All the relevant business information under one roof.

Smart IT for SMBs: Smart IT Tips
Starting a Business: First steps Business planning Start-up resources Common mistakes
Marketing: Strategies & tips Networking Measure your marketing Public relations Branding
Business Online: Marketing & advertising Get online Search engine optimisation Website design
Sales: Hints & tips Customer service Advertising
Business Banking: Cash management Credit cards Bank accounts
Technology: Hardware Software
Finance & Tax: Cash flow Accounting Bookkeeping Tax Economic climate
Growing your Business: Planning to grow Barriers to growth New markets Growth strategies
Innovation: First steps The innovation process Case studies Communication Just for fun!
Women in Business: Business mentoring Julia's corner
Family Business: Conflict Resolution Family Business Planning
Leadership: How to be a better boss Time management Recommended courses
Franchising: Getting started Buying a franchise Finance required Legal matters Franchising your business Selling a franchise
Wealth Building: Investment strategies Salary sacrificing Protect your business Selling your business
Work Life Balance: Finding the right balance Personal performance
Legal: Small business law
Insurance: Protect your business
HR & Staffing: Recruiting staff Managing staff Policies and procedures Legal requirements
Government Resources: Government grants Small business updates
Competitions: Cisco Flip Video Competition
Question & Answer

Q.Is your business profitable?

  Yes
  No, we are focusing on turnover
  We hope to be next year
  No, a long way off

David Koch

Areas of Expertise

Host of Kochie's Business Builders

Best known as co-host of the Seven Network’s popular breakfast program Sunrise, this follicly-challenged accounting graduate never set out to be a TV star.

His 27-year career began as a newspaper finance journalist and continued to see him become one of Australia’s leading business journalists and commentators. In fact, he was recently named Australia's Best Finance Journalist by the readers of Banking and Finance magazine.

Along the way he became an advocate for small business and it’s a role he still relishes. In 2007 he was recognised as the Small Business Champion by the Council of Small Business of Australia (COSBOA).

Communicating with customers

It’s vital to think about whether the way you’re using technology to link with clients and potential clients is actually benefiting your company or making you seem prehistoric.
Good help is hard to find

As the old familiar saying goes “good help is hard to find”, and it seems more and more small and medium-sized business owners are battling with this issue on a regular basis.
Good time management skills

The more I think about it, the more I realise that the really busy people I know are the ones most likely to have good time management skills.
Marketing schmarketing

Have you ever been talking to someone in marketing and got so overwhelmed by all the jargon you just gave up? Like any profession, marketing has its own language which doesn’t make much sense if you’re not part of the group.
Revisit your business plan

Established businesses often have plans that are years old; plans which have been sitting in a filing cabinet since the early days. But particularly if you’re seeking to take your business to the next stage it should be updated.
Taking a "bigger picture" approach to growth

One of the greatest benefits of being a small business is the speed at which it’s possible to get things done. Decisions can be made and implemented almost on the spot, often by just one person.
The dream of owning your own business

For many of us, owning a small business is on par with the house-on-a-quarter- acre-block as constituting the great Australian dream. And with property prices the way they are, it’s infinitely more achievable!
What makes your business strategy competitive?

What is a “business strategy”? We bandy the term around all the time, maybe to the point where it’s stopped really meaning anything, or at least to the point where it’s so broad it could be applied to everything.
The benefits of exporting

For a country so far removed physically from trading partners in the United States and Europe it never ceases to amaze me just how prolific Australian companies have become in the export arena… and not just the big players.
Kochie's Quinoa Classic

You'll love the taste of Kochie's legendary quinoa classic
And the winners are ...

