YOUR BUSINESS
Lifelong learning
h t w o r g ss e n i s key to bu BY SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
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n a constantly evolving environment, business owners who commit to learning new skills will be better able to adapt to change and keep their business going in challenging conditions. Many business owners feel that with all the responsibilities and tasks they already have, there is no time, need or capacity for them to learn new skills. However, studies have shown that adopting a ‘growth mindset’ — believing that your basic abilities are not fixed, and committing to learning and developing over time — is an important attribute for those who want to stay in business. People with a growth mindset prioritise lifelong learning so that they can consistently develop new and useful skills to get ahead.
accountants, lawyers and consultants, there are many other needs you could meet yourself, if you develop the right skills and knowledge. These can include learning how to effectively use social media, understand your business financials, and refine your business plan.
Leaders who commit to learning new skills will be in a better position to steer their business forward, deal with challenges and seize opportunities. Skills development is also important to many employees, and offering these sorts of opportunities can help you retain good employees for longer, as they grow with your business.
The SBDC offers a wide range of affordable skillsbuilding online workshops.
The needs of your business can change over time. While you can always ‘buy in’ valuable professional advice and services from professionals including
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What sort of learning is available to small businesses?
With business information readily available these days, there are many affordable ways to learn such as reading books and online articles, watching videos or listening to podcasts. For those who prefer to be instructed directly and learn with others, there are also short courses and workshops. At the other end of the spectrum, there are longer, more
3 LEADERS who commit to learning new skills will be in a better position to steer their business forward.
formal courses, such certificates and diplomas offered by universities and other learning providers. With a focus on keeping costs under control in a turbulent economy, there is significant demand for free and lowcost learning opportunities for small business owners. The rise of the internet and the social distancing changes due to COVID-19 has resulted in an increase in demand (and supply) of online courses and webinars. Learning this way enables students to participate in skills development from the comfort of their own home or office, while accessing subject matter experts who can answer questions and provide insight into topics. The Small Business Development Corporation offers a wide range of affordable skills-building online workshops as part of their support for small business owners in Western Australia. Their interactive sessions cover topics designed both for new and established business owners who want to add to their skills. The workshops are currently available free of charge to support small businesses through the disruption of COVID-19. A full schedule of upcoming courses is available at smallbusiness.wa.gov.au/ workshops
