venus magazine - issue one
DESCRIPTION
An online magazine and resource for New Zealand women in businessTRANSCRIPT
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1ONEis
FUN
an online magazine for New Zealand women in business
Purpose
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anessa Davey founded Venus in 2008 and has become the respected leader and mentor of a vibrant community of businesswomen
in the years that have followed. With an expansive sense of purpose, and a talent for drawing out the greatness in others, her influence has been both deep and far-reaching. Vanessa has a gift for breathing life and positivity into the women and businesses around her and the growth of the Venus Network is a reflection of this.
Venus member Kathryn Overall interviewed Vanessa for this first issue of Venus Magazine to discover the woman and the purpose behind the Venus Network.
How did the idea for Venus come about? Tell me a bit about your business/work history and life events that led you to creating Venus.I have always known I was born for a purpose greater than myself. I seemed to jump from job to job searching for something that fulfilled me, that I could feel passionate about and where I could use my skills and talents. I travelled overseas a number of times to work at a summer camp in Vermont, New England, because I was so restless in the jobs that I had; administration, reception management, tumbling tots instructor, holiday programme coordinator. Nothing ever felt right. My last trip overseas had me there for 7 years living in Germany, Switzerland, UK and America. I tried my hand at self employment, contracting as a professional organiser the first time in London shortly before returning home. I moved to Tauranga on intuition and landed back into administration. I was so frustrated and very bored. My husband suggested I leave my job and start working as a contractor. I first went into professional organizing but it’s not really a kiwi thing to ask for help to organize your
space and time. So I found myself looking for another business idea in an area that I was enthusiastic about, using my talents of organising and facilitation.
What was the practical problem that needed solving at the time? I really had no idea how to grow my own business. I didn’t know anyone who was in business and my self-confidence was pretty low when it came to networking. The problem was that I felt isolated as a businesswoman; I didn’t know what a marketing budget was let alone know where to spend it if I had it. And I didn’t know what I was meant to be doing to be successful running a home based business.
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In my experience, sometimes our life’s work or sense of purpose springs out of our innate gifts and talents. To what extent would you say this is true for you?100%. I didn’t realize how much I loved facilitation until earlier this year when I attended an amazing weekend course called ‘Essence of Facilitation’ run by Amanda Fleming. Facilitation had always interested me since starting Venus four years ago and I found it fun and very rewarding. However until earlier this year I hadn’t realized that it was one of my top talents. Through Venus I have become aware of what skills and strengths I have and how best to utilize them in the world.
I believe our purpose comes from a combination of our passions and our innate gifts and talents. It’s a combo of those two. My passion for inspiring, supporting and celebrating women in business mixed with my creativity, facilitation and innovation has brought into existence the Venus Network.
I also think that sometimes we create for others what we wish we had for ourselves. To what extent would you say this true for you?This is absolutely true for me and what Venus contributes to the world. I have moved around many
times over the course of both my childhood and my adult life. I never felt like I belonged to a community before. I never felt I was utilizing my gifts. I never felt like I was making a difference. I didn’t know where to turn to for support and guidance. This is what the Venus Network has provided for me and what I know it provides for our members. This is what motivates me to continue fulfilling my vision.
Would you describe yourself as woman with a strong sense of purpose? I have a very strong sense of purpose. It is an inner drive, an inner pull directing me towards this vision that I have in my head - to build New Zealand’s largest, most loved and raved about business network for women. I’m not sure where this vision came from and it wasn’t there when I first started Venus. It is something that has been developing and unfolding over the past 4 years. I love giving myself time and space
to dream big, to imagine anything being possible and to ask myself ‘What would I do if I knew I couldn’t fail’. It is during these times that my purpose has become clearer in my mind.
What does purpose mean to you? Purpose means to live the life I was born to live, to know that when I wake up each day I am making a contribution to my family, friends and community.
Part of what sets Venus apart from other business networks is its sense of ‘sisterhood’, support and community. Have you deliberately cultivated this and if so, why?Yes very much, since its inception. I needed that myself. I was new to Tauranga, new to New Zealand again after spending 7 years overseas. I hadn’t kept in touch with friends from school so I was really starting my life, it felt like, from scratch. One of my sisters lives over in the UK and has done since I was 16. My other sister died three years ago. I missed having sisters and close friends around me to go through life together.
I am aware that you lost your own Mum when you were young, and I wonder how this has shaped what you have created with Venus and influenced the person that you are today?
When I look at the way you interact with the businesswomen in the network, it strikes me that you bring a lot of ‘motherly’ qualities to your relationships. You are very encouraging, mentoring, affirming and supportive, and yet are able to shape, guide and constructively direct. It’s a very powerful combination – and I think one that hugely impacts Venus women. Where does this come from in you?Yes my mum died of cancer two weeks after my 15th birthday. And she was sick for almost two years before that. This one event has made the biggest impact in my life and has dramatically shaped who I have become as a woman. 22 years on and I now see that I have created Venus as the community of support; encouragement and inspiration that I need personally to enjoy a deep sense of fulfillment and joy in my life.
It’s interesting that you see me as those things. I wasn’t aware that that is the role I play within Venus. All those things that you have mentioned are how people who knew my mum would describe her. So I guess I get those qualities from my mum, which makes me very proud to be her daughter.
I am in my element within the Venus Network where I have the privilege of meeting so many inspiring and brave women who have ventured out on their own to grow their own business. I don’t have my own children, although I am a step mum to two awesome teenagers. In some way Venus is my baby.
You also have created a community with a strong sense of identity and belonging. How important are these things to you and what motivates you to create them for other women?I believe we are meant to give what we most want to get in this world. I have always wanted to feel a sense of community and belonging. Without realizing what I had done with Venus I have created that for not only me but hundreds of women around New Zealand. What motivates me? Knowing how special and wonderful
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it feels to belong to something, to be celebrated, to be encouraged and to feel a part of something bigger than you.
What does a great day at the office look like for you? What are your favourite parts of your role?I love facilitating a Venus meeting. It is a skill that has been developed as I have grown the Venus Network. I love using my creativity and innovation to keep the company growing and developing. I really enjoy coaching and mentoring women. I enjoy sharing the lessons that I have learned so far along my 5-year journey in business. What is my favourite day? Not being in the office! I prefer to be out and about training, facilitating, coaching, RAVEing.
If Venus were a magic mirror that could show women who they truly were, what would you want it to reflect back to women? Their brilliance and what they are truly capable of.
What would the world be missing if Venus did not exist?A community for women where it’s not just about business, it’s about supporting, encouraging and celebrating the woman behind the business.
What do you hope women will experience through Venus?Deep connections with other women, fulfillment from seeing their business grow and confidence in their value, talents and creativity. I hope women get affirmation that their feminine qualities are a strength in business.
What new horizons are in store for Venus and for you personally over the coming years?I’m really excited about the coming years for Venus. We now have nine dynamic, regional coordinators around New Zealand who are set to help double the size of the network and grow from 26 Venus Groups to 50 by the end of 2012. I am developing 24 marketing modules into a home study programme. These will be delivered at each of our fortnightly meetings. These resources are designed to help women develop their marketing message and become great marketers in their own business. We have monthly events happening in each region, mostly free for members and it is exciting to be able to offer this additional opportunity for Venus women to connect, share and network. I have a few other exciting developments for Venus but you’ll have to wait until 2012 to see.
