Could junior rates of pay be abolished?
Gerard Dwyer, National Secretary of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA), has articulated the view that employees aged 18 years and over should be remunerated at the full adult rate of pay. The underlying argument is that individuals legally recognised as adults for civic purposes should receive equivalent recognition within the workplace. The […]
Managing change in your business
Research conducted by Kotter International indicates that more than 70 per cent of business change initiatives fail. The primary reason identified is insufficient employee engagement. Regardless of whether the change is limited in scope or implemented across the entire organisation, staff often perceive change as disruptive or intimidating. To improve the likelihood of successful change […]
Why flexible working is the new normal
Flexible working arrangements are no longer considered an optional employee incentive. Hybrid roles, remote work and flexible hours have become standard expectations within the modern workforce, particularly across small and medium-sized enterprises. Although working from home became widespread during the pandemic, employee expectations have since evolved. Flexibility in where work is performed is now viewed […]
Do customers still want good, old-fashioned customer service?
Q: Do customers still value traditional customer service? Customer service models have evolved significantly, with many businesses now relying on automation, AI agents and self-service platforms to manage customer interactions. These solutions are fast, efficient and highly cost-effective from an employer’s perspective. However, the question remains whether automated service is always the optimal approach. In […]
4 reasons to avoid using AI for HR advice
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform how small businesses operate. From managing customer calls to automating repetitive administrative tasks and analysing business data, AI can significantly improve efficiency and productivity. Generative AI (GenAI), such as ChatGPT, is also becoming increasingly common in human resources (HR). Many organisations are turning to GenAI to streamline HR processes […]
Your 101 guide to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
Every business, regardless of its size or industry, affects the environment and the communities in which it operates. Responsible business ownership requires understanding these impacts and establishing practical measures to minimise negative outcomes. Incorporating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into your strategic planning provides a structured way to manage these responsibilities effectively. What Are […]
The benefits of having a diverse workforce
Promoting diversity and inclusion is more than an ethical stance – it is a strategic business decision that delivers measurable financial and operational benefits. Understanding diversity and inclusion: A workforce that mirrors the diversity of its community contributes to stronger organisational resilience, improved competitiveness and greater capacity for innovation. Commercial benefits: Practical measures to implement: […]
The value of old-fashioned customer service: getting data insights
In an increasingly digital business environment, most customer interactions now occur online. However, traditional, high-quality customer service still plays a critical role in differentiating your business.Personal, tailored, and human-centred engagement builds trust and loyalty. The key is using customer data effectively to strengthen this approach. Here are four practical ways to use data analytics to […]
Could your business survive without you?
Would your business continue to operate effectively if you suddenly needed to step away? Many business owners find it difficult to remove themselves from day-to-day operations, particularly when they are passionate about what they do. However, accidents, illness or family emergencies can occur without warning, and it is essential to have robust systems in place […]
The right to work from home: the potential impact for your employees and business
Working from home (WFH) has become a common feature of modern employment, providing savings in both travel time and personal expenses. While previously a matter of employer discretion, the Allan Government has announced plans to legislate a right for employees to work from home for two days per week. Key elements of the proposal: If […]