Common mistakes entrepreneurs commit at startup

Many people believe that for them to learn the ropes of running a business they have to make several mistakes. Moreover, there are those who subscribe to the idea that they have to commit the mistakes themselves. It is true that experience can make you remember the lessons more as compared to simply reading them from books. However, although one can learn from such situations, a mistake can be avoided by leveraging on the experience of others who have done it before. Such is the beauty of EO.

Some of them started young, not having enough time to fully prepare themselves for what lies ahead on the entrepreneurial path. Others consider themselves as accidental entrepreneurs, discovering a profitable venture by indulging themselves to their passions. It was inevitable to experience slipups, oversights and missteps in their journey. But one doesn’t have to go through all of those blunders to learn and do the correct thing moving forward. EO Melbourne members share the mistakes they did in the past that become valuable lessons for them and others.

Common mistakes were related to people, finances, decision-making and strategy. Most of these errors were committed during the early stage of the business. It may not be a guarantee that you will not have any lapses along the way, but you can lessen the pain if you only heed to the warnings and lessons of those who have done it in the past.

People

• Hiring the wrong people – Business owners tend to hire staff based on skills than culture fit. It may cause problems in the long run. No matter how skilled a person is if that member does not have the values and work ethics appropriate to your business, then that can lead to conflicts. Related to this mistake is hiring the wrong people too fast and firing them too slowly.

• Putting too much trust on the wrong people – Partnerships break apart, embezzlement happens, and executions fail because too much trust is placed on the wrong people. Listening to people who have never run a business is listening to opinion than facts. While trust is important in a business, one must always have a safety net in place to lessen the negative impact of a relationship gone sour.

• Not surrounding oneself with a team of experts – Engaging with people who are better than you can help you with your development as a business leader. There are communities, such as EO Melbourne, where you get to learn from experts and apply their lessons to your experience.

• Over committing to clients – During the initial years of the business, there is the trap of saying yes to everything, in the hope of getting as many sales as possible. There is a tendency to over-promise to clients and customers, even when there are not enough resources to deliver them efficiently. It can upset customers, which can cause more harm than good.

Finances

• Taking a huge financial risk or being overcome by fear – One of the missteps entrepreneurs make at the early stage of the business is going aggressive with expenditures. The opposite, which is scrimping on necessary things that will allow the operations to go smoothly, can also be dangerous. Sometimes they put too much capital on products that are untested. On the other hand, they tighten their belt that they end up offering low-quality products or services.

• Not knowing the numbers – A business owner can hire an accountant or someone expert on the finances, but it is still an advantage to understand the cash flow and know the financial books. Having no knowledge of such can be a flaw to your business.

Decision-making and Strategy

• Having no expertise – Another faux pas is establishing a venture where the owner has no expertise, or they expand their business to areas where it is poles apart from their core business. At least familiarise yourself on the ins and outs of the industry to have a big picture of the environment you are entering.

• Deciding things late – Several business owners regret not starting sooner. Time is of the essence and holding off important decisions may affect your business. Others do not fully commit to their business 100% until a problem arises. Some suffer an analysis-paralysis syndrome because they overthink concepts instead of executing them.

• Lack of preparation – Certain businesses start without any vision, mission or business plan. Entrepreneurs can save a great deal of time, money and effort if they do market research, trial and testing and pre-marketing initiatives at the early stage of their venture. Similarly, a growth strategy must be in place, which includes honing one’s skills and those of the team members. It also includes not fixing the proper documents, such as agreements, contracts, and licenses.

Online games that promote entrepreneurship

Not many may understand the state of most business owners unless they experience the entrepreneurial journey themselves. But with the onset of technology, people of different ages and from all walks of life can have a glimpse of the challenges of the business world through online games. Not only are they fun to play, but they also promote certain skills needed in running a venture.

One, these games enhance the brain to come up with strategies to get to the next level or reach the goal set in the game. Two, playing such games allows one to develop discipline, patience and perseverance, even in a virtual setting. Three, they enable players to make smart decisions, particularly when it comes to taking risks, spending and investing. Lastly, they teach you how to overcome challenges like competition, bankruptcy, recession and disruption in the market and the industry.

Such games are great, especially for newbie business owners. They are also good educational tools for young ones, as well as a refreshing experience for those who have been on the journey for some time. The good thing about modern games nowadays is that they are mobile and downloadable from app stores, so you can enjoy playing them wherever you go. You can choose from a wide selection that is available online, including different types of industries you want to enter, such as food, real estate, shipping, hospitality, retail, and a lot more. Below are a few examples of games you can play that will hone your entrepreneurial skills.

1.) Monopoly GO!

Based on the popular board game, Monopoly GO allows players to buy properties and rent them to their opponents. The goal is to have the most money in the end, so you have to invest your money wisely to avoid bankruptcy.

2.) RollerCoaster Tycoon

Build your dream theme park with various rides and attractions to choose from. Manage your park well, delight your customers with your various offerings, and keep the revenue coming.

3.) Business Tycoon

What’s good with this game is that you can start from a small business, such as a bookstore, and make your way to the top as a business tycoon. Establish several ventures, make them profitable, and earn millions along the way.

4.) Virtual Businessman Luxury Life

Before you can even enjoy the life of a billionaire, you have to build a startup company, set up an office, invest money, and trade and compete in the international market. Through this game, players can learn investment methods to earn a profit that they can splurge on luxuries.

5.) Virtonomics

This business simulation game is like your workshop to entrepreneurship. In this virtual economy, you can establish a fully functional enterprise that you can grow and manage.

6.) Capitalism

Invest your money in the stock market, earn profits from bonds you buy, and grow your finances through real estate. All these you can do in this online world of Capitalism. Watch out for recessions and attacks from the competitors or you might lose your investments and earnings.

7.) Business Inc.

This simulation game is almost realistic where you can hire employees, handle projects, take risks to meet your goals, and build your business empire. You have a business to run, an office to manage, and a reputation to uphold in this virtual world.

8.) Game Dev Story

How does it feel playing a game where you own a game company? Assign and change the profession of your staff, develop a game and bring your business to success. However, there are other important things that entail running a venture like this. Licensing and contracts are part of the whole process, which you can learn by playing this app.

9.) Retail Boss

Keep an inventory of your goods, market your store, watch out for costs and price changes, hire staff, and let your shop grow into a global megastore. It takes a good strategy in choosing the right location and people for your team.

10.) Big Business Deluxe

The city is growing and so must your business. Do everything you can to avoid the red bottom line while you scale your venture for bigger opportunities. It includes expanding your territory, handling challenges, and keeping yourself ahead of the game.

These are other apps you might want to check out, such as Pewdiepie’s Tuber Simulator, Taps to Riches, Landlord Real Estate, Cash Inc., Trade Island, Money Tree City, Biztopia, Café Management, Adventure Capitalist, Startup CEO Entrepreneur, and Emoji Craft. There are millions of games you can choose in online stores that you can play on your computer or mobile phone. Apart from business-related games and apps, there are other simple games you can play that can take your mind off work, relieve you from stress, and release all your frustrations. Bring the game on!

Holiday gift ideas for clients

The holiday breeze is just around the corner. Christmas reunions, year-end parties, decorating and gift-giving will once again fill our calendars. As a business owner, this is the perfect time to show appreciation to people who have helped us throughout the year. It is the season to renew ties and strengthen bonds.

A good gesture to thank, greet or appreciate someone, especially a client, is through giving them with something that will remind them of the friendship or relationship they have with you. But with so many people to thank who have varying interests, gift-giving can be a tedious task. To simplify, here are some steps you can take before you choose the right item to give to those on your list.

1.) Create a list

First, list down the people you want to give gifts this year. Categorise them into groups, such as staff, suppliers, clients or VIP customers. They can also be your prospects, friends in the business, or peers from your business organisation, like EO Melbourne. It’s easy to check if you missed someone on the list when you arrange the names in groups.

2.) Set a budget

To avoid overspending, set a budget for the different groups or categories. You will have an idea of how much you need to set aside for gifts if you have a list and a budget. It will also help you choose the right items to give when you have a price range in mind.

3.) Know their needs and wants

Some people are fed up receiving socks or generic gifts. You have to put a lot of thought on the things that interest them or items that they would find useful. Let your gift express your sincerity to the person, especially if it’s a client. Don’t make it too commercial as it might lessen the value of giving.

Now, once you have done those things, it’s time to do your shopping. Here are items that you can consider as gifts to your clients or business friends that could make their holiday season a meaningful and memorable one.

Office items

Most people spend a lot of time at work. Thus, it is always smart to bestow people with presents that they can use in their office. Some of these objects can be:

• personalised pen set

• terrarium for office plants

• coffee table book

• notebook

• Kindle

• coffee-making set

• miniature zen garden

• noise cancelling headphones

• square card reader

• portable scanner

Home pieces

Business people also want to have restful moments at home. They want their abodes to have a comfy and clean ambience. Gift suggestions for the home are:

• tea set

• gift basket

• bluetooth speaker

• portable vacuum cleaner

• sleep tracker

• air purifier

• lamp

• smoker grill

• eye mask

• electrically heated foot warmer

Travel stuff or for those on the go

Travelling is one of the favourite activities of busy people, whether it’s for business or pleasure. If your clients are always on the go or they love to travel, these items will suit their taste:

• wireless phone charger

• handy camera

• tripod

• laptop bag

• backpack or suitcase

• sunglasses

• universal travel adapter

• travel pillow

• power wallet

• compact wide-angle lens for smartphones

Wellness elements

People nowadays are putting a more conscious effort in taking care of their body. Your clients do not need to be active in sports or any fitness-related activities for them to receive the following gifts:

• hydro flask

• incense kit

• activity tracker

• spa treatment

• balance ball

• essential oils

• yoga mat

• ergonomic pillow

• essential crystals

• scented candles

Objects for their hobbies

Your client may be sporty, a collector, or outdoor lover. There are plenty of gift ideas depending on his or her interest. These are just a few examples of objects related to some hobbies that may delight your business friends:

• personalised golf balls

• luxury watch

• portable cooler for fishing and camping

• garden set

• toolkit

• business book

• online classes

• beer brewing kit

• apron with embroidered messages

• baseball cap

When you give these presents, don’t forget to have a handwritten note attached to it. As they say, it’s the thought that counts, so make your message warm the hearts of your recipients so that they remember you through your gift. Making them smile is the greatest affirmation that they appreciate your deed. So, enjoy shopping and have a happy holiday season!

5 ways entrepreneurs relieve their stress

Business owners choose the entrepreneurial route because it affords them the freedom to create and chart their path. However, the flipside is the responsibility that goes with the role. Hiring people meant being accountable to his staff’s livelihood. As a business leader, he has to steer his team towards bigger things. As the person behind his business, he has to deliver his brand’s promise to clients and customers.

With goals to achieve, targets to meet and tasks to accomplish, entrepreneurs often find themselves in a pressure cooker where stress comes from different directions. Stress, if not managed carefully, may affect one’s well-being. It may result in body pains, illnesses, anxiety, depression, or physical, emotional or mental ailment.

Some EO Melbourne members have revealed how they relieve the stress that comes with the role and what preoccupies them outside of work that motivates them to keep going.

1.) Time with family and friends

The family is the primary reason that motivates business owners to push themselves forward. They find fulfilment in providing for their families and partners and keeping them happy. For entrepreneurs who have little kids, they prefer to be present during the formative years of their children. Spending quality time with their families and loved ones is a priority for most business owners.

Busy entrepreneurs also de-stress by socialising and going out with friends. Often, it would be through enjoying great food or having a few drinks. They would often surround themselves with like-minded individuals, such as their peers in EO Melbourne, where they share and listen to experiences of other entrepreneurs whom they trust and respect. Such stories inspire them to make a mark and boldly go.