Employment Law Services
Managing working relationships553 MAUNGANUI RD | P: 07 574 2360 | www.accordservices.co.nz
We understand your situation!
EMPLOYMENT LAW | HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT | PAYROLL
Whether you are an employer or employee, we have the experience and knowledge to bring accord to your workplace relationship.
CONTACT US TO FIND OUT WHAT WE CAN DO TO HELP...
Wendy Macphail | P: 07 574 2360 | www.accordservices.co.nz
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Managing working relationships553 MAUNGANUI RD | P: 07 574 2360 | www.accordservices.co.nz
We understand your situation!
EMPLOYMENT LAW | HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT | PAYROLL
Whether you are an employer or employee, we have the experience and knowledge to bring accord to your workplace relationship.
CONTACT US TO FIND OUT WHAT WE CAN DO TO HELP...
Peoplewe love
Professional speakers we think are fabulous!
We work with individuals and organisations to enhance your human potential through the delicate work of effective personal development.
Personal development has become a highly relevant professional development issue in today’s workplace. Retention of talented people is a major challenge. Excellent leaders are in hot demand. Emotional Intelligence is sought after everywhere because it makes such a positive difference to working environments.
People need to be able to present ideas, products and services confidently and effectively. We need new ways of meeting existing and emerging challenges just as we need more access to our inherent resilience and potential.
Amanda Fleming designs and presents stimulating and relevant programmes that create lasting results. These programmes will greatly enhance quality of life - every day, and they are great value for your training dollar.
Amanda Flemingwww.amandafleming.co.nz
If you’re looking for a keynote conference speaker with high-value original content, plain common-sense, and an engaging, high-energy, speaking style, look no further.
Whilst every presentation is customised, keynote addresses include:
Reputation RulesHow to compete with ‘E’ase and avoid a wide-range of reputation-damagers online and off.
The Currency of TrustHow to build trust and attract more of the clients, customers and staff you want.
The Integrity FactorThe benefits of demonstrating and maintaining integrity under pressure.
A ‘drill-down’ session or workshop after a keynote address can extra value by giving event attendees an opportunity to hone-in on critical success factors in their business and are typically of 45 to 90 minute duration delivered immediately after a keynote address or held at a later time to fit your programme.
Hannah Samuelwww.hannahsamuel.co.nz
“Hannah is a creative, fun and vibrant speaker for
your next event. She has spoken at two of our Venus
Conferences and I have heard her speak at a recent
not for profit conference. She was born to present
and her knowledge and expertise in reputation
branding makes a highlight for any conference. “
Vanessa Davey,
Managing Director or Venus Network
“Amanda is a truly brilliant presenter. She has in-
spired our members at a past Venus Conference and I
have attended two of her weekend courses. Amanda
was the woman who first encouraged me to start
my dream, to grow a nationwide network of women
who are making a difference in their communities
through business. Thank you Amanda.”
Vanessa Davey,
Managing Director or Venus Network
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Social mediatips
with Caitlin Grace
Caitlin Grace launched her Facebook business page Limitless Living 18 months ago. Over this time she has built a strong following of close to 2000 fans. Having learned valuable lessons along the way we asked her to share her five top tips to growing your fan base with Venus magazine.
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One of my greatest marketing tools is Facebook. Here are five strategies that have helped me build my Facebook fans.
Join other pages as both your personal profile and your business page. Facebook is a social media platform, get involved in conversations on those pages. Leave comments and “like “posts and re-share on your own page.
Get to know those that like you. When someone new joins your page go to their page and see what pages they like and what their interests are. This gives you useful information for content on your page and also shows what other pages you can go and like.
Share personal information on your page; what the weather is like in your part of the world, what you did on the weekend, what meetings you have lined up this week. People want to connect with the person behind the business and feel they have a relationship with you.
Ask people to like a post or leave a comment. This simple step has increased the amount of feedback I have had on my page immensely. Always respond to each comment to keep the “conversation” going.
Shout out to other business pages that you have liked by using the @ symbol and typing in the name of the business. This shows up on their page and allows you to tell your fans what you love about the other business. They may then return the favour and this gives you both a feel good factor and shows your support for other businesses.
Have fun using these strategies. Caitlin
I have been involved in natural therapies my whole life. My mother treated our family homoeopathically and every winter we were given cod liver oil, vitamin c and garlic tablets. As an adult I started delving into holistic therapies and ten years ago learned Journey therapy and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique). I now use a combination of these techniques and tools in my work to help people overcome their fears and self doubt so they can live amazing lives.
Caitlin Grace, EFT CoachLimitless Living www.facebook.com/caitlin.grace4
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Not-for-profitfeature
with Diana Judge
Since its inception 4 years ago Break Free Expeditions has been taking teams of enthusiastic volunteers overseas to help the poor.
Over this time over $210,000 in aid money has been fundraised and donated and over 250 volunteers have helped to build 13 homes and 4 school classrooms for the poor, as well as buying vital supplies for orphanages in 4 different countries.
For people wanting to check off volunteering on their bucket lists, for parents wanting a special trip with their son or daughter before they leave home or for school groups wanting an international service project then a Break Free Expedition to either Mexico, Fiji, Cambodia or Uganda is just the thing. “No building experience is required by our volunteers as local building foreman are hired to supervise and teach teams how to build.
It’s lots of fun and volunteers get to meet new people, experience a new culture and literally have the holiday of a lifetime. Teams stay in secure 3 star hotels, apartments or guesthouses so it’s a comfortable place to return to at the end of the day!” says Diana Judge, Founder and Managing Director.
During September 2012 Break Free Expeditions is launching its first “Girls Big Week Out in Mexico” trip where women of all ages are invited to come to Mexico to build a single mum and her kids a new home. You will also help out in an orphanage, enjoy a spa day and have the chance to do some great shopping in the United States on the way home.
CONNECT WITH BREAKFREE www.facebook.com/breakfreeexpeditions
CONTACT DIANA [email protected] mob 0212 777 019
FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.breakfreeexpeditions.com
Breakfreeexpeditions
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All of us crave freedom. We all want choice. Ultimately freedom is a core ingredient of happiness. Being free to decide what you do each day without having to work to generate
money. To be free to spend your time doing what makes you feel good and what makes the biggest difference to others, this is a dream we would all love to fulfil.
To be financially free you have to have a flow of passive income (money that comes into your bank account without you working for it). For most business owners, our business is our primary wealth creation tool. It’s the thing we invest most of our time and energy in ... so we
need to be clear what we need back from it.
There are only two ways to create wealth and freedom from your business. One is to build it so that it has enough value for
someone to buy it. The other is to set it up to pay you an income even when you spend minimal hours working in it. Both approaches require that you create a business that is not dependent on YOU in order to generate income.
There are three ways to do this:1. Products. Have something to sell other than your time. If your business is really you exchanging your time in exchange for money, it is too dependent on you to have any real worth to anyone else. Creating products is one way to shift the emphasis away from you. Think how you can reduce dependence on you.
2. Team. Whatever it is that you sell (your expertise or talent; goods and services; products; ideas; whatever) you need to train other people to do the work. Start planning your future team now.
