Wanted: Business Mentors to work with Dynamic Young Entrepreneurs

Do you remember that stage in your business when your burning desire and energy to grow your business was clashing with the fact you were still trying to do everything? You were walking blind through the entrepreneurial forest wondering just how everyone else in the business world seemed to be able to hold it all together but you couldn’t!

Remember the relief you felt when you found the support and help you needed, and you and your business went from strength to strength. What has that support and help meant to you and your business?

We currently have 16 very eager young entrepreneurs who have reached out for support and help by entering our Young Entrepreneurs Stepping Up Program (YESUP). A vital element of this program is matching the young entrepreneurs with an amazing and enthusiastic mentor.

All that is needed is 8 hours over 7 weeks. Interested? See profiles of participants attached and fill out the rego form.

Benefits for You as a Mentor:

- You will learn more about your business by mentoring someone else – Teaching something makes you learn it better.

- You’ll be assisting a young and dynamic young entrepreneur to grow their business; they are motivated & ambitious and hungry to learn from you.

- You’ll receive support from The Frank Team to get the most out of your mentoring and to ensure it runs smoothly.

- You’ll have the opportunity to come along to our workshops for free to learn more about lifecycle marketing systems which may assist your business development and growth.

- You’ll have the opportunity to meet and network with other young entrepreneurs and mentors.

- Make the most of all of your experience; mistakes and successes – pass that experience along!

- There is only a minimum of 8 hours mentoring time that you need to invest with the young entrepreneur you’re matched with.

You’re Eligible To Be A Mentor If:

v You have over five years experience running your own business

v You are interested in inspiring and developing the next generation of young entrepreneurs, and helping them to develop their business systems

v You’re able to spend at least eight hours in face-to-face mentoring over six weeks (face to face can be physically together or over webcam)

v You’re based in the Greater Sydney area

For Mentors, The Program Will Consist Of:

v Being matched up with a mentoree, based on your skills and their needs

v A Mentoree Meet-Up Event, where you will meet your mentoree

v Access to 3 x 3.5 hour workshops on Lifestyle Marketing Systems Creation (optional)

v At least 8 hours structured direct mentoring with your mentoree

v A Graduation Event

v Opportunities for networking at events and workshops

v Ongoing support from The FRANK Team

v The opportunity to tell your story at one of our events

v The opportunity to attend an ENYA Lawsense Business Legal Workshop

The Young Entrepreneurs Stepping Up Program (YESUP) is run by The FRANK Team and proudly funded and supported by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development. It will focus on teaching young entrepreneurs about systems development, particularly in regards to marketing, to implement throughout their business to allow them to grow. To learn more about Lifecycle Marketing Systems check out http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.html and watch the video.

Dates and Times for You:

v 24th September – Meet Your Mentor Event – 6:00pm -9:00pm (Compulsory) In Castle Hill

v 1st October – Workshop 1 – 6:00 – 9:30pm (Optional)

v 15th October – Workshop 2 – 6:00 – 9:30pm (Optional)

v 29th October – Workshop 3 – 6:00 – 9:30pm (Optional)

v 13th November – Graduation Event – 6:30pm onwards (Compulsory) In Castle Hill

Your 8 hours of mentoring is scheduled by you and your mentoree.

If you are interested but can’t make the above dates please let us know (email us back with a “I’m interested – next time please”) as we will have another program running in March of next year aswell!!!

How Does YESUP Work?

YESUP combines skills workshops, one-on-one mentoring and more to produce real and immediate results for young entrepreneurs. The workshops are run over six weeks and concentrate on the Lifecycle Marketing System creation for business. They are presented by Jessica Kiely, the Director of The Frank Team. The one-on-one mentoring is also run over these six weeks and allows you to work with young entrepreneurs on an area they have identified within your business for some intensive assistance and guidance - all with an experienced and successful business person (that’s you!).

If you’ve been in business yourself for at least five years and would like to be involved in the program as a mentor, we’d LOVE to hear from you. E-mail Lesley@Frankteam.com.au for a registration form today! Or call on (02) 9966 4333 for more information!

The workshops are made possible by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD) the New South Wales Government's business development agency. DSRD delivers programs and services that support the NSW Government’s commitment to winning new business activity for NSW, and developing the capacity and productivity of the State’s economy. For further information on how DSRD can help your business go to www.business.nsw.gov.au

Not for Profit?

A few interesting facts for you...

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, on June 30th, 2007, there were 40 976 registered not-for-profit organisations in Australia.

Religious NFPs accounted for 21.3%

Culture and recreational organisations accounted for 20%

In addition to 884 476 paid employees, these organisations utilised 2.4 million volunteers, and received $74.5 billion in funding, with $25.4 billion of this from government at all levels.

This sector is full of opportunities for businesses and individuals to partner with, in order to achieve great outcomes for the environment, humanity, animals, etc. If your business works with not for profits, we'd love to hear from you, so we can profile you on our blog!

