Coffee Time Minutes 11 November 2010
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Tony Bourke, Toni Oliver, Dean Brown
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $563.2 for the year so far. November: $29
Networking:
• Coffee Times: 8TH & 22ND December 2010
. CCWN - luncheon - Mingara 12pm till 2pm. $55
• CCWN – Networking on the Green at Wamberal Breakers –24th November – if you would like to come along, please see Tarnia.
Advertising with Buy Local
• B2B – online buy local $20 per month – see B2b
Education:
BEC courses evening course last one for 2010
17th & 24th November 6-9 pm $55 p/p:
Modern Selling Techniques Part A & B
For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day. If you want to come along please organise and pay Tarnia within the month of November as our cut-off date is 30th of November.
Wins:
0 Central Coast Express Awards – Winners from Coffee Time
o Wiggle & Giggle– Community & Other Education
o Meat at Georges – Luke (Apprentice of the year) & Food Trade
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Rob Buckworth
Interactive Telecoms
rob@interactivetelecoms.com
Shane Irwin
PC Fix
www.pcfix.com.au
Dujon Zivic
Encore Messaging
www.encoremessaging.com
April Izzard
Unique Security Group
www.uniquesecurity.com.au
Shaun Nicolson & Selma Sancar
Voice Concepts
www.voiceconcepts.com.au
Michelle
Central Coast Photo Balls
www.ccphotoballs.com.au
Rae Phillips
Inspire Success
www.inspire-success.com
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
info@financialfreeway.com.au
Toni Fountain
Insight Health
toni_fountain@rslcom.net.au
Nicolette Gregory
Photographer & Independent Associate – Usana Health Sciences
onefitone@bigpond.com
Jenny Abourizk
Job Centre Australia
jennya@jobcentreaustralia.com.au
Kellie Targett
Insurance Advisernet
ktargett@iaa.net.au
Elissa Scott
Elissa Scott Recruitment Pty Ltd
esrecruitment@bigpond.com
Presentation
Rae Phillips – Inspire Success - Small Business Staffing – New Media
Be positive and embrace new ideas.
How you can use new media (social media, smart phones and other online tools) to attract, recruit, manage and retain your human resources – whether employees, contractors, freelancers.
Linked in
Twitter
Facebook
Website
Blog
Internet
Attraction / Marketing
- Set up your profiles!
- Reputation of the business – Linked in & Facebook Business Page
- Testimonials – employees, clients, suppliers
- Scope of work – Website, Blog
- Starting groups - Linked in & Facebook
- Build credibility with links (Logos to associations)
Recruitment
- Twitter messages – direct message back
- Depending on the role – Linked in & Facebook Business Page
- Preemployment screening
- Qualifications / Reference Checks
- Dropbox.com –starter packs for review and forward
Project Work
- Freelancers – www.freelancer.com.au ; www.simplyhired.com.au
- Virtual Admin -
- Sharing information – www.dropbox.com
Retention
- Online training programs – software, leadership & communication skills – www.studynow.com.au
- Dropbox.com – performance reviews, checklists for customers
- Links to prepaid vouchers – phones, stores
Accounting Onlilne
- Many available but check the usability within your business.
NEXT MEETING: 24th November 2010 at 10:30am
2011: We are bringing the 2011 calendar to the next 2 meetings if you want to book a time for yourself to present please see Tarnia or Nicole
PRESENTING: Ted O'Shannessy on appreciative marketing
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Coffee Time Minutes - 27th October
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
James Merrilees, Toni Oliver, Toni Fountain, Dean Brown, Natalie Pye
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $563.2 for the year so far. October $77.20
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need. We raised nearly $20,000 for the family. Thanks to everyone who donated and supported the night. Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
Networking:
• Coffee Time: 10th & 27th November 2010
• CCWN – Luncheon and Christmas get together is November the 18th
• CCWN – Networking on the Green at Wamberal Breakers –and 24th November – if you would like to come along, please see Tarnia.
Business Awards
• Coffee Time has received a nomination and become a finalist in the Central Coast Business Achiever Awards. The awards are on the 8th November, tickets are $95, and if you’re interested in coming along, you can book online. It starts at 6.30 and goes till about 11.30 at Ettalong Memorial Club. If you would like to come and are booking, make sure to say your wish to sit with Tarnia & Michael Gurney on the Coffee Time table.
Advertising with Buy Local
• B2B – online buy local $20 per month – see B2b
Expo - Dates 29th & 30th April – Central Coast Basketball Stadium (Bridgecoast Stadium)
lyn@b2bwithatwist.com.au
sue@b2bwithatwist.com.au
Kids Day out – Sponsers always welcome from $200 to $2000 see Christine from Wiggle & Giggle for more details
Trivia Nights coming up
Sea FM - supporting the RSPCA 5th November at Mingara
Education:
BEC courses evening course last ones for 2010 -17th & 24th November 6-9 pm $55 p/p:Modern Selling Techniques Part A & B
Also - Building your facebook page – see BEC for costs and time/date
For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day. If you want to come along please organise and pay Tarnia within the month of November as our cut-off date is 30th of November.
Wins:
• Wyong Chamber awards held 15th October
The winners who are coffee time members are:
Unique Security Group – Mark & April Izzard and team
Inspire Success – Rae Phillips
LBH Promotions – Lyn Thomson & Suzy Allport and team
• Tony brought Shane from PC Fix along to introduce and be there for when any of us have computer issues.
• Voice Concepts won a Hunter Valley Nursing Home Contract and are now in business with AVRA
• Sarley Group - assisting new businesses getting started.
• Soaring Free – 3 days a week permanent work facilitating people getting back to work.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney: Gurney Financial Services
www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U
www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss: Herbalist
moirabayliss@gmail.com
Nicole Lothian: SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Tony Bourke: AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Scott Lyons: Sarley Group
www.sarley.com.au
Rob Buckworth : Interactive Telecoms
rob@interactivetelecoms.com
Shane Irwin: PC Fix
www.pcfix.com.au
Dujon Zivic: Encore Messaging
www.encoremessaging.com
Mark Izzard: Unique Security Group
www.uniquesecurity.com.au
Chris Mills: Soaring Free
www.soaringfree.com.au
Martin Odell : FutureWorks
martinodell@aapt.net.au
Kathy Bree: Coffee News
kathy.bree@coffeenews.com.au
Selma Sancar: Voice Concepts
www.voiceconcepts.com.au
Michelle: Central Coast Photo Balls
www.ccballs.com.au
Presentation
Chris Mills – Soaring Free - Personal Development
GETTING FOCUSED
BEING POWERFUL
BEING FULLFILLED
Create 2 circles one inside the other. The outer is called Circle of Concern the inner Circle of Influence.
Your circle of concern is where it is affecting you but not necessarily being able to change the outcome. Is this too large with too much in it can you disengage yourself from some of these so things don’t get to you.
From our group the circle of concern suggestions:
Health
Wealth
Business
Family
Security
Goals
Home
Higher Profits
From the list about they have all come into our circle of influence. There are many other things that could be of concern to other people . If we manage our circle of influence better it helps time management and also helps sort out problems when they arise. Eg, Business going through bad times.
We all want to increase the profit margin within our business. But instead of looking at the end product look at how to get there.
Therefore look at your circle of concern and influence and see what you can do to this.
Tony Melvin Model below
Profit
Sales Margin
#Sales Average Sale
Prospects Conversion Rate
If we look at what we can do to assist Profit it can be seen that if you convert more prospects it will increase the sales, average sale, the margin and therefore the profit. So the work has to start with your prospects as without them you will not grow.
If business is getting on top of your or your home is try to create these circles and see what you can eliminate from your concern to try to get everything back on track. Talk to a friend to help you if you need to or a business associate. Who knows they may need a hand one day too.
Thanks Chris – very informative. If anyone would like to see Chris to discuss further please contact him.
