Member profile: Flying Solo, Small Business Start Up Articles & Advice, Australia

It’s not you. It’s me.

Who’d have thought that the greatest cop-out break-up line would have such relevance in the world of bad business behaviour? Well, it does for me anyway. Read more

Comments: 17

Why is this person being so brutal?

09 Apr 13 | Robert Gerrish

Running a small business sometimes brings pressures that feel anything but small. I’ve got one person in particular who just keeps giving me grief. You know him. Read more

Comments: 12

Coping with change: Lessons from a 12-year-old boy

05 Mar 13 | Robert Gerrish

Master Gerrish has just started high school and while Jane and I are in a spin, Wonder Boy is taking it in his stride. Here are a few lessons he’s brought home. Read more

Comments: 12

Take a small step for a big change

29 Jan 13 | Robert Gerrish

If you’re contemplating another year in business with even a smidgeon of dread and foreboding, spend five minutes reading this. Read more

Comments: 10

The 15-minute end-of-year report

04 Dec 12 | Robert Gerrish

As we near the end of 2012, how would you like a performance report to turn up on your desk? Would you devour it or get the dog to eat it? Here’s a way to produce one quickly and effectively that can help you prepare for the year ahead. Read more

Comments: 10

Lessons from the road: 5 tips for online success

17 Nov 12 | Robert Gerrish

Part of my role in the Driving Business Online seminar series was to present my ‘Five tips for online success’. Let’s look at how the theories stack up after a few months on the road. Read more

Comments: 0

Hurry up and slow down

30 Oct 12 | Robert Gerrish

Moving slowly can be an attractive sentiment, but can you get by in today’s speedy environment chugging along in the left-hand lane? I think you can. Read more

Comments: 4

Multi-channel: The new language of retailing

22 Oct 12 | Robert Gerrish

I must confess that at the start of our Driving Business Online tour with PayPal my knowledge of online retailing was limited. I’m rapidly catching up, and here’s one important thing I’ve learnt about the exciting new-to-me topic of multi-channel. Read more

Comments: 0

Present tense? Future perfect!

25 Sep 12 | Robert Gerrish

I first saw this phrase sprayed on a wall in Soweto, South Africa, in 1994 and clearly it represented the hope and dreams of a nation. As a soloist, I’m all for positive-future visions. It’s the sitting in a state of tension I don’t like. Read more

Comments: 15

Five myths of selling online

24 Sep 12 | Robert Gerrish

One of the joys of touring with the Driving Business Online team is meeting the diverse business owners that attend the events. Many are solo operators and the majority are either yet to commence selling online or are taking their first tentative steps. Read more

Comments: 2

Act quirky. People talk about quirky.

21 Aug 12 | Robert Gerrish

When our recent research revealed that ‘word-of-mouth’ continues to be a key source of business leads, it came as no surprise. But are we doing all we could? Read more

Comments: 16

The Flying Solo Story: How it all began

01 Aug 12 | Robert Gerrish

In this podcast, recorded in August 2012, Brendan Tacey from Aspire Radio talks to Flying Solo founder, Robert Gerrish. Read more

The age of the eternal novice

17 Jul 12 | Robert Gerrish

A while back I was sure my growing anxiety over the speed of change was the onset of middle age. But as 50 is clearly the new 25, I realised it really isn’t an age thing. Well, not in terms of “years old”, that is. Read more

Comments: 11

I really want to help you

12 Jun 12 | Robert Gerrish

What do you do when confronted with a perfect fit for your services and yet there’s no indication you’re needed or wanted? The answer is: speak up. Read more

Comments: 6

Do I have to do everything?

08 May 12 | Robert Gerrish

Whether or not you like Madonna’s music, with over 200 million album sales under her belt, there’s no denying she’s a master chef of the music industry. Ask her about her cooking prowess, though, and it’s a different story. Read more

Comments: 11

So good, it had to stop.

03 Apr 12 | Robert Gerrish

After four sell out years, we’ve decided to pull the plug on our annual Flying Solo LIVE! event. Here’s why. Read more

Comments: 17

Switching off from work

13 Feb 12 | Robert Gerrish

A side effect of the 'constantly connected' way of working, is added pressure on the boundary between work and play. In this short video interview, Sacha Crouch has some very practical tips that will help. Read more

Comments: 0

The easy-entrepreneur boom

07 Feb 12 | Robert Gerrish

It’s a wonderful thing that we live in a time where the lure of the entrepreneur is at such a high. But is ease of access coming at the cost of creating businesses with staying power? Read more