3. Systems. Systems will set you free. Systems ensure consistency and efficiency. A business with great systems has great value. Take a good look at your systems. How could you streamline things even more?
No matter what you do or how much your business needs you there working in order to make money... it is possible to build it is so it becomes your ticket to being financially free. You just have to want it and believe you can do it.
To be financially free
you have to have a flow of
passive income...
PurposeFeaturearticle
by Laura Humphreys
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So think about how your business makes a difference. What is your business’s higher purpose? When your business is at its peak of success, who will it make a difference to? Who are the end beneficiaries? Is your business making a difference to the industry you are in? Think about the late Steve Jobs and Apple, a business that continually pushes the boundaries of what is possible. A business that continues to shape the industry it is in, and will do long after its inspirational leader has passed away.
Will your business be changing the shape of your industry forever? Will it be making a difference to the users of your products and services? Will it make a difference to the community you operate in? It doesn’t matter what scale you operate at. You don’t have to change the world with your business. But you do need to change something.Laura Humphreys is successful business woman, business mentor and creator of the Liber8me Online Mentoring Programme, which teaches small business owner operators how to build a business which will make them wealthy. www.liber8me.com
Wouldn’t it be great, given that you spend most of your waking hours in your business, that your business is actually the tool by which you’re able to make a difference to the
world around you?
If you set a goal that’s based around making a difference then your business will be on purpose and is more likely to succeed.
Think for a moment about Bill Gates founder of Microsoft, one of the wealthiest businessmen around. This man has made a phenomenal difference to the world, to the whole of society and how we do business, how we communicate with each other.
Or Anita Roddick, founder of the global Body Shop chain... Anita opened the first Body Shop based on her own frustration with not being able to buy products that were not tested on animals or harmful to the environment. Anita not only became a billionaire, she also made a phenomenal difference to the planet. In her pursuit of the most natural products she met indigenous tribes around the world, some of them on the verge of extinction. Anita helped such tribes create sustainable businesses for themselves by preparing the ingredients for her products out of their natural surroundings. In doing so she changed the beauty industry forever.
As human beings we are actually happier when we’re adding value, when we’re making a difference and giving back. This is part of the human psyche that makes us feel more complete. Studies show that people who are involved in the community, who feel like they are helping other people, actually tend to be happier than those who are really only motivated by themselves and their own immediate family.
The business that makes the most difference to the largest
number of people will ultimately be
the winner at the end of the day.
If you look at your business,
what is the one thing that
you couldn’t do without?
Your expertise, your high-
quality goods and your
dedicated employees can
be amazing assets – but
without having exclusive
rights to your trade mark,
you risk others using the
same or similar trade mark
and benefiting from your
marketing and reputation.
Rachel is a Senior Solicitor at James & Wells Intellectual Property (voted New Zealand’s leading IP firm at the NZ Law Awards for the last three years). Her areas of expertise include protection and enforcement of trade mark rights, copyright and designs. She sits on the Intellectual Property Society of Australia and New Zealand committee, and has spoken at a number of national and international events on the subject of intellectual property. www.ipol.co.nz
Expert BusinessAdvice
by Rachel Dawson
1. Recognise that you may have more than one trade mark – your trade mark will normally be your name but could also be your logo, your slogan or even your advertising jingle or the shape of your goods. A trade mark can be anything that people see or hear that connects them with you.
2. Before you launch a new range of goods or services, choose a distinctive trade mark that will make you stand out from your competitors. Avoid using purely descriptive language as it will be hard for your customers to remember you from others, and will mean you can’t stop your competitors from using similar names. e.g. don’t call yourself “Women’s Networking Group”, call yourself “Venus Network”
3. Before you start marketing your new brand, make sure that no-one else is already using the mark. If your competitors are using the same or similar mark in relation to the same or similar goods this could cause consumer confusion and cost you litigation fees to defend your rights and reputation. 4. Don’t rely on registering your name with the Companies Office for protection of your name. The Registrar of Companies will let different companies have very similar names - the only thing they prevent is more than one company with the identical name. e.g. one company can be called IPOL Ltd and another person could register the company name IPOL Online Ltd.
5. Registering your name as a domain name is a great idea, but doesn’t give you exclusive rights to use the name. The Domain Name Commissioner will let different companies have the same name with different TLDs e.g. one company could register www.venus.co.nz and another person could register www.venus.org.nz.
6. Consider registering your trade mark, at least in New Zealand where it can cost as little as $100. Registration
gives you exclusive rights throughout the country of registration. If you don’t register your mark and want to stop others using a similar mark, you’ll have to prove that people recognise the mark as being associated with your goods or services (which can be difficult, costly, and/or limit you to using the mark in one city). You can use the ® symbol next to a trade mark to show the strength of your protection in the mark.
7. If you don’t have a registered trade mark, you should use the TM symbol next to your trade mark(s). This puts people on notice that you consider this is your trade mark and can make them hesitate before they consider choosing a similar mark.
8. Consider registering your trade mark in all your markets of interest. Most countries provide some protection under fair trading legislation if you can prove you have a reputation in your mark, but registration is the only way of automatically establishing rights throughout a country.
9. Check that your trade mark is registered in relation to all your goods and/or services. If you only register your trade mark in relation to limited goods or services then your competitors may be able to use and/or register the same mark for similar goods. For example, if you just register your trade mark in relation to beauty therapy services then someone else may be able to register the same mark for moisturisers and cosmetics, thereby limiting your ability to expand into this similar market.
10. If you’re allowing others to use your trade mark, make sure you have strong contracts in place showing that they’re using the trade mark subject to your consent and ensuring that they use the mark in a way that clearly shows that their goods / services originate or are endorsed by you. Failure to do so may lead to your trade mark becoming generic and therefore available for anyone to use.
Here are the top ten tips to getting it right:
Healthy food
with Belinda Tuki
Kick start your day with delicious smoothiesWelcome Home
Ingredients:
1 cup Eggcel® or scoop of
protein powder
1⁄2 banana
1 small kiwifruit
1⁄2 cup natural yoghurt
Blend, pour, enjoy
Mango Frappe
Ingredients:
1 cup Eggcel® or scoop of
protein powder
1⁄2 mango
1⁄2 cup club soda
2 tbsp orange juice
2 tbsp lime juice
2-3 ice cubes
Blend, pour, enjoy
Belinda Tuki is the creator of Eggcel www.eggcel.co.nz nature’s ultimate protein. Made in Aotearoa, no additives or preservatives. Pasteurised for safety. 100% Pure Egg Whites. It’s so easy to make protein enriched drinks and meals. Connect with Belinda on facebook
https://www.facebook.com/Eggcel
The Perfect DayGoing to bed with a dreamwaking up with a purpose
Exult is New Zealand’s leading training
provider for the non-profit sector and
focuses on supporting organisations at
the business end of what they do. They
provide quality workshops around the area
of funding, marketing, management and
volunteer issues, and produce a quarterly
magazine especially for the community
sector.
www.exult.co.nz
If you are a small to medium business owner
whose business is still reliant on YOU … you
have come to the right place. Liber8me.com
is the site for small business owner operators
who want to grow their business the RIGHT
way… so that it works without YOU being
there! Here you’ll find all the resources
you need to build a valuable business you
can either sell or generate passive income
from. There are free resources to explore
and download, and for those who want
to plan their exit strategy sooner rather
than later, there’s the Liber8me Online
Business Mentoring Programme… check
out the preview before you join… The key
to FREEDOM from business is education.
