UPCOMING EVENT :: Streamline your business with the right technology - Exploring Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

In this LIVE interactive Q&A session Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to entrepreneur and technology expert, Donovan Manuel (CEO - Link-Up ICT), about his business and what attracted him to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Business Boost :: Are you playing it safe? Why taking risks is so important to success.

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about how taking risks is an essential part of achieving success in business and life.

ONLINE COURSE: Cybersecurity for Small and Medium Businesses: Essential Training

Discover this new course presented on LinkedIn Learning by Kristin Judge and brought to you by Microsoft.

13 ways to keep your business youthful

You’ve spent years building a business, now it’s time to monetise. But you’re not sure how to get your business to the next stage, maybe give it a fresh look or bring some youthfulness into the mix?

How to be a resilient business in SA during times of uncertainty

Businesses of all sizes have had to learn how to adapt and become resilient – in a very short amount of time. With the challenges posed by the pandemic, the ongoing load shedding struggles thanks to Eskom and...

Advice on navigating the new world of work from ProTalent’s Cindy Norcott

We also hear of careers becoming redundant within a few years as artificial intelligence takes over and singularity becomes the norm. Does this mark the end for the employee in South Africa?

How to keep track of small business financial transactions

You can easily manage all of your company’s financial transactions with a bit of planning and organisation. The following are the three major types of transactions that you must be aware of and keep records for:

Business ecosystems 101: creating fertile soil for business growth

Developing fertile environments within business industries is crucial for the growth of the economy as well as building up communities to become thriving places for commerce. But what does it take to build a business ecosystem?

Just like that? The voetstoots clause

In the normal course of operations, it will often be necessary for small businesses to purchase second-hand goods from local suppliers. In most cases, a voetstoots clause will affect the transaction.

How small businesses can navigate risk in a post-pandemic world

There is a cascade of complex new risks that entrepreneurs must contend with if they wish to successfully steer their business into the future. Here are some tips to help entrepreneurs navigate this new world.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How #AbsaSmallBizFriday can help your business get ahead

In this Q&A, you will discover more about this incredible nation-building initiative, get tips and insights from a successful small business owner, and learn how to maximise this opportunity to grow your business.

Business Boost :: How to achieve greater happiness and life success

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about the role happiness plays in achieving success. They also look at "Happiness Factor" and share key tips and insights on how to live a happier life.

UPCOMING EVENT :: Breakfast Connect :: The 4 "I's" of powerful leadership

Friday, 13 May 2022 - Online @ 9:30 - 11:30 Join us for this famous online B2B networking event featuring an inspirational webinar from Lindie Malan from ActionCOACH.

Business in a digital economy: Love Jacaranda

Mike Anderson (NSBC founder & CEO) and Christina Close (Love Jacaranda co-founder) discuss how to build a business during the boom of the digital economy and how to continue to make it successful.

6 steps to building your business with video marketing

According to Wyzowl’s the state of video marketing 2021 report, 94% of marketers say video has helped them increase their understanding of a product or service. 86% of say video has helped them generate leads...

Are end-to-end business solutions too complex and expensive for SMEs?

Many small and medium businesses (SMEs) still use a combination of standalone, on-premises business solutions for accounting, payroll and human resources (HR). Although these systems have served them well for many years...

The importance of a name

If indeed a brand is the single most important investment of a business, it isn’t surprising that the name (brand) of a medical scheme bears significant importance. Not only to the medical scheme and its members, but also to the public at large.

Ten tips for flu and COVID-19 vaccines

The seasons are changing and winter is on its way, which heralds the start of the ‘flu season’. We chat to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund on why a flu vaccine is recommended...

A guide to accessing funds that can help your small business

It takes money to run a business and there is a need for assisting and guiding SME owners to secure more funding, particularly given the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years.

How does Cindy Norcott do it?

How Does She Do It? is Cindy Norcott’s second instalment in her writing career, after her first book, How To Be Unstoppable reached best-selling acclaim.

Pinnacle Consulting - born from a passion to uplift and change the lives of others

In this interview we find out more about Wayden Barnes and Yeshika Peruman (Owners / Directors of Pinnacle Consulting), their business journey and why they believe South Africa should support small business.

Team meetings will buy your freedom

One of the most valuable systems you can implement in an organisation is a steady rhythm. This creates the pulse that your team works to, which in turn creates the steady pulse your organisation needs to thrive. How do you create this?

5 factors to consider before starting a business

There are many factors to consider before starting your business such as what product or service to launch and whether there is a market for it. You will also have to decide how you will fund your new venture...

How to generate online word of mouth for your SME

Word-of-mouth advertising is an age-old marketing strategy. But with the advent of the internet and social media networks, this conversation has become more public then in the past.

Learn about invoice finance with Capitalise

Invoice finance is a funding solution that can help you release cash from your outstanding invoices to ensure you have enough money in the business to pay your suppliers and continue growing.

How to survive as a local business during the times of load shedding

Load shedding is currently a frustrating factor of everyday life in South Africa. Here are seven strategies to help your business survive and thrive through days filled with power outages and uncertainty.

Can you commission documents virtually?

Not all day-to-day transactions are the same. In certain instances, physical engagement is a strict requirement. Commissioning of documents is a prime example, as it requires that all deponents are to appear in person...

The importance of partnerships

A strategic partnership is one of the ways that small business owners can expand their business and increase revenue without incurring drastic costs or necessarily increasing staff.

Adbot – empowers small- and medium-size businesses to effectively advertise

In this #AbsaSmallBizFriday interview, we find out more about Michelle Geere (CEO of Adbot), her business journey, and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

Common FAQ's regarding Start-up's

In this guide, find out answers to common frequently asked questions regarding start-ups.

FREE GUIDE :: Work fewer hours, increase productivity and profits

Knowing how to spend time is a skill more valuable than knowing how to make, manage, invest, and spend money. Get this free guide from ActionCOACH.

Business Boost :: Why small business owners should stop discounting their prices

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM), speak about how small businesses are often requested to discount their prices, the effect this has on the business, and why you should stand firm on your pricing.

Is there a work-life balance?

I am hectic. I am stressed. I am tired. I am exhausted. These are phrases we often repeat to ourselves as we hunt for the enigma of work-life balance. Very few people do balance well and that’s OK.

5 key concepts to remember when insuring your SME

As with insurance – and all things in life – honesty is always the best policy. And, when it comes to insurance – both business and personal – five concepts are key

How discounting can harm a business

Some salespeople have a tendency to think that giving a discount is the easiest, and quickest way to make a sale. Of course, they may be right, but what about the profit they are giving away?

All about COVID-19 vaccination boosters

Depending on which vaccine you received, you will either have had one or two initial vaccines doses and then, between two and six months afterwards are eligible for a booster.

How you can improve workplace health and wellness

Employee wellness is an important priority as a business owner. This article takes you through ways to improve the health and wellness of your workplace and your staff.

Imagin8 - Dream big, exceed those dreams, and dream even bigger

In this interview, we find out more about Adam Rabinowitz (owner, founder, and Chief Imaginator of Imagin8) his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

FREE GUIDE :: 2022 Talent Outlook - Trends & Uncertainties: A local perspective

In this guide you'll find out more about: hiring outlook, hybrid working; flexibility culture; diversity & inclusion and wellbeing.

3 ways to meet new hybrid expectations with Microsoft Teams and Microsoft 365

Discover new product innovations, from Microsoft, designed to help make hybrid work work.

ONLINE COURSE: Finance Essentials for Small Business

Manage your small business successfully with these finance essentials from accounting professors Jim and Kay Stice brought to you by Microsoft and hosted on LinkedIn Learning.

What is Nedbank Money Message?

Create and send invoices to your customers and receive payments into any bank account of your choice via WhatsApp. You don’t even need to be a Nedbank client to use Nedbank Money Message.

PODCAST :: The Business of Small Business

Discover more about "Building financially strong businesses, developing business solutions and supporting each other" with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Telkom Business.

Launch My Startup: It's time to get your business off the ground

Want to be selected to get your FREE CIPC Company Registration and lifetime NSBC Membership?

REPLAY :: Love Jacaranda: Business in a digital economy

Join the NSBC and Vodacom Business for the latest instalment of the Fast Forward Series: Season 3 featuring Christina Close, Co-Founder Love Jacaranda - a successful online South African business.

How to minimize your credit risk when extending trade credit terms

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Mandy Pretorius (Experian Head of Product) as they discuss how to minimize your own credit risk / What to look for when extending trade credit terms?

Anyone can sell

If you are in business, you must sell. If you don’t like selling, then you should get out of business. No matter what level of the organization you are in, you are the chief rainmaker. You need to do marketing and selling.

The Business of Small Business: Building financially strong businesses, developing business solutions and supporting each other

Telkom Business will be looking at the different environments that small businesses find themselves operating in, what possible solutions exist for them and also how the public and private sectors can lend their support.

How to become financially fit – Experian’s United for Financial Health drive

How to become Financially Fit” and how Experian aims to help individuals and small businesses to recover from the past few years. Let’s see what they had to say.

Common FAQs regarding startups

Many startups have questions about how to run a business. Let’s look at six common frequently asked questions about startups when they consider shares and taxes.

Fact: No matter the size of your business, you need insurance

If the past two years have shown South African companies anything, it’s that no business can afford to be without insurance. Whether you’re a growing SMME or still starting up out of your garage, insurance is critical.

Crafting a successful business that buys you freedom

Money is a key resource required to invest in the business’s growth and once that has been achieved it will allow you to buy time and freedom. You can’t buy time and freedom at the exclusion of having a business that first generates strong cashflows

COVID-19: how and when might it all end?

COVID-19 has disrupted the world in so many ways, including the uncertainty of what the future holds. The Bonitas Medical Fund clinical and actuarial teams unpack some of the pandemic versus endemic terminology and offer scenarios for the future.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Job Crystal

In this interview, we find out more about Kelly Louw (COO of Job Crystal), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

Launch My Startup - Sponsoring 1000 new startups

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the Launch My Startup initiative. Discover how you can be one of 1000 new startups who will be sponsored.

REPLAY :: Growth of the hybrid workplace: Technology driving SMMEs of the future

In this power-packed LIVE Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Thibault Dousson (General Manager of Lenovo Southern Africa).

UPCOMING EVENT :: ActionCOACH Entrepreneurship Series : Learn how to gain freedom in your business

14 April 2022 09:00 AM - This Freedom Month, join ActionCOACH Thabo Pitse as he discusses how your business should be a vehicle to support the life you want. If your business isn't giving you that FREEDOM make sure to join this.

REPLAY :: How to Become Financially Fit: Experian's "United for Financial Health" drive

In this interview, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Ferdie Pieterse (Experian Africa CEO) about Experian's "United for Financial Health" drive and why it's so important that businesses get financially fit and credit savvy.

INFOGRAPHIC: The Empower Process

7 steps to help SMB leaders select the right business management solution

How do you establish your brand in Africa?

In a recent webinar at The Business Show :: Africa 2022, Mzamo Masito (Chief Marketing Officer for Google Africa), gave us some tips and tools to work on building a sustainable and successful brand.

Your SME, load shedding and insurance: what you need to know

Load shedding can make it tricky for many SMEs to keep their lights on and doors open. And, apart from its impact on your operations, load shedding comes with insurance considerations too.

Absa launches campaign to support small businesses

In a move aimed at supporting, growing and rewarding small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Absa has launched the Absa Small Business Friday campaign. The initiative comes at a time when SMEs are slowly finding their feet...

Right price: A path to running a profitable business

There are several methodologies you can use to set the prices for the products and services you sell. Many businesses take the easy way out by simply adding a markup to their costs and changing the price each time their expenses increase.

SMEs are key to driving e-commerce success in South Africa

The mere act of using your phone or computer to order things that you need, which then show up at your door within hours still seems quite magical. Add to this that those few clicks could boost South Africa’s economic recovery.

Unauthorised use of company property for private use, dismissible or not?

Using company property by an employee is a direct result of the existence of an employment relationship. Company property should therefore be used for work-related purposes only.

Demystifying small business funding

For small business owners and entrepreneurs, there has never been a time when a thorough awareness and knowledge of the different financing options available to them has been so vital.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Love Jacaranda

In this interview, we find out more about Christina Close (Co-Founder of Love Jacaranda), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR :: Data protection and security, what businesses need to know

6 & 26 April at 11:00 CAT - Data protection and security, what businesses need to know, our industry experts will discuss the importance of data protection, POPIA vs GDPR, risks and costs of data breaches and more.

The future of job creation is here!

Starting a business with little or no money but plenty of passion, perseverance and persistence is the way to go. Don’t allow not having startup capital to destroy your dreams. It’s time to change the mindset and go from zero to hero.

Understanding the digital economy: a quick breakdown

Whether you know it as the new economy, the web economy, the internet economy or the digital economy, the new way of doing business is here and it is becoming more prolific each year. But what is this new economy and how does one participate in it?

