5 Reasons to Own a Corporate Card for Your Business

Business Credit Card

As with personal credit cards, corporate credit cards can have many advantages for a business’ finances. Fortunately, today they are easier to access and there are more options are available.

Of course, the risks must also be taken into consideration, as well as using them wisely so that they work in favor of the growth and stability of your Australian business. As with a personal card, you should always take into account the credit limit, interest rates and payment deadlines. Today we focus on the advantages of a corporate credit card and the positive impact it can have on the growth of your business.

Allows you to separate personal and business expenses.

It is normal that during the first months or years of operation of your business you use your personal credit card or your own cash to make payments for merchandise or services. However, this can generate problems in the administrative and accounting order; for example, when recording expenses or managing cash flow. Of course, confusion can also arise when calculating tax payments.

Just like a corporate bank account, a card is very useful for separating expenses, bookkeeping and budget monitoring. So having one goes a long way toward ensuring the financial health of your business.

Facilitates the purchase of equipment, software and supplies.

A corporate credit card allows a business to go to the next level for another important reason: the possibility of acquiring equipment, tools, supplies and systems in interest-free monthly payments. Many times, small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) do not have the funds available to purchase a computer or a refrigerator with a single payment; nor do they have the banking history to apply for a credit.

On the other hand, with a card, not only can you take advantage of installments or deferred payments, but also of offers and discounts such as those that appear at the beginning of the year, and even pay taxes such as car ownership or property taxes. Of course, it is important to make sure that the payment option does not generate interest and to comply punctually with the monthly payments.

Credit card laptop

They are a great help during periods of cash shortage.

Credit cards can also help you out of an emergency in times of low sales and cash flow problems. Ideally, every business should have an emergency fund, but the reality is that this is not always possible.

For example, perhaps one of your most important customers is late in paying a bill, so you have to replace merchandise or pay for services such as Internet and electricity. With a card, you can get out of this predicament, but always keep in mind the payment deadline for the current spending period and whether or not you will have the necessary funds at that time.

If you meet your commitments on time, the bank or credit card operator will eventually grant you a longer payment term, which will mean more financial leeway for your company.

Your business will build a good credit history.

If you use your corporate credit card regularly and with financial discipline, your business will build a good credit history. This will earn you points so that in the future the credit line of the card can be extended, for example, from 30 to 45 days. And you may even be able to apply for a larger loan to buy machinery, commercial premises or other business needs.

Remember that a good credit history also includes the payment of services such as Internet or cell phone, so it is very important that you keep them up to date.

You can take advantage of accumulated points, discounts or other rewards.

Finally, do not forget that credit cards usually grant for accumulated consumption. For example, some points can be used to be exchanged for airline tickets, card bonuses or to purchase products from a catalog, among others. When you apply for a plastic card, take into account what these benefits are and what is most convenient for your business according to its line of business.

Likewise, there are cards that offer important discounts throughout the year in certain establishments or that allow you to pay for a purchase three months after it has been made. There are also those that include travel insurance or insurance or the purchase of electronics and telephone products.

All in all, it is a great idea to have a credit card for your Australian business.

5 Tips For Choosing Commercial Window Treatments

5 Tips For Choosing Commercial Window Treatments 

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Window treatments can help elevate the mood and atmosphere of a business environment. They’re often not at the top of the mind when designing and decorating a space, but they play a significant role in creating style and function. In addition, window treatments contribute to your building’s energy efficiency by controlling glare, heat, and ultraviolet radiation. 

Fortunately, commercial window treatments come in a wide variety to fit any style, and can meet your requirements. You can create the look and feel you need for your spaces, allowing you to have a beautiful atmosphere for your staff and customers. But you need to know how to make your pick for this to happen. This article will share the best tips to help you choose your commercial window treatments. 

  1. Consider the type of space 

    The window setup depends on the type of business, and so are the window treatments. The kind of space you’re considering installing window treatments in should be your top consideration. For example, a restaurant with an outdoor space may use the same treatments as an interior corporate office. The interior space isn’t as exposed to harsh weather elements and contact with people and things.  

