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Top 5 Tips for a Business Using Periscope @myofficebooks

August 3, 2015 by Amanda Hoffmann Leave a Comment

Periscope

by Amanda Hoffmann  | Featured Contributor

Have you become discovered Periscope yet?

I will warn you in advance that it does become somewhat additive with the realization that an update will only exist for 24 hours. It sucks you in and before you know it an hour has passed by.

Who is using Periscope? Social Media celebrities like Kim Garst, Sue b Zimmerman, Podcast
ers John Le Dumas, Chris Duckerman and Journalists were all early adopters of this new live stream video app. They understand that this was going to be big, sensational for branding and lucrative business opportunities.

If you are wondering how to use Periscope for your business, here are five tips to motivate and inspire you.

1. Be Yourself

Pat Flynn’s keynote at a podcasting seminar was shared by John Le Dumas last night, while he was discussing the challenge of starting a podcast his thoughts still apply here. Just start, do not seek perfection and just be you. You have a unique perspective, experience and mindset that should be shared with the world.

2. Use Notes

Any activity when you first begin is nerve racking. I know that the first time I tried Periscope I felt physically sick. Using notes helped me focus, share valuable content and best of all steady my nerves. Chris Ducker’s suggestion was to prepare these notes as pre-written calls to action, to hold them up to the phone through your Periscope session for visual appeal.

3. Engage with people on / off Periscope

Realistically, unless you already have a large following you are not going to have a lot of people follow you straight away on Periscope. You will still have “some” watch your session. Why not thank them on twitter for listening, ask them what they thought, connect with them on LinkedIn? Not only will this impress them that you took the time to connect “off” Periscope, but you might also gain a valuable new connection.

4. Value, Value, Value

Prepare before you go on Periscope and think about who you want to appeal to? Then focus on a topic that you feel comfortable about discussing. If you are a blogger wanting to gain valuable new readers, then focus on your blogger “niche” to discuss topics that will attract them to you. If you are a service based business, you are going to discuss problems that your ideal clients face and offer tips on solving them for an example. At the end of the day, ensure that you know who your audience is, then discuss topics “they” want to listen to.

5. Be Consistent

I am still working on this point myself at the moment. When striving to be consistent, you want to ensure you are live when your ideal audience are on Periscope. Knowing your audience is critical in helping you find the best time to be online and live. Example : If you are a mummy blogger, dinner time and sleep times are out. You need to experiment a little along with some common sense to find the best time for you and your audience.

If you are procrastinating about trying Periscope out, I hope these practical 5 points will encourage you also to take the leap. You can follow me on Periscope @blogsupport4all

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Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specializing in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Founder of a Blogging Mastermind Group called Blogger Support 4 All, where bloggers can find a supportive and friendly community to share their problems, journeys and ideas.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Branding, Guest Post, Sales & Marketing, She Owns It, Social Media Tagged With: Amanda_Hoffmann, blogging, business, marketing, my_office_books, Periscope, social_media

LinkedIn Secrets to Get More Leads by @MyOfficeBooks

April 3, 2015 by Amanda Hoffmann Leave a Comment

LinkedIn secrets to get more leads for small business

 by Amanda Hoffmann | Featured Contributor

LinkedIn is one of THE MOST powerful social media sites that a SME can use.

If as a small business owner you do not use another social media platform, Linkedin should be the one that you make the time and money to learn.

Need more evidence?

347 Million Users
40% of users check LinkedIn daily
41% of LinkedIn Users are Millionaires
Average user time spent on LinkedIn is 17 minutes
48% use LinkedIn 2 hours or more a week
18% use LinkedIn 7 hours or more a week
What do these statistics tell us?

LinkedIn will help you find professional partnerships, clients and is an excellent networking platform.

