.com/YourBusinessHelper
Robert Cole The Small Business Wizard M 0419 011 638
www.thesmallbusinesswizard.com
COMMUNITY SERVICES
My Local Guide M 0401 718 374 E claire@mylocalguide.net.au www.mylocalguide.net.au
CONVEYANCER
Tracey Warden M 0414 640 205 E tracey.warden@hotmail.com EDUCATION TUTORING
Advanced Education Solutions 48 Meryll Av, Castle Hill P 9686 4289 M 0413 100 655 E sharleen@aestutors.com.au www.aestutors.com.au
Dyslexia Matters 24 Lightwood Way, Beaumont Hills. NSW 2155 P 8064 7248 www.dyslexia-matters.com.au
www.memberlink.tic.com.au
www.facebook.com/MargaretKingEnjOpreneur?ref=hl
Gary England M 0450 200 500 E gary@HotBeverageHealth.com
vivecka.sripathy@tagfin.com.au
HOME REPAIR & IMPROVEMENT COMMERCIAL DESIGN
Mirren Property & Finance Rene Marzinger T: (02) 8814 5997 F: (02) 8814 6003 M: 0402 361 396
Cassie and Cassie Building Design P 9651-5198 M 0423-344-283 E Kalene@cassieandcassie.com
GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGN
Inspired Spaces P 9894 7548 M 0401 068 670 E robyn@inspiredspaces.com.au
www.mirren.com.au
Meam Design P 9636 1254 M 0414 604 979
www.meamdesign.com.au
HEALTH
Heal with Hypnotherapy Divine touch Massage Therapy M 0410 584 591 E vickibon@bigpond.net.au www.healwithhypnotherapy.com.au
www.divinetouchmassagetherapy.com.au
Fruvenu Healthy Food Workshops Gluten/Lactose/Egg Free M 0428 582 258 www.fruvenu.com.au
Pamela Hoy Clinical Hypnotherapy and Counselling P 9634 6262 M 0409 772 015 E pamhoy@bigpond.com
www.hypnotherapyandcounselling.com
Rosanna Haynes Massage P 9889 7699 M 0425 217 049 www.rosannahaynes.com.au
www.cassieandcassie.com
www.inspiredspaces.com.au
Colourbright Pty Ltd M 0407 080 155 E rockey@colourbright.com.au Earth Matters Sandyha Sumil M 0439 332 998
www.earthmattersconsulting.com.au
RECRUITMENT
Debra Manson Recruitment P 8883 2163 M 0433 227 601 E debra@debramanson.com.au www.debramanson.com.au
Skills Savvy M 0424 787 785
E info@skillssavvy.com.au skillssavvy.com.au
TRAVEL SERVICES
Julie Warner Travel Plans P 8850 4908 M 0414 210 979 E julie@juliewarnertravelplans.com www.juliewarnertravelplans.com