Comments: 42

How soloists can make the best music

10 Jan 12 | Robert Gerrish

A couple of months ago I witnessed an incredible performance of a group of musicians performing songs I thought I knew. We can do the same with our work. Read more

Comments: 5

Video: How to ask for testimonials

12 Dec 11 | Robert Gerrish

If you've ever struggled to obtain testimonials from past clients, or hesitated to even ask, you need to watch this video. Dale Beaumont has a wonderful 4-step process and it's priceless. Read more

You shouldn’t keep it a secret

06 Dec 11 | Robert Gerrish

There you are, blissfully working away with no boss, no timekeeper and your own unique sense of personal style, deeply immersed in the joys of solitude. But are you forgetting someone? Read more

Comments: 18

How to make 2012 your best year yet

08 Nov 11 | Robert Gerrish

Right now we’re turning our attention to the year ahead and we’ve decided 2012 will be Flying Solo’s best yet. Here’s what we’re going to do. Read more

Comments: 3

Video: How to create and use lead magnets

31 Oct 11 | Robert Gerrish

It's one thing to get traffic to your website, it's another to get visitors to begin an ongoing dialogue with you. In this video, Dale Beaumont tells you how it's done. Read more

Are you really ready to attract new business?

11 Oct 11 | Robert Gerrish

In a conversation with one of my coaching clients this week, I was reminded of a simple strategy I learned years ago, but had filed away in my mind. See what you make of it. Read more

Comments: 22

Know your audience: Who’s in the room?

13 Sep 11 | Robert Gerrish

Amongst the many insights from our wonderful Independents’ Day speakers was a reminder of the importance of knowing your audience. Read more

Comments: 7

Gloomy outlook? Try these actions to stay on top.

16 Aug 11 | Robert Gerrish

It’s impossible to read the news without getting the distinct impression we’re heading for stormy weather. Here’s what you need to do. Read more

Comments: 7

Keep your eyes on the road

19 Jul 11 | Robert Gerrish

Whoosh! What was that? That was the first half of 2011 racing past in the outside lane. The faster you’re travelling, the more crucial you stay pointing in the right direction. Here’s how to keep your eyes on the road. Read more

Comments: 16

Quarterly review: What’s next?

21 Jun 11 | Robert Gerrish

Every quarter, Sam, Peter and I contemplate Flying Solo’s future. We’ll laugh, banter …we may even shed a tear. It’s all part of the fun of a quarterly review. Read more

Comments: 15

Reaching those who count

24 May 11 | Robert Gerrish

"Don’t count the people you reach, reach the people who count." It’s a classic saying, but with today’s focus on accumulating followers, has it become outmoded? I don’t think so. Read more

Comments: 12

Benefits of doing things differently

21 May 11 | Robert Gerrish

Do you ever feel you’re doing the same old stuff, the same old way? If so, you could do well to take a leaf out of the book of the 70 year old Robert discusses in this short video. Read more

Comments: 0

Picking up when plans fail

26 Apr 11 | Robert Gerrish

We’ve just had to pull the pin on our live event in Melbourne for this year and we’re not happy about it. Here’s how we intend to pick ourselves up. Read more

Comments: 22

Writing emails that get opened

09 Apr 11 | Robert Gerrish

Email inbox full to bursting? Thought so. Sadly your potential clients and customers are in a similar situation. So how do you get your email to stand out? In this short video, Paul Jones has the answer. Read more

Comments: 0

Note to self: Slow down

29 Mar 11 | Robert Gerrish

One person in particular needs to get the following message: Me. But if you’re moving too fast for comfort, I’m happy to share. Read more

Comments: 34

Boundaries and why we need them

19 Mar 11 | Robert Gerrish

In this short video, Robert explores the importance of establishing boundaries. He uses the rather unfortunate example of a measure he took to banish his young son from his office. Mean man. Read more

Comments: 1

“It’s absolutely the pits!” Michael Gerber’s take on soloism.

01 Mar 11 | Robert Gerrish

I was stoked to get the man behind the E-Myth into the video studio recently, but in this second interview Michael Gerber shows he’s not one of us. Poor guy. Read more

Comments: 47

Key traits of a super salesperson

26 Feb 11 | Robert Gerrish

Sales guru, Neil Rackham has done far more than most when it comes to researching and understanding the behaviours of a successful salesperson. In this video interview he points out some key traits to assist us. Read more

Comments: 1

Making the most of your personal brand

05 Feb 11 | Robert Gerrish

In this video, Robert catches up with Stylist, Speaker and Author, Ben Angel. Together they explore the topic of making the most of your personal brand. Ben's tips may just have you taking a fresh look at how you carry yourself. Read more

Comments: 0

Business partnerships: Think outside the jar

01 Feb 11 | Robert Gerrish

Schools have gone back and there’s a sense of quiet relief around the household. Particularly for the geckos in our garden. Here’s why. Read more

Comments: 53

Classic writing blunders exposed!