Important Reminder
I created Coffee Time for home and small business owners to build relationships and friendships. Times can be hard, so please don’t forget Coffee Time and the people within are here to help each other if you have a problem if don’t know where to go. Come talk to someone in the group. Remember we are all in this group to help one another. Please don’t go down the path of no return.
NEXT MEETING: 11th November 2010 at 10:30am - 2 yr birthday for CT
PRESENTING: Rae Phillips on HR for your business.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Coffee Time Minutes 13.10.10
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Kathy Bree, Dean Brown
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $524.20 for the year so far. October $38.20 today.
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
- Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
- 23/10/10 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
If you wish to attend please contact Tarnia Gurney 02 4393 5979
Networking:
BNI – Seminar 14th October Thursday at Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club – 7am Breakfast $20.
· CCWN – Luncheon for October is 21st. 12pm at Mingara
· Coffee Times: 27th October & 10th November 2010
· B2B Networking end of year event
o (Camp Breakaway – San Remo)– 29th October
o Book in asap
o You can also stay the night and have breakfast the next day with everyone $80 for a cabin that sleeps 3 and ensuite or a hut sleeps 6 $60 with a communal bathroom
· CCWN – Luncheon and Christmas get together is November the 18th
· CCWN – Networking on the Green at Wamberal Breakers – 27th October and 24th November – if you would like to come along, please see Tarnia. Tickets will be on Sale soon
Business Awards
· Coffee Time has received a nomination and become a finalist in the Central Coast Business Achiever Awards. The awards are on the 8th November, tickets are $95, and if you’re interested in coming along, you can book online. It starts at 6.30 and goes till about 11.30 at Ettalong Memorial Club. If you would like to come and are booking, make sure to say your wish to sit with Tarnia & Michael Gurney on the Coffee Time table.
Advertising with Buy Local
· B2B – online buy local $20 per month – see Blair
Kids Day out – Sponsers always welcome from $200 to $2000 see Christina from Wiggle & Giggle for more details
Trivia Nights coming up
· Sea FM - supporting the RSPCA 5th November at Mingara
Education:
19 October - Collections & Bad Debt Recovery: Discover the secrets to getting paid27 October - Business Planning: Planning for your future (Part A)3 November - Business Planning: Eliminating common mistakes (Part B)
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of monthChrss. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Gurney Financial Services (Tarnia)- finalist in the Wyong Chamber Commerce Awards for micro business and community.
Buy Local (Blair) – Mobiqpons – free download on your Iphone or Android phone
AIIA Insurance (Tony) – Undertook 1st presentation to AIM 95% said excellent and 5% good and played 1st game of soccer in 10 years.
Wiggle & Giggle (Christine) – Finalist in Business awards for Community and education, Darren is now a permanent employee of the ASPECT school (Autisic) and Wyong Shire Council trialled the Kindy hire which they are now showing the rest of their directors with view to utilise fully.
Kids day out- Christine has managed to secure Sue Dengate to do a presentation on the day.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
moirabayliss@gmail.com
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Tony Bourke
AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Natalie Pye
C&N Freight
www.cnfreightsolutions.com.au
Blair Speerin
Buy Local online/ LBH Promotions/ B2B
www.b2b.com.au
Simon Calder
Celtic Management Solutions
www.celticmanagement.net.au
Christine
Wiggle & Giggle
John Ruane
Business Expertise
bus_exp@bigpond.net.au
James Merrilees
Bfit Studio
www.bfitstudio.com.au
Hugh Bowman
Hugh Bowman Bookkeeping
hugh.bowman@iinet.net.au
Chris
Soaring Free
Michelle
Central Coast Photoballs
www.ccphotoballs.com.au
Presentation
Nicole Lothian – File & Data Management
Your computer has
· Died
· Been stolen
· Dropped in water.
Always ensure a backup of your computer is done periodically. They are talking a lot about cloud technology (Internet based) but if you don’t feel safe with it don’t do it. There are disadvantages and advantages always check it out yourself. Ask which way the backups are being undertaken. Is it mirroring a computer or having it as a recovery
A few reminders for the safety of keeping your business going – the back end of your business
· There is nothing wrong with Spring Cleaning your files.
· Back up data each day
· Keep a backup offsite from your main business location for safety
· Your hard copy files always remember to spring clean as well and archive no longer used files.
For those who have a serious amount of emails that are still kept on your outlook there are a few programs to help get them off your outlook and into a file.
This would be good for previous years correspondence and or archived files. A couple of these are.
· Adobe Acrobat Email archiver (NOT READER)
· Mapilabs utilties
· Sperrysoft utilities
There are times when you are not sure if you have updated multiple files in a location. (Backup drive for eg) Vice Versa is an example of software you can use to ensure the most current ones (and hopefully correct ones) are all there and correct.
If for some reason you don’t have a piece of software there is quite often a free version similar on the net, google and yahoo can help you search
Viruses :
Antivirus protection – Always ensure you have the most up to date virus protection on your computer. Don’t forget! don’t open it if you are not sure it may be a virus.
Assistance:
If you have questions and don’t want to look like a fool or you are just not sure.
Whirlpool forums are a good place to search for an answer or pose a question. The answer may be there.
A easy to read and understand magazine for computers is PC User magazine (Suggested by a Network Administrator & trainer). This is easy to read and understand for us normal people. Surveys, comparisons, assistance
NEXT MEETING: 27th October 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Personal Development
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Kathy Bree, Dean Brown
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $524.20 for the year so far. October $38.20 today.
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
- Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
- 23/10/10 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
If you wish to attend please contact Tarnia Gurney 02 4393 5979
Networking:
BNI – Seminar 14th October Thursday at Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club – 7am Breakfast $20.
· CCWN – Luncheon for October is 21st. 12pm at Mingara
· Coffee Times: 27th October & 10th November 2010
· B2B Networking end of year event
o (Camp Breakaway – San Remo)– 29th October
o Book in asap
o You can also stay the night and have breakfast the next day with everyone $80 for a cabin that sleeps 3 and ensuite or a hut sleeps 6 $60 with a communal bathroom
· CCWN – Luncheon and Christmas get together is November the 18th
· CCWN – Networking on the Green at Wamberal Breakers – 27th October and 24th November – if you would like to come along, please see Tarnia. Tickets will be on Sale soon
Business Awards
· Coffee Time has received a nomination and become a finalist in the Central Coast Business Achiever Awards. The awards are on the 8th November, tickets are $95, and if you’re interested in coming along, you can book online. It starts at 6.30 and goes till about 11.30 at Ettalong Memorial Club. If you would like to come and are booking, make sure to say your wish to sit with Tarnia & Michael Gurney on the Coffee Time table.
Advertising with Buy Local
· B2B – online buy local $20 per month – see Blair
Kids Day out – Sponsers always welcome from $200 to $2000 see Christina from Wiggle & Giggle for more details
Trivia Nights coming up
· Sea FM - supporting the RSPCA 5th November at Mingara
Education:
19 October - Collections & Bad Debt Recovery: Discover the secrets to getting paid27 October - Business Planning: Planning for your future (Part A)3 November - Business Planning: Eliminating common mistakes (Part B)
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of monthChrss. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Gurney Financial Services (Tarnia)- finalist in the Wyong Chamber Commerce Awards for micro business and community.
Buy Local (Blair) – Mobiqpons – free download on your Iphone or Android phone
AIIA Insurance (Tony) – Undertook 1st presentation to AIM 95% said excellent and 5% good and played 1st game of soccer in 10 years.
Wiggle & Giggle (Christine) – Finalist in Business awards for Community and education, Darren is now a permanent employee of the ASPECT school (Autisic) and Wyong Shire Council trialled the Kindy hire which they are now showing the rest of their directors with view to utilise fully.