    The restaurant will need higher quality outdoor blinds that can withstand the harsh environment while providing the aesthetic and functional value required. Similarly, corporate office space will need treatments that aren’t too distracting. But they should also be easy to control. The point is to look at the specific area carefully and spot what it requires before buying and installing window treatments. This will help you narrow down your search significantly and make your choice easier. 

  2. Look at your room’s design 

    While the previous point is more about choosing window treatments for functionality, considering the room design is more about the aesthetic function. Your treatments need to create a look that matches the other décor elements in the space. They need to enhance the design and décor of your commercial space and not look misplaced. 

    Remember, you need to keep branding in mind to portray a consistent image in all your communication touchpoints such as your website and online business listings. Your office décor, including window treatments, should also enhance branding. For you to achieve this, it’s advisable to go for custom treatments rather than picking them off the shelf.  

    When choosing window treatments to match your design, some significant elements you need to consider include colour, pattern, and fabric. Colour may help you enforce your brand image and texture and add character to your space. And the fabric you choose should fit naturally in the room. 

  3. Consider the level of light control you need 

    Light control is an essential function of window treatments, and it should be among your top considerations when picking one. Different spaces require different levels of light control. For example, an office reception might look and feel welcoming and full of energy when it’s bright, with enough light coming through. However, some office spaces or businesses may feel more private, quiet, and meditative when they’re darker, depending on the functions of the spaces.  

    But keep in mind that for you to efficiently control the lighting in a commercial space, you need flexible window treatments. This will allow you to control your lighting depending on situations and the function you require the blinds or treatments to play. Some of the most flexible window treatments for your commercial space include aluminium blinds.  

    These treatments offer excellent flexibility in transitioning a space from day to night mode, particularly for conference rooms and other spaces where you need to view videos and other such media. Others treatments include roller shades that work well in offering privacy to interior connecting rooms as well as exterior windows. (1) 

  4. Look at the level of energy efficiency 

    Commercial window treatments may require a considerable initial investment. But that’s not as important as how much they’ll cost you afterwards. One of the most important tips when choosing window treatments for your business is how well they’ll work in insulating the building. 

    Notably, a large percentage of the heat entering to or escaping from your building is through the windows. If you forget to consider the level of energy efficiency of your window treatments, you may find yourself paying extremely high energy bills for heating or cooling the building. This is something you can avoid with your choice of window treatments. (2) 

    Commercial Window Treatment

  5. Choose a window treatment control mechanism

    Technology has made it possible to improve the efficiency of controlling your window treatments. Installing motorised blinds, shutter systems, or shades can make it easy to operate your treatments through remote-controlled devices or applications. This means you might need to consider how you want to operate your window treatments. (3)

    Keep in mind that the lesser your treatments come into contact with people, the more you eliminate the risks of damage and dirt. However, before you invest in this type of blinds, it’s important to speak to reputable commercial window treatment experts to know your options. By consulting experts, you might also realise what you don’t need. For example, if you find that manual blinds work best for you, then you can go for that option.  

    Final thoughts 

    There are many things to consider when choosing commercial window treatments. They can impact your business’s atmosphere, mood, privacy, and even energy costs. But you’ll do alright if you know the best tips in picking the most suitable ones for your space. The decision requires research and time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to commercial window treatment experts for guidance.

    References:

    1. “Proper Lighting and Control Strategies Offer Multiple Benefits in a Variety of Commercial Interior Environments”, Source: https://iands.design/articles/45093/lighting-control-strategies-benefits

    2. “Reducing heat loss through home windows”, Source: https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/energy-efficiency-and-reducing-emissions/building-or-renovating/windows-and-shading/reducing-heat-loss-through-windows

    3. “ADDING BLIND CONTROL TO YOUR LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM”, Source: https://www.ssqld.com.au/adding-blind-control-to-your-lighting-control-system/ 

How to Register a Business in Australia

Open For Business

Registering and running a Business in Australia Links and Faqs.

Do I need an ABN to register a business?

An ABN (Australian Business Number) is a 9 digit number. To register a business name, you will need to have an ABN, or in the process of applying for one with the Australian Business Register (ABR).