The Statistics tell us why LinkedIn is the best for Small Business Owners

 

Real life example

Angela Reedman-Polinski – Australian Freelance journalist and Technical Author

After attending one of my workshops, these are the steps Angela took:

No.1 Angela updated her profile picture to be more professional
No. 2 As discussed in my workshop she updated her title to have a clear and active voice about what she exactly does rather than just a job title.

No. 3 Deleted unrelated work experience and work skills that were not in line with what she wanted to do.

I hadn’t thought of this before and your workshop highlighted to me how important a step this was and forced me to look at my own goals for both myself and my business

No. 4 I began listing my work examples in multiple media formats including video, web links and images. This was a fun step and enabled me to build up a portfolio which I have since been able to showcase to prospective clients.

No. 5 I then linked my LinkedIn link in to my signature block so it reached any correspondents I deal with regularly.

Finally I went through my client list and looked at who I might want a reference from and asked them for a recommendation. Once received, these were proudly displayed on my profile.

Regular upkeep that Angela finds quite easy to maintain:

  • Each time my work is published I link it to my profile
  • Each time I meet a new colleague that I wish to work with now or later, I add them on LinkedIn.
  • When I take on a new client, I review their profile and check their skills , recommendations and length of time in business.

These simple steps have enabled me to build a significantly useful network on my LinkedIn profile and strengthened my work connections.

I also secured an ongoing contract through meeting a colleague in a publishing industry group two weeks after updating my profile.

Amanda’s workshop was a great introduction for me to LinkedIn and highly recommended.

Want to know how to update your profile on LinkedIn? Click here 

In Conclusion

LinkedIn is a must for all small businesses on a global scale is an important investment in time and financially.

If you would like to know how you can improve your profile, click through to my free ebook on slideshare

Resources

By the numbers: 120+ Amazing LinkedIn Statistics

104 Fastinating Social Media and Marketing Statistics for 2014/2015 

New Research: 2014 LinkedIn User Trends 

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Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Entrepreneurship & Business, She Owns It, Social Media Tagged With: B2B Social Media, help for small businesses, how to use social media, LinkedIn, small business, social media for beginners, social media for business

6 Tax Mistakes to Avoid! @MyOfficeBooks

March 29, 2015 by Amanda Hoffmann Leave a Comment

Six Tax Mistakes to Avoid

by Amanda Hoffmann | Featured Contributor

There are six common tax mistakes I see as a bookkeeper on a regular basis.

They are easy to implement and will have your finances in top shape for tax time!

1. Poor Record Keeping Practices

  • Ensure you have a clearly labelled filing system
  • Do not mix your personal expenses with your business
  • Save all of your receipts and invoices
  • Use online tools like Dropbox, Receipt-Bank or evernote to scan and save all your documents.

2. Pay for an Accountant you do not need

  • Can the tax help center in your country assist you for FREE?
  • Pick up the phone and call around for a quote
  • Ask a bookkeeper who  they use

3. Fail to use Cloud Accounting

  • Ditch the clunky desktop software that requires manual data entry
  • Use online software program options like Quickbooks, Xero or Freshbooks
  • Authorise your bank feeds to save data entry
  • Pay a qualified and registered bookkeepre to set it up for you
  • Pay for training so that you can do your own bookkeeping

4. Claim tax on all expenses

  • Depending on your country, these rules will be different so check their webpage for details
  • Be aware that foreign companies may not pay tax (Google & facebook advertising)
  • Car registration, utilities and other expenses may vary in tax amounts

5. Fail to claim ALL business expenses

  • Keep a diary of all business events / meetings
  • Photograph fuel, parking and other loose receipts
  • Ensure you file all business receipts in one spot
  • Use your phone and apps to save expenses

6. Forget to pay on time

  • Forward date your online payments
  • Keep a electronic or paper diary
  • Create a reminder on your phone when bills are due
  • Organize a filing system that you refer to at the start of each day
  • Find what works for you and do it every time!

There is no fixed rule on keeping your business records on hand and available.