Liber8me is here to help.
www.liber8me.com
Websiteswe love
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We love feeling supported and encouraged in our endeavours. To have someone share their lessons, challenges and wins with us to help us navigate the road ahead. This is the role of a mentor and with Business Espresso you havea businesswoman supporting you along your journey. Each issue we’ll be sharing a shot of wisdom to help you start and grow a successful business in Aotearoa.
Our first shot of wisdom is ‘My Business Review’ to help you wrap up the year that was and get ready to plan for 2012.
Marketing Module: My Business Review 2011 - Wins, Challenges and Lessons
WHAT WORKED WELL – MY WINS
This is good time to pat yourself on the back for work well done. Take a look at some of the things that really went well this year and make a note of them. Were they the result of some prior planning? Or were they just the result of your entrepreneurial spirit at work?
Take your time. Write anything and everything down. Resist the temptation to judge whether a win was too small or just a step toward something that became much bigger.
What did you feel most proud of during 2011?
Business espresso
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WHAT DIDN’T WORK – MY CHALLENGES
This is also a good time to review those things that didn’t work very well. Why didn’t they work? Should you do away with them? Or are there actions you can take to improve these aspects of your business so they do work well? If so, note that as well.
WHAT CAN BE DONE BETTER – MY LESSONS
Are there things that worked pretty well or just OK that could be improved upon? Take stock of these and brainstorm some ideas on how you might do them better or more effectively.
WHAT NEW OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT
The end of one year is also the beginning of a new year. What things lie ahead for your business in 2011? Write your initial thoughts about what you would like to achieve in 2012.
IS THE BUSINESS PLAN STILL RELEVANT
This is also a good time to review your master business plan. The business plan is often ignored as we go through the daily activities of managing our business throughout the year. Most experts will tell you to review the plan more often than once per year. But if you’ve been avoiding this review, here is a good time to review the plan and make any necessary changes to it.
Review and planning is often something that we never have time for during the year. Taking time out at the end of the year to do this will give you a good fresh start for the New Year.
My businessmentor
with Vanessa Davey
DOWNLOAD AS A PDF
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Are you aware of why you are here and what you have to offer the world? Have you ever asked yourself ‘what is my purpose?’ Whenever I support people to learn and grow, enabling their lives to blossom, I am filled with immense
joy and satisfaction. Excitement runs through my veins. This tells me I am living a life with
meaning: I have found the ‘why’ behind ‘what’ I do.
You may know people who are living their purpose: their uplifting energy is contagious and they are inspiring. There are photographers whose purpose is to create beautiful images for people to enjoy; coaches, psychologists and counsellors who love to help people grow and live better lives; and mums and dads whose joy comes from raising a wonderful family. I love the story of the bricklayer who found his inspiration in believing that with every brick he laid he was building beautiful homes for families to flourish in.
Everybody’s purpose is different. The one similarity is that when people live their purpose they experience contentment, joy and fulfilment. They have discovered their values and the why behind what they do, and they align their life in accordance with this.
I don’t think everybody is aware of their purpose. Some people live their lives almost unconsciously, doing rather than being. They arrive at a destination without having set a course, without a clear intention of where they want to go. They haven’t realized that to find their purpose is to find their passion and ultimately, themselves.
If you are unsure of your purpose you might like to do the following exercise:At the top of your page write ‘My Life Purpose’. . .
Now think back to when you were a child and write down everything you loved doing and what you wanted to be when you were growing up. Make sure you don’t confuse this with what your elders expected of you.Now think forward to your teens, twenties and so on. What did you want to be then? If you find yourself writing what you feel you ‘should do’ cross it out. Your purpose is what excites you: it’s your passion.
Ask yourself… What makes my heart sing, fills me with excitement or brings me huge amounts of satisfaction?If money weren’t an object what would I be doing?When I’m 90, what would I have liked to have achieved?You could also simply ask, ‘what is my purpose?’ and listen for your first thoughts.
You will know when you find your purpose and start living it. Life will flow, you’ll have more energy and when you come across challenges you’ll still have an unwavering faith
that you’re where you’re supposed to be.
If you already know your purpose, remember to regularly reassess your life. When I asked people on Facebook their thoughts about their life purpose, one person commented, ‘I ask myself if am I living the life I intended and if not, what I can do to change this’.When we find our purpose we can express it through our career, at home and in our community. Imagine the difference if we found purpose in everything we did… if washing the dishes was seen as creating a lovely clean home for our family; being an early childhood teacher was creating a better future; or an electrician’s purpose was lighting people’s lives.
By stepping up and being true to our inner calling we are more fulfilled and become inspirational examples and valuable contributors to our communities.
Tracy ManuLife coachwww.blossom.net.nz
Tracy knows firsthand how challenging it can be to run a business, stay connected in a relationship, raise a family, (together with her husband
Andy, they have a blended family of five teenagers) have a social life and most importantly take time for herself. This is why she created
Blossom, a lifestyle company that supports women, by providing coaching packages, seminars and workshops.
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THE BUSINESS - EXULT
Exult is New Zealand’s leading training provider for the non-profit sector and focuses on supporting organisations at the business end of what they do. They provide quality workshops around the area of funding, marketing, management and volunteer issues, and produce a quarterly magazine especially for the community sector. They have won several awards, including a Special Commendation in the ‘Innovative Training Provider’ category of the 2011 Adult Learning Week Awards.
In establishing Exult in 2007, Kerri Tilby-Price had a clear purpose in mind. Her vision was that every non-profit organisation in New Zealand had the tools and skills they needed to be effective sustainable organisations. She believed then, as she believes now, Exult can play an important part in bringing that vision into reality.
Kerri and her team at Exult work primarily with small to medium sized organisations that have lots of passion, but lack the business experience to take their work and their cause to the next level. They focus on supporting groups that
have been overlooked by more
corporate focussed trainers, and know that by staying true to their purpose,
they can help smaller non-profit
groups stay true to their purpose also.
Get more information at www.exult.co.nz Connect with Exult at www.facebook.com/ExultNZ
THE WOMAN - KERRI TILBY-PRICE
Kerri Tilby-Price has been involved in the not-for-profit sector for 15 years, but given her upbringing, she maintains she never really had a choice. She was raised in a large family with parents who fostered children, provided emergency shelter for abused women, and regularly mentored young people who needed a helping hand. She believes her passion for helping others is thanks to the selfless example which was set by her parents.
Kerri has been involved with all sorts of organisations in all sorts of ways. She has worked as a manager, a volunteer and a consultant, as well as spear- heading several social enterprises that are still working today.
Her passion lies with grass-roots groups who are committed to making a difference, no matter how hard they have to work to make it happen.
In 2009 and 2010, Kerri travelled to Mexico where she helped to build houses in the slums of Tijuana. In 2012 she will be travelling to Tonga with her 15 year old daughter where they will help with similar building projects.
You can contact Kerri on 07 571889 or email [email protected]
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There are many ways to create, and maintain, a winning reputation, some of which are industry, or even business or individual, specific. However, the seven reputation branding essentials below apply across the board and can help you develop and maintain a reputation that will open doors rather than slam them shut and keep you on purpose.