Solving unemployment by climbing a ladder

By understanding the concept we call the Entrepreneurial Ladder – you can be clear on where you are right now, and just how high you want (and are willing) to climb:

How to build employer-employee relationships in the digital world

The digital world has opened multiple channels you can use to build relationships with your employees. But how? And is it as effective as in-person contact? Though in-person contact is the best way to build relationships...

Unleash the power of your small business with Microsoft 365

We’re excited to expand on this SMB platform by rolling out a brand-new security offering. These new products are purpose-built to unleash the power of small businesses.

Protecting your business in divorce

When people get married, they always hope for ‘happily ever after,’ but the sad fact is that some marriages will end in divorce. Divorce affects families as well as businesses. How can you limit the risks?

How to set business goals during a VUCA world

Because of this unpredictability of the world, we need to become more agile in our goal creation. How do we set goals in a VUCA world?

It’s time to create your own ‘culture club’

A popular statement asserts that culture eats strategy for breakfast. This might be true, but it also may be just partly true. Good culture enables or empowers strategy while dysfunctional culture bites into strategy, or totally devours it.

Investing in your employee’s wellness is the smartest business decision you can make

Whether stress is high, moderate or low, leaders and employers must address the mental and emotional impact on employees, the risk of high levels of burnout, and lower productivity.

Business Boost :: Why it’s so important to support small business

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the nation building-initiative, Small Business Friday (Sponsored by Absa) and why you need to get involved today.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Sage Wise

In this interview we find out more about Darshen Moodley (CEO & Founder of Sage Wise), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR :: Growth of the hybrid workplace: Technology driving SMMEs of the future

Wednesday, 23 March 2022 @ 9:30 In this LIVE Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Thibault Dousson (General Manager of Lenovo Southern Africa) aboutthe growth of the hybrid workplace and the right technology for SMMEs.

WEBINAR :: How to Become Financially Fit - hosted at Breakfast Connect

Wednesday, 30 March 2022 @ 9:30 Join us for a morning of inspired virtual networking with Karen Woest (Product Manager Experian Africa) and discover how to minimize your own credit risk and what to look for when extending trade credit terms.

How to make your business more profitable

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they look at some key tips on how to increase your profits. It all starts with asking "Is my business doing what it should be doing?"

REPLAY :: How to build your brand in Africa

Join us for this highly insightful session where the Mzamo Masito (Chief Marketing Officer for Google Africa) shares how you can grow your business and build a successful brand in Africa.

FREE GUIDE :: Grow your business online

A simple step-by-step guide for small businesses to help them discover how to grow their business online. Learn about Google Search and Google Maps and how to be visible to your current and potential clients.

There is nothing small about the impact small businesses have on our economy

Small Business Friday is South Africa’s biggest small business movement and it’s back for the eleventh consecutive year. The movement is brought to the nation by the National Small Business Chamber (NSBC) and sponsored by Absa

10 ways to manage your cash flow and grow your profit

Why is management of cash so important? Think of it this way, cash is to business as what fuel is to your car. If you run out of fuel the car stops.

What is a business due diligence?

Due diligence is a thorough investigation into the legal and financial affairs of the entity. And the question of how thorough and to what extent the investigation must be done depends on the purpose of the investigation...

#EntrepreneurshipIssues: Is it really easy for SMMEs to secure funding?

As per my previous columns, I encourage small business owners to look for funding when they want to grow their businesses. However, I’ve been asking myself this question for a long time now – Is it that easy for SMMEs to access funding?

South Africa: gaining traction with start-ups

The Startup Genome’s Global Startup Ecosystem Report for 2021 was released recently and this is what it had to say about Africa as a region and some of the most prosperous ecosystems in Africa.

CIPC introduces artificial intelligence

The CIPC is constantly reinventing itself to offer its end-users and stakeholders the best service possible. The latest innovation at the organisation is the use of artificial intelligence.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Pharsyde Accounting

In this interview, we find out more about Tamryn Dicks (Owner of Pharsyde Accounting), her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

How to create an effective strategic plan for your business

Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) discuss the importance of strategic planning for your business as well as some key pointers as to how to do this effectively to get ahead.

REPLAY :: The important link between financial and mental health when building a SMME

In this power-packed Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC) interviews Dr Nirmala Reddy (Nedbank) about the important link between mental and financial health.

Growing your small business through skills development

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC) and George Mushaike (W&RSETA) as they discuss the W&RSETA’s interventions to support the SMMEs through skills development.

Benefits of a Second New Year

Fortunately for most businesses, 1 March 2022 is actually the true start of the year. The financial year for most businesses starts on the first of March and therefore this is the critical time to take stock, refocus and realign...

The value of implementing a social media policy in your business

It is therefore really important to establish a social media policy that addresses all the different scenarios where social media is used, and can affect employees, the reputation and security of employers, and the privacy of their customers.

How the right technology can help empower SMEs in a hybrid environment

The right technology provides not just productivity, but personal connectivity. Video conferencing tools and collaboration platforms have played a critical role in maintaining visibility among colleagues and keeping employees efficient.

South Africa grows number of women business owners, despite challenges – Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs

Despite the gender gap and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, women in South Africa are making progress as entrepreneurs, indicating a strong will and determination to survive.

Create, send and get your invoices paid on WhatsApp with Nedbank Money Message

Whatever your business, you can now create and send invoices to your customers and receive payments into any bank account of your choice via WhatsApp.

6 reasons why a business credit report is invaluable

A business credit report has become a litmus test for companies that want to establish solid foundations and build trusted reputations. It’s an important part of putting your business on the map...

How SMEs can win the battle for talent

When it comes to talent, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are fishing in exactly the same pool as large companies who are offering well-established employee brands, multiple career path opportunities and bigger remuneration packages.

WEBINAR :: Growing your small business in 2022 through skills development

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and George Mushaike (W&RSETA’s Senior Regional Manager) as they discuss The W&RSETA’s interventions to support the SMMEs through skills development. Register here. 09 March 2022 @ 09:30

Good is not good enough. How to do more great work and live a great life

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about strategies and ways to move forward in our quest to get ahead.

#StartupStory: In the Loop with Kimberly Taylor

Loop is an adaptable, intuitive delivery management platform that empowers companies by enabling them to cleverly optimise and scale their delivery systems.

Start 2022 on a positive note with these business’ finance tips

As a small business owner, it is a no brainer that financial planning is critical for survival. We encourage you to get your financial house in order by preparing a financial road map for the year ahead.

Tech trends small businesses should be considering in 2022

The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation, and businesses that don’t tap into these trends risk being left behind. Investing in new technology might seem like a burden, but in the long term it will free businesses up to focus on growth...

Embrace uncertainty in the business world

Before we look at techniques or strategies to deal with uncertainty better, we need to understand the difference between uncertainty and risk. The difference between the two has to do with the level of predictability between the two.

The importance of e-commerce and online marketplaces for SMMEs

Using a major e-commerce or online marketplace platform to sell their goods and services can allow businesses to increase their visibility through lead generation tools.

How to register a trademark in South Africa

Names, brands and slogans have power in business. Establishing your ownership of and rights to a business name is an important first step for a business that wants to make sure that their name remains one-of-a-kind.

WIN a R10,000 Takealot voucher!

What type of business owner are you? A personality quiz gives insight into your leadership style. Are you an Oprah or an Elon? Find out today - and you could win a R10,000 Takealot voucher!

Importance of experiencing failure

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about failure and the value of it looking at it in a new light - as something highly beneficial in life and business.

The Business of Small Business

Join Telkom Business as they host different conversations around small business: the state of the small business environment in South Africa, the shifts experienced during COVID-19, the current outlook and how we can all lend our support.

How to fall (BACK) in love with your business

Often, the initial goal or intention is forgotten, so much focus has been placed on managing the day-to-day of the business. When we lose focus we lose the love, the passion, and all the things. So, how do you fall back in love with your business?

Deep Work: the new competitive edge

Deep work is setting aside time in your day to work without being distracted. This means switching off all your notifications and closing your door...

4 mistakes every new entrepreneur should avoid

As a startup entrepreneur or a first-timer in the world of business, you are bound to make mistakes. It’s okay, it happens to the best of us and we all have horror stories.

Getting tax-savvy for your small business

Has your upcoming tax return got you feeling a bit under pressure? Perhaps you are not sure where to start? We have drafted five quick tips to help your tax return go smoothly and avoid any sudden non-compliance.

How to prepare your people and business for sustainable growth

In this article, we offer advice on how to manage these challenges in your business in a way that supports sustainable growth for everyone.

Boost your small business with gig workers

According to a report by Investec about the gig economy, there are 3.9 million gig workers in South Africa. So, how can small business use gig workers to boost their business?

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: Adbot

In this interview, we find out more about Michelle Geere, CEO of Adbot, her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

REPLAY :: A good credit score - how to get there? How to fix your credit profile?

Join us for a power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Paul Nel (Head of Innovation - Experian Africa) plus an unmatched virtual networking experience. Friday, 11 February 2022 @ 09:30

#TheBizShowSA: Speakers have been announced

Meet our exciting line-up of industry leaders and experts for The Business Show :: Africa - 02 - 04 March 2022. Book your sessions today!

#TheBizShowSA: Bookings are open!

The Business Show :: Africa is back! Join us on 02 - 04 March 2022 for a power-packed programme of webinars, live Q&As, networking and exhibits. Book now

Rekindle your passion for your small business

Do you live for the weekend? Are you constantly being distracted while working on your business? Do you feel like throwing in the towel? Then it’s time to rekindle your passion for your small business.

How to start a business without capital

Starting a business with no money might seem impossible, but it’s often entirely doable with some clever planning. What’s more, it will teach you to be creative and entrepreneurial and make you less likely to dig into your savings.

Understanding your personal credit score and how it works

What is a credit score? A credit score, also known as a credit rating, is a number that reflects the likelihood of you repaying money you want to borrow.

4 ways to fall in love with your business

How do you as a business owner: Work harder on yourself, Become better, Gain more skills? The answer is simple – you need to make the decision to fall in love with learning

Insuring your SMME: Back to basics

Now that you’ve created your letterheads, set up your bank account, secured clients and perhaps even employed some expert support, it’s vital to ensure that your passion is safeguarded. Because failing to plan simply means planning to fail.

SMS Regulations in South Africa

South Africa has a robust and strict regulatory environment for SMS messaging. Several laws provide a framework for the mobile messaging industry regulations.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: JOBJACK

In this interview, we find out more about Christiaan van den Berg, Co-CEO of JOBJACK, his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.

The business value of a credit report

A business credit report is less an unpleasant necessity and more an artist’s paintbrush. It paints the picture of your business, showcasing its financial capabilities and opening doors to credit facilities.

UPCOMING EVENT:: You´re Invited to Google for South Africa 2022

You're invited to the second edition of Google for South Africa virtual event. Friday, 09 February 2022 @ 10:00 (Use this access code when registering: 8D449D72F2C22680)

GIFT VOUCHER:: Want to run a better and more successful business?

Get your complimentary session with a Certified ActionCOACH Business Coach valued at R3995.00.

RADIO INTERVIEW :: Business Boost: How to become financially fit

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the NSBC's Financially Fit Campaign.

SPECIAL OFFER FROM VW:: The next generation of the much-loved Caddy is here.

Introducing the new Caddy Cargo and Caddy Kombi, with a stylish design and advanced driving features - transport solutions that are made for your business.

DOWNLOADABLE GUIDE: Show your business a little love

Do you feel stuck? A business idea is brewing in your mind but you struggle to see where to begin. Download ActionCOACH’s simple business plan and quick marketing plan guide today and see your business come alive.

What are your customers doing on your website?

The average person searches on Google three to four times every single day and that the search engine processes over 3.5 billion searches daily? What this means for businesses is that their customers are pretty much always online.

12 solid gold tips from a successful serial entrepreneur

Starting a business isn’t easy! You need to make sure that your dedication and zeal can weather storms and bounce back from disappointments. Lets have a look at 12 tips from a successful serial entrepreneur.

Unlocking the power of loyalty and rewards programmes is easier than you think

Brett White, CEO of independent QR-code and URL-based mobile payments and rewards platform, Zapper, looks at how businesses can use loyalty & reward programmes to better understand their customers and, help influence their buying behaviour.

Learn about asset finance with Capitalise

Buying new machinery, plant or equipment is an essential part of business growth. But ever find it racks up hefty upfront costs that put pressure on your business? We’ve partnered with Capitalise to help you understand asset finance.

#AbsaSmallBusinessFriday business of the week :: React24

In this interview, we find out more about Celeste Margo Le Roux Co-Founder of React 24, her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

How to fall in love with your business

We have Marlene Powell, presenting on how YOU as the business owner can reignite the passion in your business and learn to LOVE what you do whilst building a Commercial Profitable Business that Works with YOU!

5 ways of overcoming the fear to start your business in 2022

Fear is a great emotion and very necessary to ensure our survival. We need to balance the logic with the emotion to allow you to take a step forward. So I’ve put together five easy ways of doing just that.

How to build a core team for your business

Let’s see how you can build a core team that will help you to expand into a bigger and better business when the growth opportunities arrive.

