we asked a bunch of successful small business owners
for their tips on running the show like a boss.
STRATEGY
It’s common for creatives and small business operators
to underestimate the varied tasks they need to tick off
in order to flourish. You often need to do it all yourself,
including branding, creative vision, product innovation,
marketing, sales, finance and admin. Putting in place
super-simple measures that address all these aspects,
then making improvements as you grow and learn
has worked for me. Becoming process-driven and
implementing programs to help me manage the tasks
I don’t like has allowed me space to be more creative.
Nurturing what you do well is generally a great strategy.
- Nerida Hansen, Nerida Hansen Print & Textiles
ADMIN
Running a small business involving making, selling and marketing means I need administrative tasks to be easy and enjoyable
(in other words, quick!). To keep my invoicing and cash flow in check, I use Xero. I create invoices and receipts using the app
on my phone. Once a month, I sit down at the computer and reconcile all transactions – this takes about an hour. I categorise
online sales so I can keep track. Payroll is done once a week and I’ve got it down to only a few minutes! From time to time,
I compare profit and loss to see where I’m positioned.
- Bridget Bodenham, Bridget Bodenham Ceramics
COLLABORATION
We love working alongside brands, designers and artists
we admire, so it makes sense that collaborations are
a key part of our business ethos. Partnering with local
and international creatives gives us the opportunity to
extend what we offer by showcasing their designs on our
products. It also means we can build brand awareness
with new audiences. For us, a collaboration should feel
good! We’ve found open and honest communication is
super-important from the get-go. It means objectives
are clear for both brands straight up, and eliminates
any stress or complications along the way.- Hayley Barrett, Kollab