Kids day out- Christine has managed to secure Sue Dengate to do a presentation on the day.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
moirabayliss@gmail.com
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Tony Bourke
AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Natalie Pye
C&N Freight
www.cnfreightsolutions.com.au
Blair Speerin
Buy Local online/ LBH Promotions/ B2B
www.b2b.com.au
Simon Calder
Celtic Management Solutions
www.celticmanagement.net.au
Christine
Wiggle & Giggle
John Ruane
Business Expertise
bus_exp@bigpond.net.au
James Merrilees
Bfit Studio
www.bfitstudio.com.au
Hugh Bowman
Hugh Bowman Bookkeeping
hugh.bowman@iinet.net.au
Chris
Soaring Free
Michelle
Central Coast Photoballs
www.ccphotoballs.com.au
Presentation
Nicole Lothian – File & Data Management
Your computer has
· Died
· Been stolen
· Dropped in water.
Always ensure a backup of your computer is done periodically. They are talking a lot about cloud technology (Internet based) but if you don’t feel safe with it don’t do it. There are disadvantages and advantages always check it out yourself. Ask which way the backups are being undertaken. Is it mirroring a computer or having it as a recovery
A few reminders for the safety of keeping your business going – the back end of your business
· There is nothing wrong with Spring Cleaning your files.
· Back up data each day
· Keep a backup offsite from your main business location for safety
· Your hard copy files always remember to spring clean as well and archive no longer used files.
For those who have a serious amount of emails that are still kept on your outlook there are a few programs to help get them off your outlook and into a file.
This would be good for previous years correspondence and or archived files. A couple of these are.
· Adobe Acrobat Email archiver (NOT READER)
· Mapilabs utilties
· Sperrysoft utilities
There are times when you are not sure if you have updated multiple files in a location. (Backup drive for eg) Vice Versa is an example of software you can use to ensure the most current ones (and hopefully correct ones) are all there and correct.
If for some reason you don’t have a piece of software there is quite often a free version similar on the net, google and yahoo can help you search
Viruses :
Antivirus protection – Always ensure you have the most up to date virus protection on your computer. Don’t forget! don’t open it if you are not sure it may be a virus.
Assistance:
If you have questions and don’t want to look like a fool or you are just not sure.
Whirlpool forums are a good place to search for an answer or pose a question. The answer may be there.
A easy to read and understand magazine for computers is PC User magazine (Suggested by a Network Administrator & trainer). This is easy to read and understand for us normal people. Surveys, comparisons, assistance
NEXT MEETING: 27th October 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Personal Development
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Coffee Time Minutes 22th September 10
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Selma Sancar
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $486 for the year so far. September $76
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
- Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
- 23/10/10 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
If you wish to attend please contact Tarnia Gurney 02 4393 5979
Networking:
· Tony is presenting at the BNI – 29th September – if you would like to come along, please see Tony today. Topic is Small Business Insurance at the Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club – 7am Breakfast $20.
· Coffee Times: 13th & 27th October 2010
· B2B Networking end of year event
o (Camp Breakaway – San Remo)– 29th October
o Book in asap
o You can also stay the night and have breakfast the next day with everyone.
· CCWN – Luncheon for October is 21st. 12pm at Mingara
· CCWN – Luncheon and Christmas get together is November the 18th
· CCWN – Networking on the Green at Wamberal Breakers – 27th October and 24th November – if you would like to come along, please see Tarnia. Tickets will be on Sale soon
Business Awards
· Coffee Time has received a nomination and become a finalist in the Central Coast Business Achiever Awards. The awards are on the 8th November, tickets are $95, and if you’re interested in coming along, you can book online. It starts at 6.30 and goes till about 11.30 at Ettalong Memorial Club. If you would like to come and are booking, make sure to say your wish to sit with Tarnia & Michael Gurney on the Coffee Time table.
Coffee Time
· Feedback – I want to personally thank those who took the time to complete my questionnaire the other day for Coffee Time. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.
· Feedback I got was for more presentations on
§ Time management
§ Business planning
§ Marketing and advertising
§ Business development
§ Personal development
§ Gov’t grants
§ Gov’t departments
§ Work cover
§ More presentations from others in the group
· If you missed one this year that you really wanted to attend please let us know so we can reorganise for you.
Advertising with Buy Local
· B2B – online buy local $20 per month – see Blair
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in October
13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Natalie Pye – Son got into CC Sports Academy
- 2 trucks are now operating
LBH Promotions - Contract for RTA won
Tony Bourke – Booked to talk at Australian Institute of Management (NSW)
Ted O’Shannessy - New leads looking good with Synergy
Rob Buckworth – Younger brother – Andy (Salt Lake City) went well with finals for extreme sports
Challenges
Internet/Bank Fraud: Melissa has discovered after having fraud committed against her business, there is no insurance to cover this and she is liable. Even after telling the bank this had occurred. During the discussion it was suggested to contact ASIC and/or the Trust Defender.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
moira_bayliss@gmail.com
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Tony Bourke
AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Natalie Pye
C&N Freight
www.cnfreightsolutions.com.au
Blair Speerin
Buy Local online/ LBH Promotions/ B2B
www.b2b.com.au
Ian Roberts
The Tag & Test Man
testntag@hotkey.net.au
Julie Roberts
Contours – Lake Haven
lakehaven@contours.net.au
Melissa Cooper
Art of Intimacy
www.melcooper.com.au
Toni Fountain
Insight Health
toni_fountain@rslcom.net.au
Toni Oliver
Toni Oliver Conveyancing
tonioliver@bigpond.com
Dean Brown
Woodville Home Loans & LJ Hooker Financial Lending
www.homeloansandfinance.com.au
Bruce Clarke
Macquarie Wealth
www.macquariewealth.com
Brett O’Malley
Macquarie Wealth
www.macquariewealth.com
Simon Calder
Celtic Management Solutions
www.celticmanagement.net.au
Rob Buckworth
Interactive Telecoms
www.interactivetelecoms.com
Presentation
Brett O’Malley – Macquarie Wealth – Economic Update
What has happened over the past few years has still a way go to. But Australia is currently in a good place in the world economy.
Because of the GFS (Global Financial Crisis) and the debts associated with them, Many large businesses have consolidated debts are paying them off at high rates due the low interest rates.
The countries in the European union (Portugal, Italy, Greece, Spain) that are in major financial problems are affecting London markets and other European countries, not Australia at this time.
If you to want to invest in the stock market the minimum to start at is $500 but better off $5,000 to allow for all fees. A realistic return is between 10-15%. Do your research before going into the market. For a new investor Brett suggests utilising the top 20-50 companies. Always ensure you check with your stockbroker if you are unsure about anything.
The commodities markets in Australia are still going strong and the Australian dollar is currently at record highs. This is keeping Australia a little bit safer with the economy.
A good book to read is by Dale Giliman – How to beat managed funds by 20%.
NEXT MEETING: 22nd September 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Nicole Lothian – File Management & Data Management
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Selma Sancar
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $486 for the year so far. September $76
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
- Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
- 23/10/10 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
If you wish to attend please contact Tarnia Gurney 02 4393 5979
Networking:
· Tony is presenting at the BNI – 29th September – if you would like to come along, please see Tony today. Topic is Small Business Insurance at the Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club – 7am Breakfast $20.
· Coffee Times: 13th & 27th October 2010
· B2B Networking end of year event
o (Camp Breakaway – San Remo)– 29th October
o Book in asap
o You can also stay the night and have breakfast the next day with everyone.
· CCWN – Luncheon for October is 21st. 12pm at Mingara
· CCWN – Luncheon and Christmas get together is November the 18th
· CCWN – Networking on the Green at Wamberal Breakers – 27th October and 24th November – if you would like to come along, please see Tarnia. Tickets will be on Sale soon
Business Awards
· Coffee Time has received a nomination and become a finalist in the Central Coast Business Achiever Awards. The awards are on the 8th November, tickets are $95, and if you’re interested in coming along, you can book online. It starts at 6.30 and goes till about 11.30 at Ettalong Memorial Club. If you would like to come and are booking, make sure to say your wish to sit with Tarnia & Michael Gurney on the Coffee Time table.