Keep abreast of changing values and expectations
People’s expectations are constantly changing. What they value in you, and your products or services, today may not be what they value tomorrow. Read and research widely and actively engage with those you want to create lasting relationships with regularly to
stay in tune with them. Aim for ‘win/win’ outcomes from every interaction
Focus on nurturing a long-term relationship rather than a short-term gain. For example, if you know another provider may have a better solution than you, recommend them. The level of trust your client or customer will have in you will go up and your reputation
will be enhanced immensely. Make it easy for people to recommend you
When someone recommends you, they are putting their reputation on the line. Make people feel good about dealing with you and you’ll enhance your chances of being recommended. Deliver on your promises and focus on building high-trust, high-value relationships. Acting with integrity will also help you be
recommended more often. Never ‘bad-mouth’ or be disparaging about others
Bad-mouthing your competitors or others is a major reputation loser. No-one likes a gossip and news travels fast, especially on-line. People will think “if you say those things about them, what might you be saying about me when I’m out of earshot?” If you don’t have anything good to say, it’s better to say nothing at all.
Never breach the bond of trust between you and your supporters
People hire, and do business, with people and companies they trust. A New Zealand
research study in 2009 found 75% of respondents no longer buy from businesses they don’t trust and 61% had urged family and friends to do the same. Clarify expectations and maintain open, respectful communication at all times.
Accept responsibility and accountability for your actions
When things go wrong, ensure the person who’s aggrieved feels you are working to
resolve things, rather than blaming them or justifying your position. If you’re at fault, accepting responsibility, without accusation or blame, and being willing to be held accountable will enhance, rather than damage, your reputation.
Avoid over-promising and under-delivering
Over-promising but under-delivering is a reputation-killer. Ensure the statements
and claims you make are truthful, the expectations people have of you are fulfilled and the experiences people have encourage friends, colleagues and customers to remain loyal and recommend you to others. Act with integrity, build trust and you will enhance your reputation.
Expert BusinessAdvice
by Hannah Samuel
An award-winning speaker, columnist
and author, Hannah Samuel speaks,
writes and mentors worldwide on
issues around reputation, trust and
integrity. Find her online at
hannahsamuel.com
7 Steps to a winning reputation
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The Purposeof Social Media
The world of social media is full of potential and possibilities. Recognising this potential, many of us created a Facebook, Twitter or Linked-In profile for our business and have embarked on an interesting learning curve discovering how to maximize our social media efforts. In the busyness of business, it can be easy to lose sight of the purpose of this opportunity – which is essentially an opportunity to build relationships with your clients and prospects and to be able to market your business in a way that is personable, social and relational.
E-Workbook Creating Your Facebook Business
Communication Plan - $39.95
Do you have a plan for creating engaging, shareable content for Facebook that will cultivate positive connections with your customers and generate positive leads?
This 29 -page workbook will guide you through the process of understanding the social networking environment, personalizing your business story and gaining a whole person view of your customer. Packed filled with examples
and ideas to help you create a 7-day content plan for your Facebook page so you will always have something good to say on Facebook!
“Amazing workbook jam packed with info” Caitlin Grace, Limitless Living
Email [email protected] to purchase your copy of this practical and useful workbook.
Social MediaTips
with Kathryn Overell
The social media revolution has opened the door to something that traditional marketing can’t offer – a two-way conversation - offering a dynamic way to cultivate a relationship with your customers. As human beings, and especially as women, we crave connection and are curious about the people and stories behind the businesses, organizations and movements in our world. Facebook & Twitter mean we can tell those stories and give a human voice and face to our business communications. This relational style of marketing is not only personally satisfying, it’s commercially savvy – helping to bring in new customer leads and to retain your existing customers.
Social marketing is first and foremost…social! Facebook & Twitter are social spaces where people go to connect with their friends and to share valuable information. They are not the place for hype or pushy sales pitches. They are not the place to be distant or boring. They are places to offer expert advice, showcase your products and services in ways that are relational and relevant to your customer. Develop a whole person view of your customer and be aware of what’s going on in the world around you. In short – be social! It’s all about people.
Facebook & Twitter are mini publishing platforms. Think of yourself as the editor of your own on-line magazine.
Where can we find an effective existing model of something that takes a business identity, a target audience and produces engaging content that matches the two regularly?
A magazine! A magazine will inspire you, feature interesting stories and interviews, give relevant expert advice, entertain you, educate you, showcase events and current trends, ask for your feedback, run promotions and treats, introduce you to new products and services, show lots and lots of photos and more! Approach your Facebook and Twitter content in the same way and you will build an engaged community who look forward to your posts!
www.engagesms.co.nz
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BESTOW - THE WOMAN BEHIND THE PRODUCTJanine Tait has over 25 years experience in the industry as a therapist and educator. The entire focus of her company and portfolio of suppliers is to provide support and advice to the Beauty Therapy Community. WHERE CAN YOU BUY YOURS?See the Bestow Beauty website for stockists www.bestowbeauty.com
JOIN THEM ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/pages/Bestow-Beauty/136834089689138
MACKENZIE’S PARDON - THE WOMAN BEHIND THE PRODUCT Anne Davis and Louise Wedlake are the mumpreneurs behind
Sirens’ Wines. They wanted to create a business that would enable them to fulfil two of their greatest passions: being stay at home
mums and producing fine wines.
WHERE CAN YOU BUY YOURS?Purchase on their online store at www.mackenziespardon.co.nz
JOIN THEM ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/pages/SirensWines/157473266567
MacKenzie’s Pardon
is the second label from Sirens’ Wines. The label has been developed in conjunction with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand to help raise awareness of Prostate Cancer while raising money for the Foundation.
Bestow Beauty Oil
is a wonderful food for skin. It’s your edible cosmetic, making your skin soft, smooth and velvety. Bestow Beauty Oil is able to do this because it contains high levels of Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) that are not only vital for your health but also the beauty and vitality of your skin.
www.mackenziespardon.co.nz
www.bestowbeauty.com
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TEZA - THE WOMAN BEHIND THE PRODUCTFounded and now run by thirty-something couple Daphne Raj and her partner Joe Gehrke. Daphne believes it is important to offer an all natural drink that has reduced sugar and still tastes great. WHERE CAN YOU BUY YOURS?You can find teza in all great cafes and now in Countdown. For more info see their website - www.tezadrinks.co.nz
JOIN THEM ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/tezadrinks
AVOCADO OIL - THE WOMAN BEHIND THE PRODUCT Noeleen and her husband Brian have lovingly developed an
organic avocado and feijoa oasis on their property in western Bay of Plenty. They have a range of products using ingredients
from their land.
WHERE CAN YOU BUY YOURS?Buy it online at www.regenerate.co.nz or find them at the
Tauranga Farmers market
Productfeature
Lemongrass infused Extra Virgin Organic Avocado OilOffered by no other purveyor of fine foods. An exotic blend of our pure cold pressed certified organic avocado oil, with a sumptuous infusion of lemongrass to add pique, flavour and bring a sense of the exotic into your favourite dishes.