Be wary of credit repair scammers on the prowl

Consumers should be careful of those claiming to improve credit scores and fix credit reports overnight, especially if charging an upfront fee.

The importance of e-commerce and online marketplaces for SMMEs

On the back of the pandemic, e-commerce and online marketplace platforms will continue to grow in South Africa and small and medium businesses can expect to benefit immensely from this growth.

How can SMEs survive a VUCA world?

Riots, pandemics, and power outages create a world that is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA). But how can your SME survive in a world where it feels like you are surrounded by never-ending chaos.

Working from home: Yes, it’s different to working at work

Working from home has become the norm and it’s difficult to predict when things will go back to ‘normal’. But many corporate culture experts predict that a hybrid home/office model is the way of the future.

WEBINAR REPLAY :: How to become financially fit

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Thabo Hermanus (Experian Africa) for a power-packed Q&A on the role of the credit bureau and how your credit score works.

Featured business of the week :: Noble Prosperity

In this interview, we find out more about Renate Jute, owner of Noble Prosperity, her business journey and why she believes South Africa should support small business.

WEBINAR REPLAY: Sales Indaba: How to get the cash to flow in your business

Watch this power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and discover how you can kick off 2022 with more sales.

UPCOMING EVENT: Breakfast Connect - Discover how to become financially fit

Friday, 28 January 2022 @ 9:30 Join us for a power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Thabo Hermanus (Chief – Credit & Bureau Services, Experian Africa) plus an unmatched virtual networking experience.

Experian and NSBC partner to help South African SMEs improve their financial health

Experian and the National Small Business Chamber (NSBC) have announced a new programme to improve the financial fitness of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Trends that will shape your small business in 2022

The world has moved online and entire industries are blossoming on the Internet through innovations and digital solutions that not only cater to the needs of the business but also prioritise the Customer Experience.

An economic overview: looking back at 2021 and expectations for 2022

This article provides an economic overview of 2021, both internationally and locally, and a view of expectations for 2022.

Help your employees kickstart a side hustle

From running an e-commerce store selling homemade crafts to restoring furniture in out of a garage - South Africans are skilled at turning their passions into profit.

Four steps to SME business success in 2022

As the country now enters another year of the pandemic, but with the green shoots of a recovery starting to appear, SMEs can take the lessons learned and adapt to the “new normal”.

Relaxed lockdown could be to thank for rapid decline in COVID-19 cases

Members who were vaccinated demonstrated significantly better protection against severe illness, and barely a handful, mostly older people with co-morbidities, were hospitalised in the fourth wave.

How to get BEE certified with the CIPC

Customers can apply for a BEE certificate (i.e. Affidavit), as a stand-alone, whilst registering a private company or during the filing of an annual return. The service is open to customers with a South African ID document.

Featured business of the week :: Filmer.tv

In this interview, we find out more about Peri Van Papendorp and Janez Vermeiren, Co-Founders of Filmer.tv, their business journey and why they believe South Africa should support small business.

PODCAST: World of Work: Rebuilding the world of business

Mike Anderson, Founder and CEO of National Small Business Chamber, joins 702's Aubrey Masango to discuss how to start a business with a few resources.

Sales Indaba: How to get the cash to flow in your business

Join us on 21 January 2022 @ 9:30 for this power-packed Q&A with Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) plus a one hour networking power hour.

Three trends that will impact SMEs big-time in 2022

Business owners need to be aware of the trends and innovations that are driving business in a new world. Here are three key trends of ‘what works’ that will help SMEs significantly in 2022 – to accelerate growth and boost profits.

5 strategic habits to help you conserve your cash in business

Is your business leaking money on low return-on-investment items? Then it is time to conserve your cash so that you can build a strong and prosperous company in the future.

PayFast’s top 5 payment trends for 2022

We believe the theme for 2022 will be frictionless payment processes that minimise the barriers of buying. Specifically, those that promote faster checkouts, as well as inclusion and access to the digital economy.

Learn how to register your domain via CIPC

The CIPC offers a range of integrated services to date, including the registration of a private company and acquiring a SARS tax number, UIF, and Compensation Fund reference numbers in a seamless manner.

How employee wellness affects your business

When you think of improving your bottom line, employee wellness is probably not at the top of your list. Studies show, though, that investing in employee wellness typically delivers great returns

The future of work is flexibility

Our challenge now is to find ways to shape a new world of work that keeps us authentic, engaged, and innovative, and that also allows our culture and social capital to thrive.The culture you build within your SME is the departure point.

Fast Success. What we must stop and start doing now

Before we move onto the success factor, we need to know what causes slow progress, a mediocre journey and often failure. Let’s summarise what we must STOP doing now, so we can move to a more positive conversation.

Unstoppable: The spirit of an entrepreneur and the winding road to success

Leanne Rhodes met up recently with Mike Anderson, Renate Jute (Owner of Noble Prosperity) and Shakeel Karijeker (Owner of Global Unique Fabrics) to discuss the spirit of an entrepreneur and what the road to success looks like.

Grow your business with a new digital business card

Webcard, a new digital business card that will help you promote your products and services to new customers, and help your networking with other members as you grow your business.

SMEs of Tomorrow – tips to drive growth in 2022

Experts speculate that digital transformation(DT), COVID-19 awareness, shifting supply-chain trends, and operational optimisations are among the key areas where SMEs can drive improvements, and thrive in 2022.

Encouraging a healthy work-life balance

As an employer, how do you keep your people happy? Here are five tips to encourage a healthy work-life balance in your business.

A smarter way to work: Leading a streamlined business and an action-packed life

Using technology like Xero at NML means the team can find a better balance and not feel guilty about taking time to do the things they love – whether it’s going for a surf or a run in the mountains

Here’s how insurers can protect SMEs in 2022 and beyond

Technology gives insurers the ability to provide an individual customer experience, with AI, user-friendly apps and chatbots driving a range of digital-first, human-friendly services that are tailored to the exact needs of their clients.

How to speed up your success going into 2022

As we are now closing in on 2022, business owners and entrepreneurs everywhere need to uplift their game and fine-tune strategies so as to succeed beyond all expectations.

5 virtual selling trends to look out for

According to Mckinsey, about 80 per cent of buyers prefer virtual selling because it is easier to schedule and the travel costs are lowered. With these statistics in mind, what are the trends for virtual selling?

Black Friday 2021 breaks PayFast records once again

Following a record-breaking Black Friday / Cyber Monday period in 2020, it’s not surprising that this year we once again broke records with this year’s total online transaction volumes increasing by a further 34%.

SMEs of tomorrow – tips to drive growth in 2022

xperts speculate that digital transformation(DT), COVID-19 awareness, shifting supply-chain trends, and operational optimisations are among the key areas where SMEs can drive improvements, and thrive in 2022.

Local SMEs turn to low-risk growth capital ahead of festive season

Small businesses across the country are turning to non-interest bearing financing options in an effort to secure growth funding ahead of the festive season.

Get BEE certified via the CIPC platforms

The CIPC, since its inception, has been progressively offering a number of company-related services to its customers. One of the offerings is concerning the BEE certificate (i.e. Affidavit) that exempted micro enterprises can apply for.

Vicarious liability of employers in terms of the Protection Of Personal Information Act

At its heart, the Act seeks to enhance the constitutional right to privacy, give data subjects some form of control over their personal information and ensure that organisations processing information do so in line with POPIA.

Webinar Replay :: IoT (Internet of Things) for Small Businesses

In this live Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) interviews Vusi Mngomezulu (Head of Sales at IoT.nxt) about the Internet of Things (IoT) Technology and how it can transform your business. Brought to you by Vodacom.

Business Boost :: How to speed up your success going into 2022

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about what is to come in 2022 and how to fine tune our stategies to prepare for the new year and how to speed up your success.

South Africa: gaining traction with start-ups

The Startup Genome’s Global Startup Ecosystem Report for 2021 was released recently and this is what it had to say about Africa as a region and some of the most prosperous ecosystems in Africa.

10 management lessons to live by

We can’t get away from the fact that management skills have had to be scrutinised even more than before since the pandemic kicked in. We are all facing a multitude of challenges on top of the usual work and personal stress we were accustomed to.

Smart marketing: you’ve got mail

Digital marketing has many elements but one which is cost-effective and viable for SMEs to pursue is e-mail marketing. E-mails are important in converting clicks into clients. Let’s take look at eight questions around CRMs and email strategies.

5 ways SMMEs can become competitive in e-commerce

A few years ago, the majority of South Africans had never made a single purchase online. Today, the local e-commerce market has experienced a massive boom as lockdown restrictions made online shopping feel like the only option.

PayFast launches second e-commerce performance index

From the rise of contactless payments to the boom in social commerce, the pandemic has significantly altered consumer expectations when it comes to making purchases online.

The important link between financial and mental health when building a successful small, medium or microenterprise

Stress and anxiety are often dubbed the ‘silent killers’ of SMEs, so being able to access holistic business and financial support that helps to alleviate the stress of business owners and employees is key to ensuring the survival of any business.

6 entrepreneurial lessons learned the hard way

or some reason, many people think the word ‘entrepreneur’ is synonymous with success. They don’t see the hard work, the skinned knees, the effort it takes to get up and try again after you’ve fallen.

Business Boost :: Be Brutal on the Money

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about being "brutal on the money" and how to protect yourself from financial disruptions in your business.

Webinar Alert :: Disruption is inevitable - thriving in a post-pandemic world

Monday, 29 November 2021 @ 14:00 As 2021 draws to a close we now look ahead at the promise of a Future of Work. It’s time now to develop renewed strategies to attract, retain and shape high-preforming talent models.

All the winners of the 2021 South African Small Business Awards are announced

South Africa’s Top 20 Finalists, Special Award Winners and the Main Category Award Winners have been announced.

Business Boost - Small Business in the Spotlight

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the 2021 South African Small Business Awards, what it takes to become a business champion, why there is a local and global emphasis on small business.

Future-proofing your small business to weather the storm

When talking about the future, we need to look at the current situation and this may be uncomfortable at times, but we must plan to recover and future-proof our small business. But how can we do it

Grow your business with customer surveys

Customer surveys can help you gather critical intel on what opinions your customer has about your business.

Boost your digital marketing skills with Forge Academy

Forge Academy in partnership with the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) offers 6 digital marketing courses in the following disciplines:

6 ways to bubble-wrap your small business

All companies are prone to risk but being properly prepared can save you from the worst.

Mastercard Economics Institute: Small business creation in South Africa grew 13% from 2019 to 2020

To shed light on the impact of the global health crisis and the ongoing recovery thereof that has had a significant impact on small businesses globally, Mastercard has released Recovery Insights

Webinar Replay :: E-commerce growth in South Africa and Financing Solutions

Join Global Sourcing Fair South Africa and Global Sources International and discover in how to tap into the e-commerce industry in South Africa and various SME financing options and considerations.

Business Boost with Mix 93.8 FM

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Damian Schmidt (Mix 93.8 FM) as they talk about the state of small business, the startup revolution and what it takes to bounce back and be successful.

The Top 20 winners are announced for the 2021 South African Small Business Awards

The NSBC in association with World Famous Events, has today announced South Africa’s ‘Top 20’ for the 2021 South African Small Business Awards.

How to stand out in a crowded and noisy digital world

Are you finding that your brand is being swallowed up in a digital crowd? Are you struggling to get traction on your social media ads? If this sounds familiar to you then sit tight as we explain how you can stand out in a crowded digital world.

4 steps to building an online community

Online communities. This strategy looks at creating a place online for individuals interested in your brand to gather and interact with each other.

5 ways to level up into a small business

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for taking a start-up to the next level. Deciding to take this leap is exciting, but it’s not without risks. Planning ahead and seeking sound advice can position you to navigate the challenges and opportunities.

Platform technology: a big boost for the democratisation of payments

The real power of platforms is demonstrated when delivering services equitably, easily and at scale. In the rapidly evolving world of payments, platforms are game changers.

Sales hunters are now an endangered species

You may have the best product, service and offering, but if people don’t know that you exist, you are never going to sell it. If you want to stand out from your competitors, it’s time to develop your sales hunting skills.

The role of technology in helping local delivery entrepreneurs reach success

Long after the pandemic has ended, the logistics industry will remain the lifeblood of our economy. Therefore, implementing data-driven, smart, and informative technology solutions should be non-negotiable.

What is a transactional SMS and why should you use it?

What makes using SMS for transactional notifications so effective? The answer lies in the very nature of text messages, and it is why so many businesses are using transactional messages to streamline their processes.

An increasingly common life-changing disease

Cancer remains a silent killer that threatens the lives of many in South Africa. Facing this potentially deadly disease may result in life-long scars, often leaving one discouraged and feeling defeated.

How to build a smart office for your SME

And what are the real benefits of a smart office? In this article, we will look at the jargon and benefits of a smart office and how you can build one. You may be surprised by how many smart tools you are already using.