Coffee Time
· Feedback – I want to personally thank those who took the time to complete my questionnaire the other day for Coffee Time. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.
· Feedback I got was for more presentations on
§ Time management
§ Business planning
§ Marketing and advertising
§ Business development
§ Personal development
§ Gov’t grants
§ Gov’t departments
§ Work cover
§ More presentations from others in the group
· If you missed one this year that you really wanted to attend please let us know so we can reorganise for you.
Advertising with Buy Local
· B2B – online buy local $20 per month – see Blair
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in October
13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Natalie Pye – Son got into CC Sports Academy
- 2 trucks are now operating
LBH Promotions - Contract for RTA won
Tony Bourke – Booked to talk at Australian Institute of Management (NSW)
Ted O’Shannessy - New leads looking good with Synergy
Rob Buckworth – Younger brother – Andy (Salt Lake City) went well with finals for extreme sports
Challenges
Internet/Bank Fraud: Melissa has discovered after having fraud committed against her business, there is no insurance to cover this and she is liable. Even after telling the bank this had occurred. During the discussion it was suggested to contact ASIC and/or the Trust Defender.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
moira_bayliss@gmail.com
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Tony Bourke
AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Natalie Pye
C&N Freight
www.cnfreightsolutions.com.au
Blair Speerin
Buy Local online/ LBH Promotions/ B2B
www.b2b.com.au
Ian Roberts
The Tag & Test Man
testntag@hotkey.net.au
Julie Roberts
Contours – Lake Haven
lakehaven@contours.net.au
Melissa Cooper
Art of Intimacy
www.melcooper.com.au
Toni Fountain
Insight Health
toni_fountain@rslcom.net.au
Toni Oliver
Toni Oliver Conveyancing
tonioliver@bigpond.com
Dean Brown
Woodville Home Loans & LJ Hooker Financial Lending
www.homeloansandfinance.com.au
Bruce Clarke
Macquarie Wealth
www.macquariewealth.com
Brett O’Malley
Macquarie Wealth
www.macquariewealth.com
Simon Calder
Celtic Management Solutions
www.celticmanagement.net.au
Rob Buckworth
Interactive Telecoms
www.interactivetelecoms.com
Presentation
Brett O’Malley – Macquarie Wealth – Economic Update
What has happened over the past few years has still a way go to. But Australia is currently in a good place in the world economy.
Because of the GFS (Global Financial Crisis) and the debts associated with them, Many large businesses have consolidated debts are paying them off at high rates due the low interest rates.
The countries in the European union (Portugal, Italy, Greece, Spain) that are in major financial problems are affecting London markets and other European countries, not Australia at this time.
If you to want to invest in the stock market the minimum to start at is $500 but better off $5,000 to allow for all fees. A realistic return is between 10-15%. Do your research before going into the market. For a new investor Brett suggests utilising the top 20-50 companies. Always ensure you check with your stockbroker if you are unsure about anything.
The commodities markets in Australia are still going strong and the Australian dollar is currently at record highs. This is keeping Australia a little bit safer with the economy.
A good book to read is by Dale Giliman – How to beat managed funds by 20%.
NEXT MEETING: 22nd September 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Nicole Lothian – File Management & Data Management
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Coffee Time Minutes - 8th September 2010
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Christine Jones, Kathy Bree, Dean Brown, Selma Sancar
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $435 for the year so far.
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
- Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
- 22/9/10 – Movie Night at Greater Union Tuggerah - $20
- 23/10/10 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
If you wish to attend please contact Tarnia Gurney 02 4393 5979
Networking:
B2B Networking night (Floraville)– 9th September
- 6pm for Networking
- If anyone requires car pooling please give us a call, as we have a few interested.
Coffee Time Dates: 22nd September & 13th October 2010
Central Coast Women’s Lunch 16th September at Mingara
Tony is presenting at the BNI – 29th September
Small Business Insurance
Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club – 7am Breakfast $20.
B2B Networking end of year event
(Camp Breakaway – San Remo)– 29th October
B2B – online buy local $20 per month
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in September & October
15th September – Research business opportunities – Getting into business
13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Tony Bourke – elected to Wyong Chamber of Commerce & recieved his first royalties cheque from his book.
Unique Security – Finalist – Northern Lakes Chamber Business Awards 2010 & Central Coast Advocate Business Awards 2010
Tarnia Gurney – Finalist – Central Coast Advocate Business Awards 2010; & In the final 20 for Adviser of the year for AFA Awards
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
Moirabayliss@yahoo.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Brendan McGann
Vital Inspections
vitalinspect@gmail.com
Derek Taylor
Industry & Investment NSW
www.business.nsw.gov.au
Darrell Bolley
Industry & Investment NSW
www.business.nsw.gov.au
Tony Bourke
AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Natalie Pye
C&N Freight
www.cnfreightsolutions.com.au
Mark Izzard
Unique Security
www.uniquesecurity.com.au
Blair Speerin
Buy Local online/ LBH Promotions/ B2B
www.b2b.com.au
Rae Phillips
Inspire Success
www.inspire-success.com.au
Presentation
Derek Taylor – Industry and Investment NSW (previously Department State & Regional Development
If you want to be on the distribution list for information relating to this
please email : dsrd_gosford@business.nsw.gov.au
Or log onto
www.business.nsw.gov.au for more details.
Located at the Ourimbah University Incubator
Assists business grow and develop
- Financial assistance
- Grants to assist business growth
o Eg: medium business 20 employees looking to put on another 10 employees.
§ Offer assistance – financial grants
§ Rebates on Tax
- Programs available
- These have to be for job growth
- Business Growth program
o Receive up to $10,000 per year
o At least 2 years trading
o More than 2 employees
o Under $1 million
o Assistance to identify markets/growth
o Website
o E-commerce
o Assist Marketing requirements
o Corporate brochures & DVD’s
- Non-Financial Assistance
o Diagnostic
o Innovation/Marketing Plan/Business Plan
o BEC
o Other Business
o Industry & Investment Website
o Issues/facilitate relationships
o Networking
- Regional growth of jobs – next 25 years – relocating and assist in facilitation of move and employment
- Regional promotion for move to Central Coast
- Exporting – advise for businesses
- Events
o Tradeshows
o Expo’s
o Networking
o Showcases
o Training
o Assistance
o Seminars
o Newsletters
o Central Coast Manufacturing Connect coming soon
- Infrastructure funding/support – Working with council, government departments to assist in business relocation eg roads/utilities
A good way to increase your advertising is ask to sponsor your kids sporting teams or clubs. Mark Izzard and Unique Security are the major sponsor for Woongarrah Wildcats Football Club, he did it for long term exposure and because his children play for them. Advertising in the local community gets you seen. (Related to last fortnights business development conversation’s)
NEXT MEETING: 22nd September 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Brett O’Malley - Macquarie Private Wealth ‘Economic Update’
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Christine Jones, Kathy Bree, Dean Brown, Selma Sancar
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $435 for the year so far.
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
- Wrist bands always available (All for my Family) $3
- 22/9/10 – Movie Night at Greater Union Tuggerah - $20
- 23/10/10 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
If you wish to attend please contact Tarnia Gurney 02 4393 5979
Networking:
B2B Networking night (Floraville)– 9th September
- 6pm for Networking
- If anyone requires car pooling please give us a call, as we have a few interested.
Coffee Time Dates: 22nd September & 13th October 2010
Central Coast Women’s Lunch 16th September at Mingara
Tony is presenting at the BNI – 29th September
Small Business Insurance
Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club – 7am Breakfast $20.
B2B Networking end of year event
(Camp Breakaway – San Remo)– 29th October
B2B – online buy local $20 per month
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in September & October
15th September – Research business opportunities – Getting into business
13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Tony Bourke – elected to Wyong Chamber of Commerce & recieved his first royalties cheque from his book.