Contact Lesley@Frankteam.com.au for more information.

Biz Opportunity

Did you know: between July 2007 and June 2008, migrants to Australia numbered 171 410.

In order, the countries of origin with the largest number of migrants is the UK, New Zealand, India, China and then the Phillipines.

How does this present a business opportunity, I hear you ask?

By providing the new Aussie residents with goods and services that they need, that may not be catered for by already existing mainstream products. One example of this is tinned salty beef. A favourite of the Maltese and Filipinos, Heinz undertook significant research to determine this need and provide for it. Heinz has then used ethnic and local media to promote this product.

Media is another opportunity in itself. Why not start a local newsletter or newspaper in a language other than English? You can ask for articles from local residents, include news items from Australia and overseas, depending on which language the newsletter is in, and sell advertising to local stores and service providers?

Marketing Tip - Know Your Customers

Sounds basic, I know. But how many of us actually take the time to sit down, look at our different target markets (if you're like The FRANK Team you have more than one, which makes it a little more complicated at times) and REALLY THINK about their characteristics?

Think about their demographics - where they're located, their age, sex, etc.

Then think about what affects their psychographics - what do they do for a job? What sort of experiences are they interested in participating in? What do they do in their spare time? Why do they use your product/service - what need does it meet? What is the one problem they are overcoming by using your business's product/service?

Really hone in on the problem you're helping them to overcome. And remember - it's you HELPING them! Make it easy for them to understand that you know where they're coming from; what they're feeling; and you understand how to help them to overcome that problem.

Marketing Tip - What Makes You Different?

Do you know what it is that makes YOU and YOUR BUSINESS different to everyone else out there?

This is called your Uniquite Selling Proposition - USP. If you don't know what it is, how can you expect anyone else to? And if they don't know what makes you different, remind me again why they keep using your product/service?

Take the time to really look at your business - what is it that makes your business's product/service different? Is it a particualr type of technology? Your level of service?

Once you've figured it out, use it! Communicate it to your customers, on your website, in your promotional material, educate your sales staff, your receptionist, all of your other staff members - say it loud and say it proud!

Marketing Tip - Small Steps...

Grow your business by gradually making each transaction larger, and focusing on increasing the number of transactions your customers have with your business.

Small, simple - but effective!

Marketing Tip - Focus on the Problems...

Your customer's problems that is! By constantly monitoring the difficulties that your customers have, that your product/service overcomes, you will be better placed to:

1. Understand their needs
2. Meet their needs

Anchor the key problems of your current and prospective clients to your product/service, communiate it in your marketing campaigns, get your sales staff aware and focused on it, and your sales should benefit!

Office space anyone?

It seems that accessing office space is gradually getting a little easier, with vacancy rates going up in CBD and non-CBD offices around Australia.

There's also expected to be an extra 670 000 square metres of office space becoming available in the second half of 2008, and more again next year and so on!

What does this mean for business?

It means more bargaining power when negotiating for office space; less expensive access to office space (as supply has gone up, demand has not necessarily equalled it); and the potential for incentives offered by landlords, to either get their tenants to stay, or to help them move to new office space (which can be quite expensive).

Grants for Climate Ready Projects!

Applications are now open for innovation grant projects, for up to 50% of costs, ranging from $50 000 to $5M, and up to three years duration.

Applications are being considered for projects that address the effects of climate change. An example might be technologt that can reduce the energy used by appliances; products/processes to monitor emissions or energy use; or info systems for individuals and businesses to compare the carbon footprints of different activities.

Funding Round One is open until 4 September 2008. There will then be another 3 funding rounds throughout the 2008-09 financial year. Fo rmore info check out
http://www.ausindustry.gov.au/content/content.cfm?ObjectID=4330A0C8-5B13-4DC4-920CF19E0923393C

Interesting Statistics to get you thinking

Did you know: 37% of local family businesses have a formal board of directors.

Those that do - according to a survey from KPMG, Family Business Australia and Deakin University - are more likely to do better throughout economic uncertainty.

And a few more stats for you - 16% have formal shareholder meetings; 4% have formal constitutions; and only 9% have performance reviews for family members.

Last of all... 97% of these businesses have a male chairman. I find this statistic most interesting of all! Of the family businesses you know, how many have female chairpeople? Do you think this statistic is accurate?!

Courtesy of BRW - August 14-20, page 14.

ONLY 8 PLACES LEFT!!!

Get in quick if you want to participate in our very first Young Entrepreneurs Stepping Up Program! At the beginning of the week, there were 16 places available...now there's only 8 left!

The YESUP program focuses on Lifestyle Marketing Systems. As a small business ourselves, we know that there are two key needs to be met for a business to grow: Marketing and the ability to create systems within your business. So we’ve combined these two topics into an amazing new program for young entrepreneurs!

How Does YESUP Work?