Teza - VelvetberryThis is my favourite of the five delicious flavours of fruit teas that teza produces. Teza is an all-natural iced tea, made with batch-brewed leaf tea, fruit juices, and botanicals. Teza is lower in sugar than fruit juice or soft drinks, and has won beverage taste awards in
New Zealand.
www.regenerate.co.nz
www.tezadrinks.co.nz
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Businesswomen PanelHere at Venus magazine we thought the best way to find out what purpose meant to women in business was to ask a few women in our network. We’ve asked four women from around New Zealand to answer a few questions on purpose and how it relates to their life and business.
Kathryn Overall from Engage www.engagesms.co.nz
has a flair for creativity and communication. She employs both of these to help business owners market their products and services in an engaging, relational and personable way.
What does it mean to you to live a purposeful life?I have always been a goal oriented, purposeful sort of person. When I was younger being purposeful was about setting and achieving goals. Over the years my sense of purpose has become much more connected to my passions. I have a strong sense of purpose now knowing what I am doing is an expression of who I am.
These days, I think passion and purpose are a matching set – each one feeding off the other. As a result I have more closely aligned Engage with my love of writing and building meaningful relationships.
Do you believe it is valuable to discover and live out of a sense of personal purpose? Very valuable! I think discovering and living out our purpose is an art we will never stop developing. I believe that every individual has purposeful themes and threads woven throughout their life – some are threads that we are born with – our innate and unique design and gifts – and some threads are introduced by our life experiences. In my experience the best way to live purposefully is to discover and develop the things that make our heart sing, and to cultivate an awareness of our inner world, our spiritual being. Purpose is a heart thing more than a head thing.
What do you feel motivated, passionate or purposeful about?I enjoy creating opportunities for people to discover and engage with valuable ideas, businesses, organizations and movements. To me, this is the heart and role of genuine marketing – a service by which we introduce people to ideas, products and services that will improve or enhance their life.
Marney Price is the Savvy Business Owner behind
Balancing Act. www.balancingact.co.nz She has a background in accounting and business advisory and specialises in supporting small business owners reach their goals and live their purpose.
Would you describe yourself as a woman with a strong sense of purpose? Most definitely!! I’m not sure how anyone can even consider being a business owner without having a strong sense of purpose. It is what keeps you inspired to carry on through the tough times. It is interesting though as we take the journey of being a savvy business owner that we can refine our sense of purpose. Often times, what we considered to be the driving force behind what we do, takes a turn and gives us an opportunity to redefine what our journey really is.
What does purpose mean to you? To me purpose is our inspiration. It is the spark that people see in you, that if you find a way of expressing that daily, be it in work or play, it serves as an encouragement to others to find their purpose too.
To what extent is your business an expression of your own talents, passions and/or personal sense of purpose? I love working with people. My business can be perceived as quite dull, but I bring my own ‘marneyness’ to it which makes it fun for people. At the very least, I am able to take some of the stress of working for yourself away by helping my clients take care of their businesses.
What do you feel motivated, passionate or purposeful about?People, people, people, always the people. As someone once said (no idea who), you don’t do business
“The best way to live purposefully
is to discover and develop the
things that make our heart sing”
“To me purpose is our inspiration. It’s what makes us joyful; it is a
reflection of who we really are.”
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ean
to y
ou? 1
2
3
1
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with business, you do business with people. Every woman is different, has different ideas, dreams and their own purpose for being in business. Recognizing that, allowing them space to bring the excitement back to their business again is one of the more valuable things I can offer
Claire Macpherson is a life coach and NLP Master
Practitioner. Her company, Swish NLP Coaching www.swishnlp.net supports women to live a life they love and feel passionate about. She trained as a life coach after moving from the UK with her family three years ago.
Would you describe yourself as a woman with a strong sense of purpose? Definitely, I think finding your purpose in life is the driving force that gives you strength and motivation. Living your purpose means grasping life with both hands and making the most of each and every day. I believe that when you don’t have a purpose that’s when you get lost; it’s like driving around with your sat nav on, without putting in an address! What does it mean to you to live a purposeful life?I believe discovering your purpose
and living in alignment with that is what creates a happy, joy filled life. When you can see the bigger picture you know that if you come to a road block you can simply find a new route. Everyone has things happen in life that you can’t control, however you can control how you react to these things. I think knowing your purpose makes this far easier to do. To what extent is your business an expression of your own talents, passions and/or personal sense of purpose? Working with people and supporting them in their own personal and professional growth is what my purpose is all about. I get a massive buzz when I see people achieving things that they thought weren’t possible for them. Working with people so they can find who they really are and what their purpose is, is a big part of the personal coaching I do on a daily basis. Seeing clients have that breakthrough gives me real energy and excitement. Working with people to break down limiting beliefs, get rid of phobias and find strength from within is what swish coaching is about and this is in direct alignment with my personal purpose in life.
What do you feel motivated, passionate or purposeful about?Wow - life, living, growing, learning and supporting others to do the same. Loving and spending quality time with my amazing family and friends. Connecting with my purpose, enjoying the moment and not living the “when I have this or achieve this I will be happy” syndrome. Teaching people to enjoy the journey not just focus on the destination.
Kay Gregan is a personal Travel Broker and ICCA
Accredited Cruise Specialist with NZ Travelbrokers. She embarks on journeys together with her clients to create those life long memories that go far beyond the lens. www.nztravelbrokers.co.nz
Would you describe yourself as a woman with a strong sense of purpose? You have to have a purpose in life to get up and go. Drive and energy bounce me out of bed in the morning as I step over the travel brochure’s (this morning it was
India). I get up and place my feet firmly on the ground. I leave the lemons for the gin and tonic. It is about choice so I go for the Ferrero Rocher approach, the sweeter side of life with intent each day to make it the best I can. Not only for me but for those I come into contact with. When you discover your purpose, you will normally find it’s something you’re tremendously passionate about.
Passion is what drives me, passion for life and living it. I live what I call the Ferrero Rocher approach ‘La Dolce Vita’ - The Sweet Life. I give this out to the Universe and it always gives back.
To what extent is your business an expression of your own talents, passions and/or personal sense of purpose? My business reflects me wholeheartedly, no half measures. This is the person I am, again the passion, drive and enthusiasm I have for ‘life and living’ filters through in what I do in the travel industry. It is important it filters through to my valuable clientele.
What do you feel motivated, passionate or purposeful about? I am passionate about everything, the good of all. Really it is quite simple I find enjoyment in all that I do. Especially as a freelance photographer which is the other hat I wear.
I believe it’s important to share your passion in what you do. Being motivated about ones passions can motivate others. I recently received the 2011 NZTB Brokers Choice Award. A fellow broker said to me in an email yesterday “I just love your enthusiasm and passion (WMCM)”.
Passionate, innovative and motivated people inspire me too. For me, I am a work in progress.
“Discovering your purpose , connecting
with it and living each day supporting it, is how we feel happy, fulfilled and truly
alive.”
“You have to have a purpose in life
to get up and go.”
4
3
4
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Very few people ignore you in a real life face-to-face networking situations. So why do they do it to you online? The simple answer is because they probably don’t even realize that they are!
Be honest, do you follow up every Linkedin connection request you get? No, probably not. I bet you click “accept”, and that is as far as you go.