Unique Security – Finalist – Northern Lakes Chamber Business Awards 2010 & Central Coast Advocate Business Awards 2010
Tarnia Gurney – Finalist – Central Coast Advocate Business Awards 2010; & In the final 20 for Adviser of the year for AFA Awards
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
Moirabayliss@yahoo.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Brendan McGann
Vital Inspections
vitalinspect@gmail.com
Derek Taylor
Industry & Investment NSW
www.business.nsw.gov.au
Darrell Bolley
Industry & Investment NSW
www.business.nsw.gov.au
Tony Bourke
AIIB Insurance Brokers
www.aiib.com.au
Natalie Pye
C&N Freight
www.cnfreightsolutions.com.au
Mark Izzard
Unique Security
www.uniquesecurity.com.au
Blair Speerin
Buy Local online/ LBH Promotions/ B2B
www.b2b.com.au
Rae Phillips
Inspire Success
www.inspire-success.com.au
Presentation
Derek Taylor – Industry and Investment NSW (previously Department State & Regional Development
If you want to be on the distribution list for information relating to this
please email : dsrd_gosford@business.nsw.gov.au
Or log onto
www.business.nsw.gov.au for more details.
Located at the Ourimbah University Incubator
Assists business grow and develop
- Financial assistance
- Grants to assist business growth
o Eg: medium business 20 employees looking to put on another 10 employees.
§ Offer assistance – financial grants
§ Rebates on Tax
- Programs available
- These have to be for job growth
- Business Growth program
o Receive up to $10,000 per year
o At least 2 years trading
o More than 2 employees
o Under $1 million
o Assistance to identify markets/growth
o Website
o E-commerce
o Assist Marketing requirements
o Corporate brochures & DVD’s
- Non-Financial Assistance
o Diagnostic
o Innovation/Marketing Plan/Business Plan
o BEC
o Other Business
o Industry & Investment Website
o Issues/facilitate relationships
o Networking
- Regional growth of jobs – next 25 years – relocating and assist in facilitation of move and employment
- Regional promotion for move to Central Coast
- Exporting – advise for businesses
- Events
o Tradeshows
o Expo’s
o Networking
o Showcases
o Training
o Assistance
o Seminars
o Newsletters
o Central Coast Manufacturing Connect coming soon
- Infrastructure funding/support – Working with council, government departments to assist in business relocation eg roads/utilities
A good way to increase your advertising is ask to sponsor your kids sporting teams or clubs. Mark Izzard and Unique Security are the major sponsor for Woongarrah Wildcats Football Club, he did it for long term exposure and because his children play for them. Advertising in the local community gets you seen. (Related to last fortnights business development conversation’s)
NEXT MEETING: 22nd September 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Brett O’Malley - Macquarie Private Wealth ‘Economic Update’
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Coffee Time 25 August 2010
Coffee Time Minutes 25th August 10
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Tony Bourke, Mark Izzard, Simon Calder, Natalie Pye, Melissa Cooper, Toni Oliver
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $401 for the year.
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
22/9/10 – Movie Night at Greater Union Tuggerah - $20
23/1010 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
Networking:
Synergy Breakfast – Zenith Building at 7:30 on Friday 3rd September
B2B Networking night (Floraville)– 9th September
6pm for Networking
Coffee Times: 8th & 22nd September & 13th October 2010
Central Coast Women’s Lunch 16th September at Mingara
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in. August, September & October
25th August – Sales and Marketing - an overview
15th September – Research business opportunities – Getting into business
13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Dean Brown – LJ Hooker has been taken on board
Rob Buckworth – His brother has had fantastic success in the Xgames (bikes), Andy placed third. In the New Year he will be travelling around Australia with Nitro Circus.
Karen Teunissen – Client has changed life around, just achieve a new job that is leading to a career, and doing counselling.
Tarnia Gurney – Being nominated for Financial Advisor of the Year Award from AFA a phone interview from the CEO is happening Thursday.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Selma Sancar & Shaun Nicolson
Voice Concepts
www.voiceconcepts.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
Moirabayliss@yahoo.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Rae Phillips
Inspire Success
www.inspiresuccess.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Rob Buckworth:
Interactive Telecoms
rbuckworth@c4telecom.com.au
Dean Brown
Woodview Home Loans & Finance
www.homeloansandfinance.com.au
Brendan McGann
Vital Inspections
vitalinspect@gmail.com
Kathy Bree
Coffee News
www.coffeenewscc.com.au
Lyn Goddard
Market Australia
www.marketaustralia.com.au/vitaminsforu
Presentation
Business Development – General Discussion
Things to look at in business:
Have the right attitude for business
Focus on what you do well
Build relationships by assisting each other but don’t always assume there will be something in return.
Being seen helping in the local community
Know the market you are aiming for, for your business (Target Market)
Review your competitors and find your unique perspective for you business to sell.
Look at your growth in sales
Develop systems, sales and procedures in the office
Marketing/Advertising - Facebook, twitter, Linked In, Myspace – pages and adds can be created on these sites also knowing your keywords to assist in your marketing material especially online
More leads, convert them to more sales
If need help you can seek out a mentor with other business people
Networking with different groups of people
Networking can give you support, answer questions and seek advice, make contacts from, even work with them
Document everything
Build relationships between staff & management which in turn to help grow your business
Ensure staff have a variety of work and allow them to expand (training)
Technology – Ensure your computer systems are right, Backups, Procedures, Systems
NEXT MEETING: 8th August 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Peter Brown - NSW Department of State and Regional Development
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
Tony Bourke, Mark Izzard, Simon Calder, Natalie Pye, Melissa Cooper, Toni Oliver
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $401 for the year.
Charity Assistance
All for my family assistance for a local family in need.
22/9/10 – Movie Night at Greater Union Tuggerah - $20
23/1010 – Wyong Races for a night of fun (more details to follow)
Networking:
Synergy Breakfast – Zenith Building at 7:30 on Friday 3rd September
B2B Networking night (Floraville)– 9th September
6pm for Networking
Coffee Times: 8th & 22nd September & 13th October 2010
Central Coast Women’s Lunch 16th September at Mingara
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in. August, September & October
25th August – Sales and Marketing - an overview
15th September – Research business opportunities – Getting into business
13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Dean Brown – LJ Hooker has been taken on board
Rob Buckworth – His brother has had fantastic success in the Xgames (bikes), Andy placed third. In the New Year he will be travelling around Australia with Nitro Circus.
Karen Teunissen – Client has changed life around, just achieve a new job that is leading to a career, and doing counselling.
Tarnia Gurney – Being nominated for Financial Advisor of the Year Award from AFA a phone interview from the CEO is happening Thursday.
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Selma Sancar & Shaun Nicolson
Voice Concepts
www.voiceconcepts.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
Moirabayliss@yahoo.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Rae Phillips
Inspire Success
www.inspiresuccess.com.au
Karen Teunissen
CRS Australia
www.crsaustralia.gov.au
Ted O’Shannessy:
Send Out Cards
www.sendoutcards.com
Rob Buckworth:
Interactive Telecoms
rbuckworth@c4telecom.com.au
Dean Brown
Woodview Home Loans & Finance
www.homeloansandfinance.com.au
Brendan McGann
Vital Inspections
vitalinspect@gmail.com
Kathy Bree
Coffee News
www.coffeenewscc.com.au
Lyn Goddard
Market Australia
www.marketaustralia.com.au/vitaminsforu
Presentation
Business Development – General Discussion
Things to look at in business:
Have the right attitude for business
Focus on what you do well
Build relationships by assisting each other but don’t always assume there will be something in return.
Being seen helping in the local community
Know the market you are aiming for, for your business (Target Market)
Review your competitors and find your unique perspective for you business to sell.