22 Jan 11 | Robert Gerrish

Business writing requires skills different to the ones most of us have been taught. In this video, Robert talks to Paul Jones who reveals five writing failings and how to avoid them. Read more

Comments: 0

The joys of uncertainty

04 Jan 11 | Robert Gerrish

Like a number of other businesses, Flying Solo operates in a sector that is evolving at high speed. It can be hard to plan for the year ahead when the future refuses to give up its secrets. But that’s half the fun. Read more

Comments: 12

Get noticed by journalists

01 Jan 11 | Robert Gerrish

Free publicity is priceless, but it can be hard to get a journalist's attention. In this video, Robert talks to Flying Solo contributor Philippa Lowe and discovers just how to get noticed. Read more

Comments: 6

The girl with the impossible name

07 Dec 10 | Robert Gerrish

Having recently devoured the Stieg Larsson trilogy, I’m very familiar with hard to pronounce names, but what I just read on a real estate agent’s signboard is surely not good for business. Read more

Comments: 59

How to sell in tricky times

18 Nov 10 | Robert Gerrish

In a tough market, determining how to approach sales can be a critical issue. Often we assume it's all about price. Neil Rackham thinks otherwise. Read more

Comments: 5

The benefits of being copied

09 Nov 10 | Robert Gerrish

If you’re onto something good, it’s likely that sooner or later someone will give it a go, too. Surprisingly, being copied can be good for business. Here’s why. Read more

Comments: 23

Business lessons from cake baking

20 Oct 10 | Robert Gerrish

In this short video, Julia Bickerstaff shares some analogies between baking a cake and building a business. Read more

Comments: 1

Why leaving your desk is good

13 Oct 10 | Robert Gerrish

In this video, Robert Gerrish talks about finding the right head space to create ideas. Read more

Comments: 7

Authenticity: The perils of the ill fitting suit

12 Oct 10 | Robert Gerrish

The shift to a more personal approach to business makes authenticity more important than ever. How well does your suit fit? Read more

Comments: 13

How to become a futurist

08 Oct 10 | Robert Gerrish

In this short video interview, Craig Rispin tells us how to be a futurist. Read more

Comments: 1

How to close a sale

01 Oct 10 | Robert Gerrish

In this short video, Steve Herzberg shares some great tips with Robert Gerrish on closing the sale. Read more

Comments: 1

25 ways to increase your energy levels

14 Sep 10 | Robert Gerrish

If you're suffering from procrastination, or just a growing sense of frustration (even though the precise reason may elude you), it could be time to stir things up a bit and increase your energy levels. Read more

Comments: 18

Prioritising tasks: Leaving on a high

17 Aug 10 | Robert Gerrish

If you’re having the kind of day where you effortlessly fill the hours, but don’t get any sense of achievement, I may have the answer, and it involves prioritising tasks. Read more

Comments: 13

The Power of Community

20 Jul 10 | Robert Gerrish

Coming up with the theme for this year’s Flying Solo LIVE! wasn’t difficult. We get daily reminders of what’s possible when like-minded people come together. But what’s in it for you? Read more

Comments: 0

The pursuit of productivity

10 Jul 10 | Robert Gerrish

At the core of any successful quest to improve productivity, is a clear awareness of priorities. Read more

Eliminating tolerations: Dealing with unfinished business

29 Jun 10 | Robert Gerrish

Are you, like me, surrounded by a myriad of itsy bitsy things pleading for your attention? And are you sick of how this messes with your mind? Try these actions to help with eliminating tolerations. Read more

Comments: 6

Social media for business: Why bother?

08 Jun 10 | Robert Gerrish

There’s plenty of justification for using social media for business, but for many, the rush overshadows the reason. Read more

Comments: 23

Business lessons from the soccer field

18 May 10 | Robert Gerrish

My son started soccer last year and frankly, his early performances weren’t the best. Then something interesting emerged and today it’s a different story. I see many parallels with business. Read more

Comments: 8

Attract better, more lucrative clients

11 May 10 | Robert Gerrish

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could attract better clients and increase your fees? Well it may not be as difficult as it sounds. Read more

Comments: 19

The good and bad of cost saving

10 May 10 | Robert Gerrish

I recently met a visiting US sales guru who made a great comment about buying habits in a downturn. His observations serve as a good reminder when we are the ones spending. Read more