2.) Travelling to other places

Going for a holiday is the most liked activity of entrepreneurs that could help take their minds away from work and recharge themselves. Most of them travel with their families, which makes the experience even more satisfying. Others love the outdoors, and they would often set aside time for a short getaway to go camping, fishing or visiting their farm.

3.) Physical activities

Sweating it out is also a good way to free the body and mind from the pressures that come with the role of being a business owner. Because of their busy schedules, the only way for most entrepreneurs to de-stress is to hit the gym or do some exercise. There are a few that spend their mornings or weekends running or cycling. Taking up a sport is also one of the things other entrepreneurs do to refuel. Some are involved in snowboarding, skiing, swimming, surfing, motorsports or golf. But for those who are not very sporty, they find delight watching their favourite team or cheering for their kids playing.

4.) Honing the mind

Meditation is one of the activities that a lot of business owners have been doing to clear their minds. Some entrepreneurs take themselves off the grid, keep themselves away from their gadgets and TV, spend a quiet moment reflecting, or rest their bodies and minds through enough sleep. They have their respective ways of doing meditation, and you can do one that you feel is most effective on you. Many business owners quench their thirst for learning as they indulge themselves in things that can improve themselves. It’s often by reading books or listening to podcasts to learn new things.

5.) Refilling the senses

Getting a hobby is another way for entrepreneurs to free themselves from stress and enrich their holistic development. There are business owners who are into arts as they listen to music, watch movies or attend performances. There are business owners who find enjoyment through cooking or simply having a glass of wine. Several business owners feel more relaxed when they do some gardening, make improvements at home, or play with their pets, while others love to collect items or acquire new skills. You can also find some entrepreneurs who are involved in charitable works and non-profit projects.

In the end, many of them admit that they get the most enjoyment from their work. It’s because business owners love what they are doing. Reaching their goals and receiving appreciation from their customers, clients, peers and staff are the great rewards that entrepreneurs reap from the hard work and dedication to their craft. Seeing their loved ones, team members and clientele happy is the best stress-reliever there is for every entrepreneur.

The language of entrepreneurship for Costa Vasili

EthnoLink’s founder and CEO Costa Vasili is a son of migrant parents. His father, who was born in Cyprus, moved to Australia at 13 years of age. It is where he met Costa's mother, who is also of Cypriot descent, and where Costa was born. To ensure that Costa had the best chance of success in Australia, his parents spoke to him and his brother mostly in English rather than in Greek. While this decision had a positive impact on Costa's English language skills, it impacted Costa's ability to speak Greek.

For example, Costa had great relations with his grandparents, who spoke almost exclusively in Greek, but he struggled to have in-depth conversations with them because of the language barrier. With that pain point in mind and with an opportunity to be introduced to the language services industry during his university years, Costa went off and started his translation company at the age of 20 years old, while still in university.

His company provides professional document translation services by certified translators to new migrants and travellers who want to apply for a visa, university admission or car rental services. They also serve Australian businesses and government agencies in translating legal contracts, manuals and marketing materials.

It was a blind leap of faith for Costa as he had no previous experience in owning and running a business. Although he had a few years of working in a corporate setting, he found that in shifting to the entrepreneurial space, there was no playbook or roadmap to becoming a business owner. He had no traditional business mentor when he was starting out, relying mostly on self-belief to get him going.

Costa found inspiration from his parents and the people he met in EO Melbourne. “From the EO community, I look up to so many people who are doing incredibly well. Because I can speak to them at a peer-to-peer level, I've been able to develop an appreciation for what they do. I have seen how remarkable these people in the EO community are, based on what they're doing with their lives and their businesses,” he said. Through those years, Costa has learned a few things that have helped him improve himself and his business.

4 business values of EthnoLink

According to Costa, “We have four values at EthnoLink. They are: better every day; real relationships; openness and honesty; and customer service excellence. The last one will always be part of our values. Even as our business and values may change over the years, that one will always be there because, without our customers, we don't have a business.”

He was able to develop a team that is values-driven, who have bought into the vision of helping to break down language barriers for individuals and businesses. As such, they are focused on their customers, ensuring that they are acting in the best interests of the people they serve.

3 things to note in translation and business

Understanding the meaning, having clarity, and giving attention to detail are three things that are essential in translating documents and in running a business. Costa explained, “First and foremost, we have to understand the meaning of the source text so that we can translate accurately into the target language. We apply this in the business context when we try to understand what our customers need to solve their problems. Secondly, clarity. One of the biggest reasons why translation projects fail is because the source text is not clear, which leads to ambiguity. In the business space, you need to be 100% clear in your communication with your team to ensure that they are acting on your advice or direction. The other part is attention to detail. In translation, it is a core skill because sometimes the slight nuance of a question or statement, if not translated accurately, can alter the entire meaning. In business, it is also a core skill because it can ensure excellence in the service you provide.”

2 qualities of an entrepreneur

Entrepreneurs can develop a myriad of qualities that can help them in successfully bringing their business towards its goal. However, Costa underscores two important ones. He cited perseverance for the non-technical quality, and then sales and marketing for the technical one.

“Entrepreneurs need to have the quality of perseverance. You cannot give up in business. If you don't build the mindset of perseverance before you start a business and while you're starting an early-stage business, then it's destined to fail. On a more actionable skill that business owners or entrepreneurs can build up, I would say marketing and sales because they are key at the start of most businesses. You need to focus on driving sales at the start, and that begins with having a strong understanding of what your customers want and need and help them understand that the solution you're providing is the right one for them. You also have to know where your customers are hanging out so that you can market to them,” he remarked.

1 major takeaway in his entrepreneurial journey

“Your life and the business journey are a matter of micro-choices or decisions,” declared Costa. He learned this from his philosophy class in university, which has become a pivotal moment in his life. The facilitator gave a difficult and uncomfortable scenario, to which Costa responded. As he was probed deeper, he ended up saying, 'I have no choice.' The facilitator corrected him and told him that he always has a choice.

“I realised very clearly how powerful I am as an individual because, in every moment in my life, I have a choice. Whatever the case, make the decision, own the decision, own the outcome, and own the consequence. I believe why I got into the business is because it gave me the strongest ability to make my own choices in my life,” he added.

Part of those choices is for him to take action and accountability, which he learned from the EO Accelerator Program. Surely, Costa has adopted the language of entrepreneurship. As he continues to learn, he shares this insight for others to pick up. “In my opinion, the number one thing that stops small businesses from growing quicker is their choice not to take action and not to execute. We all have strategies and ideas, but the difference between businesses that grow fast and those that grow slow is the ability to execute and put things into place. Within 12 months of entering the accelerator program, we doubled our revenue. For me, it shows that taking action has a huge impact on the success of your business,” he stated.

Know more about Costa Vasili through his LinkedIn profile. Read more on EthnoLink at https://www.ethnolink.com.au/.

10 items you may find on an entrepreneur’s desk

There are studies conducted that one’s workspace or office desk reflect the personality of the person behind the desk. Entrepreneurs have different styles of running their businesses, and they may have varying methods on how to dress up their work tables. It may sometimes depend on the layout, design and culture of your office, but you can inject a few things that will leave your mark on your territory.

Some may adopt a minimalist design, while others would prefer to fill their offices with items that can stimulate their thoughts and creativity. Nonetheless, no matter what kind of personality you have and despite your preferences on the upkeep your workstation, you will see the following items on the desk of some business owners. You might also find a few of them useful or handy to have on your table.

1.) Computer

In this day and age where technology allows things to happen at a snap of your fingers, a computer is a necessity at work, regardless of the industry you belong. Entrepreneurs need computers to get into the various systems within their businesses. They have to use it to read emails, send out messages, check files, create presentations, review financial records, and browse the web.

2.) Phone

Whether it’s a landline or a smartphone, customers look for a number that they can contact for various reasons. Having a phone on your desk means you are accessible to your team, partners, clients and suppliers. With many smartphone apps, it also becomes the extension of your computer and your office, especially when you are always on the go.

3.) Pen

Even when most people record things on their computer, tablet or smartphone, a pen will never go out of style. It is important when jotting down notes or signing vital documents. Having one on hand is useful when you suddenly want to put your thoughts on ink. Others incorporate it as a decorative piece on their desk.

4.) Notepad/Paper

Nowadays, many companies are going paperless. But you’ll still need paper to scribble and put your thoughts into something tangible. Maybe you want to leave a note to your team or put a reminder on your desk for yourself or label your files. Nonetheless, having a notepad or notebook where you can write down important things always come handy.

5.) Calendar/Planner

The best way to stay organised is to have a checklist of things to be done for the day or week. You also have to keep tabs of things that will be happening that is crucial to your company’s operations. A calendar or planner is where you put important updates and reminders to help you plan and execute.

6.) Clock

Time is of the essence. While your computer or your phone may have a built-in clock, there is a charm of having a table clock placed on your desk. When things get too busy, it will help you keep track of time and remind you of the next thing to do, including taking a break or having a breather from all the flurry of things.

7.) Mug

Sitting and working in your workstation all day can often be tiring. You need to hydrate yourself with a glass of water or a cup of coffee. Having one nearby reminds you to refresh yourself throughout the day.

8.) Books

As you nourish your body, you also have to nourish your mind. Books that can give you new insights and ideas are helpful in providing more knowledge to improve and develop yourself and your business.

9.) Memorabilia/Photos

Others say that the fewer things you have on your desk, the more productive you become. However, the more you personalise your work area, the more empowered you feel. Given that, it is always nice to have something that can inspire you and make you smile. It can be a photo of a loved one, a trophy of your last achievement, or a picture of your ideal place.

10.) Plants

Plants produce oxygen that you need so you can breathe and relax. They have a soothing effect to the environs, and it can help relieve you of the stress you may feel at work.

Entrepreneurs spend several hours a day on their workstation. It is helpful that your desk and whatever are on it correspond to your work style. Make your working space comfortable enough so that you spend your day happy, motivated and productive.

Using hashtags on social media for your business

The use of hashtags (words preceded by the pound # sign) is now a commonplace practice in various social media platforms. It was first popularised on Twitter until it is widely used in other social networks as well. How do you take advantage of hashtags to market your business?

Hashtags are presently included in marketing strategies to promote products, services, brands or events due to its rising popularity. Because they narrow down topics for discussion, hashtags make it easier for users to search and sift through words and subject matter. It also increases engagement and visibility for your brand.

To know the right hashtags to use, you can check the trends and topics relevant to your business by verifying analytics and reports from RiteTag, Sprout Social, Trendsmap, or other sites that curate information on hashtags. You can also see the insights from your Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Page accounts to see the demographics of your visitors and the data of your reach.

Popular hashtags for entrepreneurs

A quick look at RiteTag on hashtags related to small business reveal the words that you can use so that your venture can be seen now. These are #business, #marketing, #socialmedia, #entrepreneur, #startup, #work, #seo, #leadership, #success, #media, #facebook, #sales, and #digitalmarketing. But for online users to find you over time, you can use hashtags like #smallbusiness, #tips, #smallbiz, #smallbusinessowners, #sme, #owners, #website, #productivity, #smallbusinesses, #businesses, #ceo, #ideas, #reasons, #today, #infographic, #budget, and #smb.

Finding niche hashtags

If you want to be specific to your niche industry or market, whether it’s food, technology, beauty, travel or real estate, you can use hashtags that are popular in that segment. You can refer to the hashtags that influencers in your industry use so you can get an idea of trendy hashtags people use and follow. Another good tool is Hashtagify.me, which shows related hashtags and top influencers in a particular topic.

You can also use your business name or brand as a hashtag. Others base their hashtag on their tagline, or they create one to generate discussion among their followers and customers.

Other tips in using hashtags

While it is helpful to use hashtags, there is also danger when you overdo it. Limit the use of hashtags, especially on Twitter. On Instagram, the maximum allowable number is 30 hashtags per post. Different social networks have different cultures and behaviours, so you should not copy-paste your post across all platforms. Customise them according to what’s trending in that social media site.

