Business Essentials

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs may be facing its nadir in the United States, but how does that trend compare to Australia? Aaron McEwen, Vice President of Research and Advisory for Gartner, says corporate Australia remains committed to DEI and is likely to continue diversifying their work forces. He explains why he thinks small business owners should see diversity as a competitive advantage rather than a burden. He also highlights the tangible benefits of diverse perspectives in decision-making, innovation, and customer engagement.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

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Ros Handley wants to change the conversation around retirement to renewal. Our mindset, and the way we think about this phase of our lives is really important. If we have potentially 20 years or more ahead of us, why wouldn’t we see it as an opportunity to start something new? And, it’s never too early, she says, to think about and plan for retirement.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
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+61 3 9882 8333

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Economic conditions right are extremely difficult for some SMEs, now faced with downsizing to try and manage. But letting workers go is never easy. Change expert and employee engagement specialist Esther De La Cruz says handling termination with transparency, collaboration, and care can make a difficult situation more manageable for everyone involved. Esther explains her ‘Four Cs’ framework to help business owners and managers execute layoffs with compassion, maintain morale, and support both departing and remaining employees.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

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Understanding your clients’ needs and desires is a crucial step in the sales process. And it’s only through asking the right questions and having the ability to listen well, that you can source this information. That’s the first of five steps to increasing sales conversions. Sales and business strategist, Maree Kirkpatrick says pricing and bundles should be tailored to meet specific client requirements. Asking for the sale shouldn’t be considered pushy or salesy. Objections should be seen as opportunities to provide additional information and to address concerns. And the final step, onboarding, is critical to creating a positive client experience and to encourage referrals.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
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+61 3 9882 8333

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For family-owned businesses, succession planning is essential. But it’s more complicated, and takes longer to achieve, than many families think. Family Business Association CEO Catherine Sayer says succession planning can take years to execute properly. Without a clear plan, businesses risk uncertainty and conflict when key leaders step away — whether due to retirement, illness, or unforeseen events. Catherine explains why early planning and open communication are crucial, offering practical steps to ensure a smooth transition for future generations.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do the new ‘right to disconnect laws’ affect your business? Workplace Expert Michelle Gibbings explains how to actually harness the new rules to benefit your business. By setting clear boundaries and role-modeling healthy work habits you can boost productivity rather than hinder it. Learn why overworking leads to diminishing returns and how simple strategies like time blocking and prioritizing self-care can help both business owners and their teams work smarter, not harder.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each year, leading sales advisor Sue Barrett reveals the top sales and business trends. For 2025 those trends embrace the concept of collaboration. To be effective, you needn’t choose between being a hunter or a gatherer, or a manager or leader. These binary choices are not helpful, Sue says. You can be both profitable and ethical, an effective leader and manager, and combine human capability with technology for better business.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you hear the term ‘mindful listening’ do you think of a soft skill, or a game-changing ability for business success? Communications expert and the Founder and CEO of Excited Adults, Megan Flamer, explains how truly hearing your clients and team members can build trust, foster loyalty, and even help de-escalate difficult situations. With simple techniques like paraphrasing and staying present in conversations, you can create stronger connections and improve your decision-making in high-pressure moments. By actively listening and responding with empathy, you not only enhance relationships but also gain valuable insights that can drive better business outcomes.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No matter how tough times are – and we’re facing economic challenges right now – there is always opportunity. That’s according to Andrew Griffiths, entrepreneurial futurist, keynote speaker, and best-selling author. It’s up to us to adapt in the face of change, he says, and be proactive in chasing those opportunities. He provides seven practical steps you can take to guide your business to new heights in 2025. Importantly, you need to take action now!

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It has sparked a huge pre-election debate: the Federal Opposition’s proposed policy to exempt small businesses from fringe benefits tax on meals and entertainment expenses up to $20,000 per year. But the controversy isn’t stopping the Australian Restaurant and Café Association CEO, Wes Lambert, from supporting the idea and backing up the coalition in the halls of the Parliament. Wes says that, if implemented, the policy could inject billions into restaurants, cafés, and pubs while allowing small business owners to reward staff and entertain clients without financial penalty. He says it would drive economic growth and job creation.

Business Essentials Daily is produced by:

SoundCartel
soundcartel.com.au
+61 3 9882 8333

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.