Business downsizing: When receding beats growth

27 Apr 10 | Robert Gerrish

A couple of days ago an email dropped into my inbox from an old client who’d just undone years of expansion. Was he happy to be solo again? You bet! Read more

Comments: 42

Outsourcing tasks: Charlie’s an angel

05 Apr 10 | Robert Gerrish

Just imagine someone who takes away all the niggling chores that get in the way of success and prosperity. Meet Charlie. We hope to soon and here’s how we’re doing it. Read more

Comments: 15

Online promotion: Don't shoot yourself in the foot

15 Mar 10 | Robert Gerrish

Observing discussions in our forums is very occasionally an abject lesson in how not to conduct online promotion. I bet we’ve all seen this scenario. Read more

Comments: 24

Working productively when there’s a lot going on

22 Feb 10 | Robert Gerrish

I like to think of myself as an organised and focused person. I work well with action lists and I’m good at prioritising, but lately things have been spiralling out of control. Here’s how I intend to pull it back and keep working productively. Read more

Comments: 12

Older entrepreneurs: In praise of blooming late

01 Feb 10 | Robert Gerrish

Scan the blogosphere or bestseller list and you'd think that no-one over thirty succeeds at business. Not so. There are plenty of older entrepreneurs. After all, what's the rush? Read more

Comments: 42

Projecting the right business image online

11 Jan 10 | Robert Gerrish

A very popular area of the Flying Solo online forums is where members invite feedback to a new business concept, website or logo. Those responding with business feedback don’t mince their words and that’s half the magic. Here’s what I’ve learned. Read more

Comments: 3

Handling difficult conversations

31 Dec 09 | Robert Gerrish

Whether it's dealing with suppliers, chasing clients for money or simply dealing with other business owners, the odd tricky conversation is inevitable. In this video, Hugh Gyton shares some tips on handling them. Read more

Comments: 0

Processes and why we need them

24 Dec 09 | Robert Gerrish

If you've ever read small business classic, The E-Myth, you'll be aware that processes and procedures are highly valuable to our enterprises. But you still haven't written any, right? Watch this video and learn how to get started. Read more

Comments: 0

Creating a vision board

14 Dec 09 | Robert Gerrish

Now is the perfect time to capture your vision for the year ahead by creating a vision board. Read more

Comments: 19

New clients: Asking the right questions

23 Nov 09 | Robert Gerrish

One lesson learnt from a decade of coaching is the power and value of questions. Are you asking the right questions? Read more

Comments: 22

Business transparency: All puff, no substance

02 Nov 09 | Robert Gerrish

Previously I wrote a piece on common mistakes with online business websites and took a swipe at ugly sites designed purely to hook people in. I copped some flack and was accused by some of being precious and superficial. Read more

Comments: 23

The Me Myth

16 Oct 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this brief video filmed at Flying Solo LIVE! I catch up again with Andrew Griffiths. Andrew was our opening keynote presenter at this year's event and what a terrific presentation he gave. Read more

Comments: 0

How acronyms help articulation (HAHA!)

12 Oct 09 | Robert Gerrish

It seems increasingly difficult to get far into a business conversation before someone chucks a curve ball question that leaves you tongue-tied. Enter the soloist’s saviour, the acronym. Read more

Comments: 14

Cloud computing explained

27 Sep 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video, I catch up with Zoe Freeman, an online advocate and lover of anything that aids productivity. Zoe explains the meaning and benefits of cloud computing and shares her tips on some stand out applications. Read more

Comments: 0

Persuasive writing: how and why it works

27 Sep 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video, I catch up with good friend and professional writer & trainer, Paul Jones. Paul is a master of persuasive writing and his tips are simple and easy to apply to anything you write. Read more

Comments: 0

Coping with isolation

24 Sep 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video I talk with prolific writer & small business expert, Andrew Griffiths. He shares tips to handle the dreaded feeling of isolation that can permeate our work. Using experiences from the big end of town, Andrew shares some practical advice. Read more

Comments: 3

Top five networking mistakes

23 Sep 09 | Robert Gerrish

It's not unusual for soloists, particularly newbies, to network with lots of business cards and the mindset of a super-salesman, but is this the right approach? In this video, contributor and networking expert, Kim McGuinness share her tips. Read more

Comments: 5

Self projection: Exposing the real deal

21 Sep 09 | Robert Gerrish

Listening to comments at the Flying Solo LIVE! event, I was reminded of how quickly others draw opinions from what they see and hear, and what an important role self projection can play. Are you projecting the image you want others to observe? Read more

Comments: 7

Building business relationships: Why touching people is good

31 Aug 09 | Robert Gerrish

Recently I got a call from one of those super-popular people. You know the type: thousands of ‘followers’, stacks of ‘connections’ and squillions of ‘friends’. Boy did I feel special. Not for long. Read more

Comments: 37

Are you a necessity or a luxury business?

