Revising your strategy to address changing customer behaviour
Changes in customer behaviour and purchasing preferences can significantly impact the viability of your business strategy and your ability to maintain sustainable revenue streams. According to the October 2025 Fifth Quadrant SME Sentiment Tracker, shifting customer behaviour remains the leading challenge for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with 45% of businesses identifying it as their […]
Business confidence is on the up: how to overcome the big challenges
The past few years have been difficult for small businesses across Australia, but there are positive signs of renewed optimism. The National Australia Bank (NAB) Business Confidence Index reached +7 in July 2025 – its highest level since August 2022 – up from +5 in June. While confidence eased slightly in August (down three points), […]
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 […]
Suspension of business postal deliveries to the US: what options do you have?
Australian exporters selling directly to US consumers should be aware of a recent change to US import regulations. Until recently, goods valued under USD $800 qualified for the de minimis exemption and were not subject to tariffs or import duties. This exemption has now been removed by executive order, effective 29 August. As a result, […]
Liberating you and your business with AI: sales and marketing
Sales and marketing are critical to business success, but they are also resource-intensive. For many small and medium-sized enterprises, managing these functions manually can divert valuable time away from core operations. Artificial intelligence (AI) now offers practical solutions to streamline these activities, reduce costs and improve outcomes. Outlined below are five areas where AI applications […]
5 signs you’re undercharging
Many business owners and contractors hesitate to adjust their pricing, even when costs are increasing. However, charging appropriately is essential to maintaining profitability and ensuring your services are valued at the right level. Common signs your pricing may be too low include: Finding the right balance requires a review of both your cost base and […]
Understanding your revenue drivers
Profitability begins with revenue. Without sufficient income flowing into the business, covering costs and turning a profit becomes increasingly difficult. Revenue is generated through your core business activity – whether that’s through sales, invoicing, or direct customer payments. Improving how you attract, serve, and convert customers will have a direct impact on your top line. […]
Don’t end up paying tax on uncollected debtors!
Many business owners are unaware that income tax is payable on sales revenue, regardless of whether the related invoices have been paid. In other words, unless you’re reporting on a cash basis, you may be taxed on outstanding debtors — even if the cash hasn’t hit your bank account. To reduce the risk of paying […]
Do you have an Ideal Customer Profile?
Gaining a deep understanding of your ideal customer is critical to the success and sustainability of your business. However, many small and micro businesses overlook the importance of defining a detailed Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) as part of their sales and marketing strategy. What Is an Ideal Customer Profile? An Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) outlines […]
Honesty is not a core value: Why you must dare to stand out
Ask any business owner what their company values are, and you’ll often hear the same list: honesty, professionalism, and quality. These are, of course, important — but let’s be clear: These aren’t core values.They’re expectations. Clients assume you’ll operate with honesty. They expect professionalism and take quality for granted. Stating these as your core values […]