So you are ready to expand your empire and bring on someone to help, congratulations! Hiring your first employee is a critical milestone in the growth of your business. As exciting as this moment is, it's a decision that shouldn't be rushed. Jumping in before you are...
Every business owner needs something of a DIY attitude to succeed. This particularly true in the early days of a new venture. And as Kiwis, we are perfectly equipped for a bit of DIY on any occasion. All we need is a bit of number 8 wire, right? Or maybe some duct...
Anyone running a small or medium business knows that it’s nothing like working a typical 9-5 job. Although that’s one of the main benefits of managing your own business, it can also be one of the most challenging aspects. Your hours may be unpredictable, your schedule...
When you first get into business for yourself, it often makes perfect sense to juggle every business task single-handedly. However, as your business takes root and begins to grow, wearing all the hats starts to become a less than ideal endeavour. If you are...
We have all had bad weeks that don't go to plan, where the work piles up and it feels like nothing is getting done. You look at your mounting to-do list and feel like it will never be clear. Unproductive weeks often have a way of seeping in to create a negative...
How certain are you that every aspect of your financial management is legally compliant? Are you cross-your-heart-and-hope-to-die, 100 percent sure? Reasonably confident that you are probably doing the right thing? Or no idea, stab-in-the-dark and cross your fingers...
Time is money. It’s a saying that has been bandied around so much that it has lost its meaning. You may know it, you may get it, but do you really comprehend how true it is? Money can come and go, but you can never get your time back. True in life, as much as in...
No one has time to waste. There are only so many hours in the day, you want to ensure you maximise each one. Especially if it means you can finish work on time and enjoy time with your pets or family! If you are trying to boost productivity and efficiency in your...
One of the hardest parts of starting to work with a virtual assistant (VA) can be figuring out how to hand your tasks over. Often, a barrier to even handing tasks over can be knowing that they won’t be done the way you currently do them. This is not necessarily always...
Sometimes in business – as in life – things don't go to plan. The cash flow is just not flowing, you may face an unanticipated family crisis, or be thrown a curve-ball by mother nature. It can be tempting to find a rock to hide under. But burying your head in the sand...
Regardless of how big or small, or how new or old, your business is, getting your finances sorted is vital. Failing to get these basics in order is like setting off for a run without tying your shoelaces. You might make it through the front door if you're lucky, but...
Running a business can be bewildering at the best of times. But, come tax time and the fine print gets even more confusing! Knowing exactly which things you can and can't claim back can help things run more smoothly at "that" time of year. Plus, it’s always nice to...