10 Aug 09 | Robert Gerrish

If there’s one group of soloists who’ll definitely have noticed a change in business enquiries in recent months, it’s those in the ‘luxury’ business. If that’s you, it’s time for a necessity makeover. Read more

Comments: 20

How to bullet proof your business

29 Jul 09 | Robert Gerrish

A keynote speaker at 2009's Flying Solo LIVE! Andrew Griffiths has a stack of valuable information to share. Get a taster in this short interview he undertook recently with Robert Gerrish. Read more

Comments: 2

Get that sale!

22 Jul 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video I talk with Steve Herzberg. Steve trains the big end of town and as it turns out, his tips are ideal for us soloists. Happily, we snared him as a speaker at Flying Solo LIVE! 2009. Check him out. Read more

Comments: 2

Bring out the best

20 Jul 09 | Robert Gerrish

Words and headlines with double-meanings keep my easily distracted mind entertained. Best I explain the meanings of this week’s headline before I charge off on another tangent. Read more

Comments: 8

Video: How to get media attention

15 Jul 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video I talk to journalist, author, entrepreneur & Flying Solo LIVE! presenter Valerie Khoo. A must-view if you want to know what a journo really looks for and get some great tips to spread your message in the media. Read more

Comments: 8

Video: The connected business

08 Jul 09 | Robert Gerrish

Iggy Pintado takes us through the four steps necessary to be a connected business and shares tips regarding the roles of Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Read more

Comments: 2

Avoiding early adopter anguish

29 Jun 09 | Robert Gerrish

If you regularly worry that you’re missing the boat on some new innovation, or get rattled by the continual brilliance of others, rest assured, you’re not alone in experiencing early adopter anguish. Read more

Comments: 29

How to prepare for disaster

17 Jun 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video interview, I talk to Flying Solo contributor Greg Pritchard on the topic of how to prepare for disaster. For many soloists, most of their valuable information and data is kept in one place and that's the very place where disaster can strike. Read more

Comments: 1

How to get published

10 Jun 09 | Robert Gerrish

There can be little doubt that writing and publishing a book is a great way to build your profile and grow your business. Watch this video interview with publishing maverick, Lisa Messenger to better understand what needs to be done. Read more

Comments: 1

Personal & business growth tip: Start a network

08 Jun 09 | Robert Gerrish

Recently, I delivered a workshop in seven regional locations. It was a great reminder of the distinction between an audience and a network. Read more

Comments: 13

How to lead in challenging times

27 May 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video I talk with Flying Solo contributor John Raymond on the topic of leadership. But as soloists, do we need to worry about such stuff? We most certainly do, John explains. Read more

Comments: 2

Website basics: Good design wins!

21 May 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video, Flying Solo contributor Tristan Boyd discusses the basics of setting up your first website. As you'll hear, succeeding online requires good planning and good design. Read more

Comments: 0

A brainstorming session

18 May 09 | Robert Gerrish

Not so long ago, some 70 business people gathered to hear me talk. Unfortunately I was still in my pyjamas and more than 500km away. It turned out to be a great brainstorming session. Read more

Comments: 17

Writing for the web

29 Apr 09 | Robert Gerrish

Writing for the web is not the same as writing for a brochure or magazine. There are many essential differences that you need to consider. Here are 23 simple tips I’ve picked up over the years. Read more

Comments: 4

How was your day?

27 Apr 09 | Robert Gerrish

Your day at the office has been spent in meetings, then you battle rush hour traffic to get home. On the front porch, your smiling spouse greets you with “How was your day, dear?” Familiar? No, didn’t think so. Read more

Comments: 18

How to attract clients

15 Apr 09 | Robert Gerrish

My guest in this video interview is business attraction specialist, Richard Woodward. He works with organisations seeking sponsorship and helps businesses grow their client list. Read more

Comments: 6

Video: Networking without leaving your desk

08 Apr 09 | Robert Gerrish

Here I talk with Suzi Dafnis, the powerhouse behind the Australian Businesswomen's Network, a national organisation of women business-owners. If you're wondering what social networking can do for your business, this is for you. Read more

Comments: 3

Online business websites: Common mistakes

06 Apr 09 | Robert Gerrish

Having started my first business as the last recession took hold, I have some strangely positive recollections. Like how the marketplace rids itself of online business websites that frankly never deserved to be there. Read more