Apart from hashtags related to business and entrepreneurship and anything relevant to your industry, you can also include hashtags popular for a particular day of the week, such as #traveltuesday or #foodiefriday. If there are special occasions, create a hashtag for that as well.

Again, a hashtag is all about trends. There may be a new one the next day. So, keep your eyes and ears open. Do your research on the latest discussions online. Be active on social media. Know the interests of your customers and target market. That way, you can reach out to them and communicate with them better.

Jacob Spencer keeps it clean, lean and simple

In life, we often accumulate things that we need, want or like. Over time, these items are no longer necessary for us, yet we still keep them and allow them to occupy space and collect dust. Jacob Spencer’s business, Mobile Skips, comes in handy for those who do some spring cleaning, DIY jobs or moving residences or offices to take out the non-essentials and keep spaces neat and orderly. 

Mobile Skips is a business that Jacob acquired from the original owners two years ago. Although he spent most of his career in the food and hospitality industry, he found that the rubbish business is simple to understand and manage. He still has his fingers dipped in the food space because of his involvement in the non-profit social enterprise, called Streat. However, he is more focused now on Mobile Skips, bringing to the venture all his learnings from his previous experiences.

His business is helpful in discarding garbage, which is a growing concern for many areas around the world. Even in various aspects of our lives, we need to sift our thoughts and emotions to rid ourselves of excess baggage. In the business journey, decluttering the turmoils and focusing on substantial things are helpful in running an enterprise. Here are some actions you can take to get you to do some entrepreneurial clean-up so that you can fix your eyes on the essentials of business.

1.) Decide to give it a go

The primary impediment to doing some spring cleaning is the failure to make a decision. It is often stalled and pushed at the back of our mind until more items arrive that make the task seem unattainable. In the entrepreneurial journey, decision-making and risk-taking happen almost at every turn.

“You've got to have a go. Fail small and fail lots of times small, and try things new the first time because you will learn by doing that. You've got to fail at even the tiniest thing and keep going until you get success. When you succeed at that one new thing, it'll build some confidence and some belief. An old mentor of mine said to me once, 'You'll never regret doing something. You'll regret not doing something.' So, even if you do it and it doesn't work, you'll learn something from it,” Jacob imparted.

2.) Put a system in place

So as not to be overwhelmed by all the chaos and topsy-turvy things, put a system on how to organise your things, where you separate those you need to retain from those that you have to throw away. The same way when you manage a business, having a structure and systems keep things manageable.

“We've built a brand new booking and operating IT system, which means that we can run everything remotely. We've embraced technology to allow us to automate a lot of the processes in our business, which has been great and has helped us enormously,” he said. That includes making the process easier for their customers. Jacob cited the need to understand the needs of their customers and walk in their shoes for them to build a good product or service and provide solutions to their problems. They have also enforced a system for their franchisees to connect and communicate better through a network.

3.) Discipline yourself

The key to overcoming the tedious task of spring cleaning is having the discipline to tidy up things regularly. For Jacob, “One of the biggest learnings has been the discipline to do a little bit every day on improvements. Sometimes, the big goals seem insurmountable.”

Challenges like cash flow and time management can be a burden. But Jacob found that having restraint and control in managing cash and time can help ease the load. “What you need to do is to put in discipline practices that allow you to solve problems, move forward, and get stuff done in the shortest time possible to the best quality, so then you can go and enjoy the rest of the day or the week with your family or your friends and have some balance,” he quipped.

4.) Learn and enjoy

Make decluttering a fun and learning experience. With all the challenges and hard work in running a business, the entrepreneurial role can be a lonely place that can give you sleepless nights. “It takes up most of my thinking. As a business owner, you never stop thinking about your business. You never stop dreaming about it, waking up in the middle of the night. It's important to me that it's enjoyable and doesn't take up all my time,” he said.

Jacob needed people who could understand his circumstances and give objective insights. He found a remarkable group through EO Melbourne, where he gets to meet other entrepreneurs. “It's great to see that there are so many other business owners that have similar challenges but also have been so successful. When I started to scratch underneath the surface of EO, it looked like it's a place that could solve that problem for me.”

5.) Eliminate the rubbish

The hardest part of cleaning up is letting go of things. We hold on to items we no longer use or want because we have a sense of ownership over them. Similarly, in business, there are things we need to let go to keep things simple and lean.

“Things we want to throw out are unnecessary egotistical costs. You grow and add more things, having bigger offices and more meeting rooms. We don't need them. We're challenging ourselves to throw that stuff out and reduce where we don't need,” he remarked.

Now, it’s time for you to take a look at your enterprise and see where you need to simplify things to keep your business neat and orderly at all times.

Know more about Jacob Spencer through his LinkedIn profile. Read about Mobile Skips at https://mobileskips.com.au/.

10 Misconceptions on entrepreneurship and business owners

The entrepreneurial road is full of surprises, and you will never grasp the full extent of it unless you take it yourself. People have entertained different notions of entrepreneurship. Some of them may be close enough to the truth while others are far from reality. Nonetheless, it is best to know straight from business owners themselves about the bigger picture that the entrepreneurial journey entails.

If you read through the previous posts, you will find that most of the misconceptions on entrepreneurship and business owners are not always true. EO members who shared their stories cleared the air and narrated what happens behind the scenes. Depicting the various facets of running a business, good and bad, will help aspiring entrepreneurs who want to embark on this journey see the entrepreneurial world from different angles.

1.) Business owners make loads of money

One of the main problems entrepreneurs constantly face is cash flow. It is not only because they put in their money to start and run a business but mainly due to the huge responsibility that comes with it. The real challenge is making sure that they provide for the people who work for them. More often, entrepreneurs are the last to get paid or end up not getting paid because they have to prioritise their staff and other things to keep the business going.

2.) The entrepreneurial life is glamorous

Others associate entrepreneurship with luxury and extravagance. Newsflash: it’s not a red carpet walk at all times. In truth, many business owners describe it as a path filled with peaks and troughs. It’s a rough challenging journey. However, because they love what they do and are passionate about it, the rewards for them are priceless. They find fulfilment in creating something, achieving goals and seeing their business impact people’s lives.

3.) Entrepreneurship is easy

Contrary to what others believe, running a business is a tough thing to do. Otherwise, the majority would be on it if it were too easy to do. Business owners have to make difficult decisions at every stage of the business, from startup to scaling it. Certain businesses fold up and don’t make it to the five-year mark. Entrepreneurs have to contend constantly with internal issues as well as external factors that can adversely affect the business.

4.) Success comes overnight

While a lot of people think that success in entrepreneurship comes quick, it takes many years to plant the right seeds to bear the fruits of one’s labours. There are those that grow faster than the others, but it doesn’t mean that it happened with a flick of a finger. There are also several dynamics that come into play before an idea becomes a reality.

5.) Entrepreneurs are lucky

Entrepreneurs succeed not out of pure luck. They may get some help here and there, especially with a good team around them, but most of it is because of their boldness to take risks and determination to keep going despite the odds. They have the drive and the passion for their chosen path that makes them persevere despite the heartbreaks, frustrations and disappointments.

6.) Entrepreneurs have no boss

True enough, an entrepreneur is his own boss, but it doesn’t mean he is not accountable to anyone. He is answerable to the numerous customers and clients that his business serves. Many business owners rarely switch off. When they are not doing work, they still think of their business most of the time. When the going gets tough and the tough gets going, they cannot easily walk away from it all.

7.) A successful business is smooth sailing

The entrepreneurial journey has been compared to a floating swan or riding a bike. Others think that once it starts running, everything will be effortless. But as the business progresses, more and more challenges surface and new problems arise. Sacrifices have to be made along the way, may it be in their business or personal life. Underneath the graceful picture of a swan on a lake is the relentless paddling of its feet to keep it afloat.

8.) Entrepreneurs have all the answers

Business owners also commit several mistakes and have to struggle with various concerns. They often hit a blank wall. That is why most of them cite the need for building a strong team and surrounding themselves with like-minded individuals. They acknowledge the importance of continuous learning, which many of them find in EO. Being part of EO Melbourne enabled them to gain new insights from the experiences of other entrepreneurs through the forum and learning events.

9.) Entrepreneurs are self-oriented

Entrepreneurs start a business because they have experienced or seen a pain point. They have recognised a problem in society that needs a solution. Others would think that business owners are always after profit, which is not always the case. They stay long on the journey because they find purpose in what they do. They often worry about money because they are responsible for their staff and the families that depend on these people.

10.) The entrepreneurial journey is all awesome and fun

Although the journey is fun for many entrepreneurs, it’s more of a roller coaster ride that is full of ups and downs. It can be a dizzying ride, with quick movements and sudden disruptions in the industry. There are smiles, laughter and adrenaline rush, as well as sweat, blood and tears that are poured into the business.

Knowing the stories of other entrepreneurs give us a deeper perspective on what is in store in the entrepreneurial journey. It’s not all bed of roses. Yet, it affords you the opportunity to be creative and chart your own path. If it is something that you believe is right for you, equip yourself with passion, patience, persistence and perseverance to overcome all challenges that may come ahead of you. When doubt sets in, it is better to hear it straight from entrepreneurs who have already taken the journey and learn from their experiences.

Ashley Woodcock’s message signs for entrepreneurs

RPM Hire owner and director Ashley Woodcock began his entrepreneurial journey while he was still at university, starting with only three signs for hire. He had low expectations for the business. Never has he imagined that he would grow his venture into a successful enterprise and enjoy the experience along the way.

Supplying variable message signs (VMS) is the core of Ashley’s business. For over seven years, he has expanded his company by doing other product lines and services and now has over 400 signs and other products for hire. It’s a niche industry, but Ashley found huge significance in what he is doing, serving not only their clients but the general public as well. “If we’re giving the public a warning, it allows them to change their habits, take a different route, or use another mode of transport for that day. During road closures, our signs are dotted along a detour route to help them navigate around the closures,” he explained.

Now, Ashely is sharing some message signs for upcoming entrepreneurs to help them navigate through the business journey, which may be full of potholes, mounds and twists and turns.

1.) "The best time is now"                    

Ashley was in university doing an entrepreneur class when someone came to him and said, “If you want to start a business, the best time to do it is now, when you don't have a mortgage and family pressures.” Starting a business requires one to put in a lot of time and often not take a lot of money out as initial profits are put back to finance the growth. While it is advisable to start the journey young, it doesn’t mean that it is not suitable for those who are beyond their youth. Regardless of age, it is always better to start sooner into the journey rather than to stall time until it’s too late.

2.) "Work smarter and harder"

He quoted a common saying that states, “work smarter, not harder”. Although Ashley somewhat agrees with it, he believes that it is better to be both working smart and working hard. With such a combination and with many opportunities available, he finds it as a winning recipe for success.

3.) "Stick to your values"

His values of honesty, operating with integrity and a level of openness, and putting their customers first meant that Ashley runs his business with good intentions. He pointed out, “We don't hide the fact that we're there to make money, but we're going to do it the right way and not rip people off or take advantage of them if they're in a desperate situation. I guess it starts with being a good person, leading right from the top and providing the best possible service.”

4.) "Be your customer’s partner"

“We look to partner with our customers as opposed to working for them. If we can take some of the heavy liftings off their shoulders, then we will do it. We've built ourselves as experts in the area. It goes right to even the small tasks. We are doing the hard work, understanding their pain points and making it easy for them,” he professed.

His business ethics of providing quality service to their clients and giving them value for their money have helped him to prosper in the industry. Ashley goes the extra mile, sometimes taking calls in the wee hours of the morning and answering them with a smile. To be the biggest or the cheapest business on their playing field is not his goal. For him, it is to be the best partner for his clients.

5.) "Find a solution to every challenge"

Getting and retaining good staff members and maintaining a positive cash flow are some of the major challenges for his business. RPM Hire is service-driven and needs high capital investment, so Ashley has to make sure that he has the best resources to deliver good service to their customers.