However, the six points listed above will certainly put you on the right track and save you an incredible amount of stress, should you get a tax audit.

Six Tax Mistakes to Avoid
————————————————————-

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Accounting, Entrepreneurship & Business, She Owns It, Startup & Grow Tagged With: accounting, bookkeeping, business, business hacks, eliminate cost in small business, Entrepreneurship & Business, My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, small business

Plan for your Business Success in 2015 by @MyOfficeBooks

December 20, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann 4 Comments

Plan your business success for 2015

Plan your business success for 2015

by Amanda Hoffmann | Featured Contributor 

As we near the end of 2014, what are your priorities? Have you given any thought about the next year ahead? Are you reflective about this year, now it’s almost over?

These questions will require some time and thought.

Think  in the line of a series of points that can help you plan for a successful business year in 2015.

Yes, you do need to make the time to sit, reflect and plan.

It’s what every successful business woman and entrepreneur does.

Productivity is never an accident.

Productivity is never an accident.

 Reflect on the year past

  • Ask yourself, what did I do well?
  • Where did I fail?
  • Am I happy with my business’s performance?
  • How can I improve next year?

Take time to sit, ponder, and write all this down on a piece of paper. Learn from this year’s mistakes and plan to ensure you do not repeat them next year.

What do you need?

  • What are the core needs that you have with your business?
  • Do you love your customers, product or service?
  • Are you turning over a profit, or did you make a loss?
  • Are your financials all up to date on a regular basis?

The answers to the above questions are indeed important. Each one is a small, but important brick that builds a successful future. A future of your own design and making. What you believe, you can succeed in accomplishing. The foundation of any strong building needs to be solid, your passion, joy and inspiration is your strength. Are you strong? Or are you weak?

What brings you joy in your business?

What brings you joy in your business?

What Do you love? What brings  you joy?

Gone are the days where you work 9-5 just to make a living. We have the power, opportunity and resources to make our dreams a reality. If you do not love what you do? Why are you doing the same thing?

Life is to short, and your work takes up too much of your time, for you not to love doing it!

What is your passion, you know….what gets you out of bed in the morning? Work out how you can incorporate that drive in your every day business life. This is where you need to be really honest with yourself.

Plan your Strategy

We have spoken about the bricks of success, now it’s time to lay the foundation too ensure strength and sustainability.

Start with your end in mind

Start with your end in mind

You need to be specific

  • What work will be your focus?
  • What will be your income?
  • How will you build the business?
  • How will you market the business?
  • Write it all down in detail.
  • Then plan out your entire next year, set goals, be specific.
  • Will you need support or professional help?

Plan that process out in small steps. Remember, you will need to be flexible, but work out all out brick by brick.

Print it out in a form you will pay attention to, as a calender, to do list to tick off, as visuals. Make multiple copies laminate them and post a copy on your bathroom mirror, fridge and at your desk. Share the list with a respected mentor or friend. Make yourself accountable.

Create your dream year, make 2015 YOUR year to shine!

———————————————————————————-

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Entrepreneurship & Business, infographic, Mindset, Money & Finances, She Owns It Tagged With: business, business planning, strategy, women and work

How do you get more Social Media followers? by @MyOfficeBooks

December 10, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann 1 Comment

How do you get more social media followers?

How do you get more social media followers?

by Amanda Hoffmann  | Featured Contributor

When I present a workshop in front of small business owners about social media, the same question is asked.

How many followers do I need to have?

My answer in return has often been;

How long is a piece of string?

In my opinion, the number of followers you have is not what’s important. Your focus should be on your client’s needs and finding solutions for them. By doing so you can develop a social media strategy that will work.

Question 1

Who is my ideal avatar or client?  

Have you taken the time to have a coffee with your clients and get to know them?

  • Do you know what keeps them up at night?
  • Are they married with a family or are they single?
  • What do they like to do when they relax or go on holiday?