YESUP combines skills workshops, one-on-one mentoring and more to produce real and immediate results for you and your business. The workshops are run over six weeks and concentrate on the Lifecycle Marketing System creation for your business. They are presented by Jessica Kiely, the Director of The Frank Team. The one-on-one mentoring is also

run over these six weeks and allows you to work on an area you have identified within your business for some intensive assistance and guidance - all with an experienced and successful business person. More information about these elements is below.

YESUP will cost you ONLY $200 (+ GST). But it’s valued at over $4450. Invest a small amount of money for a very large return. This program gives you access to the type of training that normally costs you thousands of dollars!

If you’re a young entrepreneur between the ages of 18 and 35, running a business in NSW that has been in operation for at least one year, and you are interested in taking part in our skills and mentoring program, contact Lesley on (02) 9966 4333. For more info go to http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.html

WANTED: Passionate Young

Entrepreneurs Ready To Grow Their Business

The FRANK Team is excited to announce the YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS STEPPING UP PROGRAM (YESUP), funded and supported by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development. Applications are now open!

The YESUP program focuses on Lifestyle Marketing Systems. As a small business ourselves, we know that there are two key needs to be met for a business to grow: Marketing and the ability to create systems within your business. So we’ve combined these two topics into an amazing new program for young entrepreneurs!

Applications close midnight August 31st, so get in quick - there were 16 places available – now there’s only 12 left! Workshops will take place in Sydney throughout September – November.

APPLY NOW To Be Part Of The YESUP Program!!!

For more info & an application form go to:

www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.htm

How Does YESUP Work?

YESUP combines skills workshops, one-on-one mentoring and more to produce real and immediate results for you and your business. The workshops are run over six weeks and concentrate on the Lifecycle Marketing System creation for your business. They are presented by Jessica Kiely, the Director of The Frank Team. The one-on-one mentoring is also

run over these six weeks and allows you to work on an area you have identified within your business for some intensive assistance and guidance - all with an experienced and successful business person. More information about these elements is below.

In YESUP, You Will Learn How To:

v Become aware of how to develop systems for all aspects of your business

v Develop a comprehensive Lifecycle Marketing System

v Learn directly from experienced and successful entrepreneurs

v Attract and retain more customers

v Free up your time to work in other areas of your business

v Generate a more reliable income by creating a six to twelve month marketing calendar ready to go

v Track your businesses progress more easily and manage the performance of your marketing

v Make better strategic decisions

v Make it easier to expand and grow your business

v Sell more to existing customers and increase your profits on a regular and consistent basis

Also Included In YESUP:

v A Self-coaching session (Valued at $780) - This will inspire and empower you to drive your business success further by training you to coach yourself through the harder times.

v Networking with other young entrepreneurs who have growing businesses - This will expand your contact list, increase your business knowledge, and introduce you to new potential customers.

v A full ENYA Lawsense workshop (Valued at $750) - To help you avoid legal mistakes and save your business from losing money on legal cases. An ENYA (www.enya.org.au) Business Legal Workshop will be organised for you to attend free of charge at a time convenient to program participants.

v Weekly Inspirational TIPS (Valued at $450) - For ongoing inspiration and motivation to get you through the tough times.

v Regular Mentor Case Studies (Valued at $180) - To ensure you avoid business mistakes and leverage the experience of other successful entrepreneurs.

v LET IT OUT Roundtable (Valued at $350) - You will get other entrepreneurs brains working on and solving your business's problems. Grow your business faster by enlisting the help of other entrepreneurs to supercharge your business and help improve your weaknesses.

v Graduation Ceremony & Certificate - be recognised for your achievement at the YESUP Graduation Ceremony.

If you’re a young entrepreneur between the ages of 18 and 35, running a business in NSW that has been in operation for at least one year, and you are interested in taking part in our skills and mentoring program, contact Lesley on (02) 9966 4333. For more info go to http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.html

APPLY NOW To Be Part Of The YESUP Program!!!

For more info & an application form go to:

www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.htm

How Much Does YESUP Cost?

YESUP will cost you ONLY $200 (+ GST). But it’s valued at over $4450. Invest a small amount of money for a very large return. This program gives you access to the type of training that

normally costs you thousands of dollars!

If you’ve been in business yourself for at least five years and would like to be involved in the program as a mentor, we’d LOVE to hear from you. Contact Lesley on (02) 9966 4333.

If you know someone who could benefit from participating in this program, please forward this opportunity on to them. We’d love to get a wide range of young entrepreneurs and mentors involved and we need your help!

The workshops are made possible by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD) the New South Wales Government's business development agency. DSRD delivers programs and services that support the NSW Government’s commitment to winning new business activity for NSW, and developing the capacity and productivity of the State’s economy. For further information on how DSRD can help your business go to www.business.nsw.gov.au

Losing Staff?