“Challenges are opportunities, opportunities to build a solution that highlights our values and strengthens relationships, and often lead to opening up further opportunities in the future,” he quipped. According to Ashley, you can come up with a solution if you are not afraid to think outside the square and do not regard the status quo as the best way to do things. He also stressed the need to match your business model with your strategy. He learned to resolve issues by sticking to his values, staying firm and moving past the negatives.

6.) "Enjoy the journey"

Despite the detours and road closures, what kept Ashley still on the track after all these years is that he enjoys whatever he is doing. There were a lot of long nights and after-hours phone calls, but he found all these exciting and gratifying. He added, “The highs have been watching the business grow and develop and turn into something so much bigger than myself. Watching the staff grow and take on the values of the business, and our customers giving great feedback about that as well, I find it fulfilling. So, yes, it's been a wonderful journey.”

7.) "Continue to grow"

What he enjoyed most in his being an entrepreneur is the journey of growth. With more than seven years on the journey, he still finds a lot of things to absorb and learn, which has brought him beyond the startup stage. “If you're willing to keep on learning and developing and pushing through, then that five-year mark is exciting, as it was for me,” he said.

Part of his continued growth is joining EO Melbourne in November last year. “I've enjoyed the experience. The events have been amazing, especially with the quality speakers and presenters. The forum experience is awesome because of its encouraging and motivating environment. There’s a diverse range of people, all with similar goals and parallel challenges in business, even though our businesses are very different.”

Moving forward, he wants to continue with that growth, focusing on his personal development and staff development. He wants to provide them with opportunities to grow and have a rewarding career. For his business, he plans to open up interstate later this year, with hopes to transition towards a national footprint five years from now. Because he knows his clients well, he is familiar with their pain points and the systems and processes that they need. “It's going to be a challenge for sure, but an exciting one,” the passionate entrepreneur said.

Know more about Ashley Woodcock through his LinkedIn profile. Read more on RPM Hire at http://www.rpmhire.com.au.

The entrepreneurial house plan

In constructing a house, the first thing that is needed is a blueprint that will outline the plan for the edifice. If you want to put a structure in place, you need to have clear-cut boundaries, floor areas, and the layout of your living space. It’s the same way when building a business. There has to be a plan and an organisational structure that will help support your venture and make it stand firmly.

As a business owner, you are the architect, engineer and chief carpenter of your enterprise. You have to design your business proficiently so that it can withstand the harsh conditions and constant movements of the economic landscape.

A simple house starts with a few important rooms that are necessary for living. If you’re going to construct your business, your entrepreneurial house, there are rooms you have to bear in mind as you put together your blueprint.

1.) Living Room: put your guest first

Your business exists because of your customers. Like a living room that makes every visitor feel welcome to your home, treat every client as your guest and provide the best product or service for them. Your product or service should be able to answer a need or solve a problem for them to make it relevant in society.

2.) Kitchen: whip a menu for success

We cook our food and prepare our meals in the kitchen. Whatever you do in your business, work out every ingredient that will make your venture a sure success. You have to stock up, whether they are materials needed for your business or qualities that will help you endure the challenges of the industry.

3.) Dining: nourish yourself with continuous learning

Equipping yourself and your people with new skills and additional knowledge will be beneficial to your venture. Your business is composed of people, and for them to grow, you also have to develop your team, including yourself. Do training sessions, attend seminars, or join groups like EO Melbourne where there’s a rich repository of insights and ideas through learning events.

4.) Bathroom: keep your business spick-and-span

Maintaining the cleanliness in your company is not limited to the physical environs. Apart from keeping your workspace orderly, you also have to be agile in cleaning up your mess – the mistakes that you or your people may commit. Have constant evaluation, reporting, huddles, monitoring and planning to beautify your business by taking out the impurities and working on your weaknesses and liabilities.

5.) Bedroom: give yourself time to relax and enjoy

The business world can be hectic. Allow some time and space for you and your staff to have some fun, whether it’s through teambuilding activities, incentives or simple lunches or dinners together. Go out and celebrate when you have victories. Give your mind and your environment a breather to avoid feeling burnout.

6.) Garage: protect which drives your business forward

The main operation of your business is the engine that keeps your venture going. You have to maintain it in good condition, just like safekeeping your vehicles in a garage. Put the proper systems and processes in place for a smooth ride in your day-to-day activities.

7.) Attic: store your records properly

As much as you have a physical area to store all the important records and items related to your business, also have a database for the soft copies. Similarly, put everything on record in every transaction of your business.

8.) Study/Work area: put your mind in your business

Not all houses have a work area or study or library. But modern homes allocate a nook or space where adults can do their work or for children to study or do their assignments. In your business, set aside time and space for brainstorming and evaluation. You can also get consultants or mentors to give you an extra eye and brain as you come up with ideas on how to improve your business.

Once your house is up and ready for occupancy, always check each room to ensure that it stays neat and tidy. Have regular maintenance of your electrical system, plumbing, security and various parts of the structure. Never allow pests to destroy your homes.

In business, stay on top of every department and aspect of your venture. Keep a clear and open communication with your team so that you can address concerns right away. As a business owner, you are the house manager, so you have to keep it always in tip-top shape. That way, household members, which are your staff members, enjoy living in your entrepreneurial home, while making it welcoming for guests to enter and linger.

Alex Louey’s lessons on entrepreneurship through smartphone apps

With millions of apps available online that are increasing each year, an average smartphone user has a wide array of options on which ones to use that correspond to his needs. For Appscore co-founder and Managing Director Alex Louey, whose company has been developing apps, websites, cloud solutions, Internet of Things (IoT), and other technology-based products, it’s more than just building a software. Its mission is to create great customer experiences for their clients and make their lives easier every day.

“We started off as a mobile app company. But now, we've progressed from being very focused on apps to focusing on making our customers’ lives easier and better for them to do things,” Alex quipped. “It means that we don’t look into a particular technology. Rather, we look at the problem to be solved and the appropriate technology to do it. We look at the entire life cycle. We look at the customer experience and the problem that they're facing. Then, we build the software and look at what we can do to help clients engage customers and get the customers to use their business software,” he added.

Although Appscore is a technology company, Alex admitted to not having any IT background. He built his career on project management, working in various banks. It was not until he and his mate, Nick Bell, one of the co-founders of AppsCore, decided to start a business that he got into this industry. His parents, who were Chinese immigrants that ran restaurants, had advised him to get an education, work for somebody, and not get into the restaurant business. “It’s true. I'm not in the restaurant business, but I am working for myself,” he countered.

With the challenges that come with owning and running a business, Alex shares his insights and some entrepreneurial lessons derived from smartphone apps.

1.) Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp: Communication is key

“I use this a lot because it's a way that I communicate and talk to a lot of people. The idea is when you start a business you've got to talk to a lot of people. Even with existing clients, you've got to go out, talk to them, take them out to lunches, find out their future objectives. And it's all about communication. It's all about building relationships,” Alex explained.

He emphasised that the key is having the right networks and the right relationships. By engaging various stakeholders in the business, it allows him to understand the values that are important to their customers and staff. “As the company grows, I continue to learn how to communicate with a broad range of people. You need to speak to them in their language. Different people process communication in different ways. Some are very visual, while others are very auditory. As I’ve learned recently, some challenges that I’ve had was not about others being difficult, but it’s the way I communicate with them. They don’t understand because they don’t process information the way I do. So, I’ve had to change the way I communicate to get my message across.”

In communicating with different kinds of people, Alex underscored the need to be genuine about it to show care. He receives and exhibits care through his engagement with EO Melbourne, where he found value in talking to people who share similar experiences with him and can empathise with his concerns.

2.) Angry Birds: An exercise on frustration

Alex believes that there is no entrepreneur or business person, whether successful or unsuccessful, that can say their journey has been smooth sailing, without problems or stressful situations. But he learns to deal with those circumstances and move forward with the lessons. “When you start a business, you're going to be frustrated and have setbacks. There are going to be hurdles that you can't initially work out. But if you persist with it, even how hard they come, you'll eventually find a way through. Out of all the five stages of Angry Bird, I think I got up to stage three, and I spent about three hours playing on the plane,” he laughingly shared.

3.) YouTube: Continuous learning

“YouTube is quite entertaining and also very educational. TED talks are one of my favourites. Sometimes it tells me stuff that I already know, but it reinforces the things that I need to focus on or the skills I have to learn. As an entrepreneur, you can't stop learning. I don't think there is anybody who is good at everything. You'll always learn because there is no playbook to be an entrepreneur. For every step you take and every way you advance, you create new ground,” imparted Alex.

To learn continuously, they send their key executives on training courses to learn about the newest and greatest stuff. Since Alex didn’t have any sales background, he had to learn that skill by reading books and talking to other people. He also found various learning opportunities from EO Melbourne.

4.) Instagram: Know the trends and tell your story

According to Alex, “It is important to look at how other people are doing things. Instagram is great at that. I follow people on a whole range of topics, whether business or personal. If you're interested in a particular topic, you can see how other people are doing it. It’s the same with business. There are always people that do worse than you, and those that do better than you. As an entrepreneur, always look at what other people are doing better than you and learn it.”

He stated, “Businesses, especially in the technology field, need to be on the lookout for new trends. With technology, you can easily be superseded the next year, even if you are the best last year. When processes change, customer expectations also change.” He also stressed the importance of marketing and being able to tell your stories to your customers. Culture and corporate values also play a major part in attracting people to the business.

5.) ANZ Bank app: Tight control over money

“Cash flow is king” is a line commonly heard from business people that Alex echoed. He expounded, “You are responsible not only for the company’s success but also for everyone that relies on you for their livelihood. It's important to keep an eye on what your business is doing financially. It is good to spend money to grow, but you have to make sure that you get a return on the money before you start to splurge, thinking you can hire fifty people if there's no sales pipeline to refill.”

For the next two years, Alex aims to double the size of the company, create more services, and grow the consulting space and resource sector. He wants to continue to push at the forefront of the various technologies that are coming out in the market while strengthening their core business of building software for their customers.

To Alex, the entrepreneurial journey has highs and lows. But what he found helpful is having a good team around him that can help him refocus when he’s down. “I don't think an entire company can rely solely on a single person to drive it forward. The important thing is you have a good team to make up for your shortfalls. If you have a good team, and you are honest with your team and transparent with your leadership team, you can make anything happen,” he conveyed.

Know more about Alex Louey through his LinkedIn profile. More on AppsCore at https://www.appscore.com.au.

How to choose the right charity for your business

Partnering with charities is commonplace in the business sphere. Although it is not a requirement, it is something that many enterprises have adopted in their culture. Whether it is a personal pursuit of the business owner or a corporate decision, several companies involve themselves with charitable works for various reasons. Not many businesses may have the capacity to help a non-profit, but several of them have been contemplating of doing so when given the right resources and opportunity.

If it has been in your mind but doesn’t know where to start, there are a few tips you may take into account before you commit to a particular cause. For one, you have to assess first your capacity to engage your business with a charitable organisation. Whatever purpose or intent you have for doing it, helping a non-profit is not limited to philanthropy. While you can donate money, you can also make an in-kind contribution, volunteer your or your people’s time and skills, or help spread the word and promote the programs of the charity.

You may opt to support one organisation or more, but selecting the right ones can be a tedious process. With thousands of charities available out there that are in need of help, narrowing down your choice will take a bit of time and contemplation. These are a few actions that can help you in choosing the right charity for your business.

1.) Match the charity’s cause with your business values

The first thing about supporting a charity is to find the congruence of its mission and cause with your business values. If your business serves the health sector, then maybe you can categorise the charities that are doing health work. If your product addresses women’s needs or you work with farmer groups, you might prefer a non-profit that assists these sectors. Know where the heart of your business lies and select a similar environment where you can extend your passion for your business. You will find it more fulfilling when you see your business widens the community you serve by aligning your corporate vision and mission with the charity’s cause.