Without asking yourself these questions, how are you going to post social media updates that they are interested in, or write a blog they want to read?

Question 2

What is your specialty or “niche”?

In my early years of business as a mobile bookkeeper, I was trying to be all things to all people. I was working long hours, travelling all over the state, working on slow outdated computers and at times in extremely dirty conditions. My customers expected me to be clairvoyant, a magician and work for nothing. Put simply, I hated my work!

As the years passed I found that I loved the simplicity and time effectiveness of cloud accounting. This is where I began to find my “niche”. It also allowed me to focus on what I was good at. This is where you need to analyse your business and see where your expertise is.

Ask yourself

  • What aspect of your business do you love doing?
  • What pays the most and is highly valued by your clients?
  • What service or product do you get the most compliments from?

Now that you know your who your customer is and what your good at? What is the next question to consider?

Question 3

What do your clients want to know, read or be educated about?

What is a really bad day?

What does a really bad day look like for your client?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My friend Alison Vidotto once told me : What does a really bad day for your customer look like?

Take some time to think about this one, by doing so you will be able to create a long list of sensational topics that your customers will love to read and share.

Question 4

What social media platforms are being used by your clients?

This is a very important question to ask yourself that leads onto even more questions.

  • Are they using apps on their smart phones?
  • Do they like to sit in their office and use a desktop?
  • Are they young, mature or elderly?
  • Would they be on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or LinkedIn?

As a child I recall that my father loved to fish, but he wasn’t very good at it. He failed to do any research about what fish were biting, the right type of hook to use and where they would most likely be found lurking / feeding. My husband on the other hand is an excellent fisherman. He likes to ask the locals about the right type of hook, bait to use and even where their favorite fishing spots are. The same can apply to social media use.

Have you asked the right questions to catch your fish?

Have you asked the right questions to catch your fish?

I tried social media and it didn’t work!

Social media is a tool like any other in your business. Successful social media requires planning, thought, strategy and commitment over a medium duration of time. In fact, I would say it can take up to 3 months of consistent effort to gain one new customer. It will not work overnight and anyone who tells it does is wanting to sell you something.

While this might not be what you want to hear, there are no fast tracks. If you are not prepared to do it yourself right, be prepared to spend a lot of money to employ the services of a company who can.

Too expensive did I hear you say? If that is the case you are going to need patience, be prepared to spend time to be educated and be willing to learn from experience.

The benefits of getting your social media strategy right, are multiple. Not only will you gain new customers, but your warmth and genuine interest will also delight your existing ones.

——————————————————————————–

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Business Relationships, Content, She Owns It, Social Media Tagged With: B2B Social Media, business, finding your niche, guest post, how to find ideal customer, marketing, She Owns It, social business, social media, social media strategy

7 Sins of Social Media by @MyOfficeBooks

August 25, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann 8 Comments

by Amanda Hoffmann | Featured Contributor

When it comes to social media, more small business owners are becoming aware of it’s importance. However, many struggle to find their audience or get results.

Let me solve this problem by sharing the 7 sins of social media and what you can do about it.

1. We “Do” Social Media
Totally the wrong approach! Social media is all about engaging your audience. The correct terminology is ” We engage in social media!”

2. No Strategy
Posts just thrown out into the internet.
I liken this process to putting bait on your fishing line and throwing it into your bathtub, expecting to catch a fish. SMBs need to know who their ideal client is, what platform they frequent and when.

3. No community spirit or engagement.
People need to feel they belong. They want to join something that benefits them and know they will be heard.

7 Sins of Social Media Infographic

7 Sins of Social Media Infographic

4. Fail to schedule or plan
Know when your community is active, what problems they need solutions for and provide the answers when it’s convenient for them. Know your audience, know your potential clients.

5. Irrelevant data and information
Learn to use curation to source practical information. Online tools such as scoop.it, flipboard, twitter search and others will help you find interesting articles, quotes and images to share.