When someone requests to connect with you and you simply click accept and then make no effort to carry on the conversation, you are simply both saying hello to each other and it stops dead there. The only thing you gain by doing this is a string of connections that don’t have any real value. You become a connection collector.
So how can you use social etiquette to really make your LinkedIn connections valuable and stand out from the crowd at the same time?
Follow these 4 steps below and watch your reputation grow.
View LinkedIn as your own boardroom of connections versus your coffee shop connections on Twitter or Facebook. They tend to be managers, directors, business owners, CEOs and the like.
#1: SEND PERSONALIZED CONNECTION REQUESTS.
When you first send a possible contact an invitation, do it from their own profile page by clicking the “add to your network link”.
We will use Paul as an example. By adding Paul this way rather than simply going to the “add connections” tab, you can send a personalized message, such as “Thanks for the coffee yesterday, it was great to catch up”.
This gives you the opportunity to remind Paul where you know him from. This is particularly useful if you’re getting back in touch after a long period of time, say from an old job or your school days.
If you simply send a connection request from the Add Connections box, there is no facility to personalize your message.
This might be a quick and easy way to add a handful of new connections, but spend the time and do it right by adding your personal touch to each one individually by following the steps above.
#2: REPLY WHEN ACCEPTING A CONNECTION REQUEST.
All too often I receive the standard email from Linkedin that says a connection request has been accepted, but I rarely then get a short message from the new connection saying “hi”.
When Paul has accepted my connection request, he could then send a short message back. I like to take a look at my new connections profile if I am not too familiar with them, and find something I can comment on.
Now that may be something like he comes from my home town, or works for a company I know well, or perhaps I can see from his interests that he is a cyclist and so am I. Whatever it may be, try and find something to start a short conversation to build on your relationship together. Make the effort to find out more.
So I’ve covered a couple of the initial and basic steps we tend to forget about. Now let’s look at composing a message to a group of our connections.
#3: COMPOSING A GROUP MAIL OUT.
First, you can only send a message to 50 people at any one time. This is a good thing; otherwise I am sure you would see a lot of spam. There are a couple of things to note here:
1. Your Opening: If you’re sending an email to a group of connections, think about your greeting. How are you going to address them? I suggest you start with something like “Hi everyone” or “Greetings to you all” and then immediately say “Please excuse my lack of personalization of this email as I am sending this out to a group of connections”. That way, you can be forgiven and you have addressed any possible bad manners critics.
2. Hide Other’s Emails: Always uncheck the box that says “allow recipients to see each other’s email address”. This then makes it a BCC or blind carbon copy. Value other people’s privacy by not sharing their email address with everyone else
When you receive a message yourself this way, respond where possible, depending on if the content is relevant to you or not. If the sender has followed the rules below about message content and what to add, hopefully you did find something of interest.
What about the message content?
If you want your connections to leave you in droves, then feel free to write about all the good things you do or can offer from your company!
Social mediatips
with Linda Coles
LinkedIn Etiquettethat will help you stand out from the crowd
www.venusnetwork.co.nz /p 24 www.venusnetwork.co.nz /p 25
I have made this mistake in the past myself and then I came to my senses. I realized I needed to treat this form of communicating just the same way as my newsletters. By adding valuable resources.
People don’t want to hear about you all the time and what you can offer, but they do want to know about how you could possibly help fix one of their problems.
Nowhere in my messages is there anything about my company; simply bits of information I think would be great to pass on. Maybe a great book that most businesses could probably utilize, a free business event being put on and a website address that may save a business a bit of money on cheap stationery for example.
By keeping in touch this way, my aim is to simply add value, but at the same time, put myself back on the radar of my connections.
#4: HOW TO ASK FOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations are a valuable part of your Linkedin profile and could be the one thing that gets you the deal when a possible client is comparing you to your competitor. Most people only have a couple of recommendations so you can stand out from the crowd with a good number of genuine and applicable recommendations. I suggest 10 as a minimum, but feel free to ask for more.
You will notice it’s another auto generated template that needs personalizing, not only the body of the message but also the subject line. I like to change mine to read something like “Recommendation request” as the subject line and “Are you able to write a recommendation about the presentation I did for your company last week?” in the main body. Don’t make the request too long, but be clear on what you want a recommendation for.
If you are asking Paul for a recommendation about a seminar he attended that you spoke at, you could change the message to say “I hope you enjoyed the seminar last week. If you feel that you are able to write a brief recommendation about how you found my presentation and speaking skills, I would appreciate it. I totally understand if you would prefer not to.” Kind regards…
There is no need to open your message with Dear…, as Linkedin will automatically add that in for you.
For the subject line, you may want to keep it simple such as “recommendation request please”.
In a nutshell, you should look at personalizing every aspect of LinkedIn that you can, making each and every standard template your own. It may take you a little longer, but the value you’ll get from doing the job right, will far out way the effort.
Ask yourself, if you were meeting face to face, what would you be doing differently? People easily judge on first impressions, so make yours a great one, each and every time you connect.
LinkedIn Etiquette
Linda Coles is an international social media speaker, author and consultant at
Her book “Learn Marketing with Social Media in 7 Days”
(Wiley) is out now.
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The Integrity Factor - Far from being an old-fashioned notion, honourable businesses, and honourable business leaders, are more sought-after than ever. In today’s digital world the camera is always rolling, the microphone is always on and there’s no such thing as ‘off the record’. This quick and easy read provides topics including:• The importance of values and ethics in today’s economy• How to build, and maintain, trust• The role of the leader in leading by example
Hannah Samuel - Speaker, Author, Mentor www.hannahsamuel.co.nz
5 books to be won - RRP $20
Simply Jute is exactly that, simply jute and nothing else. Our bags are more than an accessory, more than a carrier, more than a statement. Our bags are an example of our commitment to be environmentally aware, socially responsible and ethical to our planet and our people. We take our integrity very seriously, and through that we take great pride in providing top quality, eco-friendly, ethical bags.
Mel Salisbury & Sandra GarrattBusiness Ownerswww.simplyjute.co.nz
5 Simplyjute Leisure Bags to be won RRP $22.95
Bestow Beauty Oil is a wonderful food for skin. It’s your edible cosmetic, making your skin soft, smooth and velvety.
Janine Tait, creator of Bestow Beauty Oil has over 25 years experience in the industry as a therapist and educator. The entire focus of her company and portfolio of suppliers is to provide support and advice to the Beauty Therapy Community. Check her website out at http://www.bestowbeauty.comJoin her on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bestow-Beauty/136834089689138
5 bottles to be won - RRP $33.50
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5 Smoothie e-books to be won - RRP $29.95
1ONEis
FUN
an online magazine for New Zealand women in business
Venus is our new online quarterly publication to inspire, support and inform business women throughout New Zealand.
Our first issue will reach over 5,000 businesswomen and then be passed on to friends and colleagues.
A Business Showcase full page advert in our next issue of Venus MagazineRRP $225
Over the next 3 months we are giving away all of the items below via our facebook page, make sure you ‘like’ us to be notified of when to enter!
www.Facebook.com/VenusNetworkNZ
www.venusnetwork.co.nz /p 26 www.venusnetwork.co.nz /p 27
n my experience one of the first big steps for any business is the move to engage others to perform work for your business. Suddenly overheads are increased alarmingly and legal
considerations require attention. In fact, if a business does not take due care to handle this step carefully; your entire business may be at risk. For example, a successful claim for a personal grievance by a disgruntled employee can cost your business in excess of $10,000.00.
