For small business owners the sea of changes to our labour laws expected this year will have all sorts of ripples. In an effort to help you keep pace with these modifications – and plan for them – in our latest issue we unpacks what’s on the cards this year. And as the 2012 progresses, we’ll look more closely at the measures you will need to put in place to meet government’s requirements.
These changes will be made all the more easy to implement if you have an existing HR plan in place – one that covers all possible angles when it comes to hiring and firing. If this is the year in which you plan to hire for growth, this plan is even more important. Also included in this issue is advice on where to start and what to include. No HR plan is complete without an outline of how to evaluate employee performance.
Your growth plans no doubt include a plan to drive sales, and in this issue we look at some tips for those all-important negotiations and how to handle your sales calls. And if your plans to gear up include new office or retail space, we give you advice on your search for the right location. We highlight some key trends – the use of virtual office space, co-working and the emergence of incubators – that may help make your decision easier. You could also stand the chance of winning one year’s worth of premium virtual office services on offer from Flexible Workspace.
Also up for grabs this issue Ubuntu Connect License worth R67 750!
Inspiring start-up stories weave their way throughout our Start-Up Guide – Cheryl Nesbitt tells us how she founded the award-winning Capsicum Culinary Studio and franchisors Belinda and Chris Dunn recounts their experience of setting up a successful network. Beyond the inspiring, we also look at the nitty-gritty of what it takes to get started; how to assess your suitability for business ownership, getting started with your research and analysing your financial position. All aimed at helping to navigate you through unchartered seas.
For all this and more, get your copy of our latest issue at a leading retailer near you from 13 February until 10 April.
Your Business Magazine – Essential Reading for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners.
ON THE COVER
Start building passive income today with Ubuntu Connect
Build a business that’ll secure your future…
Boost your X-FACTOR
Tips for conquering the sales negotiation process.
How much should you charge?
Raise your prices and get more clients.
YOUR 2012 START UP GUIDE:
Do your homework
If you fail to plan, plan to fail.
Here’s how I did it: Started up in direct selling
We talk to Patty Brisben, founder of direct selling company Pure Romance.
Find your niche
Will your business be sustainable?
Here’s how I did it: Launched my start up
After extensive market research, Cheryl Nesbitt found her niche.
Financing your business
It all comes down to planning and control…
Expert Opinion
Loan or equity partner?
Identify yourself
Design your own business identity.
Here’s how I did it: Launched a franchise network
3@1 founders Belinda and Chris Dunn share some of their secrets to success.
HOW TO
Enjoy a fuss-free financial year end
Twelve days a year can make this happen.
Find office space that is right for your business…
Virtual, traditional, home office or incubator?
Build a website that converts visitors to sales…
Use this checklist to see if your website converts visitors to sales…
Write great website content
Grab their attention and keep them reading…
FEATURES
Entrepreneurial spirit thrives in business competition
Entrepreneurs are going head-to-head for great prizes.
Plan for staff
Here’s how to design a human resources system…
It’s going to be a year of change on the employment front
Prepare yourself…
Employee performance:
You can’t manage what you can’t measure.
Ten tips for recruitment
Find the right fit for your company.
FRANCHISE AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY FOCUS
Tips for telesales success
Extend the conversation and make the sale…
Biz Opp Finder
With over 200 opportunities to choose from, find the perfect one here.
Start-up in the kiddie business
We give you tips for this industry, and look at some of the vibrant opportunities on offer in this market.