Look at your growth in sales
Develop systems, sales and procedures in the office
Marketing/Advertising - Facebook, twitter, Linked In, Myspace – pages and adds can be created on these sites also knowing your keywords to assist in your marketing material especially online
More leads, convert them to more sales
If need help you can seek out a mentor with other business people
Networking with different groups of people
Networking can give you support, answer questions and seek advice, make contacts from, even work with them
Document everything
Build relationships between staff & management which in turn to help grow your business
Ensure staff have a variety of work and allow them to expand (training)
Technology – Ensure your computer systems are right, Backups, Procedures, Systems
NEXT MEETING: 8th August 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Peter Brown - NSW Department of State and Regional Development
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Coffee Time Minutes 11th August 10
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
James Merrilees - Bfit Studio
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $380 for the year.
For August so far we have raised $21.00
Networking:
· Central Coast Women’s Lunch 12pm Mingara 19th August 2010
· $44 Non-Members
· $33 for Members
· B2B Networking night (Floraville)– 9th September
· 6pm for Networking
· Coffee Times: 8th & 22nd September
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in. July and August
· 25th August – Sales and Marketing - an overview
· 15th September – Research business opportunities – Getting into business
· 13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Simon Calder
New contract starting in a month.
Scott Lyons
QLD Coal Mine marketing plan accepted
Arctic Stone Ice Cream launching in Cairns
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Selma Sancar
Voice Concepts
www.voiceconcepts.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
Moirabayliss@yahoo.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Simon Calder
Celtic Management Solutions
simon@celticmanagement.net.au
Lyn Thompson
B2B - Marketing in Business Book & Networking
Buy Local – online connect
www.b2b.com.au
Blair-adele Speerin
Buy Local – online connect
www.b2b.com.au
Glen Zocher –Photographer
Industrie Images Commercial Photography
www.industrieimages.com.au
Scott Lyons
Sarley Group
www.sarley.com.au
Presentation
Tarnia Gurney – Gurney Financial Services
Getting your financial affairs in order.
Budgets
· In today's tough economic climate, it is more important than ever to budget and establish a savings plan. This is because budgeting is the best way for you to take control of your finances, save money and plan for the future.
· Some times it was easy to get away with a more casual approach to financial planning: you could be sure of earning enough to pay your bills, even if this meant looking for some extra overtime or taking a second job for a while. But those times are rare and wasted if you do not take advantage of them.
· A sound budget and a savings plan will help you achieve your immediate needs and long-term financial security. Few individuals or families know just how they spend their money.
· They know that at the end of their pay period - weekly, fortnightly or monthly - it is all gone. A budget will change this. It is the direct and sensible approach to personal money management.
· Basically, a budget is a financial plan that itemises an individual's or a family's spending and helps accomplish short-term and long-term goals.
· Its main purpose is not to get you out of trouble - although it will help. Better still, it will keep you out of trouble in the first place.
· In fact, a budget is really an essential part of everyday life. Without a budget it just is not possible to cope with those unexpected bills and to see at a glance, how you can most easily cut back you’re spending.
· The ultimate aim of budgeting is to ensure that you can:
o Adequately meet all your financial commitments and
o Have some money left over to save.
· Set a savings goal that is within your reach and will not put a strain on your budget. Even if you begin by saving only a small amount each pay period, this will add up over a year to a respectable amount.
· Everyone will have his or her own savings target. But, as a general rule, we suggest you aim to save 10 per cent of your gross annual income: five per cent for short-term aims and five per cent for longer-term intensions. While this may not be practicable now, it is worth aiming to reach this goal in the future - and sooner rather than later.
· People with young families should aim to build up an emergency fund equal to three months take-home pay in case of retrenchment or emergencies. Remember:
o Your savings will help you through those difficult times and emergencies;
o Savings will free you from day-to-day money worries;
o If you have money saved, you can use it in emergencies instead of credit cards (with their high interest charges);
o By saving, you will establish a financial track record, which will be important when you apply for a loan for a major purpose (house, land or car);
o Your longer-term savings will help you build up income-producing investments for a better, more secure lifestyle;
o By saving and investing responsibly, you will contribute towards Australia's future by helping to create a national savings pool to fund our development and reduce our dependence on foreign capital;
o A dollar saved is a dollar earned
· Deciding to budget does not mean that you have to cut out spending on discretionary items that are important to your lifestyle.
· But you should be realistic about them and become a disciplined shopper (as well as a disciplined budgeter). This will help make your money work better for you. Here are just a few ideas on this important topic:
o Consider buying lower priced "generics" or items of a similar nature to your regular purchases;
o Switch to less expensive versions of goods or services.
o Shop harder for the best possible deals on items you must have;
o Avoid buying items that are of limited value to you or your family;
o Become a comparison shopper: watch the advertisements and be aware that prices vary from day to day on a whole range of goods from furniture to food;
o Watch for genuine sales and specials;
o Deal with shops, which offer good service and will take goods back without argument if they are unsatisfactory.
o Shop for seasonal specials and stock your freezer. But buy in bulk only when you know you can use everything you intend to buy - otherwise you will have to throw a lot of it out. Waste is costly.
o Phase your purchasing of big items like furniture and major electrical goods over three to five years and buy only when you really need and can afford the items;
o Think about buying good second-hand items - check-out auctions and garage sales;
o If you are holding money in a special savings account, you can often use it to pay for an item - and get a discount for cash;
o Buy Australian-made goods in preference to imports - buying Australian helps save jobs and reduces the nation's overseas payments and debt problems.
· But you should be realistic about them and become a disciplined shopper (as well as a disciplined budgeter). This will help make your money work better for you. Here are just a few ideas on this important topic:
o Consider buying lower priced "generics" or items of a similar nature to your regular purchases;
o Switch to less expensive versions of goods or services.
o Shop harder for the best possible deals on items you must have;
o Avoid buying items that are of limited value to you or your family;
o Become a comparison shopper: watch the advertisements and be aware that prices vary
o from day to day on a whole range of goods from furniture to food;
o Watch for genuine sales and specials;
o Deal with shops, which offer good service and will take goods back without argument if they are unsatisfactory.
o Shop for seasonal specials and stock your freezer. But buy in bulk only when you know
· You can use everything you intend to buy - otherwise you will have to throw a lot of it out. Waste is costly.
o Phase your purchasing of big items like furniture and major electrical goods over three to five years and buy only when you really need and can afford the items;
o Think about buying good second-hand items - check-out auctions and garage sales;
o If you are holding money in a special savings account, you can often use it to pay for an item - and get a discount for cash;
o Buy Australian-made goods in preference to imports - buying Australian helps save jobs and reduces the nation's overseas payments and debt problems.
· Try to be as realistic as possible. Do not make the budget so tight and demanding that it will be impossible to achieve your goals. Do not make it too generous - or you will destroy your incentive to budget and save. Be flexible - but disciplined.
· Partners should budget together. But involve everyone in your household - tell them about your budget and savings goals and why it is so important to achieve them.
· Do not be discouraged if you cannot get your budget to work - try again. Once you have set up a workable budget, you will find that budgeting becomes a habit.
· Today is the best day to begin budgeting.
· There are two main items to consider: your INCOME and your EXPENDITURE.
In the section headed INCOME, list all your incoming money (after tax).
· Expenditure:
o When you begin compiling your expenditure, it will be helpful if you have by you all the receipts from last year's bills that you can find.
o If you do not have these, keep a detailed list of your spending over the next few months. If you see some items that you can cut back on, note them for future attention.
o If you look after your possessions, they will last longer. Money spent on maintenance to extend life of a costly item can be money saved.
o Learn to be a good supermarket shopper. Make up a shopping list - and stick to it. Avoid impulse buying. Once in a while it is OK to buy something you do not really need. But if you let impulse shopping get out of hand it will overload your trolley and destroy your budget.
o When you have completed your Budget, add up all your income and expenditure and subtract the expenditure total from the income total. What is left over is your spare money for the year.
o As this is a yearly figure, you will need to divide this by 52 to bring it down to a weekly figure, by 26 to make it fortnightly or by 12 to make it monthly. This money is yours to spend or to save; we suggest you save it each pay period.