Here's some interesting stats for you on losing staff members:
- bad managers are responsible for 20% of employee resignations - but most organisations don't realise this is why their staff members are leaving
- only 14% of departures are due to pay
- 44% of outgoing employees say they could have been convinced to stay on
- in 2/3 of cases, employees made no effort to dissuade employees from leaving the firm

Other reasons for staff leaving include:
- staff feeling there are no opportunities for career advancement in their current job
- lack of interest in the work they're doing
- no perceived challenges
- poor management by a direct manager
- feeling the need for a career change

Source: "It's Not Me, It's You" - Article featuring Exit-Info - BRW August 7-13, 2008

Did you know?

That there is an Australian Association of Angel Investors??! I didn't until just now, when I came across their website. Their motto is, "Supporting angel investors for better investment outcomes."

Their webiste, http://www.aaai.net.au/ has a whole lot of info about angel investing in Australia, various organisations/associations of angel investors, and even some info about New Zealand.

If you're interested in being an angel investor, or getting an angel investor involving in your business, check out their contacts, resources, etc.

Networking Tips

I just attended a great session on Networking, organised by the Hills Business Chamber. It was on the basics of networking – basics that we hardly ever stop to think about.

For a lot of people, networking can be a really tough thing to get into. I know when I first started networking, I found it quite difficult to walk into a room of people and just start talking. I’ve since figured out that looking at networking in that way can be quite confronting and a little bit scary.

I now see networking as a great way to meet new people and make new contacts, whether it be personal or business contacts. It’s an opportunity – not a task. Remember that when you meet someone, you also meet their contacts.

Some of the things that can stop us from being a good networker are:

- we’re more interested in talking about ourselves/our business than listening to what others have to say (I think we’ve all run into at least one person like that!)

- trying for the hard sell, instead of focusing on building relationships with people, realizing that contacts, referrals and sales may come later

- the difficulties in finding things in common with the people we talk to.

- Breaking in to groups of people talking, and also leaving those groups – this can be quite awkward

Some of my networking tips are:

- keep an eye on people’s body language – if they have closed body language and are quite obviously deep in conversation with one other person, perhaps they aren’t the best person to approach to start chatting with. Keep an eye out for people who are in groups that are ‘open’ – open body language, open spaces in the circle of people, etc

- don’t focus purely on what you can get out of the session. Networking is all about building relationships and making contacts. So be sure to show the people you’re talking to that you’re interested in what they have to say, by giving them your full attention, asking questions, and really think about how you can help them, whether it be information, contacts – anything at all really!

- Be willing to excuse yourself if you feel the conversation is going nowhere. Be honest, tell them you’ve enjoyed speaking with them, etc etc etc, but don’t feel like you need to be their best friend by the end of the night. Networking is all about getting out there and meeting different people.

What are some of your networking tips?

Free Event for Young Entrepreneurs

Have you RSVP'd to The FRANK Team's latest awesome FREE event for
young entrepreneurs yet?

If not, then you might miss out because we only have 17 more places
left!

AND we've just announced an awesome guest speaker for the evening
- see below for more details.

The next event for young entrepreneurs is all about The Secrets to
Systemising Your Business - an aspect of business that is VITAL for
faster growth. We know that you are great at starting your business
but can often struggle with getting to the point where you are not
doing all the parts of the business, and often don't take the time
out to do this. The Frank Team wants to help you get to that next
level and continue to grow your business.

If you want a business that works without you, then this event is
for you!

For more info and to RSVP, go to
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/free-seminar.html .

Our guest speaker for the evening is Rob Castaneda - founder and
CEO of CustomWare Asia Pacific, a company that he founded in 2001,
after returning to Sydney from Silicon Valley. In 2006, CustomWare
was named as the fastest growing IT startup company by BRW Magazine
and earlier this year, Rob was named as one of AntHill Australia's
Top 30 Entreprenuers' under 30 years old and is an active member
of the Entreprenuers Organisation.

You'll also be hearing from Jessica Kiely - Director of The FRANK
Team. Jessica is a successful young entrepreneur herself, having
never worked for anyone else. She started her first business at 19.
Her current business, The FRANK Team, has worked with over 33 00
young people around Australian and overseas in its' seven years of
operation. Jessica has a passion for inspiring and encouraging
entrepreneurship in young people, and this is one of the key values
of The FRANK Team's workshops and presentations.

And just a quick overview of the FREE opportunities The FRANK Team
has for you at the moment:

NEW!!!!! Step One: Check out our awesome new video on Lifecycle
Marketing for your business
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/lifecycle-marketing/lifecycle-m
arketing.html

Step Two: RSVP for our free young entrepreneurs event on Secrets to
Systemising Your Business
www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/free-seminar.html

Step Three: Go to
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/secrets-download.html
to download a FREE article on Systemising Your Business.

Step Four: Apply to be a participant in our Young Entrepreneurs
Stepping UP Program - Kickstart Your Marketing Systems. For more info
and an application form check out
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.htm
l
and contact Lesley@FrankTeam.com.au or on (02) 9966 4333. Program is
open to young entrepreneurs aged 18-35 who have been in business for
at least one year and are willing to commit to a program packed with
awesome features like mentoring, skills workshops, entrepreneurial
tips, networking, self-coaching sessions - the list goes on!

