|
Presidents Viewpoint May 2009 |
My first remark in this viewpoint is to congratulate the Wanganui Chronicle for the positive business friendly initiatives they are supporting. These initiatives have largely resulted from the Job Summit and it’s great to see one company being proactive Wanganui. One initiative is providing profile to people genuinely looking for work, circumstances may prohibit people from using the media to promote their employment skills and this will be a huge help to many job seekers and employers looking for keen people to join their team. Another other project is supporting a Business Mentor scheme. There are examples of business that would seriously benefit from having a mentor. Sometimes, simply having a person to sound ideas off, talk in confidence to or seek sound advice from, can be the difference between despair or survival. Even successful businesses value the support a Business Mentor can provide in viewing the business from an external aspect and benefit from the strategic advice offered. Business2Business is a new publication being launched on a quarterly basis. It will feature local, national and internal business articles; it will be informative and relevant but more importantly it will be purely for business.
When asking how can we sustain our local economy, the most important thing we can a do is buy local whenever and wherever possible. A rule of thumb is that every dollar spent goes around the local economy four times. Buying local has other benefits too; one is after sales service and support, try getting that from a no-name business from out of town who doesn’t know you. Sell and walk away! If a nationwide franchise or out of town business quotes a product or service, at least allow a local business the same opportunity. Every aspect of business is about relationships, in our business I am always conscious of buying from people who buy from us. From vehicles, to stationery, to a latte, they are our customers and I ferociously support their businesses.
Wanganui has some amazing businesses, big and small who achieve without recognition. The Wanganui Business Awards is open to all business regardless of size. This year we are delighted to have Massey University as principal sponsor for the awards, the opportunity to have your business appraised by such high calibre judges is an investment. Chamber of Commerce and Massey University have just finished writing the entry forms for 2009. These will be available at the launch, on our website and from the Chamber office from May 27th. The competition is designed to identify and celebrate the success, innovation, excellence and achievement of local businesses and to recognise your contribution to creating wealth and prosperity to the Wanganui economy. There is no cost to enter. What the judges look for is an overview of your business and what makes its performance special. You are not expected to write long answers and we have suggested word limits for some of the questions. In 2005 I entered our business, that year we were lucky enough to win two awards. The awards were nothing compared to the valuable insight gained from the entry process and as a result of that has changed the way I structure and forward plan, putting processes in place that ensures the business keeps moving in the right direction. Will your business gain from entering? Yes it absolutely will. Will it have what it takes to be a winner? Enter and find out.
I am delighted to announce the Chamber of Commerce has appointed Ian Ross as the Wanganui Trade Facilitator. Ian’s role will be liaising between students, secondary school career advisors, ITO’s and trades, plus promoting of a trades career through expos. This will provide a vital one point of call for the facilitation of all trades in Wanganui. Ian comes well qualified for the position, having a good understanding of Chamber of Commerce, Business Management and Trades.
“Take the attitude of a student, never be too big to ask questions, never know too much to learn something new” Og Mandino
Have a great month!
Bronwyn Paul
|