· You may find that you have a shortfall - in fact that you are spending more than you earn.
· If this is the case, you will need to go back and reassess your expenditure or, look for ways to increase your income. You may have made a mistake with your calculations. Or you may need to cut down on some area of your spending: entertainment, gifts, clothing, and luxury items.
· It is better for you (or your family) to make these decisions, rather than have them taken out of your hands.
· This will enable you to see at a glance the payouts you will have to make each month to the nearest dollar. This means you can calculate the minimum amount you need to have available to meet your bills.
· Some months you will be more heavily committed to repayments than in other times of the year. Be sure you are adequately covered so you will not be short of money.
Debt Management
To take control of your debt, the first thing you should do is a budget. This will allow you to see exactly how much you are earning and spending. It will also show where you are overspending and possibly where this expenditure can be reduced.
If the burden of debt is starting to take control of you, for some people to consolidate all of these debts into the one loan would be the best solution. Consolidation allows you to lower your overall interest rate and more easily manage your debt.
Loan consolidation will save you interest where your new repayment and loan term are at least equal to your total current loan repayments and loan terms. Otherwise, you could be converting your short-term debts into longer-term debt and be paying more interest in the long run.
One option is to use the equity in your residential premises. If you have owned your home over the last few years, with the fuelling property prices you are likely to have the capital to cover your existing mortgage, as well as other loans and credit cards. You would need to refinance your home loan which usually offers more competitive interest rates than Credit Cards and Personal Loans.
By paying less interest, more of your repayment can be used to reduce the debt. This assumes that you maintain the same overall repayments.
You should ensure that your existing home loan offers the features and flexibility to repay sooner rather than later.
To ensure you take control of your debts:
Review all your debts regularly;
Close credit card and store accounts and have the discipline not to obtain more. Don't buy on credit; you are only using money you don't have.
Credit cards can work well and to your advantage, as long as you use them correctly. Only use the interest free period.
If you find yourself on the credit card round-a-bout, (that is every time you pay some money off you credit card you go out and put more on it), you have to STOP. You are spending more than you're earning.
If you do retain a credit card then ask the institution to reduce the limit to the minimum needed - this should be what you can comfortably repay each month.
Every time your statement arrives pay twice the required amount. Realise that you can do without it. If you don't stop using credit you will ALWAYS be in debt.
Resolve to spend money where it makes sense and cut back where it doesn't, paying particular attention to cash and expenditures. Your cheque book and credit card statements reveal big-ticket items, so that monitoring daily spending for a while may show where your money is slipping away in ways that don't give much satisfaction.
Most importantly a disciplined approach is needed to ensure debts are not increased to fund unnecessary purchases - a good rule of thumb is that your liabilities should not exceed your assets - if they do - it probably means you have borrowed for the wrong reasons.
Remember IT IS NEVER TOO LATE to take back control.
Review your spending patterns and curb these to fit within your budget!
The advice contained herein does not take into account any persons particular objectives, needs or financial situation. Before making a decision regarding the acquisition or disposal of a Financial Product persons should assess whether the advice is appropriate to their objectives, needs or financial situation. Persons may wish to make this assessment themselves or seek the help of an adviser. No responsibility is taken for persons acting on the information provided. Persons doing so, do so at their own risk. Before acquiring a financial product a person should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) relating to that product and consider the contents of the PDS before making a decision about whether to acquire the product.
NEXT MEETING: 25th August 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Business Development
Welcome
Welcome to our new visitors.
Apologises
James Merrilees - Bfit Studio
Who we are?
Small and Home Business owners meeting to build relationships from other SBO’s.
What is CT?
Relatively casual meeting group, where you can network, talk about business ideas and strategies, and learn from one another.
Where?
Tuggerah’s Zenith Centre.
When?
At 10.30 am on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month. Arrival 10.25 am for 10.30 am start. (Runs for about 1 hour)
Update on our Raffle?
The raffle is going around. This will go together with today’s collection to the Iris Foundation. Total $380 for the year.
For August so far we have raised $21.00
Networking:
· Central Coast Women’s Lunch 12pm Mingara 19th August 2010
· $44 Non-Members
· $33 for Members
· B2B Networking night (Floraville)– 9th September
· 6pm for Networking
· Coffee Times: 8th & 22nd September
Education:
BEC courses evening courses - For more info contact the BEC on 4355 4885 or info@ccbec.org.au
Upcoming events in. July and August
· 25th August – Sales and Marketing - an overview
· 15th September – Research business opportunities – Getting into business
· 13th October – Decision for profit making.
Christmas Party:
We will be having our final get together on the 22nd December. We have booked into the Zenith for our Christmas party. Tickets are $39 (plus drinks – pay on the day). Numbers collected over next couple of months. And payment will be collected by 30th of November.
Wins:
Simon Calder
New contract starting in a month.
Scott Lyons
QLD Coal Mine marketing plan accepted
Arctic Stone Ice Cream launching in Cairns
Who are you & what do you do: 30 Sec story about you
Tarnia Gurney:
Gurney Financial Services www.gurneyfinancialservices.com.au
Planningwerx4U www.planningwerx4u.com.au
Selma Sancar
Voice Concepts
www.voiceconcepts.com.au
Moira Bayliss:
Herbalist
Moirabayliss@yahoo.com.au
Nicole Lothian
SOS Onsite Admin
www.sosonsiteadmin.com.au
Simon Calder
Celtic Management Solutions
simon@celticmanagement.net.au
Lyn Thompson
B2B - Marketing in Business Book & Networking
Buy Local – online connect
www.b2b.com.au
Blair-adele Speerin
Buy Local – online connect
www.b2b.com.au
Glen Zocher –Photographer
Industrie Images Commercial Photography
www.industrieimages.com.au
Scott Lyons
Sarley Group
www.sarley.com.au
Presentation
Tarnia Gurney – Gurney Financial Services
Getting your financial affairs in order.
Budgets
· In today's tough economic climate, it is more important than ever to budget and establish a savings plan. This is because budgeting is the best way for you to take control of your finances, save money and plan for the future.
· Some times it was easy to get away with a more casual approach to financial planning: you could be sure of earning enough to pay your bills, even if this meant looking for some extra overtime or taking a second job for a while. But those times are rare and wasted if you do not take advantage of them.
· A sound budget and a savings plan will help you achieve your immediate needs and long-term financial security. Few individuals or families know just how they spend their money.
· They know that at the end of their pay period - weekly, fortnightly or monthly - it is all gone. A budget will change this. It is the direct and sensible approach to personal money management.
· Basically, a budget is a financial plan that itemises an individual's or a family's spending and helps accomplish short-term and long-term goals.
· Its main purpose is not to get you out of trouble - although it will help. Better still, it will keep you out of trouble in the first place.
· In fact, a budget is really an essential part of everyday life. Without a budget it just is not possible to cope with those unexpected bills and to see at a glance, how you can most easily cut back you’re spending.
· The ultimate aim of budgeting is to ensure that you can:
o Adequately meet all your financial commitments and
o Have some money left over to save.
· Set a savings goal that is within your reach and will not put a strain on your budget. Even if you begin by saving only a small amount each pay period, this will add up over a year to a respectable amount.
· Everyone will have his or her own savings target. But, as a general rule, we suggest you aim to save 10 per cent of your gross annual income: five per cent for short-term aims and five per cent for longer-term intensions. While this may not be practicable now, it is worth aiming to reach this goal in the future - and sooner rather than later.