Where will the event be held?
Baulkham Hills Shire Council
129 Showground Road
CASTLE HILL NSW 2154

When
Thursday the 14th of August 2008

Time
Arrive 6:15pm for 6:30pm start
6:30pm - 9pm - Expert talks
9pm - networking drinks

Free Event for Young Entrepreneurs

Have you RSVP'd to The FRANK Team's latest awesome FREE event for
young entrepreneurs yet?

If not, then you might miss out because we only have 17 more places
left!

AND we've just announced an awesome guest speaker for the evening
- see below for more details.

The next event for young entrepreneurs is all about The Secrets to
Systemising Your Business - an aspect of business that is VITAL for
faster growth. We know that you are great at starting your business
but can often struggle with getting to the point where you are not
doing all the parts of the business, and often don't take the time
out to do this. The Frank Team wants to help you get to that next
level and continue to grow your business.

If you want a business that works without you, then this event is
for you!

For more info and to RSVP, go to
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/free-seminar.html .

Our guest speaker for the evening is Rob Castaneda - founder and
CEO of CustomWare Asia Pacific, a company that he founded in 2001,
after returning to Sydney from Silicon Valley. In 2006, CustomWare
was named as the fastest growing IT startup company by BRW Magazine
and earlier this year, Rob was named as one of AntHill Australia's
Top 30 Entreprenuers' under 30 years old and is an active member
of the Entreprenuers Organisation.

You'll also be hearing from Jessica Kiely - Director of The FRANK
Team. Jessica is a successful young entrepreneur herself, having
never worked for anyone else. She started her first business at 19.
Her current business, The FRANK Team, has worked with over 33 00
young people around Australian and overseas in its' seven years of
operation. Jessica has a passion for inspiring and encouraging
entrepreneurship in young people, and this is one of the key values
of The FRANK Team's workshops and presentations.

And just a quick overview of the FREE opportunities The FRANK Team
has for you at the moment:

NEW!!!!! Step One: Check out our awesome new video on Lifecycle
Marketing for your business
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/lifecycle-marketing/lifecycle-m
arketing.html

Step Two: RSVP for our free young entrepreneurs event on Secrets to
Systemising Your Business
www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/free-seminar.html

Step Three: Go to
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/secrets-download.html
to download a FREE article on Systemising Your Business.

Step Four: Apply to be a participant in our Young Entrepreneurs
Stepping UP Program - Kickstart Your Marketing Systems. For more info
and an application form check out
http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.htm
l
and contact Lesley@FrankTeam.com.au or on (02) 9966 4333. Program is
open to young entrepreneurs aged 18-35 who have been in business for
at least one year and are willing to commit to a program packed with
awesome features like mentoring, skills workshops, entrepreneurial
tips, networking, self-coaching sessions - the list goes on!

Where will the event be held?
Baulkham Hills Shire Council
129 Showground Road
CASTLE HILL NSW 2154

When
Thursday the 14th of August 2008

Time
Arrive 6:15pm for 6:30pm start
6:30pm - 9pm - Expert talks
9pm - networking drinks

Ytrep Profile - Just Creative Design

Jacob Cass is a self-employed freelance graphic designer, working in the fields of logo design, print design, web design and branding with the majority of his time spent designing and implementing marketing promotions for small businesses such as logos, brochures, letterhead, business cards, email signatures and more. You will also find him blogging on his popular website Just Creative Design which provides free graphic design tips, articles and resources. He's also the latest young entrepreneur to be profiled on our blog!

What made you decide to start your own business?

Originally I started out doing graphic design work as a hobby for friends and family for free and I just loved it so when people were starting to ask “how much for this” and “how much for that” I knew it was time to start charging money for my design so really I guess it was just natural for me to start my own business.

How long have you been in business for?

I am 20 now but I got my first paid job when I was 16 so I guess I could say 4 years however I have only been doing it seriously for the past two years.

Why graphic design for you?

I believe I touched on this in the first answer… because I really love it. I surround myself in design every day and regularly discuss and converse with other designers through the use of my blog. I am also subscribed to about 200 other RSS feeds (subscriptions) that I read on a daily basis – this really keeps me motivated and up to date with what is happening in the design world.

What are some of the trials you’ve been through in starting your business?

There have been many lessons learnt but no mistakes. The first thing that comes to mind is the problems that I have had with my many web hosting providers. Because my business grew so quickly, my web hosts couldn’t keep up with the traffic on my website so it in turn shut down my website which I could not get up again for about 10 days (a huge amount of time in regards to a website being down). So I guess the thing I learnt out of that was to think big – I should have gone with a bigger and better web hosting provider.

The next big trial I went through was actually building up my business and reputation. I put the hard yards in for 6 months straight and it really paid off. I don’t have to do as much as I did before as I have now built my reputation and my loyal readers / clients now do the work for me.