The Kochie's Business Builders team, in conjunction with our sponsors, has now selected the 14 winners of the NRMA Business Insurance Competition. Find out if you're one of them here ...
Let technology help drive your small business

Technology in business is not about having all the latest gadgets to play with, it’s about understanding and selecting what’s out there that will let you do what you do better, faster, cheaper or all three.
Spring clean your business

Technically it might be a bit early for a spring-clean, but I’ve always thought the new financial year is a great time to tidy up a small business ... in the broadest sense of the word.
Creative ways to distribute your product

As a small business owner, it can be difficult finding easy, cost-effective ways of distributing your product. Right? Wrong. All you need to do is think outside the box, and take a creative approach to distribution.
The engine room of Australian business

The small business sector is often called the ‘engine room of Australian business’, which is why the Rudd government didn’t forget us when handing down its $10.4 billion economic stimulus package last month.
Back in your box scrooge

Despite all the doom and gloom, it’s too early to cancel Christmas just yet. There are plenty of things small businesses can be doing to help boost the company coffers in the lead up to the festive season.
Focusing on new business opportunities

The world has changed and there’s no getting around the fact that the economic drivers in the Australian and global economy have totally changed since the start of the year.
Business intelligence - it's not just who you know

You can have all the networks in the world, but without great data about your most profitable market segments and key trends in your industry it’s impossible to make the right decisions about which areas of the business to focus on.
How to get your bills paid by christmas

No one likes to do it, but sometimes it’s necessary to get nasty with customers that have not paid your bills.
Is the office christmas party a good investment?

If this is the only event of the year, it had better make good marketing sense. So how do you plan your office Christmas party so it makes good sense for you and your staff?
Shutting up shop

Businesses close for many reasons – perhaps the market has changed, perhaps your own circumstances have changed – and shutting up shop does not have to be an agonising time
Reinvigorate your business in '09

Although everyone’s more than ready to down tools for the year, savvy small business operators will already have an eye on what they can do in the early part of 2009 to reinvigorate their business.
Now's the time to get started in business

Whatever enterprise you plan to start, it’s essential to think hard about the implications of setting up your own business and do as much planning as possible to give yourself the best chance of success.
Being entrepreneurial

There’s no doubt some of us are naturally more driven and creative in our approach to business than others. But it’s also possible to learn how to be entrepreneurial.
The power of one- on- one marketing

We’re all so used to mass marketing it’s easy to be immune to marketing messages, which is why one-on-one marketing can be such an effective tool – especially for small business.
Building understanding

If you run a business in a truly leading edge area, there’s a big chance a lot of people won’t understand what you do.
Big news from the government for small businesses

The federal Government didn't forget small businesses in it's stimulus package this week, announcing a $2.7 billion series of tax breaks. So I guess the big questions is- how should you use this benefit and at the same time build your small business?
Building better business plans in 2009

No business is too small to have a business plan. In fact, no business should operate without one. So what should a great business plan look like, especially in the current business climate?
How to manage workplace stress

The last year has been pretty tough for the average small business owner and their employees. As stress levels increase so does the negative atmosphere in the workplace. Here are some great ways for reducing stress in your business.
How to start a business in a downturn?

There are three main options when it comes to starting out in business. The choice you make will depend on your appetite for risk and your business experience.
How to get publicity for your small business

The media is an incredibly powerful means of communicating to the masses. Businesses which understand this can reap the benefits, but businesses that don't, can miss out on vital publicity or even worse, attract negative publicity.
When's the right time to shut up shop?

Due to the global financial crisis, small businesses all over the country and are starting to feel the pinch. Some, sadly, have to think about when might be the right time to shut up shop.
How to recession proof your business

I know it’s tempting, but the very worst thing you can do as a small business owner at the moment is bury your head in the sand. Make no mistake, the world has changed and your business has to change with it.
How to manage staff in a downturn

When a business owner sits down to take a look at business costs in a downturn, one glaring fact stands out: staff are usually your biggest cost, and the first to go...
Breakthrough ideas

Here's an idea - how about streamlining your common business errors and improve your business performance, by adopting medical thinking...
How to negotiate your way to higher revenue