However, on the other hand, not engaging others to assist you with your business limits your business growth. There is only so much one person can do on her own. If you are serious about your business, you will need, at some stage, to address this issue.
Taking the big step of engaging others to work for your business does not have to be problematic. I strongly suggest you seek professional assistance with this issue. Making a mistake with Facebook or Twitter, does not cost your business money. By contrast, making a mistake with those performing work for your business is very expensive. Carefully prioritise where you spend money on your business.
When considering engaging a person to perform work for your business, it is wise to make sure that you make the right choice between an employee and an independent contractor (“IC”).
ICs entail different rights and obligations than the employer / employee relationship, and may be a useful alternative to the risks attaching to engaging employees.
Employment Law Consultant, Accord Employment Law Services
Wendy assists clients to resolve their employment relationship problems quickly and effectively and has extensive experience in restructuring, recruitment, performance management, disciplining employees, incapacity issues (unwell or injured employees) and union negotiations.
Wendy Macphail
Employee or independent contractor?
Expert BusinessAdvice
with Wendy Macphail
If you engage an IC rather than an employee you do not have problems attaching to Kiwisaver deductions, annual leave, sick leave, bereavement leave, PAYE, ACC levies and personal grievance claims.
However, your business will need to ensure it engages ICs in the correct manner. If your IC is found to be an employee, there are negative financial consequences for your business
The most common mistake I see business women make is that they engage friends to perform work for their business, without ensuring they have the correct documents and processes in place. Almost every time I see such arrangements, it ends in tears for both parties.
In summary, ensure you undertake due diligence before engaging others to assist your business.
Each quarter we will be requesting via our facebook page for your award nominees relevant to our current magazine theme. This quarter’s theme is PURPOSE. Watch our facebook page to be notified when to submit your nominees.
The winner will receive:• an article written about them in the next issue• a full page advert - value $275• 12 months trade directory advertising - value $300• a 6 month venus membership - value $320 • a 12 month mentor package with Laura Humphreys - value $600• a facebook quick start package plus a communication e-book with Kathryn Overell - value $345
Tracy ManuLifestyle Coach | Writer | Speaker
p. +64 9 4284615
m. +64 21 819733
w. www.blossom.net.nz
f. www.facebook.com/tracyatblossom
Next Open DaysDec 26th thru to 8th Jan, 9am to 5pm
An eclectic mix of handmade jewellery, furniture, homewares, art, textiles & vintage goodness
23B Wilson Road, Waihi Beach (behind The Porch Cafe)email: [email protected]
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find a group25 Venus Groups are located around New Zealand.
AUCKLANDNorth ShoreRemueraGrey LynnManukauAlbanyPonsonby Enterprise (business to business market)CBD Enterprise (business to business market)Newmarket Enterprise (business to business market)
WAIKATOCityside EnterpriseEntreprenuers
BAY OF PLENTYHarboursidePapamoa OceansideSeasideTauranga Enterprise (business to business market)
KAPITI/MANAManaKapitiCoastPalmerston North – launching 2012
WELLINGTONHutt ValleyWellington SouthNorthern SuburbsWellington CBD
CHRISTCHURCHChristchurch CentralChristchurch CitysideRangiora
Helping women thrive in businessRegister today on our website for your free guest visitwww.venusnetwork.co.nz/vc/guest
BUSINESS | RURAL | FAMILIESINVESTMENTS – LENDING – WORKING CAPITAL – LIVESTOCK & SEASONAL FINANCE
HOME & VEHICLE LOANS – DAY TO DAY ACCOUNTS – INSURANCE
Contact our friendly Heartland team today.
411 Victoria Street, Hamilton P 07 838 0134 E [email protected]
www.heartland.co.nz
Caught in the BLACK trap?
Nothing to WEAR? Let me INSPIRE YOU!
Debbie Albrecht of Colours Plus
Personal Image Consultant/Stylist Phone 03 313 5296 or 027 698 3838 Email: [email protected]
Website: coloursplus.co.nz
Savvy business owners know when to delegate... How savvy are you?
balancingact.co.nzBookkeeping and Business Support
Visit our facebook page to win!
CREATIVE DESIGN SOLUTIONS
ADD VALUE to YOUR business with Professional Graphic Design! Contact me for a FREE CONSULTATION
M I E DMEDIA DESIGN
Gai l My l ne04 297 2177 021 407 131
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Or even in just one personal session?Stress Management Specialist and Licensed 'Heal Your Life'® consultant Camilla Watson brings you the life-changing 'Achieve Your Dreams'®
workshop as well as a variety of seminars and personal sessions tofree you from your boundaries and limitations.
Make 2012 your year for healing and growth.
Next 'Achieve Your Dreams'® Workshops, March & Oct.Early-bird Specials and Venus Discounts available, book now. Ph: 04 2347522 E: [email protected]
www.healyourlife.co.nz
Faye Lougher
p 06 368 8359
m 027 486 2428
w www.writeability.co.nz
PO Box 387, Levin, New Zealand
editor
journalist
photographer
You have 4 seconds …People decide to buy from you
in just FOUR secondsCommunication is 55% visual
Your appearance is integralto your success
Affordable & comprehensivemobile workshops
contact Margaret StodartP 07 575 7415
E margaret @personal-style.co.nzW personal-style.co.nz
mileage fee applies outside Tauranga city
PDF created with FinePrint pdfFactory trial version www.pdffactory.com
magazine
fresh local f lavourwww.nourishmagazine.co.nz
engage!!social media solutions
business is personal
Hello, my name is Kathryn. I am passionate about communication and I created Engage to help businesswomen build positive connections with their prospects and customers on Facebook. Business is and always has been personal – because all businesses deal with people! Great marketing is about cultivating great relationships with your customers and prospects and giving your business a human face and voice. Facebook is the perfect medium for this. In my opinion, the best way to learn how to utilise social media is by doing it. I can help you get started and give you skills, strategies, tools and encouragement to manage and maximise your Facebook communications. Let!s chat!
Creating Your Facebook Communication Plan Workshop + Workbook!Tauranga Workshops – January 31, February 28, March 27 2012
Do you have a plan for creating engaging, relevant shareable content on Facebook regularly? Knowing what to say on Facebook comes much easier when you bring creative thinking and strategy together to create a Facebook Communication Plan
Kathryn Overall from Engage offers a three-hour interactive workshop to guide you through this process. You will learn how to think of your Facebook page as a mini-publishing platform and will be guided through the process of understanding your customer, your story and how to create engaging content that helps you to market in a relational way. You will create a 7-day content plan template so you will always have something good to say on Facebook! Email Kathryn to book a spot.
[email protected] mobile 021 252 7595www.engagesms.co.nz www.facebook.com/engagesocialmedia
www.venusnetwork.co.nz /p 34
Want to grow your business?
Helping women thrive in businesswww.venusnetwork.co.nz/vc/guest
The Venus Network is a nationwide businessreferral community designed for women who are serious about growing their business, their networks and themselves.
Join Venus and you can:
likeminded women
in networking and selling
strategies and ideas
new business
our website for your