6. Me, Me, Me.
To engage, attract and successfully connect with your ideal customer, it has to be all about them. What problems they experience and how you can ‘help”. If you do not know what these are, learn social listening to find out. [see Manon Leroux’s article https://sheownsit.com/demystifying-who-why-of-social-listening-by-sociallysavvyu/]
It is essential to provide helpful information that will delight your potential customers.

7. Copy everyone else
To stand out and be noticed a small business needs to focus on what makes them unique. You need to find your voice, share something about your company that stands out from all the competition. This will also attract the right clients to you.

Now that you know what the 7 sins of social media are, it is time to rethink, relearn and connect.

By doing so, you will love this free tool to source and find new and delightful customers.

if you think you know of any other mistakes, please share them below so that I can write another article to be of service to you!

——————————————————————————–

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Sales & Marketing, She Owns It Tagged With: content marketing, engage, engagement, small business, social media, social media strategy

Are you an Ignorant Small Business Owner by @MyOfficeBooks

July 25, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann Leave a Comment

by Amanda Hoffmann  | Featured Contributor

Small business ownerComplete this little quiz –

  • Do you keep your personal and business spending completely separate
  • Do you use online accounting for real time data & invoicing
  • Do you have a budget and follow it
  • Do you have financial goals and check your progress through the year
  • Do you have a website & social media strategy?

“If you answered “NO” to any of the above, you are in denial and fooling yourself.”

You can ensure your business can be successful,by examining the following four points:

1. Admit that you have a problem

2. Get professional help

3. Embrace change

4. Implement and be consistent

You blame the economy, customers, government policy and lack of time?

In the end, your business success or failure is the result of only one person….yourself!

  • Take time out of your business to analyse where your weaknesses are.
  • Write your findings down, there is power in putting them to paper
  • List each area and commit to fixing these issues with a dated deadline

Get a professional help to meet your deadlines

  • Your accountant is a rich source that is often under utilized
  • Research online about your weaknesses
  • Ask yourself : Do I need a business coach, bookkeeper or virtual assistant?
  • Once decided, set goals, time limits and implement with discipline

Learn to embrace change!

Let me ask you a question….when you need a mechanic, hair dresser or some other service do you google it?

Social media and online resources are here to stay. It is time to educate yourself about them and implement their strategies into your business. Social media will save you money in advertising; increase your profitability, and provide new opportunities. It is not as expensive as you think, much of what you need to learn, is found FREE on the internet.

Two of my favorite FREE online resources are:

www.jeffbullas.com  (A fantastic Aussie Entrepreneur)

www.socialmediaexaminer.com (Everything you need to know about social media and MORE!)

Implement the advice and be consistent.

Realize the change will not occur overnight.

Over time you are going to notice that you are gaining more clients, increasing your cash flow and understanding what works in your business and what does not.

Other free resources can be found here:

CONTENT CREATION  

Karen Gunton from Build a Little Biz  http://buildalittlebiz.com/resource-centre/

Positively Peggy  http://pegfitzpatrick.com/

 

——————————————————————————-

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Featured Contributor, She Owns It Tagged With: Amanda Hoffmann, Kidd House Accommodation, My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping

Be Kind to Yourself by @MyOfficeBooks

June 16, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann Leave a Comment

 

Be Kind to yourself

by Amanda Hoffmann  | Featured Contributor

Speaking from the mindset of an entrepreneur, I have a habit of taking on more and more responsibilities and juggling multiple balls at once. I am unwilling to delegate, after all no one else can do what I do.

While I believe that positive affirmations, goal setting and achieving milestones is important, they can be destructive. Your secular work be it for an employer or self employed should never take you away from the unconditional love of your family and a select circle of gorgeous friends.

Just as a dear close friend sat me down out of love and concern. I would like you to sit down and read this article.

Be Kind to Yourself

Reflect on your life as it is now and ask:

“Am I being kind to myself?”