The 4 biggest challenges facing sales

When training and coaching salespeople, I always highlight four key areas. If you’re lacking in one of these areas, you are never going to reach your true sales potential. This remains true, regardless of the impact of COVID-19

How to prepare your online store for Black Friday 2021

To ensure a successful Black Friday, it’s important to have a strategy in place to make sure you have all the resources needed to meet your customers’ expectations and to avoid any nasty surprises.

What you didn’t know about medical schemes in South Africa

South African medical aid schemes play an important role in the healthcare industry of the country. Without medical aids, many South Africans will not able to afford the quality healthcare that private medical practitioners and hospitals provide.

Seasonality and Small Business: How South Africa’s SMEs can plan for the festive season

An accurate cashflow forecast means creating a rolling 12-month spreadsheet and a commitment to update it every month. In this way, businesses can anticipate cash flow shortages, and be able to plan for uncertain times.

How can SMEs survive a VUCA world?

How can your SME survive in a world where it feels like you are surrounded by never-ending chaos. Let’s take a look at four ideas of an SME surviving in a VUCA world.

Humanizing and Personalizing the banking experience

Infobip is hosting a complimentary webinar on 2 November at 11:00. Their CX and Industry experts will discuss the importance of mobile channels for banks and financial institutions, industry best practices and more.

The DNA of a Sales Guru

In this article, we will look at what is in the DNA of a Sales Guru. Then we will see how you can look at it and take from the primary elements in the DNA and implement them for you to experience greater success.

The cost of cybercrime for SMEs

Depending on whose numbers you believe, cybercrime will cost the global economy anything between $1 trillion and $6 trillion this year alone.

Medical Aid terms to understand before seeking quotes in South Africa

Getting medical aid quotes in South Africa is not too hard – most schemes today offer an easy way to access their quoting system. When you do not know what you are being quoted for, however, the process can get a little tricky.

#EntrepreneurshipIssues: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

The income that comes from the cash-based section of a business is meant to supplement the service business’ cashflow and close the gap when clients either have delayed or not paid at all.

Tech for business the Incredible way

When it comes to supporting small businesses, Incredible Connection is all business. For over two decades, we’ve offered leading tech, first-to-market innovations, finance options, and tech support that deliver practical solutions for every business.

Podcast 101 – your guide to get on the air

By creating a podcast, you may be able to bring more awareness about your products or service and you can leverage yourself as an industry leader with your podcast. But how do you create one?

How to start an online business

Find out what it takes to start and run an online business. And learn how it differs from a regular brick-and-mortar operation. This guide includes tips and insights from experts and owners who’ve done it all before.

Never surrender – from start-up to greatness

Mike Anderson (Founder & CEO of the NSBC) has spent many years researching and participating in the entrepreneurial journey and identified some key ingredients to becoming an entrepreneurial legend. Let’s look at these 12 key ingredients.

Marketing automation: an SME guide

By automating your processes you can keep a keen eye on your marketing efforts and see which ones are successful and what needs a better process. Let’s look at how to automate your marketing.

NFC versus QR code payments – there’s room for both

As the demand for contactless payments increases, business owners are debating whether to adopt NFC or QR codes as the best technology. But, both have a path forward in mobile payments, says Zapper CEO Brett White.

7 ways for SMEs to manage their risks

While it’s impossible to prevent incidents, well-prepared businesses can manage their risks through a comprehensive business insurance portfolio that mitigates the damages and after-effects.

Multifunctional printers: multitasking powerhouses for SMEs

Small businesses always seem to do a lot with very little and having access to one of these powerhouse printers will give you solutions that will make your working day a lot easier.

5 tips to boost empathy in the workplace

Many people have cognitive empathy but few can engage or take action to support someone when they have recognised the emotion. So how do you boost empathy in the workplace?

Webinar Replay :: From startup to greatness

Are you willing to go after success? Do you have a clear vision? Do you have a burning desire? Are you willing to fail? If so, you are well on your way to succeeding.

How to rebuild your business after a national crisis

Crises. They come whether global or local, your small business will encounter a crisis at one time or another but how can you rebuild when you have been brought to your knees?

5 productivity tips to help drive small business growth

With the right technology, you can save time, generate more leads, and enable new, more productive ways of working. Here are five productivity tips to help your growing business thrive and adapt.

What is QR code standardisation and why do we need it?

What exactly is QR code standardisation and how would it affect businesses, consumers, and payment providers?

SA’s small businesses to focus on financial literacy, boosting revenue and tech adoption amid COVID-19’s lasting consequences

Almost two thirds of small business owners in South Africa are concerned with overcoming financial instability. Xero is setting out nine recommendations for the government and wider business community to make life easier for small firms.

Digitalisation in South Africa: From recovery to success

Digitalisation was already underway when COVID-19 began its rapid global spread, although many South African business owners had not yet felt the immediate impact of this trend.

The 2021 SA Small Business Awards – How to make your entry stand out

Celebrating the importance and success of small businesses in South Africa, entries for the 2021 South African Small Business Awards will be closing soon. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind when entering.

Post-pandemic goal setting for your SME

As the world starts to emerge from the pandemic and more vaccines are administered and more businesses start to open, what is your goal for your SME? How can you set goals for a post-pandemic world? Let’s look at six ways to set a goal for your SME.

Why CRM systems are key to the growth of South African SMEs

In this article, we’ll be focusing on one of the key trends that was identified in particular: the increased adoption by South African SMEs of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems.

Marketing for SMMEs during a crisis

Marketing is crucial to any business whether or not you make sales; continuous communication of your product or service must be made to the potential consumer. Otherwise, one runs the risk of having their product or service forgotten.

Nedbank ensures there are big things in store for small businesses

Nedbank is launching its Big Things for Small Business campaign, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to win their share of R1 million.

4 tips on how businesses can navigate today’s complex risks

It is important to note that having good risk management practices, updated safety training for employees and clients alike, as well as a solid plan for the new normal can influence whether or not a business makes it past this next hurdle.

How to choose the best printer for your SME

Trying to match the right copier/printer to your business can be quite overwhelming. Do you choose a cheaper model and hope that it meets your current business requirements, or do you go for the new, pricey model....

TikTok: is it fad or the emerging standard in social media

TikTok. Depending on who you speak to some may say it is the sound of a grandfather clock in the hallway or the fastest-growing social media platform in recent years. But is it a fad or an emerging new platform which SMEs need to take note of?

The art of being paid: A free kit to help your business speed up late payments

While several large South African companies pledged to pay SMEs faster, the issue of late payments still looms large. So what can businesses do to work with their clients and customers to ensure timely payments are being made in full?

South Africa’s top start-ups and small businesses are making world-wide waves – here’s how you can join them

we explore the three factors that have enabled South Africa’s top small businesses to grow and scale successfully: getting the right tools for the job, making their sales processes more efficient, and delivering unparalleled customer experience.

The benefits of SMS

SMS provides a simple and cost-effective way of communicating with customers, but the benefits go far beyond that. Which is exactly why it remains an essential part of communication and marketing strategies.

Choosing a medical aid when you are on a budget

It is important that the medical aid you choose will meet your health needs. Do not compromise on your health. Make sure you get more for less. Rather pay a bit more now and save in the future.

Back to better: everything you need to know about cash flow

Dext is your go-to platform for getting on top of business finances – and back to an even better place. We put you in control of your business within minutes, giving you all the tools you need to capture, upload and track your cashflow

Nominate a small business you admire and they could win up to R100 000 in interest-free funding + more

Join the CapeTownMagazine.com and Lulalend initiative to put deserving small businesses, from anywhere in the country and any sector of the economy, in the spotlight.

The mistakes, the myths and the best advice when starting a business

There is no right or wrong time to start. But there is no better time than the present to start a business. A global start-up revolution is happening now.

The on-demand economy: an SME guide

In this article we will define what is the on-demand economy, what does the workforce look like, and how can small businesses use the on-demand economy to build their business.

Why PR is so important for small businesses

PR services do not have to be expensive – SMMEs can start building their brand with very small budgets and use social media to keep their brands top of mind to potential and existing customers.

What should you do if your business is hacked?

Statistically speaking, being hacked is more an issue of ‘when’ and not ‘if’, with a small business being successfully hacked every 19 seconds in the UK. If you find yourself on the receiving end of a hack or data breach, it can be easy to panic.

Giraffe: The technology behind the mobile platform tackling South Africa’s unemployment crisis

South African mobile recruitment platform, Giraffe, was founded with a clear mission – to help people find jobs, and change lives in the process. In a country where one in four people are unemployed, the platform is sorely needed.

Here’s how to make your medical aid comparison process a little easier

For many South Africans the idea of paying a hefty hospital bill is enough to make them run for the hills. Private healthcare in the country is costly, but fortunately, there are plenty of medical aid schemes to choose from

A head start for your start up

When it comes to tech, Incredible Connection is all business. For the past 26 years, we have not only offered the widest range of leading tech brands and made first-to-market innovation accessible to all businesses – big and small

Webinar Alert :: E-commerce growth in South Africa and Financing Solutions

Join Global Sourcing Fair South Africa and Global Sources International for a webinar on 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 at 10:30 (SAST) in how to tap into the e-commerce industry in South Africa and various SME financing options and considerations.

10 powerful insights for your strategic planning day

Here are 10 insights to plan your day strategically.

How to partner with a social media influencer to promote your brand

Whether we love them or hate them, there’s no denying the power that social media influencers have over their followers. Their endorsement or denouncement of a product or service can literally make or break a brand’s credibility.

Webinar Replay - The DNA of a Sales Guru

Hosted at The Business Show :: Africa. Join Mark Keating (SALESGURU CEO) as you learn how to develop a winning mindset, increase your activities, improve your sales skills, and reach your goals.

Webinar Replay :: Never Surrender - From Startup to Greatness

Hosted at The Business Show :: Africa If you apply the tips by Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO), they will help you succeed in business and in life.

Webinar Replay :: Unstoppable: The spirit of an entrepreneur and the winding road to success

Join Leanne Rhodes (NBSC Creative Director) as she interviews Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO), Renate Jute (Owner of Noble Prosperity) and Shakeel Karjieker (Ownber of Global Unique Fabrics).

Webinar Replay :: Stand out in a crowded digital world

Join Leanne Rhodes (NSBC Creative Director) as she discusses branding strategies to give your business that unique edge.

Webinar Replay :: Future proofing small business to weather the storm

Join Anita Opperman(Mastercard - Commercial Sales Specialist) as she discusses how to drive your cash flow, better manage your finances and discover new reliable and trustworthy tools and solutions to meet the needs of fast-evolving consumers.

Webinar Replay :: Smart Marketing: You’ve got mail!

Join Ines Rosef Ingram (Pine3 Marketing CEO) & Mike Anderson (NSBC FOUnder & CEO) in the 3rd installment of the Fast Forward Series - Season 3 brought to you by Vodacom.

Webinar Alert :: A specialised employee benefit solution for the SMME Industry

Kick start 2022 with our exciting, technologically advanced human capital solutions - benefitting your employees and your bottom line.

The South African Small Business Awards to recognise entrepreneurial excellence

The prestigious South African Small Business Awards recognises the tireless journey, hard work and outstanding achievements of Small Businesses and Entrepreneurial Success.

4 key small business marketing statistics for 2021

2021 has been a rollercoaster of a year, but let’s look at four key small business marketing statistics for the world and South Africa.

How to build an SMS database the right way

So, you’ve got a great SMS marketing campaign idea and you’re all set to hit send, but do you even know who your SMSes are going to?

Webinar Replay :: Wellness Workshop

When staff members are able to access the wellness tools and healthcare they need; businesses stand to benefit from improved productivity and a more engaged workforce.

Webinar Replay :: Introducing getlion™️ - Africa's go-to platform for entrepreneurs

Want to find out more about the mobile app, where you can access knowledge, tools & services, funding, rewards and a first-of-it’s-kind marketplace to sell online. Use this access Passcode: Getlion2@2@

Webinar Replay :: Effective Sales Management in a changed world

How to focus on leading a sales team and the management of high-yield activities that ensure not only that the target is met, but a healthy pipeline is being created.

No time like now for start-ups and SMMEs

For entrepreneurs and those who have dreamed of starting their own business one day, right now is the best time to launch a small business, or to change the trajectory of existing small, micro or medium enterprises (SMMEs).

8 steps to building a sustainable small business

Many entrepreneurs start a business to leave a legacy for those who will follow them, but is your company built to be sustainable?

Tips for growing your career as a female founder

Here are five pieces of actionable advice for female entrepreneurs, accountants, and professionals:

#WomensMonth: If you want something, go get it

It takes time for people to recognise true talent, so don’t let doubt put you down. Your story may just be beginning but your pursuit of happiness will pay off, given patience and drive.

Telkom pledges support valued from R10m to rebuild small businesses in aftermath of unrest

The Telkom SME Relief initiative, currently valued at R10 million, is aimed at providing aid to small business owners to rebuild their businesses and to urge South Africans and the private sector to rally behind SMEs.