To skilfully negotiate is a highly prized business tool. Luckily, the ability to negotiate isn’t an intrinsic trait – it’s easy to learn how with a little knowledge and practice.
Help for innovative start-ups

Those hit hardest by the global financial crisis are the people who toil for years in science labs or in their sheds, creating drought-resistant potatoes, for example, and rely on what is known as venture capital to get their ideas off the ground.
Cash is the key to small business success

A strong cash flow management system is the hallmark of every successful small business. It’s so important to have an up-to-date understanding of cash coming into and leaving the business so you know your real business position at all times.
New tax breaks for small businesses

Small businesses that are struggling to pay their tax bill can breathe a sigh of relief. The Tax Commissioner Michael D’Ascenzo recently outlined the Australian Taxation Office’s approach to small businesses that are facing or in financial hardship.
Work/life balance when you work from home

Working from home is a wonderful opportunity for many small business owners. Getting the right work life balance is important, so here are some tips and tricks for working smart when you work from home.
Thriving in a recession: which businesses work?

Not every sector experiences a downturn in a recession – there are heaps of businesses that do really well when economic conditions worsen. This is because business conditions rapidly shift and are open to new opportunities.
A much needed boost for small businesses

The importance of small businesses to the health of the Australian economy has been recognised in the 2009 Federal Budget, with a number of initiatives to support this important part of the economy.
Get ready for recovery

There are lots of signs the economy is recovering, or at least the downturn is slowing. If you run a small business, this means you need to get your shop ready for when a real upswing in economic conditions happens.
What is Twitter and can I use it in my business?

A new web-based tool called Twitter has had a lot of press in recent weeks. But probably the most common question about this new tool is ‘what on earth is Twitter and how can I use it?’
Winning the funding game as a small business

Access to funding is one of the main agenda items of this week’s National Small Business Summit in Melbourne.
Three big questions small businesses want answered

With official figures showing Australia is not in a recession, there are still three big questions that are top of mind for the average small business owner.
Small business tax tips

Four tax tips for your small business
End of the financial year tax tips

Now that we have reached the end of the tax year, it's a great time to ensure your tax affairs are in order to help reduce the amount of tax your business pays.
The new fair work act and small business

The Fair Work Act replaces the Work Choices industrial relations legislation from 1 July 2009. This act regulates how small businesses, especially those with fewer than 15 staff, approach staff dismissals.
The good, the bad and the ugly

To help small businesses navigate the economy over the few months, here’s a snapshot of Australian economic fundamentals.
Managing a business with a reduced team

If the downturn has meant you’ve had to let staff go or reduce your reliance on casual workers to maintain profitability, chances are your whole business will need a re-think so it keeps ticking along and making you money.
Keeping your workplace healthy

A decent dose of the flu can bring a small business to its knees: unlike bigger businesses, small businesses run on fewer staff and if flu goes through your workplace, your business can really suffer.
Market research on a shoestring

It’s now more important than ever to do market research if you run a business. The world’s changed, which means it’s very likely your customers’ tastes, preferences and budget has changed radically.
Effective networking techniques

With the end of the first decade of this century around the corner, it’s worth exploring how networking practices have changed over the past few years, especially in light of the global financial crisis.
E-training opportunities for small businesses

Even in an economic downturn it’s important in small business to make sure you and your staff are up to date with the latest practices in your industry sector.
How to win business from BIG firms

Winning business from big firms when you’re in small business can really push a smaller company forward. So, here are my top tips on how to secure that next BIG client, and things to watch if you plan on playing with the big boys.
Disaster strikes

Disaster comes in all shapes and sizes. A fire might gut your business premises, you may suddenly fall ill or your biggest client might suddenly go bust. How prepared are you if disaster strike your small business?
Should you buy or lease your business premises?