Set aside time for you

How often do you set some time aside just for you?
It could be slipping on the running shoes and going for an early morning walk.
Getting up early to read a book
Booking in time to see a movie or see a play/concert.

It doesn’t matter “what” the activity is, for your own well being set aside time EVERY day for YOU.

Spend time with your family

It’s easy to get into the rut of work, work and more work!
As a mother of four school aged children, can I remind you, that they are not going to stop growing because you are busy.

Signs that you are too busy:
* No idea if homework is done or not
* Haven’t spoken to a teacher
* Who are your kid’s friends?
* Not read a school newsletter in a month

If you are at a loss how to connect with your children, Michael Stelzner’s website My Kid’s Adventures was designed exclusively for this purpose.

If you are not a mother, when was the last time you and your significant “other” went out for a picnic, dinner, movie or some other activity?

When was the last time you visited family interstate or drove to see them on the weekend.

Do you call your mum & dad as an adult every week or at least each month?

Failing to do any of the above are “red flags” to say, you are too busy.

Keep in touch with your friends

As an entrepreneur we are so goal orientated that taking time out for a coffee or have lunch with a friend can be forgotten.

To be productive, write great blog posts and continue with motivation we need to STOP!

I wrote an article on LinkedIn about “Be Kind” the top 5 regrets expressed by people about to die.

I have learnt that work, goals and achievements will always be there for you to return another day.

Our family and friends due to many human factors, may not be.

Cherish them, find the time to spend quality time with them and avoid the bitterness of regret.

Bottom line, “Be kind to yourself”

——————————————————————————-

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Featured Contributor, She Owns It

10 Tips To Improve Your Cashflow For Your Business by @MyOfficeBooks

May 2, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann 2 Comments

by Amanda Hoffmann | Featured Contributor

You have heard the term that “Cash is King” and it is especially so in business.

The best approach to cash flow is to implement “systems” that work.

I am going to share with you ten ways that have worked for myself and those of my clients to keep the cash flowing into your business account!

1. Invoice quickly

As soon as you complete your work, invoice the client immediately.

2. Make paying easy

Ensure that your invoice has your payment details printed clearly. You might include your bank account details on the bottom corner to make it easy for the customer to pay via their online banking. Or you may include an online link to a payment portal that accepts credit cards.

3. Use technology

Online accounting programmes are available all over the world. Use the technology so that you can easily invoice on your smartphone.

Link payment portals into your emailed invoices so that the customer can pay at the click of a button.

4. Perform a credit check

When you take down all the details about a new client, perform a credit check. This will at least give you a “heads up” on their credit history.

5. Clear trading terms

Ensure that if you want to be paid upon completion of your work this is stated clearly and in writing. Clearly highlight your trading terms on your invoices.

6. Implement good systems

Have a set system in place should your invoice not be paid on time.
Example
Email your invoice
If trading terms are 7 days, send a statement via email on day 6.
If unpaid day 7 email a reminder
If still unpaid by day 10 send a final notice

I have found some customers need to be contacted three times before they pay. Be diligent when it comes to following up on all late payers.

7. Be polite and friendly

When chasing late payments, always be friendly and polite. You can be firm about trading terms, and diligent about following up. Both will be all forgotten by your customers,

rudeness or aggression will not be forgotten. Worse still, the client will complain about it to others.

8. Be consistent

What ever your approach is when it comes to ensuring customers pay, be consistent.
If you have a statement, reminder and then a phone call as your debt recovery process. then ensure you implement it.

9. Offer discounts for early payment

Offer a small discount to pay invoices on time.

10. Say thank you

Show your customers that they are valued by thanking them for entrusting their work with you. Send a thank you or christmas card in the post.

Little acts of gratitude can often mean that they will pay your bills before someone else.