The Young Entrepreneur’s Playbook

In a time of crisis and unpredictability, Lindile Xoko has written a guide, a playbook, a step-by-step ‘how to’ for the budding entrepreneur. The Young Entrepreneur’s Playbook

Vodacom’s Fast Forward Series continues to nurture small-business success

Currently in its third season, after successfully debuting in 2019, the aim of the free-to-attend series is to drive meaningful change and growth that enables crucial digitalisation within the SME business environment.

Webinar Alert :: Key strategies to boost shopping sales and deliver a better shopping experience

26 August @ 10:00 Learn how to build a seamless customer experience and boost retail and ecommerce sales with this webinar from Infobip.

5 steps to projecting professionalism online

With many meetings going online, appearing professional has become a prerequisite. Here are five quick steps to project a professional image online.

How to get clients and build your customer base

The search for new clients and customers drives most businesses. However, finding new customers is one of the most difficult challenges

Get yourself registered for Xero Roadshow 2021

Join us for a morning of insight and inspiration on 26 August 2021, as we dive into accelerating your business, your clients and the economy.

Start or grow your e-commerce business with the PayFast Guide to Going Online

The 50-page e-commerce toolkit is jam-packed with e-commerce insights, tips, tools and advice based on extensive research and valuable insights from some of our trusted partners like uAfrica.

Top three liquidity risks for manufacturers

We live in challenging times and for the manufacturing industry, this means increased pressure on its requirements and a need to rebuild resiliency and stability. For this, liquidity is fundamental.

Nedbank repositions its Business Ignite programme to give more South African small businesses a hand

Nedbank is equally determined to partner with the nation’s entrepreneurs to help them reshape their businesses for sustainable success

Spring celebrates the arrival of the biggest small business day of the year – Small Business Friday

The 10th Small Business Friday is South Africa’s biggest small business day of the year. This powerful and meaningful movement is about mobilising all South Africans to go out there and support and buy from their local small businesses.

How to network at an online event

With many events moving to an online platform, being able to network online has become crucial. But how do you network online without spamming the live chat with your business details which can cause people to think less of your business?

4 ways to improve your business’ cash flow

Keeping track of your business’ incoming and outgoing cash flows can be tricky, but is critical during uncertain times where revenue may fluctuate. Here are four simple and useful actions to help you manage and improve your business’s cashflow.

Mastercard and Payfast launch priceless campaign to support small businesses and boost online sales

A partnership with online payment gateway, PayFast, sees the launch of a “shop local” campaign with prizes for consumers and SMEs using online checkout systems.

Upcoming Event: The Business Show Africa – This is what you need for business success!

The Business Show: Africa will be hosted virtually from 01 – 03 September 2021

How to design an order fulfilment process

How can we design a better order fulfilment process? And what is an order fulfilment process anyway?

5 ways to increase e-commerce profits using the 5% rule

Now that you’ve set up your e-commerce store and you know how to promote it, it’s time to look at increasing your profits

Successful entrepreneurs need more than a good idea

While it is important to have a viable idea, the key to success is being able to turn the idea into a sustainable and profitable business.

The SME guide to improving your cash flow

In this guide SMEs will learn about the importance of cash flow, technology to help manage your cash flow in real-time, how to sustain improvements and cash flow management tools.

New tool introduces AI-powered analytics to help small businesses plan for the future with trusted, insightful data

Xero announced Xero Analytics Plus, part of a new suite of planning and forecasting tools powered by artificial intelligence. Xero Analytics Plus combines cash flow forecasting featuring advanced predictions and insightful business reporting tools.

Register your (Pty) Ltd Company Now

This business startup package is amazing and unmatched. Let us help you to take action and turn your dream into a reality by getting you started and then helping you to succeed.

6 online networking ideas for small businesses

With wearing a mask and social distancing becoming more and more of the norm, small businesses have had to move online to meet their potential clients. But where and how can you network effectively online? Here are six ideas on networking online.

Marketing strategies for start-ups

As your business grows and expands its presence, it may attract customers through word of mouth. But until that happens, let’s go over a few things that can spread the word about your start-up and get your marketing moving in the right direction.

How to grow your business using SMS

Business owners who use SMS find the cost-saving benefits instrumental in the growth of their mini empires. Here we look at three cases where SMS is proving to be a valuable tool when it comes to helping local businesses reach their customers

Changing lives – a new project aimed at uplifting South Africans after the decimation from COVID-19

Changing Lives is an independent project created by author and neuroscience coach, Tanya Kunze, and media personality and executive producer, Hein Kaiser, to effect positive change in South Africa, and the world.

Webinar Alert :: Looking after your employees during a VUCA time

Join Liberty as they look at the current VUCA environment and the impact on employers and employees and discuss how goal-based investing is good and how value-for-money solutions can improve retirement outcomes.

The SME guide to sales optimisation

Practical tips on how to boost your sales by optimising your sales funnel from Lulalend. This guide will help you and your small business grow with workable steps.

We need job creation, not job destruction – Proudly SA CEO

Entrepreneurship and innovation are the backbone of the South African economy, and it is Proudly South African’s mandate to promote those companies that manufacture, grow or produce local goods and services, creating thousands of jobs in the process.

How to create a successful Instagram platform for your business

Social media can be an important channel to reach potential customers and keep in touch with your current customers. Here are eight tips on how to increase your number of followers and engagement on social media:

How is COVID-19 changing our message?

As COVID-19 continues to spread across borders and countries, companies are changing the way they communicate with their customers and teams. It’s no longer business-as-usual we’re now getting SMSes telling us to “stay inside and stay healthy”.

Good customer retention tactics translate to brand loyalty and profitability for SMEs

There is a good reason why the saying goes “first impressions last” and this is particularly important for small businesses. Once they’ve connected with a new customer, businesses should focus on offering high-quality delivery over the long-term.

How to maintain your company culture while working from home

In this remote work environment, sustaining organisational culture becomes even more important and reaching everyone in various locations is even more challenging. So, how should a company foster a positive culture for remote employees?

Emerging payments keep SMEs afloat

Chipo Mushwana, Executive of Emerging Innovation at Nedbank, explores the potential impact of emerging payment innovations on the South African economy.

Looking for Smart Marketing solutions?

Market to your existing and potential customers exactly where they are online. Vodacom's easy-to-implement and cost-effective solutions fit and scale to your small business’ marketing needs.

Want your own website?

Check out this instructional video on how to build your own website with the Vodacom website builder

Connecting the Dots 2021

Download this free, helpful guide and discover the latest trends and how you need to adapt to our ever changing environment.

Covid-19 Ters applications re-open

Workers affected by the Covid-19 lockdown regulations since March 2021 will once again be able to claim from the Covid-19 Temporary Employee/Employer Relief Scheme (Ters)

Webinar Replay :: Building your online presence & taking your business to your customers

In this live power-packed Q&A, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Ines Rosef-Ingram (Founder & CEO of Pine3 Marketing) share expert lessons on how your website can be a marketing machine for your business.

What’s next for small businesses?

Power outages, the pandemic, and now a looting and destruction crisis. What’s next for small businesses?

5 ways to effectively engage with and grow your social media community

Irrespective of how big your online business is, it’s important to be approachable on social media, as this not only creates a positive customer experience but also encourages word of mouth, which is priceless.

How to be a digital solopreneur in 2021

Solopreneurship is when someone strikes out on their own as a fulltime entrepreneur. They run their entire business independently, taking sole responsibility for the business operations – from service provision to administration.

7 myths about launching a start-up

When launching a start-up you may be bombarded with myths that hold you back. Today we will debunk the myths and help you to start your journey to being a successful entrepreneur.

New VAT e-filing tools go live to help small businesses with digital tax

VAT e-filing is live now and is being rolled out to all South African users in the coming weeks. This means that they will be able to submit their VAT returns to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) from within the Xero platform.

Access Bank’s Womenpreneur Pitch-A-Ton Africa welcomes South Africa

Access Bank’s campaign “Womenpreneur Pitch-A-Ton Africa” is designed to support women in business across the African Continent. Now, the bank is looking to put South African women’s businesses on the map.

Celebrating ten years of recognising home-grown app development talent

MTN Business App of the Year Awards now open for entry, offering biggest prize money ever

TERS Update

Following the announcement that Covid19 TERS will be extended to 25.07.2021 for certain sectors that have not been able to operate and employees that remain affected by regulatory restrictions.

TERS Update

Annexure A

TERS Update

Annexure B

How to start a business with what you have

Is your dream to operate your own business. If so, now is the time to ‘Think Differently’ and ‘Take Action’. The great start-up boom is coming. Are you ready?

8 ways to increase sales with your current customers

Increasing sales with your current customers should be easy as you already have a relationship with them. They know you can serve their needs but how can you increase sales with your customers? Here are eight ways to do just that.

What is POPIA and how does it affect your online business?

In this blog post, we’ll examine the main important points of POPIA and how it affects your online business.

5 practical ways to improve customer retention

In this article, we’ll look at five effective techniques to increase client retention, loyalty and transform existing customers into brand ambassadors:

Guidance Note on the processing of personal information

Guidance Note on the processing of personal information in the management and containment of the Covid-19 pandemic, in terms of POPIA.

Webinar Replay :: POPIA compliance: yes, we are looking at you SMEs

SMEs are not exempt from complying with POPIA from 1 JUL 2021. ENSafrica Executives and POPIA experts, Era Gunning and Nicole Gabryk guide SMEs on how to comply with POPIA with urgency.

Webinar Replay :: Why the smart are getting ahead

Do you want to know why business structures will make you successful?Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO), Rob Velosa (iProtect) and Jose Delgado (iProtect) in this power-packed Q&A session.

The SME guide to building customer loyalty

Customer loyalty is the act of continually choosing one company’s products and services over its competitors. In this guide you will find useful insights on how to keep customers coming back and staying loyal to your business.

Serious about launching a start-up or growing a bigger and more successful business?

Get your free passport to The Business Show: Africa 2021 (Live Virtual Extravaganza) taking place from Wednesday, 04 August 2021– Friday, 06 August 2021.

10 ideas on how to increase sales for your small business

Increasing sales is on every entrepreneur’s mind, but how can we do it? Especially when our customers are clutching their purse strings closed. Here are ten ways on how to increase sales for your small business.

4 tips on how to use social media to drive traffic to your online store

To help you on your social media journey, we’ve outlined some tips below on how to create and publish engaging content to attract the right audience to like your business pages and navigate out to your online store.

What you should know about email marketing today

Email marketing might not be the most exciting channel to use when doing digital marketing, but it should definitely not have any less priority for that reason

4 steps to grow and scale your e-commerce business

When your online business is up and running, and has been for some time, it’s easy to fall into the trap of the monotony of the day-to-day. Here are simple suggestions to inspire you to take action to grow and scale your business.

How to change your business game plan in tense economic times

“To change your game plan and adapt to the pandemic, it’s pivotal to really hone in on what’s important right now.

Use SMS to reconnect with customers

Here are a few ways SMS can help businesses reconnect and engage with their customers again.

The start-up boom is coming. Are you ready?

If you aren’t sure how to start and what your new business will be, but you’re hoping to ride this new wave of opportunity – Your business starts right here!

Local SEO: 5 steps to getting more local business online

Are your customers based locally? Do you struggle to attract them to your business online? Then it is time to update your local SEO. Local search engine optimization (SEO) focuses on boosting your business for local searches.

How to build a tech stack for your business

By selecting the right technology you can improve your team’s efficiency and thereby boost your bottom line. Let’s learn how to build a great tech stack.

Financial advice for small business owners

As a small business owner, one element of your business you have to master is your finances. But small business finances can be very confusing. Sue Torr from Crue Invest shares her most practical financial advice for entrepreneurs.

Succeed at social media with these simple steps

Give your business brand a social media touch and not only will you generate more business, but also connect with your customers on a higher level and create a better customer experience.

Webinar Replay :: Online marketing and why you should consider it for your business

Are you looking to future-proof your business or update and reimagine outdated business models and marketing strategies? Watch this power-packed Q&A Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Ines Rosef-Ingram Founder & CEO of Pine3 Marketing.

SMS Best Practice Guide

In this guide, we take you through the five best practices that the messaging industry associations and regional regulations expect you to follow when sending SMS communications.

Consolidated Directions on Occupational Health and Safety Measures in Certain Workplaces

the Amended Directions retain the Consolidated Directions issued by Government Gazette on 1 October 2020. The Amended Directions particularly contain directions on how to deal with employee vaccinations.

Adjusted Alert Level 4 regulations announced

Adjusted Alert level 4 will apply nationally as from Monday, 28 June 2021

Webinar Alert :: Why the smart are getting ahead? How to financially bulletproof your business.

Do you want to know why business structures will make you successful?Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO), Rob Velosa (iProtect) and Jose Delgado (iProtect) in this power-packed Q&A session.

Failing fast and often will make you stronger

Innovation is about new ideas, new processes, and new ways of doing things. Step outside of your comfort zone and experiment. Try something different in life. Put your ideas to the test. Innovation relies on trial and error.

