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 […]
Key steps for stabilising your manufacturing business
According to the NAB Quarterly SME Business Survey for Q3 2025, overall conditions for Australian SMEs have strengthened, with SME business conditions increasing by 7 points for the quarter. The manufacturing sector has performed even more strongly, recording an 11-point rise. As we approach the end of the financial year, this improvement provides a welcome […]
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 […]
Gen Z in a Boomer workplace?
Generation Z employees – those born from the late 1990s through to the early 2010s – may find it difficult to adapt seamlessly to workplaces originally structured for Baby Boomers. For many business owners and managers, effectively supervising and retaining these younger employees presents a distinct challenge. A recent survey conducted by Resume Templates, involving […]
Creating more jobs for Australian workers
In the face of ongoing cost-of-living pressures, Australian small business owners have a unique opportunity to contribute to community stability through job creation. Despite this, CPA Australia’s 2024 Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey reports that only 9% of Australian SMEs created new positions last year, compared to 33% of businesses in the broader Asia-Pacific region. Given […]
Training vs Trial & Error: Why Teaching Staff to Use Software Properly Pays Off
New software implementations often begin with optimism—enhanced capabilities, streamlined operations, and improved data visibility. Yet once the initial excitement fades, many businesses fall into a familiar pattern: inadequate training and unclear expectations. Too often, staff are expected to adapt through trial and error. A brief demonstration, a few help articles, and informal support from a […]
Recruit a great team
Is your team operating as a cohesive and high-performing unit—enthusiastic, efficient, and suitably trained to deliver optimal outcomes for both your business and your clients? The financial impact of suboptimal recruitment decisions is not always immediately evident. More often, the consequences emerge progressively, affecting business performance over time: The cost of ineffective recruitment is substantial. […]
How to optimise your business: Nurture your team and employee experience
Your employees are among the most valuable assets of your business. However, are you implementing the necessary measures to foster a supportive and productive working environment while driving business success? Five Strategies for Strengthening Employee Relations Research consistently demonstrates that a motivated workforce leads to increased productivity. Creating an environment where employees feel valued and […]
Five big business challenges for 2025
The early 2020s have been characterised by uncertainty. Market volatility, disrupted supply chains, and difficulties in sourcing skilled talent have created significant challenges for businesses. As we approach 2025 and the second half of the decade, understanding and addressing the external threats and opportunities ahead is critical. Here, we examine five key business challenges that […]
Managing change in your business
Research conducted by Kotter International reveals that over 70% of business change initiatives fail. The question arises: why?The findings suggest that employee engagement is the most significant factor. Whether a minor change affecting a few processes or a comprehensive transformation across the organisation, employees often feel overwhelmed by the prospect. So, what steps can be […]