—————————————————————————————–

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Entrepreneurship & Business, Featured Contributor, She Owns It, Startup & Grow Tagged With: Amanda Hoffman, Amanda Hoffmann

Business Filing – Become Organised! by @MyOfficeBooks

April 23, 2014 by Amanda Hoffmann Leave a Comment

by Amanda Hoffmann | Featured Contributor

When you own and work in a business, you often find yourself so absorbed with working “in” your business that you forget to work “on” it.

The one area I continually see business owners getting behind with, is their bookkeeping.

Small business and tax

I am going to introduce to you a simple way to do both your record keeping and bookkeeping by making a PACT to begin immediately:

P – Plan

A – Act

C – Commit

T – Turnkey ( ready to use solution time and again every financial year)

Let’s start with P for Plan.

Plan to set aside some time each and every day, starting with organising the contents of your draw or box.

FILING : Purchase the following

  • One easy file and store container OR a filing cabinet
  • Box of suspension files (Pack of 50)
  • Box of manila folders (Box of 100)
  • Nikko pen.

Label the suspension files with the heading of your

  • Bank statements / Credit Cards / Paypal
  • Vehicle costs
  • Stationary/printing / postage
  • Utilities / Rent
  • Customer names
  • Bills to be paid

ACT

Set aside 15 – 30 minutes every day and pop all your paperwork and receipts  into the suspension folder where they belong.

Keep a folder in the car, ensure that when ever you purchase an item the receipt is placed into it.

Develop the habit upon returning home that you file those receipts.

You will be surprised how simple and easy it is to become more organised and develop this good habit.

No more last minute stress at tax time!

COMMIT

Open a separate bank account and/or credit account to operate your business from.

Keep all your business transactions within these accounts and transfer a lump sum amount to your personal account for you private expenses.

Mixing both your personal and business transactions will :

  • Increase your accountancy bill
  • Cause you to miss out on legitimate business deductions
  • Gives the appearance of a hobby, not a serious business commitment

Once you have filed all your receipts and gotten into the habit of doing so, it’s time to commit to an online option for your accounting.

There are many affordable options on hand, some even have an “app” for your phone that will allow you to login and photograph your receipts.

Xero is available in the United States and in Australia, it is an excellent online accountancy programme with many features.

TURNKEY

Repeat the process for the new financial year.

Not only will be ensure that you are claiming each and every expense, you will find yourself empowered by knowing where all your paperwork is.

——————————————————————————

Amanda Hoffmann – Sensational Entrepreneur, Bookkeeper Extraordinaire and loves Social Media

Amanda HoffmannHi, I’m Amanda Hoffmann and live in Brisbane, Australia. I am passionate about business and social media. I currently juggle being a mother of four school-aged children and run three businesses in completely different fields. While challenging, I believe they keep me thinking outside of the box. I have always loved being busy and I believe it is a mixture of my “can do” attitude and loving life that allows me to accomplish so much. Oh, not liking to sleep much certainly does help!

I started managing my first business over 18 years ago but sold it when I decided to start a family. I was unable to envision at the time how I could run a business and still be a dedicated mother. Since I now run three businesses and have a large family, I have found being organised and prioritising is the secret to success.

What are my businesses you might ask? My Office Books Virtual Bookkeeping, Kidd House Accommodation specialising in fully furnished accommodation for both students and professionals and Co-Founder of a new Social Media start-up called The Likeability Company helping SME’s get the most out of using social media and building communities.

I would like to share my experience in small business and answer any questions you might have regarding office organisation, cloud technology and share my experience in property investment.

I personally am fascinated by social media, particularly the fast pace of twitter and exploring the world of blogging. I invite you share my journey and get to know each other.

Twitter – Blog – Pinterest – Facebook – Google+

 

Amanda Hoffmann
http://www.myofficebooks.com/

Filed Under: Accounting, Entrepreneurship & Business, Featured Contributor Tagged With: Amanda Hoffmann, bookkeeping, business, filing, My Office Books

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