Managing a business - The Small Business Site

Relying on written statements in a disciplinary hearing

Article provided by Sanlam and written by Jan Truter from Labourwise It is normal practice in disciplinary hearings for the accused and witnesses to appear in person. The accused would have an opportunity to face and cross-examine witnesses, followed by an opportunity to fully state his or her case and present further evidence. Occasionally, situations arise where the necessity for such a process is called into question.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamAugust 23, 20170Comments

Business Success Managing a business

Body Language 101: what impression are you sharing?

Did you know that most of the communication you do is non-verbal. With only 7% of communication being based on words, it has become critical to master the non-verbal aspect of communication. Non-verbal communication or body language looks at what impression are you sharing. Many times this is also done unknowingly. Here are some points to consider.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamAugust 16, 20170Comments

Business Success Managing a business

Small business failure: 6 ways to stop your small business from failing

With 70% of small businesses in South Africa failing in their first year it is important to know why. What causes entrepreneurs to fail and how can you overcome the hurdles to exceed your expectations. Here are six points to consider to help keep your business afloat.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamAugust 9, 20170Comments

Human Resources Managing a business

The ins and outs of an employee’s handbook

An employee handbook is a great communication tool that can be used by businesses to convey their culture and values to new and current employees. It is important that it inspires one to read it instead of being a bland and boring document which people sign for but never read. Your handbook should answer two simple questions: Why do you I want to work here? and why do I want to continue working here? Here are some helpful tips to consider when creating an employee’s handbook.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamAugust 1, 20170Comments

Human Resources Labour Law Managing a business

What an employer should do in case of national protest action

Article provided by Sanlam and written by Jan Truter from Labourwise (www.labourwise.co.za) From time to time there are calls from civil society or trade unions for citizens to participate in protest action. This could result in employees staying away from work. Given the possibility of widespread disruption, the question is how should employers respond to such situations?

ByNicola TapsonJuly 26, 20170Comments

Going Global Import Managing a business

The quality control process

Article provided by China Homelife Fair and China Machinex There is a misconception regarding importing Chinese products from suppliers, one that alludes to the quality of products manufactured in China. It is important to note that most Chinese suppliers will make a product based on the requirements of the buyer. The cheaper the product is to manufacture, the poorer the quality will be. It is up to the buyer to specify the quality of the product prior to signing the contract. However, the quality control process is vital in ensuring that when you receive your final shipment from China, your products are up to your standards.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamJuly 26, 20170Comments

Human Resources Managing a business

Out of sight, never out of mind

Article provided by TomTom When you need to make every cent count, relying on blind faith in your staff while they are out of the office is a risk you cannot afford. A mobile workforce management solution can give you peace of mind, maximise efficiency and make your staff’s lives easier too. The number of jobs that require a substantial amount of work ‘on the road’ are always increasing – from courier services and regional sales representatives to on-site technicians, handymen and even nurses – but the headaches for managers back at the office remain the same.

ByNicola TapsonJuly 19, 20170Comments

Managing a business

The importance of a value chain for small business

Do you want to have a competitive edge? Do you need to contain costs? Then you should consider the importance of the value chain in your small business.

ByNSBC Editorial TeamJuly 12, 20170Comments

Business Success Managing a business

What can you do to be more professional in business?

Article written by Jannie Rossouw, Head: Sanlam Business Market It is my experience as a consumer and sample of one, that the level of professionalism in business is on the decline. The question, therefore, is what it means to be professional in our businesses and what can we do to improve our level of professionalism.

ByNicola TapsonJuly 11, 20170Comments

Managing a business

7 technology strategies your small businesses must have

Technology helps a growing number of small businesses to improve their efficiency and productivity. Here are seven tools to have in your technology pack:

ByNSBC Editorial TeamJuly 5, 20170Comments