2.) Create a list of your preferences

Once you have filtered the charities based on their causes that match your corporate values, come up with a list of your partialities. Would you prefer a non-profit with a global scope or one that is within your locality? Maybe you want a charity where you and your team can visit and render community work. You might want to give your money to a more known charity or one that has not been on the radar of donors. Put together the things that you are looking for in a charity, pouring your mind and heart into it. That list will guide you in reducing your choices to a few charities that will best suit your business profile.

3.) Research on the background of the charity

If a particular charity complements your values and your list, it’s time to do some digging. Doing research will save you so much time, resources and heartbreaks in the future. You may want to look into the legal status of the charity, as well as the people behind it, such as its board of directors and staff. The first thing you want to know is the legitimacy of the organisation. That includes the individuals who run it. It is important for your partnership to have mutual trust and respect. Thus, choose one that you can trust the most. It is also important to know the beneficiaries and the method of their program delivery. That way, you have an idea of how your contribution, whether it is money, goods, time or reputation, can impact their lives. Also take into consideration the systems and processes of the organisation, particularly on monitoring and reporting of their programs.

4.) Consult with your team

It is also helpful to seek the opinion of your employees and staff members so that they can also participate in this undertaking, especially if there are volunteer activities involved. Projects like this can also enhance the capabilities of your people, providing them with a sense of purpose that can heighten their relationship with your company. Having employee buy-in will motivate and inspire them more rather than them looking at it as an added task. They need to have that sense of fulfilment in devoting their time and effort to the charity you’re supporting so that they have a personal stake on it, not just out of corporate obligation. On the flipside, if they are not willing to do it, it will only result in grudges and complaints among them.

5.) Check the pulse of your stakeholders

If you believe in a particular mission, it is always advantageous to involve your other stakeholders to the cause. Given that, it is better if your clients and customers can also relate to the works of the charity of your choice. Whether or not you will use cause-related marketing as a method to increase your giving, feedback from your stakeholders is helpful in your decision-making process as to which charity or charities you want to support. It also matters to them that the brands and companies they patronise give back to communities. If the cause is something close to their heart, they can relate more to the brand of your business.

You can also hear the stories of other business owners, such as members of EO Melbourne, on their experiences in partnering with charities and non-profit organisations.

When you have sifted your list of charities and chosen the ones you want to be your partner, try first a short-term arrangement and then see how the partnership will unfold. If you feel good about the result of your involvement, then you can decide to take it further to a long-term commitment or consider alternative options.

As you see your contribution bear fruit as you help improve the lives of others, the fulfilment is immeasurable, which extends to your team and stakeholders. It all comes full circle, your business benefit from a healthy society and communities flourish when you help them improve their well-being.

Jason Scher’s energy boosters for entrepreneurs

Speaking from experience, VÖOST co-Founder and Orange & Green Director Jason Scher affirmed that there are many difficulties that business owners encounter along the entrepreneurial journey. “Every single day, you're going to be challenged with something that will make you think, ‘I'm not good enough. It is not working.’ Then, you start to have those thoughts of quitting,” he said. It takes a lot of effort, time, resources and inspiration to start a business and see it through.

“Anyone that hasn't started a business or managed a business entirely has a different perception. It's like the swan analogy where it all looks graceful above the surface, but under the water, the legs are paddling furiously. Some of my friends see our products in different supermarkets and outlets, and they think it must mean everything's going well. But there's a lot of hard work, a lot of long hours, and a lot of stressful moments that people don't see,” described Jason.

To stay consistently on track, he has shared several insights which can be vitamins or energy boosters for entrepreneurs that can help them last longer on the journey.

Inspiring stories and positive feedback

To begin with, Jason got the idea for his business when he was standing in a pharmacy in Germany. “I noticed that the Germans had a full range and dedicated category of effervescent tablets, tablets that dissolve when you put into water, as opposed to the traditional tablets in Australia where you have to swallow them. And I don't like swallowing tablets. I realised that in Australia, there's a huge gap in the market for this type of format for all your vitamin and mineral needs,” Jason narrated. That incident and realisation gave birth to VÖOST.

Starting with five products sold in only 200 shops, it has grown to more than 40 product lines in around 2,500 stores in Australia’s leading pharmacies and supermarkets and now internationally. “Today, we're in South Africa, Hong Kong, China and the UK. The business has been growing steadily over the last five years,” according to Jason. As the business has expanded, he has encountered random instances wherein people, including total strangers, recommend the VÖOST products to him, not knowing that VÖOST is his business.

“It's nice when you see consumers enjoy the VÖOST range. It’s the same when people take time to write to us to tell us how good they find VÖOST and thank us for that. For them to take time out of their busy day and share that appreciation, it is inspiring. It makes me want to do more,” Jason confessed.

Persistence, passion, and other qualities

These qualities of an entrepreneur are like multi-vitamins that provide a healthy dose of energy to business owners and people around them. When thoughts of giving up are on the horizon, Jason’s recommendation is this, “You need to persevere. You must persist and go past those thoughts because it's worth it.”

It’s filled with various ingredients, such as honesty, creativity, discipline, which make the journey not only enjoyable but also fulfilling. “We take our business seriously. We're very professional, and we care. But you need to have a passion. You must love what you do. If you don't love what you do and not passionate about it, you'll never be able to have the success that you might dream of. For me, it's about having fun. It's about enjoying the journey,” he remarked.

People to bounce ideas off

“The challenge is that you sometimes feel a little bit isolated when it comes to not having other people to bounce ideas off. I think that's where EO Melbourne has become an amazing forum because it allows you to have that confidential platform to have those discussions that are relevant to you,” Jason said.

“EO Melbourne reminded me that there are many others that have had financial pressures, staffing pressures, customer and supplier issues, etc. Discussing ways to handle those pressures and situations become incredibly valuable. That feeling of isolation can quickly diminish purely from this forum platform, and it’s a bonus when you can learn from your peers’ experiences regarding the pressures they face,” he added.

Exercise and meditation

To release the tension and stress of running a business, Jason keeps his body and mind healthy and fit. “I feel that the more I exercise, the more energy I have. The times when I feel a little bit anxious and stressed or worried, I would always try and put half an hour aside and go for a run. Exercise, I feel like it's quite therapeutic. Mindfulness is also very important. I started meditating two-and-a-half years ago. It helped me not only recharge mentally but also feel a more centred, a little bit more focused. So, between physical exercise and meditation, it keeps me switched on and ready for what the day brings,” he professed.

A sense of purpose

The main thing that gives Jason energy is the knowledge that he has made a difference to countless of lives that have benefitted from VÖOST. “It's not about money. It's not about turnover. It's not about profit. It's not about the number of employees or the building. If you're inspired only by such superficial measures, then you're not going to have a strong foundation. There needs to be a little bit more substance to it. It's the knowledge that you've helped somebody or could help somebody new. That's quite powerful,” he imparted.

As he continues with his entrepreneurial journey, he hopes to grow his business and keep helping people by allowing them to feel better every day. He also wants to establish his businesses more firmly where he can have more time with his wife and kids. For Jason, “I want to explore the world with them. In five or six years’ time, I want to still be inspired, to have that drive to keep VÖOST on pleasing its consumer base.”

Know more about Jason Scher through his LinkedIn profile. Read on VÖOST at http://www.voost.com.au/.

Braving the entrepreneurial roller coaster ride

Theme parks are a child’s paradise. It’s a place where thrill and fun abound. It’s appealing and attractive, but can be quite daunting. The experience of enjoying theme park rides can run parallel to the entrepreneurial journey. Like in the business world, being in an amusement park can fill you with mixed emotions – fear, excitement, wooziness, and satisfaction.

It is interesting that children appear as if they don’t dread the frightening theme park rides. Similarly, young entrepreneurs seem to have less apprehension about entering the business race. Nevertheless, not many may find it enjoyable. Only those who have the sense of adventure will linger and crave for more. True enough, there are joys and anxieties in owning and running a business, which is why it is suitable for those who have the spirit and courage to go through it.

As time goes by, business owners realise that despite the enjoyment that the entrepreneurial amusement park brings, it is more pleasurable when spent with people who share the same passion and interest on such level of exuberance. Imagine a kid who looks forward to visiting a theme park, only to find that his or her companions are not eager to spend a day in such an environment.

In the business setting, it is helpful to find a group like EO Melbourne where like-minded individuals can relate to the challenges you face. But they keep traversing their entrepreneurial journeys because they love what they’re doing. Listening to their stories gives you a dash of confidence to brave the entrepreneurial adventure. You might be curious to know the kind of rides that most entrepreneurs find in the business world. Check out below which ones can connect closely to your experience.

1. Rollercoaster

The most common analogy of business owners to the entrepreneurial journey is the roller coaster ride. It’s filled with tumultuous ups and downs, sideways and loops. Running a business can be a turbulent journey with constant problems, challenges, motivation and wins. There are times when it can be scary and dizzying, but there are also moments when you feel the adrenaline rush like you are on the top of the world. The roller coaster ride is just a reminder that things can get pretty fast and you have to go with the momentum to enjoy it fully.

2. Carousel

If the rollercoaster is too speedy for you, the carousel is slower and less terrifying. Some of us may prefer to stay on the safer side, not wanting to disrupt the status quo. There are movements but not too steep and can be less exciting. There’s the danger of just going around in circles, with little development or improvement in the business.

3. Bump car

The business space is full of competition. It can get crowded, and you may end up bumping into each other. The bump car is a fun ride because you can take it whichever direction you want. However, it is unavoidable that you will end up hitting other businesses or getting yours hit along the way. Not everyone may go in the same direction as yours. In reality, it can become chaotic and messy.

4. Dark ride

No matter how many business books you read, seminars you attend, or podcasts you listen, nothing can totally prepare you for the entrepreneurial journey. You get hints from the basic concepts, stories of other business owners, and market movements, but there is a different kind of learning when you experience it yourself. It’s the same case with ghost trains and horror rides in amusement parks. We know that it can be creepy inside. But once we step into the darkness, it still scares us. We often psyche ourselves not to be afraid of what we’ll find inside, but we still get startled by the movements, sounds and props inside this attraction.

5. Swing ride

Chair-O-Planes and Monkey Swingers are the popular types of swing ride. This motion of this ride can vary as it can speed up or slow down and tilt its top on different angles. It hurls you around as the top rotates on an axis. The business experience can throw you off guard and beyond your comfort zone. But as long as you are attached to your core values and core business, you can never stray too far.

6. Pendulum ride

Based on the concept of a pendulum, this ride pivots back and forth due to force and gravity. Have you ever tried a Pirate Ship ride? It neither goes anywhere nor rotates but it can swing forward and backward. There’s a rhythm. You have to keep moving. When you hit failure, don’t stay there forever because you can sway yourself towards success. The entrepreneurial journey can be frenzied, but you can always set a rhythm for yourself and your business, and find your balance in all these things.

7. 4D Ride

Many theme park goers, especially those who only accompany their kids, would rather go for the 4D rides. It’s like watching a movie in a theatre, but there are water mists, fog, and pokers for additional sensations to the cinematic feel. The seats may move a bit for a semblance of motion. To be on top of your business and the movement in your industry, you have to use all your senses and immerse yourself in the whole experience to fully grasp what’s ahead of you.

8. Mechanical Bull

For those who get overwhelmed with huge rides, the mechanical bull is a safer option. You can ride it just by yourself. It is ideal for those who are visiting amusement parks for the first time and need to shake off their fear. As Subway co-founder Fred Deluca once said, “start small, finish big.” There’s no need to shock your system if you believe the best way for you is to begin your business journey in a slow and steady pace. The original use of mechanical bulls was to train cowboys for rodeos. In the same way, newbie entrepreneurs can gather experience first and then go big.