Check out his site and blog at www.justcreativedesign.com - Jacob has some pretty cool articles, downloads, and links to awesome photos on the web!

Share the good news!

I love hearing about and learning about new and cool businesses - either they are new to me because I haven't come across them before, or they are new because they have just started. They provide me with inspiration and even more determination in my own business.

But what I also love to do, and do it ALL of the time, is spreading the love. So whenever I find something new that I think is great and will help someone (website, article, video, email etc) I will send it to the person who I know will benefit from it....straight away! I do it because I love helping people, but it has also turned into a great networking and relationship building opportunity, so it's a win-win!

So in the spirit of sharing the good news here is a great website I have just found that is full of news about new businesses that are popping up around the globe that I think you will like. You never know - it may just be the inspiration you need to start your business, or a great place to find some strategic partners or affiliate marketing opportunities.
Check out http://www.springwise.com/weekly/2008-07-30.htm

Then, my challenge to you is to find 4 great pieces of "news" and send it out to at least 4 people you know of that could benefit from learning/knowing that news. Perhaps find someone in your network, business or personal, that you haven't contacted for a while and use this as a great "hey - how you doing?' contact!!!
So go forth and spread the good news.

PS: Also don't forget about our Frank Team young entrepreneur stuff going on right now.

FREE DOWNLOAD! Our article on Secrets to Systemising Your Business - http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/secrets-download.html

JUST ANNOUNCED! Our next Young Entrepreneurs Event - August 14^th - Castle Hill, Sydney - http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/free-seminar.html

APPLICATIONS OPEN! Our Young Entrepreneurs Stepping Up Program Sydney - http://www.frankteam.com.au/entrepreneur/marketing-systemise-program.html

Has Creating the Business of your Dreams Stalled for You?

Free download 5 Secrets to Systemising Your Business

Have you noticed how insanely hard you are working although you’re unclear as to why you seem to still be at square one? Have you noticed that you seem to be changing from one task to another to another and it never stops? One minute you’re paying invoices, then you’re answering phones, then you’re going out to network with a new client. It’s insane. Imagine yourself doing this same process for another five years, perhaps another 25 years. Do you think you will build the business of your dreams?

Let me let you in on a secret: if you are always doing the technical work in your business, you will be doing that work for the rest of your life. If you always take control of every single situation and task required to be done, you will always be the person responsible for doing it. If you are your business you don’t actually own a business. Instead, you have a job.

Free download 5 Secrets to Systemising Your Business

A successful business is something that works with or without you. Let me tell you a story about McDonalds that was started up by the McDonalds brothers. Ray Kroc was actually the CEO of McDonalds and the man responsible for turning it into a massive global business by franchising it; the McDonalds brothers were the guys who actually invented the idea of McDonalds and ran their little store. Ray Kroc systemised the McDonalds brothers business and created franchises all around America. The McDonalds brothers never managed to expand their business beyond one store because they were the ones flipping the burgers, taking orders and making sure bills were paid. The difference was that Ray Kroc owned a business and the McDonalds brothers had jobs in their business.

Jessica Kiely, a very successful young entrepreneur, had a similar type of problem in her business and found that she was doing everything. She recently went through the transition of setting up her business to have systems. It almost killed her writing down her first system about how to produce one of her workshops. Once she had written the system down she hired someone to take over the system and run the production in her business. The relief she felt from delegating one of the responsibilities in her business allowed her to focus on other parts of her business and continue to grow it, getting her closer to having the business of her dreams that runs entirely without her.

We at The FRANK Team have noticed that you like many other young entrepreneurs face major challenges when growing your business, because you don’t know how to systemise it and stop doing all of the jobs inside of it.

Jessica has written an extremely helpful guide on the process she went through to help you on the road to systemising your business.

You can download for free her 5 Secrets to Systemising Your Business now and put yourself back on the path to growing your dream business. It is time well invested!

Want to learn more?

FREE seminar on Secrets to Systemising Your Business

The FRANK Team would like to invite you to a free young entrepreneur’s workshop on systemising your business where you will gain valuable secrets from people who have successfully systemised their business which allowed them to grow their dream businesses.

Secure your spot now

P.S. There are only 40 seats available to this event so secure your spot quickly

If you know someone who could benefit from attending this event, please forward this opportunity on to them. We love to reach out to a wide range of young entrepreneurs!

Where will the event be held?

Baulkham Hills Shire Council
129 Showground Road
CASTLE HILL NSW 2154

Time & Date

Thursday, August 14^th.

6:30 – 9:00pm – Expert Talks

9:00pm – Networking drinks

ANNOUNCING the Young Entrepreneurs Stepping Up Program – Kickstart Your Marketing Systems Program

The FRANK Team have a very special 8 week intensive workshop and mentoring program coming up on how to easily set up your marketing system and grow your business faster. More details will be revealed at the FREE seminar, on how you can apply to be one of the participants.