As a business outgrows its initial premises, a natural question for the business owner is whether they should continue renting or buy real estate for the business. Here, we look at the pros and cons to renting or owning your business premises.
Consumer and business confidence

With the positive economic indicators such as better than expected gross domestic product figures, consumer and business confidence is on the rise. Let’s take a look at how consumer and business confidence will impact the small business sector.
Performance measurement for small business

Here are some tips for introducing a great performance management system to make your business more responsive and innovative and ultimately more profitable.
The benefits of cloud computing for small business

Do you see technology as just another business expense? If this is you, wake up: technology is here to make our lives easier and our businesses more productive.
When is the right time to sell your business?

Many dream of building up a business and selling. This won’t give you ongoing revenue or expose you to the upside of a business you might have put years into.
Kochie's Business Builders on air Sunday at 10am!

Hi, Kochie here! Don't forget to tune into Channel Seven this Sunday at 10am, as we are back with another great series full of tips and advice on how to get your business thriving! Please check your local guides for further information.
How to access funding in turbulent times

Finding funds can be challenging for small businesses. Here we look at some alternate funding strategies small businesses can use to get access to capital to grow their businesses.
Are you ready to IPO?

Many smaller enterprises have an IPO in their sights as part of their development strategy. But if you want your float to be successful it’s important to get all your ducks in a row before you tackle the equities market.
The secret to a successful family business

Running a profitable, harmonious family business is no easy task. Often, family businesses are beset with conflicts and poor managerial systems. Here are some tips for making sure your family business survives to the next generation and beyond.
How can I get a better work life balance?

Many people have instinctively re-evaluated their lives in response to the economic downturn. Here, we look at how to achieve a better work life balance when you’re running your own show.
Good news for small business

The Federal Government released two pieces of good news for small businesses recently, changes to the franchising part of the Trade Practices Act and a new central clearinghouse for superannuation.
How to detect fraud in your small business

No one likes to think their staff is ripping them off, but denial when it comes to fraud is a dangerous place to be. So here’s some advice about setting up a system in your business for detecting fraud.
It's easy being green

There are very simple ways to reduce your business’s carbon footprint and at the same time save money, as a new program by the Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce shows.
When is it time to incorporate?

For most sole traders there comes a time when it’s worthwhile considering incorporating. Here, we look at some of the pros and cons of incorporation.
For Christmas I want.. a simplified tax system

Given it’s Christmas I thought it might be interesting to put forward a wish list of initiatives that would help reduce the tax burden on small businesses. Here goes…
Gear up for the new year

A new year is a great time to freshen up your business, refine your strategies and crank up your team to attack 2010 with purpose and vision. So here are five tips to get your business started on the path to prosperity for 2010.
How to sell a business

Here are some important factors to consider if you want to sell your business quickly and for the right price.
Ramp up your business in 2010

With economic conditions expected to continue to improve during 2010 now is a great time to reinvigorate your business to take advantage of the new market conditions. So here are some tips to help your business fly this year.
Do I need to apply for a patent?

If you have developed a unique and genuinely new invention or technology, you need to seriously consider whether you need to apply for a patent, which is designed to protect the intellectual property rights associated with your invention.
Pricing strategies for small business

Setting the right price for your products and services is one of the trickiest elements of business. Here, we look at the pros and cons of the three most common pricing strategies to help you develop the right pricing strategy for your business.
Introducing the new workplace relations system

A new workplace relations system has just started that has important implications for small businesses. These new regulations, especially the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code, are designed to simplify unfair dismissal laws for small business.
And the winner is...

The Kochie's Business Builders team has now selected the winner of the 'Cisco Flip Video' competition. We are proud to announce that the winner is:
PCI Compliance: How does it affect me?

