Earlier this year, we released our guide to better business. The guide was created with a number of fantastic contributions from leading experts from around Australia. We realise the guide is jam packed full of information, and is a lot to consume in one sitting. And to some of you, the topics covered might be completely new, leading to a bit of confusion. As part of helping businesses make 2019 the best year yet, we're chatting directly with our contributors on places that would great to start. In a brief conversations, you'll see where they go to learn new things, and what is influencing their thinking.
This week we're chatting with Illumin8's Andrew Van De Beek & Carly Amado of Armadillo HR.
"A handful of years ago, if you asked me what does “good culture†looked like I would have said, a place where you smash beers not faces. Boy did I have it wrong." - Andrew Van De Beek
What were your favourite pieces?
Carly Armado - High Performing Team. How do you know? Something I see so much in business is an underutilisation of people.
Podcasts?
Seth Godins Start up School- a live recording of a workshop he did with a handful of start ups - really fascinating.
The Liturgists- A spiritual podcast that will open your mind, and mess you up at the same time.
Books?
Oh gosh - I'm not a huge reader ... however one I constantly go to when I'm in the mood is The Pumpkin Plan by Mike Michalowicz - love the way he communicates (and the audio book is a great listen too).
Fav Apps?
Countdown Timer- I use this to set targets that remind me on my phone how long I have left before I want to achieve them. I'd have to say Xero- it has literally changed my, and many of my clients lives. Rocketbook- google it, its amazing!
Your Top Tip?
You are not defined by what you are going through, but how you go through it. So stick to your guns, act with integrity, and know you are heading to where you need to be.
Why You Loved The Guide?
Bringing together a group of knowledgeable people who work with business to communicate simple solutions to take the next step in business was ace! Small business is the reason we have such strong community & culture in our country, and being able to encourage and help create sustainability for them is amazing!
"Do your staff know how they contribute to the "big picture"? Are they aware of your overall strategy? If not, take them on the journey with you and watch the benefits." - Carly Amado
What were your favourite pieces?
"Change Management" - this is another area I see not enough focus on in SME's, reminder to us all to stop and think as change is all around us! Also loved "Filling your cup" its a great reminder to any small business owner and as one myself, I can personally relate to the lack of balance and focus on personal health.
Podcasts?
Sadly there are not a lot of great Australian HR podcasts :( There is a few good US ones -HR Happy Hour & Nine to Thrive. I also love a good small business story so "startup" is a great listen and Alison Green's "ask a manager".
Books?
HR daily is a good quick update on what's happening in the HR world, a fair bit of free content there. TED talks are always a winner. I have a strong industrial relations background, so I love keeping up to date with my case law. I recommend you subscribe to Mondaq for all the latest updates in your industry.
Fav Apps?
I love Instagram both personally and professionally @armadillo_hr. Xero and Skype keep my business flowing nicely too and are used daily.
Your Top Tip?
As a small business owner, you don't need to be the expert in everything, work to people's strengths!
Why You Loved The Guide?
I've loved collaborating with other professionals who love the SME space and get just as much of a kick out of helping other businesses as I do!
Do yourself a favour, check out the resources the guys mentioned. Perhaps even review the guide again, and see what Andrew and Carly had to contribute. And stay tuned for a few more contributor convos over the coming months.