The YESUP program will be run by The FRANK Team and made possible by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD), the New South Wales Government's business development agency. DSRD delivers programs and services that support the NSW Government’s commitment to winning new business activity for NSW, and developing the capacity and productivity of the State’s economy. For further information on how DSRD can help your business go to www.business.nsw.gov.au

Green Business - a Threat or an Opportunity?

I don't think a single day goes by that we don't hear something about climate change or petrol prices. Or both. Multiple times.

There's two ways we can look at climate change, and petrol prices - a threat or an opportunity.

Yes, they are a threat to our way of life, the well-being of our people and our planet. And also a threat to how we currently do business, as we move to cut greenhouse gas emissions and costs are driven up in various ways.

They're also an AMAZING opportunity for new business. According to BRW (July 3-9, 2008), up to 3.25 million workers will need to re/up-skill if Australia makes big cuts to greenhouse gas emissions. Possible areas are renewable energy, green buildings, and low emission vehicles (if you could put out a less expensive hybrid, I can assure you that I would buy it!).

How about, instead of just up-skilling, up-skill and get out there on your own? Start up a green business, taking advantage of the huge opportunities for growth, and help the move towards green technology and lower emissions.

Profiled: Planning for Babe

From this week onwards, we're going to be profiling a different young entrepreneur on our blog every week! There's so many amazing young people that we meet, out there doing some really cool and inspiring things with their time and business skills - so we want to inspire you too!

This week we're profiling Amanda Jephtha, Founder of Plannng For Babe.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the choice in baby products and services? Do you simply have no time to thoroughly research and decide which is best? Planning for Babe's baby planners exclusively tailor the most suitable baby products and services to your individual needs and lifestyle - like a wedding planner to a wedding. Planning for Babe gives you the most important luxury - the gift of time and confidence to enjoy your pregnancy.

Sounds like a great idea to me! It's awesome to see someone who spotted a market niche and acted on it!

To find out more, check out http://planningforbabe.com/ or e-mail Amanda at

amanda@planningforbabe.com.au

TOP 5 PITFALLS TO WATCH OUT FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENUERS JUST STARTING OUT

There is no such thing as a mistake, just mis-takes! So learn from them
and keep going. But watch out for:

1. MANAGE YOUR TIME
You still have to do your homework, sport, chores, friends, families - so manage your time to fit it all in. Use timetables and checklists.

2. DON'T BREAK THE LAW
Do your research, ask around and make sure you don't do something really wrong! There is still a lot of room for your awesome ideas, within the law!

3. GET THINGS IN WRITING
Any agreements you make with friends, family, customers, suppliers etc you should get in writing, contracts, quotes, prices, what you will deliver etc, to protect yourself and others.

4. CAREFULLY MANAGE YOUR MONEY
You have worked hard to make it, so look after it! It’s very easy to just go out and blow it all on yourself, but then how will your business have its doors open tomorrow for you to make more money?? So put aside money for bills and costs before you pay yourself, avoid debt early on, and regularly check your cashflow and where your money is coming from. Also shop around for the best bank account so that all your hard earned dosh is not being taken in charges!

5. DON'T STOP IF YOU FAIL
Failure is not a bad thing - ask any successful young person in business and they will tell you that failure and mistakes is what got them to where they are now! Work out why it didn't work, how it can be improved, learn and then try again.

TOP 5 TIPS FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS JUST STARTING OUT

1. BE EXCITED & interested in your business idea
It takes a lot of hard work to make your idea happen so you want to make sure you really
enjoy it, whether it is food, computers, helping people, service etc, and your excitement
attracts people too! Being excited and energetic comes easy to young people, so use that
to your advantage.

2. GET YOUR IDEAS ON PAPER
This will help you get structure to your idea, plan things out, you can show it to others, and
it will show you where to start. Keep it simple.

3. DO SOME RESEARCH
It doesn't need to be too much, just enough to get you started. Research costs, prices to
charge, what competitors are doing, what customers want, legalities etc.

4. START SMALL
Just build yourself 1 customer at a time, this way you don't need much money to start with
at all. Just make a small profit each time so that you can keep going, and get a little better
next time.

5. JUST GIVE IT A GO!
The easiest thing to do is to have a great idea, the hardest thing to do is to actually give it
a go and do something about it, and by giving it a go you will learn a lot about yourself
and money. So just get started, NOW!

Congrats to Fred Schebesta and Callan Taylor - winners of 30under30!

Here at The FRANK Team, we'd love to extend a big CONGRATULATIONS to Callan Taylor (our SA facilitator) and Fred Schebesta (Director and occasional guest speaker/article contributor), who have been named as winners in Australian Anthill's 30under30 competition! This is for their amazing entrepreneurship, unique business ideas and approach, and ongoing great work! Keep it up :)

10 Secrets to Marketing Your Business Online

10 secrets to marketing small business online

Being online levels the playing field, as, big or small,everyone has the same chance to attract customers.