Top tips when starting your own business: a guide to business essentials

Having a good business idea, nurturing it, and putting it into practice is one of the critical steps on the journey to entrepreneurship. Running a successful business, even during a pandemic, is the ultimate goal for all entrepreneurs.

Tax experts offer their top tips for SMEs this tax season

Small businesses are already struggling, so it’s vital that they get tax filing right to avoid any penalties or nasty surprises. This means understanding how to stay compliant and also what special taxes may apply to them.

Strategies for achieving and sustaining growth

“Prevention is better than cure”, right? Well, in the early stages when any company starts showing signs of stagnation, the senior leaders should respond by evaluating the growth potential of the core trading activities.

5 affordable ways to promote your online store

Promotion is the key to the success of any online store. The more effort you put into marketing your products, the more likely it is that customers will decide to buy from you. Customers can’t buy what they can’t see.

Free Guide :: SMS in e-commerce

With so much weighing on the effectiveness of communication, many players within the e-commerce space have turned to SMS messaging as an invaluable communication tool.

ADJUSTED ALERT LEVEL3 PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH 15 JUNE 2021----GOVERNMENT GAZETTE

Government Gazette containing the imposition of the latest Adjusted Alert Level 3 regulations, as announced by the President on Tuesday, 15 June 2021.

How to present online effectively

But how can you ensure your message is received and that you hold the attention of your participants throughout the presentation? Here are six steps to presenting online effectively.

Five questions small businesses should ask before applying for funding

Finding and applying for suitable funding is often not as simple as just ‘asking the bank’. You will find it useful to consider these key questions when you set out to get funding.

What might extra sanitising mean for our immunity?

According to some schools of thought, ‘overzealous’ hygiene might threaten our natural defences by depriving the body’s immune system of opportunities to recognise and build resistance to germs.

Free Guide :: The SME Guide to Sales Optimisation

Your SME will benefit from insights on the following: Understanding a sales funnel, how conversions occur, improving each stage, practical tips on how to convert leads to customers, and how marketing can support your sales optimisation.

E-commerce website options in South Africa

By creating an e-commerce store that’s localised and optimised for the South African market, you’ll be in an ideal position to connect with a huge (and expanding) audience of online shoppers.

Master the online sales process

Let’s look at how we can master the online sales process to boost our profits.

Complacency: the rule of doubling efforts

Every time we win an account, we need to double our efforts. Every time we lose a deal, we need to double our efforts. Every time we achieve an internal target...

The GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit for Small Business

The Cybersecurity Toolkit for Small Business – to provide free tools and resources you can use right now. It is applicable for any small organization with limited IT expertise, resource or budget – whether commercial, not for profit or mission based.

Nedbank committed to supporting SMEs and their owners

Because your business and personal finances are so interdependent, Nedbank has designed a banking solution that enables you to manage both through a single point of contact: your dedicated relationship banker.

Cash Flow Survival Guide

Whether in a crisis or not, positive cash flow is essential for any enterprise and negative cash flow is one of the toughest hurdles to get over

Shorten your SMB’s sales cycle

Sales are the lifeblood of any small-to-medium-sized business but how can you shorten the cycle? How can you stop it from dragging on for days or, even, months?

8 best practices for online presentations

Here are eight best practices to keep the attention of your viewers.

Why improving customer engagement remains critical

As much as the term ‘customer engagement’ is frequently used, don’t let the buzzword stop the immense value it still has for your business.

Serving the community through modern tech

Incredible stories of how tech enables dreams do not only remind us that it is possible to reach your goals, but go an extra mile to show us how it’s done

A seamless collaboration between a small business owner, an accountant, and connected apps

For Kristen Buttress, Managing Director of Kristen’s Kick-Ass Ice Cream, using Xero alongside a suite of connected apps from the Xero App Marketplace has enabled her to grow her business.

5 Reasons to choose WordPress for your e-commerce store

Are you looking to move your business partially or entirely online? There’s no better time to do it than now. But keep in mind, the platform you use to manage your e-commerce store will play a pivotal role in its success.

Refuse to be boring: A guide to storytelling for business owners and sales professionals

How do brands stand out? Through effective story telling. In this e-book, Charles Hsuan discusses storytelling and how creating your A.P.a.R.T moment is the perfect place to start.

Webinar Replay :: The "Big 4" every business owner aspires to achieve

Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) discusses the "Big 4" every business owner aspires to achieve, and concludes with five factors seen in the super successful.

How to register for e-filing and is it necessary for a small business

(SARS) developed the e-filing platform to help make it easier for taxpayers to submit their returns, make payments to SARS, and get a tax clearance certificate. Follow these easy steps to register for e-filing.

Google tools to help you grow your small business

As a small business owner, you juggle a lot of different roles. This makes it important to work smart, not hard. What’s the best way to do this? By using all the tools available to you as a small business owner.

Business across cultures 101

By following these six steps you will be well on your way to building strong healthy business relationships with your foreign colleagues.

Debit orders save time

SMEs need to get to the point in their cash conversion cycle, where they are bringing in more revenue than they are paying out. One way to accelerate cash flow is to automate debit order collections, payments and invoicing.

The rise of e-commerce

Gone are the days when buying online was simply a purchase of a book, clothing item, or food. Nowadays, having a business presence online that integrates e-commerce functionality will become a lot more common.

Candid Conversations with Charles Hsuan featuring Mike Anderson

Seizing opportunities before the tipping point of evidence is what makes a true entrepreneur.

Sourcing beyond China and alternative markets

Maintaining a stable supplier network in diverse places can help mitigate risk and sourcing disruption.

The role of luck in entrepreneurial ventures

So, you ask: what role does luck play in the success of my venture?

How to build a small business website in minutes

Running a small business can be very rewarding, but it’s also a complex and time-consuming job. Fortunately, creating a website is one aspect that doesn’t have to eat into your resources.

The power of word of mouth

If you know your client is happy, ask them to recommend you to other potential clients. It won’t cost them a thing and could make a big difference to your pipeline.

How to give constructive criticism

No one likes to be criticised especially when it is an attack on their identity but there are times when criticism is necessary to help someone grow in their position.

Dispelling three myths about QR code payments acceptance in South Africa

Consumer adoption of QR code payments has accelerated during the pandemic, partly due to merchants and consumers looking for contactless ways to transact as opposed to cash or cards.

The most affordable SME mobile voice and data packages in South Africa

It is critical that you sign up to an SME business connectivity package that provides you with everything your company needs – and for an SME, this often comes in the form of an LTE package.

Supplier Stories: Maintaining a long-distance (business) relationship

Does your company have what it takes to nurture a solid and lasting business relationship at a distance?

Sourcing Talk - Supplier Stories: What Buyers Get Wrong

Suppliers share their experiences and insights into where buyers go wrong and how to overcome those challenges.

Master the secret language of sales: storytelling

NSBC’s CEO, Mike Anderson, met up with Charles Hsuan, a storytelling sales coach from Flying Kite, to learn more about how to use storytelling to boost your sales.

Project management: a growth tool for small businesses

Have you missed important deadlines? Do you run over budget often? Then it may be time to employ some project management techniques to help you keep on schedule and to budget and grow.

The future of work

As employees begin returning to the office, companies will need to leverage technology to enable this new form of hybrid working to take place in a safe and secure manner.

Cash to card: the next frontier for SA’s micro-SME sector

For the migration from cash to card to gain meaningful momentum, it needs to be driven by consumers, and this is already happening.

What you need to know about debit order fraud and the latest PASA regulation

Debit orders are a safe, cheap and convenient way of collecting money and it can really boost cash flow significantly, but small merchants must educate themselves about the risks.

Digitalisation will put South Africa ahead as we move beyond COVID

It’s a critical time for small businesses and having the right digital tools to support recovery will continue to be essential.

Your burnout game plan: unlock your business’ wellbeing

It’s the buzz-word we hear time and again, but what does ‘burnout’ really mean? How do you know if you’re heading towards it?

Future of Sourcing: 2021 and Beyond

Future of Sourcing: 2021 and beyond — an exclusive webinar for VIP buyers.

Sourcing Talk: Maintaining a Long-Distance Business Relationship live panel

Global Sources suppliers share the ways they keep up long-lasting relationships with far-flung clients.

4 things to give up to be successful

Success isn’t simply a product of doing more — gaining more skills, more education, more certificates or promotions. What’s even more important, in fact, are the habits and things you need to give up along the way to improve.

Develop a kick-ass referral strategy

By following the six points, you will be well on your way to creating a customer pool who are more loyal and trusting.

How to generate content for your small business

There are many challenges businesses could face when it comes to building a brand on social media. A few challenges include lack of creativity, online reputation management, and the ability to become noticed and stand out.

Neuroscience and marketing – what’s the connection?

By learning from these seven steps you will be able to encourage the unconscious mind of your customers to react to your products in a productive and meaningful way.

Emerging opportunities for small business arising from SA’s success in slowing the COVID-19 outbreak

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant economic distress, which is likely to have a lasting impact into the future. However, it has also resulted in many new opportunities for small, medium and micro-enterprises.

Webinar Replay :: How to go BIG in business with Mike Anderson

In this interview (recorded at Breakfast Connect - virtual business-to-business networking event), Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) shares what he has learned from the world's most successful entrepreneurs.

3 Insider Tips to Boost Your China Sourcing

Join Steven Selikoff from Product Development Academy, as he shares three insider strategies that will elevate your China sourcing.

Webinar Replay :: Master the secret language of sales: Storytelling

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Charles Hsuan (Storytelling Sales Coach from Flying Kite) as they discuss why good storytelling beats good selling every time.

25 Steps to FAST Success

If we can model the success traits of the zero-to-hero mega entrepreneurs, there is no doubt that we will experience fewer difficulties and fewer failures and that our road to entrepreneurial success will be shorter.

How to prospect for your best clients online

How do we prospect for our golden clients? Those clients who will be loyal, trustworthy and help contribute to the growth of our business. Here are three steps to prospect for your best clients online.

Effectual logic and a holistic approach to problem-solving

In their search to find solutions for their customers’ pains, successful entrepreneurs apply effectuation (and effectual logic) which stands in contrast to the causative approach to problem-solving as taught in most business schools.

4 ways to manage the low season

With winter just around the corner, many businesses will be going into the low season. This means fewer customers, therefore, less revenue.

An overview on dealing with deserting employees

Employers are often faced with situations where employees are absent from the workplace for long periods. It is important to follow a proper procedure to deal with these situations. :

Financial educational tools to empower South Africans during the COVID-19 pandemic

Having a handle on your finances is one way of ensuring that you feel empowered through this difficult and challenging time.

5 ways to sell virtually

Selling virtually is daunting and many people are scared to go online to sell. They are waiting for the day everything goes back to normal but that day may never come and it is time to embrace virtual selling.

Delegation vs. abdication

One of the most common mistakes I see entrepreneurs making as their businesses begin to grow is confusing the concept of delegation with the concept of abdication

3 e-commerce security tips to keep your online store secure

There has literally never been a better time to open an e-commerce store and sell your products or services online. If you’ve just done so – congratulations!

Telcos and the SME opportunity

“Telcos play a key supporting role in enabling SMEs to shift to a digital business model. They can advise SMEs on how they can adapt their businesses to operate in a virtual way.

Fostering digital transformation for SA’s SMEs: building for the future

Through digitisation, SMEs can become more adaptable to the changing work environment. An example is to be able to shift seamlessly between remote working to office operations and back, as needed, for office workers.

SA's #1 Business Opportunity

Join the NSBC Founder & CEO, Mike Anderson for this monthly informative and interactive webinar. This is when he will unpack this unmatched, high income remote working business model.

Webinar :: Sales Indaba with Charles Hsuan

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Charles Hsuan (Storytelling Sales Coach from Flying Kite) as they look at utilising storytelling as a powerful sales technique.

No money marketing

Many SMEs have less than a shoestring to throw at their marketing budget but how can we get our name out there and keep ourselves top of mind in our customer’s mind?

Add energy to your sales channels

Every business, whether large or small, makes use of sales channels. Here are four methods to add energy to your sales channels:

How SMMEs can be more financially resilient

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the need for SMMEs to adopt new ways of doing things and has pushed businesses to try and become more financially resilient.

Supporting the rise of the side hustle economy

The COVID-19 pandemic and the national lockdown response highlighted the opportunities for these so-called side hustles, and the work-from-home protocols have made it easier than ever for employed individuals to operate small businesses from home.

6 steps on how to manage your digital assets

Have you used an expired logo on your website? Are you struggling to find the latest document you produced to explain how to use your product? Then it is time to organise your digital assets.

Succession: who will take over from you?

What will happen to your business if you die or become incapacitated? Here are four steps to creating a succession plan.

Mastering a comeback: how family businesses are triumphing over COVID-19

Are family businesses really more resilient, agile and adaptable than other business types? And, if so, have they been able to tackle the challenges of COVID-19 better than most and, perhaps, emerged even stronger?

The importance of data for small business

Here are four reasons why data is important to small businesses.

