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 James O'Reily of Northeast Wealth & Sean Murphy of My Mortgage Freedom.
"Debt is a very welcome friend in business, it has helped an enormous number of my clients achieve things they could never have dreamed of without debt. But with anything it is an act of balance and patience." - Sean Murphy
What were your favourite pieces?
Filling Your Cup - How and Why. It was a basic yet hard hitting reminder to make sure you put yourself first.
Podcasts?
I find the most powerful podcast The Joe Rogan Experience, the dude is an unbelievable interviewer and meets some amazing, sometimes unknown people where we can relate, reflect and learn from them all. Not related to my industry at all. The ones that are related to my industry make me cringe.
Books?
Rich Dad Poor Dad - this gives a very good perspective on all things business, investing, buying and starting business and gives you a good framework of thinking.
Fav Apps?
CamScanner - so handy as I'm on the road a lot. Also RAIZ, which is a very easy to use entry level stock market investment app. RunTastic PRO - I use this for every run, ride, swim. Helps me compare myself to myself.
Your Top Tip?
Don't read the Newspaper, or watch the news.
Why You Loved The Guide?
It has been awesome to see how much value a small collective can provide an such an enormously wide range of different Start-Up's and SME's.
"All great business have a clear vision for the outcomes they want to achieve. The same is true of personal finances – are you clear on what you’re looking to achieve in the future?" - James O'Reily
What were your favourite pieces?
1) Carly - Armadillo HR: great tips on how to increase staff engagement.
2) Danielle and Brooke - Launch Psychology: Such a great way of showing that mindset and psychology underscore your success in small business.
Podcasts?
I'm really struggling with this, although looking to build one myself pretty soon. Watch this space!
Books?
Our industry related books are pretty awful. Scott Pape's Barefoot Investor, whilst a little contrarian in some of his views, is a great resource for the average punter.
Personally - Start with Why by Simon Sinek, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey, Good to Great - Jim Collins
Fav Apps?
Voxer, Rev, CamScanner
Your Top Tip?
Understand why you're in business and what you stand for. Then build / shape your business to serve the people you want to help most.
Why You Loved The Guide?
Such a great initiative by the Illumin8 crew! Small business can be extremely overwhelming so this is a great resource for so many people.
I believe in small business because of our ability to constantly challenge the status quo and improve consumer experiences. It's the special place where one special idea can impact the lives of millions of people!
Do yourself a favour, check out the resources the guys mentioned. Perhaps even review the guide again, and see what James and Sean had to contribute. And stay tuned for for the few contributor convos over the coming months.