By following some basic principles, you can receive the same coverage as major players and see your business take off using savvy, affordable marketing.

1. Create a Website of course! - Without a web presence you don't exist online. So the first and most obvious step is to create one! The key to keeping customers happy in the online environment is to design a website that is both aesthetically and functionally pleasing. When you’re designing your website, create a situation where every page drives a consumer action and generates a sales lead for your business.
2. Convert Visitors to Leads - To turn your website from a passive, "brochure-ware" site that delivers a lot of information but doesn't deliver results, you need to refocus your strategy from delivering free information and content, to providing relevant content that drives consumer action. Supplying information is both necessary and helpful to readers and handy in raising your search engine rankings. Always ask yourself, "what is my call to action" - these can take the form of links to downloads, requesting consumer information, advertising, offers or promotions. At the very least, encourage users to make contact with you, either by phone or email.
3. Build Trust & Credibility - Being open and transparent is crucial to success in online marketing. Prove you are a concrete, reliable business by including as many of the following as possible: clear contact details including a physical address and landline phone number, photos and images of employees, location and equipment, third party endorsements and verification of your authenticity including ‘approved’ stamps and/or testimonials. Also, be sure to reply to all contact enquiries promptly with an acknowledgement of emails sent by users and/or response to phone messages.
4. Search Engine Leads - the first step to finding what you need on the internet is running a search on a company name, product name, service or activity. Research shows that high search engine rankings are a major predictor of online business success. After 30 results, users stop looking, so it’s vital you sit within this top percentile. So to optimise your business’ search engine ranking, use search engine optimisation (ie: having key words associated with the content on your
site so people find you when searching) and search engine marketing (you can pay to have your site link featured on the right hand side of search results pages).
5. Email Market/eDM - The power of online can be summed up by email marketing. It’s a cost-effective, efficient, traceable, relationship-building tool for regularly communicating with your existing and potential consumers. We have all heard of the 80:20 rule in marketing: 80% of your business comes from 20% of your customers. Email marketing is the easiest way to continue an ongoing, targeted dialogue with them. 5 top secrets for Email Marketing Success are: regularity, short punchy content, calls to action, personalisation, and maintaining a clean list (database).
6. Affiliate Market - As well as buying listings in search engine results, you can buy or trade listings on relevant directories and/or cross-promotional websites. Reciprocal link-backs improve both websites' natural search engine listings.
7. Partnerships & Links - As with affiliate marketing, the success of this tactic lies in increasing your exposure through both cross-promotion on related websites, and also through upping your search engine listing thanks to increased link-backs. There are many avenues to increasing your presence, for free or at a low cost on related websites. Submit articles to other websites and free PR websites, submit sites to directories, buy links, buy partnerships e.g.
Emailcash, List on Shopferret and price comparision websites.
8. Blogging - Running a business, you are clearly an expert in your field. Invite potential and current customers to share your expertise and get a taste of how your knowledge will positively impact them, by creating a blog. Blogs create a community around those with common interests and become a tool for sharing and developing ideas. Their major advantage is creating an open, accessible channel to boost consumer involvement. They can be used to encourage trials,
conduct on-the-ground research, and develop ongoing customer relationships. Plus there’s stacks of software online to set up your blog - all for free! We use www.blogger.com but there’s a huge range out there to choose from.
9. Email Signature - Think about how many emails you send out each day, each week, each month. Now multiply that by the emails sent by your employees and/or subcontractors. Every one of those emails is an opportunity to market your business. As well as including your standard contact details, and always, always your website URL; the smart online marketer also uses this opportunity to promote their latest offer, promotion, or release. Alternately it can be used to build your brand identity or value-add to consumers, and grow your relationships.
10. Track & Respond - Every web host keeps detailed statistics of activities occurring on your website; from the number of visitors, to downloads, where people landed and left the site,how long they stayed, to where they spent most of their time. Analyse this information and use it to continually improve your site's performance based on this silent customer feedback. The beauty of the Internet is that you can change your marketing and track its effects immediately. If something is working, stick with it. If not, change it again.

Going Forward
While you may not have the financial resources of the big guns, you do share access to the same technology: online. Use it to your advantage, and watch your small business grow!

This article was provided by Fred Schebesta, Director of Freestyle Media.

Marketing Tip - Know Your Competition...

Again, I know it sounds basic. But it is SO important, and it can take a lot of time to really do the research into this area!

So, firstly there's your direct competitors - those who provide the same product/service that you do. Who are they and what makes them different to you? What is their core value proposition, their unique selling proposition?

But what about those who provide products that could replace yours - substitute products? If you sell breakfast cereal, bread is a competitor too! As are those shake up pancake mixes. And yoghurt. What are you doing about them?

And have you thought about those who provide products that compliment yours? Sticking with the breakfast cereal example, what about milk providers? Are you sure they aren't working with other breakfast cereal providers to get new products out onto the market? What would that do you to if it did happen? And why aren't you working with them?