Comments: 49

The importance of business development days

16 Mar 09 | Robert Gerrish

Just imagine one day a week devoted to growing your business. A business development day devoid of the usual interruptions and distractions. I’ve done it. It works and here’s how. Read more

Comments: 38

Measuring business performance

11 Mar 09 | Robert Gerrish

In this video I speak with Stacey Barr about measuring the performance of a small business. How do we know where to focus our effort? By closely observing what works. Stacey shows us how. Read more

Comments: 2

Taxi driver wisdom

23 Feb 09 | Robert Gerrish

Recently, I was invited to present at a breakfast meeting. In fact, five of us stood up and spoke, but it’s the taxi driver wisdom I got from my cabbie that morning that’s stuck with me. Read more

Comments: 25

Tips for getting media coverage

02 Feb 09 | Robert Gerrish

At Flying Solo, we get some valuable media coverage. Not only is this great for our brand, it makes us smile a lot! Here are some tips from our approach to the media that may help you with yours. Read more

Comments: 11

KPI's: Don’t stop the good stuff

12 Jan 09 | Robert Gerrish

As we hurtle into an uncertain year, you may be tempted to pull back on some business activities. So how do you decide what gets the chop? By getting clear on your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Read more

Comments: 4

Small business forums: Wisdom of the crowd

15 Dec 08 | Robert Gerrish

When we launched our small business forums, we didn’t expect to have over 900 posts up and running in the first ten days. Numbers aside, it’s what was being shared that was really amazing. Read more

Comments: 3

Grow your business: Sack a client!

24 Nov 08 | Robert Gerrish

With all this talk of downturn, why not go against the flow and do something radical to grow your business? A client of mine did and she’s still reaping the benefits. If you work with anyone who drives you nuts, you’d best read on. Read more

Comments: 59

The importance of using checklists

03 Nov 08 | Robert Gerrish

It amazes me how many times I come away from a life experience with something valuable to my business. In many cases, the gems are as simple as they are surprising. Here’s one about using checklists that I was reminded of a couple of weeks ago. Read more

Comments: 23

Online social networking update

13 Oct 08 | Robert Gerrish

A few weeks ago I announced my online social networking experiment. Well, the early results are in and I can tell you they have really surprised me. I see many compelling reasons to delve further. Read more

Comments: 10

Words of wisdom: The things people say

22 Sep 08 | Robert Gerrish

Simple, memorable words of wisdom can come from anywhere. Here are some personal favourites. Read more

Comments: 30

Is online social networking for us?

01 Sep 08 | Robert Gerrish

Good question. After some cursory Googling it’s clear the jury’s still out on the value of online social networking. The stampede of early adopters would have us believe it’s a must-have, but is it? Read more

Comments: 39

Finding hidden equity in your business

11 Aug 08 | Robert Gerrish

I don’t know about you, but I am getting bored with all this ‘downturn’ talk. Next time someone directs the conversation towards doom and gloom, either stick your fingers in your ears or help them find some hidden equity. Read more

Comments: 16

Business relationships: How can I help you?

21 Jul 08 | Robert Gerrish

In our business relationships we often tend to focus more on 'what can you do for me?’ rather ‘what can I do for you?’, but is this the best way to create meaningful business relationships? Read more

Comments: 17

An effective business coaching strategy

30 Jun 08 | Robert Gerrish

In the process of my work as a coach, I have one effective business coaching strategy that regularly creates a big shift for my clients. The funny thing is, I don’t do a thing. Let me tell you how it works. Read more

Comments: 13

The solution to small business challenges

09 Jun 08 | Robert Gerrish

One of the questions we set our 1,770 respondents in our 2008 Understanding Micro Business survey, had to do with the three biggest small business challenges we are faced with. Here’s what we discovered, along with my solution. Read more

Comments: 26

Business performance feedback: Gordon Ramsay

20 May 08 | Robert Gerrish

So there I was quietly going about my work when foul mouthed Gordon Ramsay burst in and gave it to me with both barrels. Some of his business performance feedback was hard to swallow. Read more

Comments: 46

Client meetings: What am I doing here?