4 key aspects in rethinking remote employee connectivity in 2021

Here are some of the important factors that has been identified as key aspects to consider when deploying employee connectivity;

One year on: how COVID-19 lockdown affected e-commerce

On the flip side, ec-ommerce also provided new opportunities for businesses that were caught off guard by the restrictions and unable to generate revenue and pay their employees.

Developing a competitive mindset

What makes you better than Competitor X?” The right way to answer this question is to speak about what’s good about your organisation, your product, your service

Why living on the edge is the key to success

Living on the edge and taking action are the keys to happiness and success. Almost everything worth doing is risky. You will never get where you want to be if you don’t seize risks and take action.

Four easy-to-implement customer support strategies

Clients are responsible for the existence of a company. Without customers, you will struggle to have cash flow. But more and more clients are looking for a good buying experience rather than price.

Small business resolutions to boost cash flow

Staying in the green has always been a priority for small business owners. Now, more than ever, you need to take control and manage your finances to ensure long-term growth and sustainability.

Use OKR to execute your next big idea

Are you setting a new goal? Do you have huge ambitions but never seem to achieve then OKRs may be the solution.

10 tips for coping with stress and anxiety as a business owner

Being an entrepreneur is stressful at the best of times, but what happens when unforeseen circumstances cast its dark shadow of doubt, forcing you to rethink everything about your business and yourself?

Targeting paying customers

Why target poor-paying customers if ultimately they are going to cost you margin and effort?

TERS EXTENSION – APPEAL PROCESS - LOCKDOWN PERIOD 16 OCT 2020 – 15 MAR 2021

The gazetting of the confirms that Covid19 TERS benefits have been extended for certain categories of employees.

TERS Sector Appeal Form

Appeal for unsuccessful lodgement of claims for the period 16 October 2020 to 15 March 2021, particularly for certain sectors which have not been able to operate and employees who remained affected by regulatory restrictions.

Replay:: Breakfast Connect featuring Cindy Norcott with "No Money Marketing"

n this interactive exceptional virtual experience you will get to network with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, future customers and discover strategies and action steps to boost your marketing.

5 strategies to boost your SME’s profitability

Being profitable is the aim of every small business when they start. Here are five strategies to boost your SME’s profitability today.

Load shedding – a major obstacle for small businesses and their hope to survive the pandemic

"SMEs play a major role in the economy. There are important steps that can be taken to try and buffer these small companies from the effects of power interruptions”, says an industry body that represents the solar PV industry.

E-commerce: the basics

Here are five basic questions to consider before joining the e-commerce bandwagon.

Creating optimised content for your website

Once you have created your website, you are ready to optimise your website to rank high on Google. Here’s how to create optimised website content:

The Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs demands innovative, gender-specific support for women throughout pandemic recovery

While women entrepreneurs are making strides to overcome gender-related biases and advance their businesses in South Africa, they still face several structural and social obstacles, many of which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Replay :: Sales Indaba with Mark Keating

Discover how to over-deliver, generate thrilled customers ​​​​​​​and become the ultimate sales performer. In this power-packed Q&A session, Mike Anderson and Mark Berger will share tried and tested ways to increase sales results.

Virtual meetings 101

Meeting over Microsoft teams or Zoom has become the new normal but how can we be as effective in online meetings as we are in face-to-face meetings? Here are nine basic points to know so that you can excel at virtual meetings.

The process of a consumer complaint

It is important for a supplier to know when a consumer can lodge a complaint, where they can lodge a complaint, and what will happen after a complaint has been lodged.

The SME Guide to Business Funding

In this guide, small business owners can look forward to information that answers some questions and concerns around business funding.

The basic health and safety rules you need for your small business

Making sure your business complies with health and safety rules is critical for the wellbeing and safety of your employees.

Webinar :: Sales Indaba with Mark Berger

Discover how to over-deliver, generate thrilled customers ​​​​​​​and become the ultimate sales performer. In this power-packed Q&A session, Mike Anderson and Mark Berger will share tried and tested ways to increase sales results.

Succeed in sales in 2021

The sales environment has changed and it’s time to adapt. If we don’t, we may never achieve the success that we want.

PR vs Advertising: which is ideal for marketing SMMEs?

Public relations and advertising are both crucial for the promotion of any business. Which one is more cost-effective and lucrative for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in 2021?

6 strategies to manage a hybrid team

A hybrid team is a team made up of remote workers and in-office workers. Here are six strategies on how to manage a hybrid team.

Social Media Metrics: what do they mean?

By measuring different aspects of your social media metrics you will be able to understand if you are achieving your campaign goal.

Breakfast Connect featuring Cindy Norcott with "No Money Marketing"

In this interactive exceptional virtual experience you will get to network with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, future customers and discover strategies and action steps to boost your marketing.

Mobile marketing 101

Let’s take a look at the basics of mobile marketing.

Managing your online reputation

More and more customers are heading to the web to learn more about a business. Will your business be ready when they find you?

Factors that will aid small business recovery over the next year

Six trends that will be really important to your business over the next year.

2021/22 National Budget review and how it will impact your business

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) as he interviews a panel of leading financial experts from KPMG on the highlights and as well as the impact of the new budget on privately owned businesses.

Sales Indaba Replay :: Achieving Sales Success in 2021 with Mark Keating

Learn new techniques and strategies on how to seek out and secure new customers, retain existing customers, and smash your customer’s expectations with renowned platform speakers Mike Anderson & Mark Keating.

Remote productivity 101

By following these seven steps you will be well on your way to being more productive at home.

Build your brand on social media

Telling people about your product or service on social media can help you reach more customers. And best of all, it’s low cost and can have a big upside.

What Is the difference between POPIA, and PAIA, and who must ensure compliance in your business?

With all the compliance acts that came into effect over the last few years, business owners could easily get confused with all the different abbreviations they frequently encounter.

Avoiding liquidation: what SMEs can do to prevent collapse

In the three months ended October 2020, there was a 33,2% rise in business liquidations, according to Stats SA.

5 Tips for using LinkedIn – how to find and sell to anyone

Carlos Gil (Author of the End of Marketing: Humanizing Your Brand in the Age of AI), explains how to sell effectively on LinkedIn without irritating one’s connections.

Rule #1 :: Don’t sell

Let’s get an insight into a few key tips from the world’s top sales superstars.

There are more opportunities for SMMEs in 2021 than in 2011

“There is a global shift towards supporting Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises [SMMEs], that has been enthusiastically embraced in South Africa with prospective customers increasingly ordering online since the start of the national lockdown.

Online marketplaces

An online marketplace transfers the experience of a street fair and farmers market to the web. With thousands of other products, buyers get to browse and buy a variety of goods.

Self-care for small business owners

Many entrepreneurs pride themselves on burning the candle on both sides, but what if I told you this is detrimental for the growth of your business and you.

Disruption that sees SMEs working and growing

ProfitShare Partners (PSP) reviews an SME’s underlying transaction risk, which it helps manage. Based on that risk, the company provides the necessary finance and shares in a percentage of the profits of that particular transaction.

Easy Advance: a new financial service from PayFast and Retail Capital

To help merchants struggling with lockdown and to grow their business, PayFast has partnered with Retail Capital to launch Easy Advance.

How body language can help your sales

It is crucial that your body doesn’t sabotage your sales message, but how can you use your body to reinforce your sales message?

8 savvy ways to cut costs in a small business

At a time when many small businesses are struggling to stay afloat, cutting costs can boost their chances of keeping their doors open. We have a look at eight ways to cut costs in a small business.

3 reasons why social commerce is important for your online business

One buzzword that you may have noticed getting a lot of attention lately is social e-commerce. But what exactly is this new trend and why is it something that you should care about?

Adaptation is key to survival for South African SMMEs

While market shake-ups often lead to innovation and the birth of new industries, very few expected the past year to be as much of a game changer for business.

Sales Indaba :: Bookings open

Learn new techniques and strategies to seek out and secure new customers, retain existing customers with Mark Keating (SALESGURU CEO) and Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO).

Webinar Alert :: Need capital for your business? You’re invited

Top tips to bridge the gap and secure that much needed capital to boost your business with credible clients with Mike Anderson (NSBC ) chats to Andrew Maren (ProfitShare Partners) and Lloyd Madurai (Hot 91.9FM) about their campaign to #GetSAWorking.

The experts say “2021 is the year to build your tech stack”. Here’s why.

As we start a new year, businesses should consider whether they have the right tech stack to help them grow.

Employment tax incentive: how can it help your business?

In an effort to address South Africa’s high youth unemployment levels, the government introduced the Employment Tax Incentive (ETI) scheme with the aim of encouraging and incentivising employers to employ the youth.

UIF COVID19 TERS UPDATE: ERROR MESSAGE, FAILED CSVs and DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESS

This communication is to update / assist Users to further overcome problems encountered with Covid19 TERS claims and related issues.

He who conquers himself is the mightiest warrior

It is inevitable as a business owner that at some time on our journey we will hit that “T-Junction” or worse the “Brick Wall”. This “life happening” and what to do now, is not taught at Business School.

Getting back into the game: 5 ways to restart a business

Whether the COVI-19 pandemic knocked your SME down or your business has just been stagnant for a while, it’s time to breathe new life into it. We have five ways to assist you in restarting your business.

#WhereYouShopMatters

We believe in using the power of Visa's network to make a difference when it counts the most – right now. Introducing #WhereYouShopMatters, an initiative encouraging South Africans to support small businesses.

3 smart consumer habits every SME should know about

With the development of new technologies, consumers are much smarter than they were before and it is time SMEs acknowledged this

Use the power of the hashtag to boost your business

Hashtags can help a business to expand their content’s reach and visibility, strengthen their brand, increase their SEO and more. Let’s take a look at how to use the power of hashtags.

Top 10 global consumer trends for 2021 – Euromonitor

Global market research company Euromonitor International has released its ‘Top 10 Global Consumer Trends 2020’ report.

Free online marketing tips for small businesses

There are various ways to market your business online, and we’re giving you a few tips that you can utilise today to market your business for free.

Xero and Nedbank set to launch first-of-its-kind fully digital bank feed in South Africa

The new feed will launch in the coming weeks and is designed to give small businesses access to daily financial data in Xero, helping them to manage their cashflow better.

Sell almost anywhere online with Ecwid and PayFast

While Shopify and WooCommerce often get the most hype in the e-commerce space, there are a variety of other easy-to-use and affordable platforms and plugins that budding online entrepreneurs can use to start their e-commerce store and sell online

6 small business lessons that will stick

The COVID-19 pandemic has many lessons to teach us on a business and personal level but which of these will stick and which will we lose along the wayside? Let’s look at six small business lessons that we think will stick.

How do you motivate yourself and others in a brand new year

How do you motivate yourselves and others in a brand new year when you are out of oomph?

Top 4 payment trends for 2021

As eCommerce adoption rates continue to soar, digital payment solutions will need to keep pace to ensure that customers continue to shop online.

How small business owners can secure their business today – and thrive tomorrow

Small businesses in particular are the lifeblood of any community, and ensuring these businesses survive and thrive means ensuring a better future for us all.

The Marketing and Funding Business Guide

A comprehensive marketing and funding guide that will provide you with expert Marketing and PR tips, as well as info on how to get yourself in the best position to apply for business funding

How to be more successful in 2021

Yes, we can become more successful quicker. It is possible to speed up the process. Why drag out the process when we can make things happen by doing things now more effectively and with bigger results.

#BizTrends2021: 6 key trends for small businesses in 2021 and beyond

By knowing the latest business trends, you are in a stronger position to boost sales, operate more effectively, reduce expenses, market to the target audience, smash your customers’ experience and build a loyal customer base.

What can SMEs expect in 2021?

If 2020 is anything to go by, it’s clear that the ability to adapt and transform as a small business is necessary for survival.

Xero launches an eFiling beta trial with the South African Revenue Service

Xero has integrated with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), to launch a VAT eFiling beta.

Online security for SMEs – looking out for what businesses don’t want to see

While online shopping has been a growing phenomenon globally, it has also been making its mark locally. Since the onset of the pandemic, 68% of South African consumers are shopping more online according to a recent Mastercard e-commerce study

Business High Five guide: the marketing basics

Marketing isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing. As an SME, you might not have the capacity to have someone dedicated to this role just yet, and you may find yourself managing a lot on your own.

Overcoming SME fleet management productivity challenges

While we wait for global and local economies to recover, now is the time to help identify and solve the issues you as an SME fleet owner or manager may be facing. Below are some examples of common SME productivity challenges:

National Small Business Survey :: Summer 2020/21

Please complete this snap survey so we can use the findings to address the current pressing challenges and find solutions to help SME South Africa.

TERS Update

Please note that TERS claims for payment period 16 September to 15 October 2020 are acknowledged, however processing, including upload of CSV files, will only begin from Monday 7 December 2020.

Less than R50m million to go in #GetSAWorking fund

Do you want to make 2021 better than 2020? Less than R50m left to help businesses just like yours in the #GetSAWorking campaign. Take advantage now with just under R50m left.