PCI Compliance is an important business challenge that’s likely to increasingly affect any small business that takes credit card payments, and it’s worthwhile exploring what it is and how to become compliant.
Great tools for getting started in business

Looking to start a business but not sure where to start? There are a host of great resources out there to help you learn how to run a business, what you need to get started in business and some of the common challenges new business owners face.
New bankruptcy laws and small business

Changes to the Bankruptcy Act are likely to improve small businesses’ chances of recovering money from customers or clients who are under financial stress. Here, we look at the scope of the changes and what they mean for small business.
The National Broadband Network and small business

The Federal Government is in the process of rolling out a $43 billion program to bring faster broadband internet access to 90 percent of the population. Here, we look at what the National Broadband Network is and what it means for small business.
Getting finance when the big banks knock you back

It can be a soul-destroying feeling if you have to approach a big bank for funding and you get a knock-back – especially if you were counting on this money to fund business growth. So let’s look at some funding alternatives to bank funding.
Predicting competitor behaviour

Have you ever wanted to be able to predict what your competitors' next move will be? Now you can by following the Porters Four Corners method. It's a fascinating business tool to help you understand your competitors’ motivations and capabilities.
The new standard business reporting regime

On 1 July 2010 a new reporting regime will start that will simplify the way businesses report information to governments. Let’s explore how this new system will work for Australian small businesses.
Getting great feedback - and acting on it

As the old saying goes, it’s lonely at the top. When you run your own show, it’s easy to operate in a vacuum. You might do regular staff reviews – but do you give your staff – and others around you – the chance to review your performance?
How do you know if your business idea will fly?

For every 10 great business ideas only one will be a true success. Which one will be successful? The most effectively marketed businesses are generally the most successful, which comes down to the person driving the business.
Better financing options for SMEs

The Senate Economic Committee is currently exploring ways to make it easier for small businesses to access finance. Here, we explore some of COSBOA’s proposals and what they will mean for small business.
Franchise systems not foolproof

While it’s true some franchises offer potential business owners a great way to start working for themselves, there can also be pitfalls when it comes to becoming part of a franchise.
The COSBOA National Small Business Summit

Registrations for The COSBOA National Small Business Summit 2010 are now open! Join Kochie and the KBB team at this premier event that delivers small business owners access to the latest business techniques to drive your business and boost revenue.
KBB Henry Review - what it means for SMEs

Just over a week ago the Government released its response to the long-awaited and much-hyped Henry Tax Review. Here are some of the key changes that are likely to affect small businesses.
The Resources Super Profits Tax and SMEs

The media has been flooded with debate over the Resources Super Profits Tax in the past few weeks, and it doesn’t look like it’s going away either. As the great tax debate continues, here we look at the impact it will have on the SME sector.
Tax time

You’ll be amazed at how much you can actively do to reduce your tax bill and save that little bit extra.
Tax office set to sharpen focus on small business

A word of warning to all small business owners: it looks like the ATO’s period of leniency is over, and now they’re out to get you.
Social media tools to help grow your business

You’ll no doubt be aware of the global phenomenon that is social media. But do you really understand the power that social media can have in your business?
Making your business more employee friendly

It looks like a few bosses around Australia have forgotten the importance of keeping their staff happy.
Election 2010: What your vote will mean for SME's

No matter who you're supporting in the 2010 election, as voting day approaches, it’s important to understand what our vote means and what its consequences will be for small business.
PODCAST- Kochie's take on the economy

It’s a volatile time right now. Although the Aussie economy is holding up well there are plenty of areas of concern globally, which could all stack up to bite hard locally.
Good news for the retail sector?

I’ve been getting feedback from a lot of SMEs, particularly in the retail sector, who can’t understand why the economy is so good but they aren’t seeing any recovery in sales.
What a minority government will mean for SMEs

The hung parliament has put doubt on every policy that was put forward by each party, and has left many small business owners uncertain about the future of their business. But don’t be disheartened just yet..
Company Reporting Season unveils two-speed economy

Profit season has highlighted that we are certainly in the midst of a two-speed economy. Obviously it’s not enough to take economic conditions at face value; there’s a lot more to it.

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