28 Apr 08 | Robert Gerrish

I’m as social as the next guy. I love people and I adore lounging around in cafés. One thing I hate, though, is putting on a posh shirt and slogging across town for client meetings only to have my time wasted. Frankly, I’m over it. Read more

Comments: 40

Managing deadlines: Avoid deadline dangers

07 Apr 08 | Robert Gerrish

Deadlines can work for or against your solo business. How well you manage them depends on how well you manage client expectations. Here’s a way of managing deadlines to ensure your solo business avoids deadline dangers. Read more

Comments: 24

Marketing tips for targeting small business

12 Feb 08 | Robert Gerrish

With more than one million businesses in Australia falling into the micro category, it can be hard to attract their attention. This article provides four marketing tips for targeting small businesses. Read more

Comments: 14

The easy way to speak to target prospects

11 Feb 08 | Robert Gerrish

This one’s for those who love speaking, but struggle to find an audience; hate speaking, but know people; or simply don’t have anything very interesting to say. It’s a straightforward strategy to target prospects and I think you’ll like it. Read more

Comments: 23

Goal setting strategy: Aim high

21 Jan 08 | Robert Gerrish

Several years ago I took a stab at managing a pop band. They were good musicians. I was an okay manager. Together we failed abysmally. I think I know why. We didn't have the correct goal setting strategy. Read more

Comments: 23

Celebrating small business successes

17 Dec 07 | Robert Gerrish

In our solo business, dominated at times by big, hairy goals, it’s easy to overlook the importance and value of smaller business successes. In this exercise, I invite you to stop and answer three simple questions. It’ll only take a minute or two. Read more

Comments: 16

Business deadlines: Let yourself off the hook

27 Nov 07 | Robert Gerrish

In December, the world of the solo business owner can go somewhat wobbly. Sound familiar? Thought so. Welcome to what I consider the most uncomfortable few weeks of the silly season. I suggest it’s time to let some business deadlines go. Read more

Comments: 27

Money management: Tips for solo businesses

13 Nov 07 | Robert Gerrish

Recently I wrote a piece that generated quite a discussion. It was about a soloist who was uncomfortable with money. Here's a summary of your excellent money management tips. Read more

Comments: 3

Successful business strategies: Is faster better?

05 Nov 07 | Robert Gerrish

It seems to me that everywhere I look someone is trying to persuade us to accomplish things more quickly. Doubtless there are successful business strategies and products that can help us be more efficient, but is faster always better? Read more

Comments: 11

Money management skills: A question of money

15 Oct 07 | Robert Gerrish

Oh, no it’s happened again. I’ve just finished a conversation about money management skills with yet another person who’s allowed money to wreak havoc. Read more

Comments: 79

How do you stop procrastinating?

24 Sep 07 | Robert Gerrish

Recently I received an email from Michael, an internet specialist. In it, he described a problem he was having with that old chestnut, procrastination and wanted to know how to stop procrastinating. Read more

Comments: 23

The key message everyone should hear

03 Sep 07 | Robert Gerrish

In a typical week the majority of us soloists meet many potential ideal clients. Are you making the most of these meetings by being able to clearly articulate the key message of your business? Read more

Comments: 86

Work more efficiently: Five fast failings

13 Aug 07 | Robert Gerrish

Recently I've heard of a couple of instances where hurried behaviour very nearly resulted in the loss of a sale…and that can't be good. Here are some tips on how to work more efficiently. Read more

Comments: 5

Winning new business: How to avoid the giving trap

07 Aug 07 | Robert Gerrish

There’s you in pursuit of winning new business, all excited by the prospect landing a star client. You’ve spent months, even years, perfecting your policies and procedures and as quick as a flash you shoot yourself in the foot by giving stuff away. Read more

Comments: 13

How to appeal to your target market

23 Jul 07 | Robert Gerrish

Are you using clear marketing signals to appeal to your desired tagret market? Read more

Comments: 11

Are your key marketing messages clear?

02 Jul 07 | Robert Gerrish

A recent experience reminded me of the importance of having clear key marketing messages if you want to get the attention of your target market. Read more

Comments: 20

Can your business handle the truth?

28 Jun 07 | Robert Gerrish

Too often in business we fail to speak the truth. Instead we say what we think people want to hear and act as we're told to act. What would be the impact on your business if your customer’s knew what you really thought? Read more

Comments: 10

Do you recognise buying signals?

11 Jun 07 | Robert Gerrish

Now I don't want to cause alarm, but to put this week's story about recognising buying signals in context I need to tell you that I started my working career as a used car salesman. Read more

Comments: 5

Innovation tools to tame the flow of ideas

21 May 07 | Robert Gerrish

Megan Hill's piece on mind mapping that got me pondering the theme of ideas, and in particular the flow of ideas. Read more

Comments: 18

Smart marketing: More than the wow factor

01 May 07 | Robert Gerrish

There's much spoken of the need for the ‘wow factor’ in our work and how without it we risk being invisible. But I have to tell you I’m totally over businesses that lead with ‘wow’ only to follow up with…er, nothing actually. Read more

Comments: 18

Business partnering: Everyone's a partner

09 Apr 07 | Robert Gerrish

Wouldn't it be wonderful if businesses truly, madly, deeply, partnered with each other? Read more

Comments: 11

Winning new clients: How to get the gig

19 Mar 07 | Robert Gerrish

I recently received an email from Sylvia, a coaching client, which prompted me to write on the important topic of winning new clients. Read more

Comments: 5

What is your key marketing message?