9. Bungee Trampoline

Some amusement parks have attractions like the bungee trampoline. The difference of this kind of attraction compared to the previous ones mentioned is that this one is not mechanical. Instead, the visitor is doing the activity with the help of a trampoline. To launch your business to greater heights, you need a platform like a trampoline. But it all does is support you because you have to be the one to make the jump and exert effort to force yourself upward.

10. Climbing wall

From afar, the wall may appear easy. But once you take the first step towards the top, you’ll find that it can be strenuous and challenging. You have to stretch your entrepreneurial muscles to reach the next rock so you can pull yourself upward. All it takes is determination, perseverance, agility and commitment to reach your goal. Just keep your head towards the top and not look down to stay on the course. Focus on your goal and be not afraid of failure.

Every park goer has his preference and bias on which theme park ride he will take. Each entrepreneur differs from one another when it comes to vision, goals, strategies, and style of running a business. That is why there are different rides to choose from and different paths to take. There may be variety in the experiences, but the basic components will be there, such as the challenge and the thrill of the ride. Listening to the stories of others on how their entrepreneurial ride went can give you an idea on how you can tackle things on your own when it’s time for you to experience your business adventure.

Packing tips for the entrepreneurial journey

Taking the road of establishing and running a business is not an easy course. For the less-experienced entrepreneur, the track comes with full of surprises, not some organised itinerary that you know beforehand. Similar to most journeys, getting ready to embark on an entrepreneurial adventure is the most nerve-wracking part. It is like diving into the unknown, so you have to prepare for the inevitable.

When it comes to travelling, packing is a crucial part of preparation. Whatever you put in your luggage can either help you on your trip or wear you down. Carrying everything you think you need is not always a good idea because it can often hold you back from speeding up your pace. You will find along the way that you can discard some of the things you packed to make things lighter. Choosing the right things to bring and packing them right need strategy to make the experience all worthwhile.

There are several tips for packing things effectively that can help travellers organise their trips better. We can convert these tips into advice for those who are on the entrepreneurial road. They are good tips and reminders on how to run businesses more smoothly and efficiently.

1. Create a packing list

Put a plan in place at various points of your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you are starting out, midway through your business, or long enough in the industry but needs to reinvent your brand, a plan is necessary to help you craft your direction and succeeding steps. With a goal in mind, plot out the strategies necessary that can take you closer towards your vision. The advantage of putting it on pen and paper and having things listed down is that you can always go back to it and check which ones you have done right and which ones you need to change.

2. Choose the right bag

Know the industry and the market you want to target for your business. Many ventures fold up in the first few years because they failed to listen to the market and familiarise themselves with the industry’s movements. The business you put up should be able to address a need in society. Take a look at the landscape and see where your business best fits so that it will shine successfully. Carefully choose the right people to be on board your team. Make sure that your plans, team, stakeholders and strategies can bring you nearer to and not further away from your goals.

3. Use packing cubes and pouches

Divide your goals and resources into manageable magnitude. Organise your business into departments. Split your long-term goals into mid-term and short-term targets. Do not put all your investments in one basket. Share your responsibilities with your people. Huge concepts can be a bit overwhelming. Narrow them down to simpler and smaller portions that are easier to understand, digest, execute and monitor.

4. Roll and compress your clothes to conserve space

Tighten your budget and save wisely to safeguard your revenue. Cashflow is always a concern, not only for new entrepreneurs but even for those who have been on the journey for a long time. Resources are finite, so you need to have a close watch on your finances. Save whatever you can, don’t spend on anything unnecessary, and utilise every asset you have to manage your budget wisely.

5. Place items in Ziploc bags

Secure your assets through safety nets. Unforeseen circumstances like financial crises, burglary, catastrophes, embezzlement, and other misfortunes can damage your business. Take the necessary precautions to protect your business and avoid bankruptcy. Indemnify your venture, backup your data, and have a contingency fund set aside for emergency purposes.

6. Label your luggage and mark your bags

Let your brand stand out. The name of your business is a significant part of its success. Attached to it are the image and values it represents. One way to generate clients and customers is to have a trustworthy name. When they see the quality products and superb service you deliver, they will stay with you for a long time. Never allow your brand to get lost in the sea of other names. Make it prominent and noticeable so that you attract more people to your company.

7. Keep valuables on your carry-on

Hold your trade secrets and confidential information close to your chest. Not everything should be out in the open. Although transparency is noble, it doesn’t mean that you have to reveal everything. Discern well the kind of information that you can make known, and which ones that need to be kept in your vault. Guard this information and utilise them appropriately.

8. Choose multi-purpose clothes

Be flexible and versatile. Learn to multi-task. The initial years of running a business often entail doing a lot of things all by yourself. You have to learn a lot of skills even as you continue on the journey. Owning a business doesn’t mean you only have to give out orders. Business owners also have to be hands-on in various aspects of the enterprise and immerse themselves in different roles for a clearer perspective in setting directions for the venture. In the long run, even if you don’t have to do things on your own, having a clearer understanding of the various operations within and around your business will help you formulate wise decisions and plans.

8. Take out less essential items

Prioritise only those that are most important and relieve yourself of unnecessary burdens. Sometimes, when you take a look at the things we pack, we will find that we carry more than what we need for the journey. With many worries and concerns coming from various directions, entrepreneurs must be able to filter and focus only on the most vital issues. Do not put too much worry into matters that are less significant or deem trivial than the others. Only absorb those which your bandwidth can accommodate. If necessary, delegate other tasks to your team members. Find solutions head on and don’t drag issues any further.

10. Bring a smaller extra bag

Always have an alternative to your plans. Come up with a plan B, C or D. If things go awry, you have something prepared to lessen the damage of an unsuccessful plan. When something is blocking your way, find an alternative path that will take you towards your goal. In every problem, there is a solution. Entrepreneurs are resourceful in finding means to overcome the challenges thrown at them. You can diversify, expand horizontally, spread your investments, or create alternative products or services that can support your core business.

The reason why there is a need to travel light is that it makes the experience more enjoyable and less stressful. The entrepreneurial journey may be full of challenges, but no one and nothing can stop you from enjoying it. With a lighter load, you are free to expand your territories and explore more areas. If you are keen to traverse the pathway of running a business, then be sure that you have packed well and ready to go. You’ll never know what awaits you on your next adventure.

Furthermore, the journey is best enjoyed when spent with people who also share your passion and interest. Having travel companions in the entrepreneurial path, such as fellow business owners that you'll find in EO Melbourne, will make the whole experience more worthwhile. When your load is to heavy to bear, you have friends and travel buddies who can ease your burdens and help you for the rest of the trip.

The journey of a (business or sports) champ

The entrepreneurial journey and the athletic life have many parallelisms. Similarly, an entrepreneur and an athlete exhibit almost the same qualities that become fundamental in bringing them to their respective goals. They share common features that make them winners and champions.

Athletes and business owners have the determination and drive to face any obstacle or hurdle as they remain focused on the wins. Their passion for their game, their profession, and their team are unequalled. They listen to their coach or mentor, work with their team, and look after their supporters and customers.

We may always see the glory of being a champion, but getting there is a long and strenuous journey. Business and sports champs have to begin somewhere, and the first steps are never always easy. The way towards becoming a star in whichever field is not a paved path. It has its challenges and wins. The learning and improvement never stop. However, constant training, exposure, and experience shape them to become authorities in their professions. But how does one evolve from being a newbie to becoming a big player?

Spectator

A star player is not born overnight. Many of them begin their interest by watching those ahead of them make their way towards success. Their love for business or sports starts with a fascination sparked by an experienceor person that demonstrated enjoyment and success in these fields. They watch on the sidelines, cheer for their idols, or study the techniques and strategies. A potential entrepreneur absorbs ideas from brands he patronises, books he read, stories of successful business owners he heard, and hints from those who have already made it big.

Trainee

Even the most gifted and brilliant of player or entrepreneur has to try his hand on the game. A simple play in the neighbourhood can mould an athlete while a basic summer job can produce an entrepreneur. At a certain point, a promising champ has to test the waters to see if he has the capability of learning the skills that will match his passion for the craft. He accumulates some form of experience and knowledge before he dives into the entrepreneurial or athletic waters. Aspiring entrepreneurs do their research on the market they want to target and readies himself with entry plans to ensure success in his endeavour.

Rookie

A jersey. A uniform. A contract. A business registration. It may come in whatever form, but it is a symbol of one becoming a business owner or athlete in an official capacity. He joins a league, a team, an industry or a business group. The rookie player or entrepreneur is often placed under the microscope to see if he would be able to succeed in the field he has chosen. Getting into business is a bold move that only the fearless and adventurous make. A newbie entrepreneur does everything, in the beginning, trying to carve a name for himself to gain the trust of his customers and clients. It is the phase to learn every skill possible, a defining moment to shine and jumpstart a career.

First seasons

The first few seasons in the game or first few years in the business are the most exciting and most challenging. It is the most crucial stage that will determine if one will survive in the field or not. The early years will set the path and direction of one’s career. He will either rise in glory or go down in oblivion. There will be several trials and errors as one adjusts to the industry’s movements. But a passionate entrepreneur never wavers as he withstands the tumultuous journey. That’s how an entrepreneur is shaped to become a business champ.

Regular Player

At this stage, a player may have gotten the groove of the game. The learning curve is no longer too steep. But the danger is going into a plateau. One has to constantly improve his performance to outshine the others, especially with more players coming in. You may not yet reach the helm, but you’re getting there. All it takes is to hone new skills, work well with the team, and give your best. Moreover, to become an MVP, you must not just play it safe and settle for the second or third spot. You need to make some tactical moves and garner a lot of wins to carry your team or business into the championship.

Champ

One becomes a champ through discipline, tenacity, passion, and strategy, as well as support from his team. Winners also commit mistakes. But they don’t wallow on it. Rather, they stand up again every time they fall. They compete not only with their opponents but also with themselves as they strive to become better and stronger. Victorious entrepreneurs climb their way to success because they do not let difficulties stop them from hitting their goals. They are relentless, and they are always out for a win.

Legend

Champions do not rest on their laurels. They don’t stop at just a few hits. It is a continuous journey where victories are not the end but the high points along the path. Although they still play in their respective fields, they guide and motivate their other teammates and allow them to share in the spotlight. They support their team, providing strength and inspiration to their new members.

Coach

Players and entrepreneurs go on with their journey, although they probably take new roles within the team or organisation. They become mentors who direct the younger ones on their journey. It is their turn to share their experience with those who are still starting out. For EO Melbourne members, some of them tell their story through their forum. They take a different perspective of the business, looking after its growth without having to be in the game. Instead, they put themselves on the game as they steer their venture to more wins and successes.

Others may opt to take a different route, depending on their priorities, preferences and circumstances. Where are you in your journey right now? Where do you want to be?

10 types of photography through an entrepreneur’s lens

Photographs are part of our everyday life. In this era of selfies, almost everything we do and see is captured and stored in our electronic gadgets, often posted and shared on social media sites. But snapshots serve not only to preserve memories but also as vital tools for communication and an effective one at that.

In business, pictures play an important role in design and brand-building. They bridge companies with customers by depicting various images that can make the brand relate more to people. As new tools become available in the market, the craft has also evolved with more forms and usage of photography.

Let us take a closer look at the various types of photography and their applications. We can translate the principles behind each form to how an entrepreneur should train his business eye towards his venture and the landscape where it belongs. Business owners can learn about these different kinds of photography and apply their principles to the entrepreneurial setting, especially on how to run their enterprises successfully.

1.) Aerial photography

With the advent of technology, drones have become one of the tools used by both professional photographers and hobbyists alike. Aerial photography is fast-becoming more popular as it enables one to see the whole picture from above. It provides a view of places and scenarios that we cannot see from a regular standpoint.