Empowering Small Business Recovery with Cisco

Cisco offers incredible solutions and expert advice to help you stay connected, protect resources, manage productivity and manage expenses and cash flow so that you can focus on keeping your business running.

Stand firm on your pricing and don’t discount

As a business owner you’ve probably been asked to give a discount. How did that make you feel? Your response to that request is critical to the sustainability of your business as well as to your confidence.

Redefining your customer experience

How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic? Many people may have asked you this question or this may be the first time.

How to research trends in your industry

Change is inevitable. Every industry is changing and with the advent of the internet, this change is happening faster. Therefore it is critical for the success of your business to be aware of the trends which are happening in your industry.

Sales enablement: what is it?

Is your salesforce struggling to reach their quota? Is there an inconsistent message being delivered to your buyers? Studies have shown that companies which have implemented a sales enablement strategy have closed 15% more deals than before.

Winding down the year with some good news

As we all begin to wind down to the end of 2020, after an especially challenging year, it seems apt that we pause to reflect on some of the “good news” stories that have emerged.

IMPORTANT TERS UIF NOTIFICATION UPDATES

Post-verification exercise to be conducted by audit firms

IMPORTANT TERS UIF NOTIFICATION UPDATES

Please note that TERS claims for payment period 16 September to 15 October 2020 are acknowledged, however some input data did not meet the requirements of the TERS system, and these applications are required to be re-submitted.

The COVID Currency Survival Guide for Entrepreneurs and SMEs

Keep your business in balance with these foreign exchange (FX) strategies for COVID-19 and beyond.

The COVID Currency Survival Guide for Entrepreneurs and SMEs

Right now, the only thing that’s certain is uncertainty. As any entrepreneur will tell you, the COVID-19 pandemic – with its lockdowns and downturns – has brought confusion and volatility to almost every aspect of doing business.

Agility Business Guide

As experts in the field, Agility Corporate & Health Squared Medical Scheme are here to help you, with our Employee Benefits 101 Guide that will assist you in navigating these, sometimes tricky waters.

The winners of the 2020 South African Small Business Awards announced

Ending off its 12th successive year, the NSBC in association with World Famous Events has announced at a virtual gala event South Africa’s Top 20 Finalists, Special Award Winners and the Main Category Award Winners.

Innovation: the small business’ secret weapon

Being innovative has been the key to many small businesses going big. By being able to pivot easily without a lot of red tape being involved small businesses can innovate faster than most enterprises.

Pick up the phone!

Your phone is your greatest sales effectiveness tool. To build a strong, viable pipeline of opportunity that will convert into sales requires a plan and then execution.

To outsource or hire: which should it be?

Your company is ready to grow, but how do you decide whether to outsource or hire new staff members? What aspects do you need to consider?

ProfitShare Partners’ #GetSAWorking efforts show superb results

ProfitShare Partners, the fintech disruptor and force behind the year-long campaign with radio partner, Hot 91.9FM, to #GetSAWorking, has already boosted businesses with over R43 million – “and there’s more where that came from”

3 ways to build your creative confidence

You are creative. Many people don’t believe they are creative because they aren’t good at the arts but that is only one aspect of creativity. "Creative” means “Relating to or involving the use of the imagination or original ideas to create something.

How to tell your brand story effectively

Stories. Everyone has one to tell. They help people to connect and to find a common ground to share. When it comes to brand stories they help to build trust between your business and customers.

Tips on how to create a life worth living

Don’t worry too much about what you are going to DO when you leave school, university or college. Concern yourself with the type of person you want to BE

Are you ready for Black Friday?

Advice on what online sellers can do in preparation for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend.

Small business compliance guide

Being compliant is essential for every business no matter how big or small. By following these five steps you will be on your way to running a compliant business.

The small business guide to the numbers

No matter what business you’re in, you need to stay on top of your numbers if you want to survive and grow. That means putting rock-solid accounting practices and systems in place.

Presidential Address

STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA ON PROGRESS IN THE NATIONAL EFFORT TO CONTAIN THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The Top 20 winners are announced for the 2020 South African Small Business Awards

Ending off its 12th successive year, the NSBC in association with World Famous Events, has today announced South Africa’s ‘Top 20’ for the 2020 South African Small Business Awards.

How to navigate the seas of disruptive change

2020 has been a year of constant change and has caused disruptions in small businesses which many are working hard to come back from. But how can we navigate the seas of disruptive change?

Expanding markets, increasing revenues

There are many ways to increase your productivity and sales, and thus increase revenue with very little risk.

Get ahead of your Black Friday marketing

Anyone who is in the retail business or has previously owned a retail store of any kind will tell you that Black Friday – and the festive season as a whole – is the best time to grow your sales.

PayFast’s top 4 Black Friday tips for shoppers

2020 has definitely been one for the books with COVID-19, lockdown, load shedding, you name it. One thing that we can all be thankful for, however, is how e-commerce has been the saving grace for shoppers.

The misconception about fixed term contracts

Much like the COVID-19 pandemic, the misconception that employers can hold their employees to successive fixed-term employment contracts is going nowhere in a hurry.

Where can I register my company in South Africa?

If your business is still unregistered and you don’t know where to go to get your company registered with CIPC in South Africa, we have the answers

GUIDE: The Small Business Guide to the Numbers

The most important things every business owner should know about managing their finances from Lulalend.

GUIDE: The Marketing and Funding Business Guide

A comprehensive marketing and funding guide that will provide you with expert Marketing and PR tips, as well as info on how to get yourself in the best position to apply for business funding from Lulalend.

TERS Update

This communication is to update / assist Users to further overcome problems encountered with bank account verification; updates to the online portal and additional documents required by the UIF.

TERS Update

How to capture values for Digital UI 19 Declaration

TERS Update

COVID 19 TERS System Changes. Acknowledgement of COVID 19 TERS Refunds Steps:

Webinar Alert :: How to run a small business cost-effectively

In this webinar, Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) chats to Thapelo Tsiu (Nedbank) about how small businesses can best account for every cent they spend, save more and manage cash flow.

The formula for success is simple

Business owners and sales professionals who are successful are successful because they gain the majority of their targeted customers business. They manage the relationship and continuously build relationship equity.

The two most useful words in business

There are two simple words which, when used more regularly, can be very useful tools in taking your business forward. One is a question and the other is an answer

The SMBs guide: 7 steps to be a successful digital challenger

All one needs is a partner who puts you and your business ­first. Therefore, we have made it easier for SMBs of all sizes to manage their technological requirements and actions via 7 simple steps:

Digital adoption accelerates among South African small firms, but more than two-thirds struggle to find the right talent

Two-thirds (67%) of South African small businesses struggle to source the right tech talent, according to research from the global small business platform Xero.

Top 4 Black Friday tips for merchants

The tips are based on years worth of Customer Services experience in assisting merchants and buyers with related queries in the lead up to and over the busy Black Friday weekend.

How to start a business online

Many people are trying to add additional streams of income to recuperate from the financial loss. If you are finding yourself on that boat, then starting a business from home is the way to go

What can we DO TODAY, to PROSPER TOMORROW? (Episode 3)

Not so long ago, technology was regarded as the single most significant business disruptor. It was in every futurist’s presentation, a central theme at most industry events and one of the most talked about topics both locally and abroad.

Standard Bank, Mastercard and Google collaborate to help SMEs open their digital doors and reach more customers

As Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) accelerate digital transformation efforts in response to the pandemic, today Standard Bank, Mastercard and Google announced a collaboration to help them move their businesses online.

Partner Webinar :: Work from home success (Cisco)

If you have questions about setting up remote workers or want to help them securely work from home more efficiently and productively, check out Cisco's 'Work from home success’ webinar on Thursday, 5 November 2020.

Webinar Replay :: How to become a digital challenger: 7 steps to success

Join Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) and Shelley Wanless (Small Business Lead: South Africa & Egypt - Cisco) as they discuss how small businesses can accelerate their digital transformation.

What can small businesses do to fend off a burnout crisis?

There are a few steps we can all take to help protect mental health. Marc Rogatschnig has a few suggestions as a starting point.

How to build a resilient small business

One thing a crisis can highlight in your business is how resilient it is? Have you thought about what would happen should your business be hit by a crisis?

What can we DO TODAY, to PROSPER TOMORROW? (Episode 2)

How important is a positive attitude and how it can be the difference between surviving and prospering

Contactless: The perfect boost for small businesses

Point-of-sale (POS) systems can be expensive to purchase and time-consuming to navigate. But contactless technology is a game changer -it turns smartphones into both payment devices and acceptance devices.

Four steps to sell more using inbound marketing and lead generation

Customers no longer want to be sold to, but rather actively seek out products and services which is why your marketing and sales team need to effectively work together to turn leads into purchases.

Unfair, unreasonable and unjust contract terms and the Consumer Protection Act

To ensure that all suppliers meet the requirement of no unreasonable, unjust or unfair terms in any contract and/or agreement, take a few things into consideration with reference to the contract and/or agreement:

Webinar Replay:: 5 Winning tips for increasing and preserving cash flow for your small business

In this webinar Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) interviews Andrea Gilman (Mastercard - Global SME Segment Lead) about increase and preserve cash flow.

Forward-thinking insurers seek cyber security for managing burgeoning risk amidst COVID-19

This year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month theme urges all digital users and businesses to “Do your part. #BeCyberSmart.”

Six tips to take advantage of the eCommerce opportunity

There is no doubt eCommerce presents a massive opportunity for SMEs to regain their lost ground and catapult themselves into new prosperity. Westvig shares six tips for those wanting to take advantage of the eCommerce opportunity.

The essential cyber security checklist for your business

As real as the risks are, there are extremely effective cyber security tactics that can help protect your business from the threats of cyber criminals.

What can we do today, to prosper tomorrow? (Episode 1)

The interview is part of our “Industry in focus: SMME” series where we – together with other industry experts – take a critical look at the SMME Industry, what COVID-19 is teaching us and ask:

6 unique ways to engage with customers online

Technology has made engaging with customers easier but it can also make your customer feel like they are just a number in your money-making mill. Here are some ways to improve your brand’s customer engagement online.

RE:START 2020 - The state of South African small business

This year’s state of small business research shows that technology adoption is continuing to grow, but we need to see it accelerate further.

Common IT problems all small businesses face

IT struggles are a very real (and very frustrating) problem for many businesses. But, good news: many of these problems can be resolved relatively easily if you know what to look for.

5 Social media sites your business should be on

Small and medium-sized businesses have a lot to accomplish with limited resources. Marketing can often be a high cost for a business, which is what makes social media a much cheaper alternative for building brand awareness.

Take your retail business online

If you’re a retailer, right now this means going digital. In this guide, we’ve unpacked the basics of what you need to know if you are looking to move your retail business online and develop eCommerce capabilities.

3 keys to small business innovation – even during challenging times

To quickly roll out innovations and drive business results, you need three things. We will touch on them here.

Payment solutions for your business have never been this cool

Whether you’re a micro-enterprise with a turnover of less than R25K a month, or a large business needing different point of sale devices for different transactions, VodaPay has the seamless point of pay solution for you

Webinar Alert :: 5 Winning tips for increasing and preserving cash flow for your small business

In this webinar Mike Anderson (NSBC Founder & CEO) interviews Andrea Gilman (Mastercard - Global SME Segment Lead) about increase and preserve cash flow.

Webinar Replay :: How to Finish 2020 Strong with Cindy Norcott

Learn how to to set micro goals for the rest of the year, how to get ahead of the competition and how to change your self-talk and perspective on the 2020 year to practice self-care so that you are in the best position to start 2021 strong.

Starting a business? Here’s a new business checklist

There is no linear path of starting a business – you start with what you have and where you are. If you’ve been sitting with a lucrative business idea that you’re passionate about and haven’t started – what are you waiting for?

How to design a blog for your business

By following these seven steps, you should be well on your way to creating a blog which will help grow awareness for your product or services.

Add energy to your sales channels

The lesson to be learnt here. Be realistic about your payment and sales channels, but don’t be too afraid to take risks.

Freedom to work from anywhere

The options for remote working are growing every day and you need to choose a system that works well for you, while keeping things simple.

Lulapay: making it faster and easier for SMEs to get paid

Small businesses can now get paid immediately, while still offering payment terms to their customers.

Webinar Replay :: Motivation is over-rated

Motivation will spur you forward, but its a shift in your thinking and purposeful action that will make the ultimate difference to your business.

Economic revival lies in buying local

The surest route to economic recovery and prosperity in our new normal is to support local – we need to light the fire under our immense SME potential

Back to the core

The ‘core’ is the primary area or activity that a company was founded on or focuses on in its business operations. We look at strategies that identify and develop a strong business core and develop new business opportunities.

5 tips to enhance resilience

2020 has seen more people speaking of “resilience” than ever before. While some organisations are well underway on their resilience journeys, others still ponder what resilience really means and how to start building it.

Google is helping in the road to economic recovery

Google has announced plans to help businesses, job seekers, educational institutions and vulnerable populations as they grapple with the “new normal”.