26 Feb 07 | Robert Gerrish

In my coaching and speaking business I put considerable emphasis on clarifying who is an ‘ideal client’ for me before creating a key marketing message. Read more

Comments: 53

Five back office management tips

12 Feb 07 | Robert Gerrish

If there's one thing that can get in the way of a smooth running solo enterprise, it's the lack of organised back office management. Sadly it's not unusual to see a business that fronts up well yet is a disaster behind the scenes. Read more

Comments: 11

Grow through your existing customer base

07 Feb 07 | Robert Gerrish

There is real growth potential in a sole trader's existing customer base, but many fail to realise its full potential. Often, more energy goes into attracting new customers than looking after current ones. Read more

Comments: 3

Handling stress: Avoid the hemmed-in feeling

05 Feb 07 | Robert Gerrish

If there’s one thing that makes me feel overwhelmed and tired, it’s the sense I’m going to be struggling to get the day’s work done. In my view, few feelings contribute so negatively to our ability to work effectively and our way of handling stress. Read more

Comments: 20

Being grateful: What are you missing?

29 Jan 07 | Robert Gerrish

Often being grateful is not something we focus on as can be demonstrated by a recent experience I had. Read more

Comments: 22

Removing barriers to success

16 Jan 07 | Robert Gerrish

Soloists often unconsciously put barriers in the way between them and success. This is typified by what I call the 'feet on the ground' versus 'feet in the ground' situation. Read more

Comments: 4

Client management: Refusing work

15 Jan 07 | Robert Gerrish

It would be lovely to think we only ever attracted dream clients to our businesses, but unfortunately we also get the occasional stinker. Here I look at client management and why refusing work is sometimes necessary. Read more

Comments: 35

Work motivation tip: Avoid distractions

23 Nov 06 | Robert Gerrish

If your work motivation work is flagging, the chances are distractions are contributing to the problem. Read more

Comments: 5

Planning marketing beats binge marketing

21 Sep 06 | Robert Gerrish

By carefully planning marketing you can avoid the grand daddy of all bad business behaviours: binge marketing. All it takes is some regular time allocated to the task. Read more

Comments: 4

Niche marketing: the business specialist

01 Sep 06 | Robert Gerrish

When it comes to working smarter we shouldn't overlook niche marketing and the benefits of positioning yourself as a business specialist. Here are five compelling reasons to do just that. Read more

Comments: 2

How to conduct effective meetings

04 May 06 | Robert Gerrish

Meetings can prove to be either a positive, fruitful encounter...or a total waste of time. To conduct effective meetings, you need to bring clarity and preparation to the table. Read more

Comments: 4

Assessing business performance

14 Dec 05 | Robert Gerrish

This time is ideal for assessing business performance - pondering both how well you've travelled over the past year and how the new year is shaping up. Read more

Comments: 4

Can innovation be a marketing tool?

24 Nov 05 | Robert Gerrish

If you're forever hearing great things said about your work, yet not seeing these translate into sales and revenue, it could just be because you've fallen into the innovator trap. Can innovation be a marketing tool? Read more

Comments: 3

Making space for generating ideas

16 Oct 05 | Robert Gerrish

Fresh ideas keep us motivated. But chances are these ideas won't come when you're stuck behind your desk. It is necessary to create time and space for generating ideas and creative thinking. Read more

Comments: 12

Target marketing: Being heard amid the noise

25 Sep 05 | Robert Gerrish

To get noticed, soloists should use target marketing and be specific with their message. It's far better to be heard well by one person than ignored by many. Read more

Comments: 2

Managing work life balance: Avoid the ‘always available’ trap

14 Sep 05 | Robert Gerrish

Modern gizmos and gadgets means soloists can be permanently available to their clients. A good thing? Maybe not. Managing work life balance is an important lesson to learn. Read more

Comments: 3

Business vision: the importance of long term goals

19 Jul 05 | Robert Gerrish

In our book Flying Solo - How to go it alone in business, Sam and I talk a great deal about the role and importance of holding a buiness vision. Having long term goals can help you make decisions every day. Read more

Comments: 2

Networking strategies: Get involved!

06 Jul 05 | Robert Gerrish

It's easy to get lost in your own world in Soloville, so you need to make a conscious effort to put networking strategies in place and stay connected. Read more

Comments: 0