Uses: Aerial photography is all the rage among travellers. Those in the travel industry can fully utilise this type of photography. Even those in the real estate and hospitality can feature their properties by using aerial shots. Recently, it has also been tapped for events, featuring angles from above ground of the crowd attending such activities.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: To have a good grasp of your business and its place in its industry, take a bird’s eye view of its position in your market. Look at the data and current trends. Review the entire operation and the various aspects of your company. Include your vision for your business and see how you can bring your venture forward towards that goal.

2.) Candid photography

People love to capture spontaneous moments that bring out a light atmosphere. It’s a representation of ordinary things that we can easily relate to the daily goings-on in our lives. Because subjects appear naturally in whatever they do, candid photography evokes a relaxed setting that draws a familiar and friendly awareness.

Uses: Consumers can often see through marketing schemes that make them prefer visuals that are not contrived. Candid photography is ideal for weddings and events. Industries like retail and marketing use this to display how products and services are part of day-to-day activities. Businesses belonging to serious types of industries, such as manufacturing, industrial, electronics, and education, also bank on candid photography to put a human touch to their brand.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Observe day-to-day occurrences in your workspace and surroundings and find inspiration and ideas from life in its pure form. Although business leaders may command attention, it is often an advantage to go unnoticed where you can see things as they are, which can help you in your decision-making process.

3.) Fashion photography

Accessories and clothing can weave magic on a conventional scene through style and glam. Those magazine pages and billboards demonstrate the allure of fashion photography. It exudes beauty and elegance that are pleasing to the eyes. It makes things pop-out, highlighting lifestyle, sophistication and trends through fashion.

Uses: Fashion photography is widespread in retail, especially for clothing, makeup and accessories. But it is also sometimes tapped by other industries to infuse glitz and style in their visuals. Fashion photography has a way of presenting the ordinary beautifully through stylishness and grace.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Find the best way to attract clients and customers. There’s nothing wrong with putting your best foot forward as long as you deliver in your promises. Know what clicks for them and present how your products or services can help them with their aspirations. Be aware of the latest trends in the market and see how you can take advantage of the current flow in moving your business forward.

4.) Landscape photography

Who doesn’t love breathtaking views of nature and scenery? Landscape photos generate a warm, soothing feeling such that they are often part of the interior design of homes, offices and establishments. The technique in landscape photography is that it makes every aspect of the picture look clear.

Uses: Landscape photography is popular in the travel industry. But it is also used for real estate and hospitality. It allows a wide angle of scenery to be well-appreciated. Other industries use landscape photography where the background enhance the image of the subject.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Looking at the big picture means taking into detail everything that is part of your business. Also, the entrepreneurial world can be a tough environment, so it’s best to look at the best scenarios that can strike inspiration within you and your team. Watch out for the shifts in the landscape and be ready to manage your business accordingly. Be aware of business groups like EO Melbourne to help you see the bigger view of the industry where you operate.

5.) Portraiture

The face is the primary focus of portraits. Selfies are the best modern examples of this. It is an interesting subject for most photographs because a single face can produce various angles and interpretations. A portrait can tell several stories underneath the skin and its countenances. A portrait puts not only the person in the spotlight but also his expression and every detail of the face.

Uses: The beauty industry is the primary patron of portraiture. However, because almost every sector and industry put a face to its brand name, companies also include portraits in their promotions, websites, posters, brochures and other materials. Persons that are often attached to the brand are business owners, staff members, endorsers, models, or clients.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: People are important in a business. Always have your lens trained on people, whether they are your staff or customers or business partners or suppliers or even your family. You can learn from them, so listen to what they have to express, verbally and non-verbally, as this may be helpful to your entrepreneurial journey.

6.) Action photography

The most challenging for many photographers is capturing people and things in action. It’s a complex technique to denote motion through a single shot. Technology has also been helpful in putting movement to photos with the advent of action camera, photography apps, and other gadgets.

Uses: Action photography is applied mostly in sports. It is also used in nature to capture animals in motion. Service-oriented businesses can also utilise action photography to portray their niche and unique offerings. But this is not frequently employed because of its difficulty and technical skills required.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Because the entrepreneurial landscape is dynamic and always shifting, you have to have the eye on the movements within your business and the market. Take the proactive stance towards continuous learning and development. Join organisations like EO Melbourne where you get more room to move within the business space. This way, you are ready to spring into action, especially when changes are needed to take effect in the space where your venture subsists.

7.) Food photography

With almost everyone having a smartphone with a built-in camera, food photography has become prevalent in our society, probably next to selfies. Meals now begin with a few clicks with the camera to be posted on social media sites. But it’s not as simple as just aiming the lens and taking a snapshot. Food photography has become an art in itself that many people like to master.

Uses: Obviously, food photography is fundamental in the food and beverage industry. That also extends to the hospitality and health industries. Food photography evokes a warm feeling on people, which is why even ordinary people try their hand on it.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Always bear in mind the things that can nourish your business, whether it is an incentive for your staff, an enticing offer to your clients and customers, or new concepts for your venture.

8.) Macro photography

If you want to capture the finer details of things, macro photography is your best option. You can zoom into your subject and have a closer look at it, thanks to the macro settings in most cameras. Smaller things appear larger than life, and what seems unnoticeable from the naked eye becomes a lot clearer.

Uses: We may find macro photography mostly used in nature and documentaries. However, it can also be employed in industries like retail, manufacturing, food and agriculture to emphasise a product. Macro photography generates an artistic vibe and wow factor as it highlights the tiny details of objects.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: A business owner needs to take a close-up look at the various details in his enterprise. There’s a saying that “the devil is in the details.” You have to pay attention to particulars to ensure that you produce high-quality items or services to your clients and customers.

9.) Abstract photography

Symmetry, patterns, colours, and reflection, to name a few, captured from everyday scenes are examples of abstract photography. They are usually part of an object or portion of an entire thing, such as buildings, mountains, or farms, depicted in the art form.

Uses: Businesses in the arts, fashion, events, and retail industries often utilise abstract photography in their materials. But it can also be applied in the manufacturing and industrial fields by stimulating an artistic feel from a stiff industry, making the subject more interesting.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Switch on your creative button and see fresh ideas from ordinary objects. Sometimes, you have to look at things from a different perspective to discover new concepts that you can introduce in your venture.

10.) Still life photography

Taking photos of anything that does not move is still life photography, which is probably the simplest form of photography. But it also takes a good eye, proper lighting and an awesome technique to bring life to what seems to be an inanimate object

Uses: The most common form of photography in advertising is still life photography, especially in shooting products for brochures, posters, advertisements, websites, and such. Products are the usual subjects of pictures used in business materials.

Through the entrepreneur’s lens: Amidst all the flurry of running a business, there are moments when you need to take a pause from all the activities and focus for a while. You often need to train the spotlight and direct your attention to your product, service, client, team or a particular part of your venture to improve an important aspect of your business.

As a business owner, you need to use different kinds of lenses and strategies to come up with a beautiful picture of your brand. An entrepreneur is like a photographer who uses art and methods in achieving a picturesque composition. Bring out your camera and get ready to hit your shutter to capture the best shot of your entrepreneurial journey.

10 must-have cooking tools for entrepreneurs

If your entire work environment is your kitchen, then you are the chef in the whole business structure. You hold a secret recipe for success, and you have the ingredients that can help you whip a flourishing venture. But you would need some kitchen utensils for you to be able to prepare the food scrumptiously. These are must-haves in your regular operations to help you deliver the necessary food orders to the front of the house.

While cooking may need some special skills, everyone can learn the basics and become masters in their respective kitchens. All you need is the patience to see through the whole process and a keen sense of taste that takes in every detail of the food and culinary yearnings of the diners. They say that food tastes a whole lot better when you put your heart into your cooking. In the same way, the entrepreneurial journey will last long if you have the passion and perseverance to endure the adventure. Whether you strictly follow a recipe or you cook according to your instincts, running a business is also hinged on your style, inclinations and goals. You have to be watchful of the preferences of the market, relying on your gut-feel and entrepreneurial skills, which you can develop over time.

To come up with a delectable menu of business dishes, you need to use the following cooking tools effectively in the day-to-day operations of your proverbial entrepreneurial kitchen.

1. Measuring spoons: tocalculate risks and monitor metrics

Measurement is necessary for business. Even before you leap into action, whether it’s a new venture, a novel project, an innovative product or a fresh business offering, you need to look at some numbers first to determine the risks involved and the probable success rate. Surveys and feasibility plans can help you make decisions in designing your business and steer it towards the right direction.

As you continue to oversee your enterprise, you still need some metrics to identify your points of strength and areas for improvement that will allow you and your business to expand and grow. The figures will give you an overview of your customers’ preferences and your venture’s movements when it comes to profit, loss and revenue.

So, take those measuring spoons out and put in the right amount of ingredients for your bestselling business cuisine.

2. Chef’s knife: to cut big goals to smaller ones

The first thing to do when you start a business is to formulate your goals. These goals become your guide or recipe on how to throw together a successful business menu. As you transition to the next stages of growth, you have to upgrade these goals to suit the shifting landscape of your industry and personal preferences.

To make these goals more edible to your partners, team members and clients, you have to slice them into smaller pieces. Think of your long-term objectives and design mid-term and short-term goals that are easier to track and monitor.

With regards to big ideas, they are simpler to digest if you provide bits and pieces of the more specific, little chunks of thoughts. It’s good to present the big picture with the bird’s eye view, but it is also helpful to look closely into the details and consider every angle of the plan or situation.

3. Grater: to shred targets into daily checklists

Annual targets are often quite daunting. The massive numbers can be a bit intimidating. Similarly, a block of cheese may be unappealing to the senses. You have to grind it to make a good topping. In the same way, you have to split your targets into daily checklists that will be less demanding to carry out.

The daily checklists are wonderful toppings to your weekly and monthly huddles. It will leave a sweeter taste in your mouth when you see your small achievements day after day. Knowing that you have ticked off a lot of things at the end of each day, it becomes a source of encouragement. When you miss a task, you can easily go back to it the day after for you to complete it.

4. Strainer: to filter out the negative factors

The business space is full of many elements, both favourable and unfavourable. While you take in the positive ones and turn the undesirable into something constructive, it is often wiser not to dwell on the negative components that will wear you down. You have to sift through all the information and comments and let the good feedback inspire you. As to those things that leave a bitter taste in the mouth, let them motivate you and not discourage you, then move forward to better yourself.

Even in your business undertakings, you have to ensure that you take out some rotten tomatoes, whether they are problem employees, inefficient procedures and systems, non-operational equipment, or a terrible concept. Once you have retained the elements that are useful and valuable to your enterprise, work towards polishing them and upgrading them so that they yield flattering results.

5. Peeler: to scratch the surface

There are more to things than meets the eye. Some small ideas can bear fruit into remarkable innovative products. Simple shop fronts or office buildings house remarkable products or talented personnel. An inconspicuous hole-in-the-wall turns out to be serving the best-tasting food in the area.

In the entrepreneurial highway, you may come across unassuming individuals or modest businesses that will turn out to be a big help to your venture. Scratch the surface and discover opportunities and potentials hidden in everyday things. Sometimes, you need to dig deeper to mine a gem.

When it comes to your business, you often have to peel off layers and blinders that prevent others to know your business more and appreciate your brand better. You have to get yourself out there. Show what’s in the core of your business. Take out the skin and let them savour the fleshy part of your trade.

6. Rolling pin: to flatten humps

The entrepreneurial journey is not always a smooth paved road. There are humps and potholes throughout the path. Externally, these humps are the challenges in the market, the industry and the business world. If you are not strong of heart, you can easily give up. Business owners must have the tenacity and determination to overcome such hurdles, flattening them to prepare the way for his team members and other younger entrepreneurs.

With regards to the internal environment, it is inevitable to find humps in your backyard as well. Your business is also dynamic and has a life of its own. There will always be areas where you can still develop or flatten out detrimental mounds of problems and glitches. It could be your organisational structure, production design, office processes, or human resource.