· People with young families should aim to build up an emergency fund equal to three months take-home pay in case of retrenchment or emergencies. Remember:
o Your savings will help you through those difficult times and emergencies;
o Savings will free you from day-to-day money worries;
o If you have money saved, you can use it in emergencies instead of credit cards (with their high interest charges);
o By saving, you will establish a financial track record, which will be important when you apply for a loan for a major purpose (house, land or car);
o Your longer-term savings will help you build up income-producing investments for a better, more secure lifestyle;
o By saving and investing responsibly, you will contribute towards Australia's future by helping to create a national savings pool to fund our development and reduce our dependence on foreign capital;
o A dollar saved is a dollar earned
· Deciding to budget does not mean that you have to cut out spending on discretionary items that are important to your lifestyle.
· But you should be realistic about them and become a disciplined shopper (as well as a disciplined budgeter). This will help make your money work better for you. Here are just a few ideas on this important topic:
o Consider buying lower priced "generics" or items of a similar nature to your regular purchases;
o Switch to less expensive versions of goods or services.
o Shop harder for the best possible deals on items you must have;
o Avoid buying items that are of limited value to you or your family;
o Become a comparison shopper: watch the advertisements and be aware that prices vary from day to day on a whole range of goods from furniture to food;
o Watch for genuine sales and specials;
o Deal with shops, which offer good service and will take goods back without argument if they are unsatisfactory.
o Shop for seasonal specials and stock your freezer. But buy in bulk only when you know you can use everything you intend to buy - otherwise you will have to throw a lot of it out. Waste is costly.
o Phase your purchasing of big items like furniture and major electrical goods over three to five years and buy only when you really need and can afford the items;
o Think about buying good second-hand items - check-out auctions and garage sales;
o If you are holding money in a special savings account, you can often use it to pay for an item - and get a discount for cash;
o Buy Australian-made goods in preference to imports - buying Australian helps save jobs and reduces the nation's overseas payments and debt problems.
· But you should be realistic about them and become a disciplined shopper (as well as a disciplined budgeter). This will help make your money work better for you. Here are just a few ideas on this important topic:
o Consider buying lower priced "generics" or items of a similar nature to your regular purchases;
o Switch to less expensive versions of goods or services.
o Shop harder for the best possible deals on items you must have;
o Avoid buying items that are of limited value to you or your family;
o Become a comparison shopper: watch the advertisements and be aware that prices vary
o from day to day on a whole range of goods from furniture to food;
o Watch for genuine sales and specials;
o Deal with shops, which offer good service and will take goods back without argument if they are unsatisfactory.
o Shop for seasonal specials and stock your freezer. But buy in bulk only when you know
· You can use everything you intend to buy - otherwise you will have to throw a lot of it out. Waste is costly.
o Phase your purchasing of big items like furniture and major electrical goods over three to five years and buy only when you really need and can afford the items;
o Think about buying good second-hand items - check-out auctions and garage sales;
o If you are holding money in a special savings account, you can often use it to pay for an item - and get a discount for cash;
o Buy Australian-made goods in preference to imports - buying Australian helps save jobs and reduces the nation's overseas payments and debt problems.
· Try to be as realistic as possible. Do not make the budget so tight and demanding that it will be impossible to achieve your goals. Do not make it too generous - or you will destroy your incentive to budget and save. Be flexible - but disciplined.
· Partners should budget together. But involve everyone in your household - tell them about your budget and savings goals and why it is so important to achieve them.
· Do not be discouraged if you cannot get your budget to work - try again. Once you have set up a workable budget, you will find that budgeting becomes a habit.
· Today is the best day to begin budgeting.
· There are two main items to consider: your INCOME and your EXPENDITURE.
In the section headed INCOME, list all your incoming money (after tax).
· Expenditure:
o When you begin compiling your expenditure, it will be helpful if you have by you all the receipts from last year's bills that you can find.
o If you do not have these, keep a detailed list of your spending over the next few months. If you see some items that you can cut back on, note them for future attention.
o If you look after your possessions, they will last longer. Money spent on maintenance to extend life of a costly item can be money saved.
o Learn to be a good supermarket shopper. Make up a shopping list - and stick to it. Avoid impulse buying. Once in a while it is OK to buy something you do not really need. But if you let impulse shopping get out of hand it will overload your trolley and destroy your budget.
o When you have completed your Budget, add up all your income and expenditure and subtract the expenditure total from the income total. What is left over is your spare money for the year.
o As this is a yearly figure, you will need to divide this by 52 to bring it down to a weekly figure, by 26 to make it fortnightly or by 12 to make it monthly. This money is yours to spend or to save; we suggest you save it each pay period.
· You may find that you have a shortfall - in fact that you are spending more than you earn.
· If this is the case, you will need to go back and reassess your expenditure or, look for ways to increase your income. You may have made a mistake with your calculations. Or you may need to cut down on some area of your spending: entertainment, gifts, clothing, and luxury items.
· It is better for you (or your family) to make these decisions, rather than have them taken out of your hands.
· This will enable you to see at a glance the payouts you will have to make each month to the nearest dollar. This means you can calculate the minimum amount you need to have available to meet your bills.
· Some months you will be more heavily committed to repayments than in other times of the year. Be sure you are adequately covered so you will not be short of money.
Debt Management
To take control of your debt, the first thing you should do is a budget. This will allow you to see exactly how much you are earning and spending. It will also show where you are overspending and possibly where this expenditure can be reduced.
If the burden of debt is starting to take control of you, for some people to consolidate all of these debts into the one loan would be the best solution. Consolidation allows you to lower your overall interest rate and more easily manage your debt.
Loan consolidation will save you interest where your new repayment and loan term are at least equal to your total current loan repayments and loan terms. Otherwise, you could be converting your short-term debts into longer-term debt and be paying more interest in the long run.
One option is to use the equity in your residential premises. If you have owned your home over the last few years, with the fuelling property prices you are likely to have the capital to cover your existing mortgage, as well as other loans and credit cards. You would need to refinance your home loan which usually offers more competitive interest rates than Credit Cards and Personal Loans.
By paying less interest, more of your repayment can be used to reduce the debt. This assumes that you maintain the same overall repayments.
You should ensure that your existing home loan offers the features and flexibility to repay sooner rather than later.
To ensure you take control of your debts:
Review all your debts regularly;
Close credit card and store accounts and have the discipline not to obtain more. Don't buy on credit; you are only using money you don't have.
Credit cards can work well and to your advantage, as long as you use them correctly. Only use the interest free period.
If you find yourself on the credit card round-a-bout, (that is every time you pay some money off you credit card you go out and put more on it), you have to STOP. You are spending more than you're earning.
If you do retain a credit card then ask the institution to reduce the limit to the minimum needed - this should be what you can comfortably repay each month.
Every time your statement arrives pay twice the required amount. Realise that you can do without it. If you don't stop using credit you will ALWAYS be in debt.
Resolve to spend money where it makes sense and cut back where it doesn't, paying particular attention to cash and expenditures. Your cheque book and credit card statements reveal big-ticket items, so that monitoring daily spending for a while may show where your money is slipping away in ways that don't give much satisfaction.
Most importantly a disciplined approach is needed to ensure debts are not increased to fund unnecessary purchases - a good rule of thumb is that your liabilities should not exceed your assets - if they do - it probably means you have borrowed for the wrong reasons.
Remember IT IS NEVER TOO LATE to take back control.
Review your spending patterns and curb these to fit within your budget!
The advice contained herein does not take into account any persons particular objectives, needs or financial situation. Before making a decision regarding the acquisition or disposal of a Financial Product persons should assess whether the advice is appropriate to their objectives, needs or financial situation. Persons may wish to make this assessment themselves or seek the help of an adviser. No responsibility is taken for persons acting on the information provided. Persons doing so, do so at their own risk. Before acquiring a financial product a person should obtain a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) relating to that product and consider the contents of the PDS before making a decision about whether to acquire the product.
NEXT MEETING: 25th August 2010 at 10:30am
PRESENTING: Business Development
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