7. Wooden spoon: to mix all ingredients well

You have a superb well-thought vision and best laid-out plans. On the other hand, you also have your corporate values, which serve as the heart of your company. The staff members are brilliant and talented, but you also want to have a harmonious working culture.

Entrepreneurial success is not attributed to only a single factor, whether it’s a good product, an accessible business location or a visionary leader. It’s a combination of all these features. However, it’s not like a hodgepodge of different aspects of the business. Every part complements the whole. A good business leader knows how to tip the scales, balance things within his venture, and mix everything into a filling banquet of dishes that all go together perfectly.

8. Wire whisk: to smoothen business operations

It’s time to get rid of the bubbles to have one rich, velvety cream. A good business runs like a well-oiled machine. There may be hiccups as you go along, the reason why you need a whisk to blend various portions of the business until they appear like one product amalgamated together. Your whisk can be your work culture or values.

Smoothening things is also a skill of a business leader. When conflicts or misunderstanding arise, the business owner finds ways to come up with an agreeable solution for the betterment of the enterprise. When someone or something is stirring the pot and turning up the heat, whisk the situation to simmer things down. The journey is not always smooth sailing. You will have to use the whisk in several occasions to batter the stumbling blocks and use them to provide lushness to your experience.

9. Can opener: to unleash bigger potentials and new offerings

Don’t let the flavourful ingredients kept hidden in your cupboard. You don’t have to wait for everything to be perfect to launch something. Be courageous enough to allow the market to taste your dish and work on improving its taste as you go along. It doesn’t have to be a flash in the pan or half-baked ideas, but something worthwhile and looks promising when presented to the public. That confidence is your can opener that will unlock hidden potentials and concealed talents.

Throughout your journey, you will have to either introduce your business, inaugurate a store or office, launch a product or service, unveil a concept or marketing campaign, or host an opening gala. Creating a buzz for your business is necessary to attract more clients and customers. The can opener, which may also be an opportunity or strategy, is your ticket to promote your brand.

10. Tongs: to hold the business steadily and take it from hot waters

If you fall into deep waters, don’t be discouraged because that is part of the entrepreneurial journey. You cannot avoid mistakes or problems. But you can always learn from them, correct errors, find solutions and redeem yourself. Your tongs are your positive attitude and perseverance that will hold you steadily in the bumpy entrepreneurial ride. It can also be your support group, such as your family, friends or business organisations like EO Melbourne. The business journey may often be lonesome, and you need to have someone who can listen to your worries, empathise with your situation, and help you find the end of the dark tunnel.

You will always need some tongs to keep you afloat, especially when your troubles are pulling you down. It is your lifesaver to keep you sane and focused. Do not let yourself get drowned in misery. At some point in the cooking process, you have to take out the food from the boiling water, searing oil, or blistering fire. Otherwise, it will get burnt and overcooked, which will make it unfit for human consumption. The tongs will also hold you together so that you don’t jump out of the frying pan into the fire.

Make sure you have these cooking utensils in your entrepreneurial kitchen. If you already have them at your disposal, you can heat your pan, prepare the ingredients and get started with your culinary fare. Remember, entrepreneurship is not as easy as pie. Sometimes you’ll go nuts if you are in a pickle. When things go wrong, there’s no use crying over spilled milk because that’s the way the cookie crumbles. Just take things with a grain of salt and work hard to be the cream of the crop. Be inspired by the stories of entrepreneurs who have gone before you because their experiences show that the proof is in the pudding.

Hannah Vasicek and her meaning of success

“Success means nothing unless you're giving back.” Hannah Vasicek, Founder and Director of Francesca Collections, lives by this philosophy, which has also become the tagline of her business. More than just making jewellery, Hannah subscribes to the belief that her business is also meant to create an impact on people’s lives.

Hannah’s entrepreneurial adventure began when she was still a child. Imagine this young lady, who at 12 years old, already started her first little business selling lollies, where she earned around one or two hundred dollars a week. A year after, she ventured into making jewellery, which became one of her greatest passions that later paved the way to her Francesca Collections. “I started making jewellery when I was about 13 years of age. I lived in a rural town in New South Wales, and I had nothing to do. So, my mum took me to a beading store, and that's when I started making jewellery,” Hannah narrated.

She then began selling the jewellery she made. Her first little market store was when she was 13, selling $5 earrings and whatever her hands could create. When they moved to Tasmania at 16 years old, she supplied a merchant with her jewellery. However, because of the huge markup on her items, she decided to cut them out of the supply chain and switched to selling directly to her customers in Salamanca Market, a famous market in Tasmania. At that time, her business was called Handmade by Hannah.

Her family is one of the influences on the cultivation of her entrepreneurial spirit. Her dad worked in the music business and was quite entrepreneurial because he was good at selling. Similarly, her brother runs a business, while some of her uncles and aunties are business owners.

Upon finishing school, Hannah proceeded to university studying two degrees – science and law, retaining her jewellery business on the side and selling at the markets one day a week. At that point, she was still learning the ropes of discerning the pulse of her customers and the effective means of selling to them. Halfway through her five-year university degree, she re-branded her venture to Francesca to capture the younger market segment.

At the final year of university, Hannah made a breakthrough. “I applied for the Global Student Entrepreneur Award, which is run by EO. I got in the finals a week before my final year of law and had to fly over to Melbourne to present the business. I ended up winning, which was awesome. That was my first introduction to EO. Part of that award was to fly to New York and present the business at the world finals. I didn't win, but I met many EOers in New York. A lot of them said that I should pursue my business,” she said.

But when she graduated in 2012, she received an offer for an amazing law job. She was given a month to choose between her business and the job. “I decided that I wanted to do the business and give it a crack,” Hannah quipped. However, she received comments from other people telling her, ‘You're giving up five years of study to do your business,’ or ‘You're wasting your brains’ and things along those lines. Despite those discouraging feedback, she stood by her decision and took her father’s advice at heart. She called her dad on the day she got the job offer, who then told her, ‘Do what makes you time-rich.’ That was one of the reasons why Hannah chose to do the business over her law job. She knew that only business would allow her to have the flexibility of time to work on things she loves to do.

Even though she was zealous about what she was doing, it wasn’t entirely a bed of roses for her. At the beginning of her venture, she was multi-tasking and doing everything her hands and brain could do. “I was making the jewellery, selling it, marketing it, and making social media,” she described. It was only later when her sister joined Francesca and took the lead on the creative side of the venture.

Since she had no prior experience in running a business, Hannah had no clue on the other aspects of managing it like hiring staff and handling finances, for instance. She learned most of these things as she went along the journey. Hannah recounted, “I had to teach myself how to hire someone because I didn't know how to do it. Then the biggest thing has been the access to capital. I wanted to grow the business, but then I had to pay the bills. While starting out, banks won't look at our business because we were new. And I was a sole trader. So, every single bit of cash was going back into the business. And I think one of the biggest challenges was learning things early on.”

When it comes to finances, revenue has not been consistent. “As we've grown, cash flow is such a challenge. Not only are we growing and needing more resources, but our revenue spikes and decreases seasonally. So, we would do 20% of our revenue in the month before Christmas, and then we'll go down during our slowest month by having about 4%,” explained Hannah.

In the early days, she also had to survive through the various challenges to keep her venture afloat. But experience has taught her how to surpass those hindrances. According to Hannah, “I solely relied on the markets since I was 18, living out of the home. Sometimes there were problems, such as markets were cancelled due to bad weather, and I was without income for a week. I had to be always thrifty and ready for unexpected things. There has been that risk involved in losing it all. I think that's what has driven me to succeed. If things were easy, I might have become complacent. I once heard this great woman speak, and she said, ‘Always run your business as if it's going to have a massive problem tomorrow because then it makes you plan for those things.’”

One of those unexpected incidents was a burglary in her first store, which Hannah considers as her biggest heartbreak as a business owner. About six months into the opening of their first store, they got robbed. Hannah could still remember the day when she went to her store on a Sunday to get something out. “When I opened the door, I found all the jewellery gone. I thought someone was playing a prank on me. It was a huge challenge because I was very trusting. I didn't think through the risks of such things. We were under-insured, and it took us ages to recoup all of the jewellery lost.”

Another major challenge for Hannah is the location of her business. Being based in Tasmania was not easy for her to find a group of people where she could bounce off ideas related to business. She is grateful for EO Melbourne because being part of a forum helped her overcome challenges. In her determination to accumulate more knowledge, she flies to Melbourne every month to go to EO.

She credits EO for its positive effect on her venture and entire entrepreneurial journey. Hannah professed, “I honestly could say that I wouldn't be in business without EO. My ultimate goal was to join EO. I think that having a support network is so important, especially that I’m quite isolated because I am in Tasmania. I would have given up because there's a lot of things that come up and challenge me. Unless there is someone there to say they've been through it and they've gotten through it, it's disheartening. EO Melbourne has been fundamental in supporting me during my business growth. Just having people to bounce ideas off and support me through cash flow struggles and other concerns have been amazing.”

Because of her passion for work, learning, and growing the business, Hannah has harvested impressive wins from the early stages of her venture up to the present. “When we opened our first little store, I worked a 2-day a week law job to fund the rent for the store. After six months, I didn't need to work the law job anymore because we were making enough money. Then about 18 months after opening the little store, we opened a big store in Hobart. The revenue quadrupled as soon as we opened its doors. In 2014, we got invited to the Golden Globes to do the gifting suite. I went over to Hollywood and gave jewellery to celebrities. A year after, we won the Telstra Business Awards Business of the Year for Tasmania, which was awesome. In 2016, we opened our Melbourne store,” she enumerated.

Hannah discussed a few points that helped her achieve successes, big or small, in her business journey. “Now that we are successful in some people's eyes, I get a lot of people asking me how they can start a business. They think that they're going to make heaps of money as soon as they start a business. I have three things that people need to be able to run a successful business. My number one is passion. My philosophy is never to do something unless you love it and would do it for free because most of the time, it’s hard. You're just going to give up unless you're passionate about it. My second one is perseverance. You have to want to work hard and not have any reward back until you push through. The other one is the conviction to do it because that's another thing that I struggled when I had to choose between the law job and the business. If I didn't believe in my work, there's no way that other people would. If you have the conviction to do what you love to do, that's going to resonate through the whole company,” the young jeweller-entrepreneur stated.

Most of all, Hannah has the conviction to put purpose in her venture. For many years, her company, Francesca Collections, has been helping various charities. Their company tagline speaks volumes of what is in Hannah’s heart. “Our tagline ‘Success means nothing unless you're giving back’ can mean anything. It can mean empowering our staff, creating social change, or generating a lot of awareness or funds for charities. I think that a lot of people are so focused on success, and they think they're going to feel good when they get there. But it means nothing to have just nice things and not feel like you've made an impact on the world. My biggest legacy would be to show you that you can have a sustainable and profitable business as well as give back to the community.”

Her passion for her business and her causes makes Hannah look forward to the future full of excitement and positivity. She aims to expand the business in a slow, steady and sustainable growth, where she can maximise time and profit and enable her staff to have some flexibility at work. Apart from that, she has a long-term goal to have a better work-life balance and work outside of the business. Right now, she and her husband have another venture, called Apostl, which sells luxury leather goods.

For Hannah, business is not just about earning a profit. Her venture, Francesca, is not only about making and selling jewellery. There’s a lot more to it than just the goods. Her pieces represent the love she has for what she is doing and their emotional significance to the customers. “You only get one chance to do what you love. Make sure that you're living the life that you love. You shouldn't just go to work because you have to. You should go to work because you love everything that you do. I think success is when your actions are in line with your values. For me, I value giving back and making a difference,” Hannah remarked.

Know more of Hannah Vasicek through her LinkedIn profile. Read about Francesca Collections at https://www.francesca.com.au/.