How much does it cost to register ABN?

To apply for an ABN is FREE of charge. Whether you apply online or by a printable form you will not be charged for the application. If you go through your Tax agent they may charge you their fee to process the application.

Can I run a business without an ABN?

If your turnover is less than $75,000 you may be able to operate without an ABN. The Australian Taxation Office does suggest to apply for an ABN when starting as a sole trader even if your annual turnover is less than the $75k stated.

Do I have to pay to register a business name in Australia?

The fees for registering a business name range from $37 for one year to $87 for three years.

What is considered a ‘Small Business’?

The ABS (Australian Bureau of Statistics) and ATO have slightly different definitions of a small business. Below is a guide to what they may consider a small business is.
For more in-depth information and guidelines visit their websites.

ABS

  • Micro-businesses (businesses employing between 1 and 4 people including non‑employing businesses)
  • Non-employing businesses (sole proprietorships and partnerships without employees)
  • Other small businesses (businesses that employ between 5 and 19 employees)
  • Small businesses are more likely to have independent ownership and be operated independently.

ATO

  • A small business entity is an individual, partnership, company or trust that is carrying on a business
  • Has less than $2 million in aggregated turnover.
  • A Micro Business has a total business income of less than $2 million
  • A small business has a business income of between $2 and $10 million per annum.

What are some of the steps to starting a business in Australia

1. Choose your business structure.

There are four main Business structures to choose from:

Sole trader: You are the sole owner and are responsible for all the day to day operations and legal aspects of running the business and you are still entitled to hire people to work for you.
Company: A commercial business or entity with separate legal definitions to its shareholders.
Partnership: A Partnership as it sounds is when 2 entities work together but not as a company
Trust: A Trust is an entity that may possess assets such as property or income for the benefit of a third party.

2. Choose a business type.

By choosing a type of business you will better understand the structure you may need. Some of the business types are::

  • Retail Brick and Mortar
  • Online business
  • Franchise
  • Contractor

3. Registering for your Australian business number (ABN)

As stated earlier, visit the ATO website to start your application for your Australian Business Number

4. Set up record keeping and accounting systems

As you start gaining income, it is important to keep track of your Business financials

5. Understand tax and legal obligations

Learn what Tax and legal obligations you need to be aware of for your business. You will have to submit Tax income statements every year.

6. Get insurance

Find what type of insurance you may need as different businesses will have different insurance needs for liabilities.

Here is a link to a great starting your business checklist page from business.gov.au

Which Business Structure to choose

Image Source: AnyBusiness.com

What are some Business costs that I can expect?

Every Business is different and depending on the type of structure you may expect some of these constants in the cost to run your business

  • Costs of Premise – If you have a Brick and Mortar of Office to work out of
  • Insurance – to deal with any legal requirements and incidents
  • Marketing – To get customers to your business, this may take many different forms such as Digital, social marketing, website content marketing, business directory listings etc.
  • Professional services Fees  – such as accountants, solicitors, other expert professionals to oversee the legalities of starting a business
  • Stock – You may need to invest in holding your product ready to ship out
  • Staff and employment – as your company grows you may need to look at the prospect of hiring more staff to do some of or particular tasks
  • Finance Software – Programs to manage your money
  • IT costs – these may include Computers, servers, plugins for automation, Licencing of software etc.

open and ready for business

Conclusion

There are many aspects of starting a new business, but as overwhelming as it all may sound, with a little planning and a few mandatory steps you can be well on your way into running your own business.
Once you have your ABN and have registered your Business name then all you need to do is start letting potential customers know about your business through Marketing. If you haven’t already take a read of our How to Rank Higher in Google article for some insights into promoting your business on the web.

Need some Helpful Business Resource Links?

Are you a small business owner? Have a look at  a collection of links to some great Business resources

5 Clear Signs That Your Business Is Growing

Exponential Growth for Business

A business may be on the verge of growth, or experiencing a moment of impasse. In either case, if you don’t pay attention to the numbers, you don’t know if your Australian business really growing. You may have increased revenues, but may not be growing. Expenses may have gone up, yet the business is experiencing the highest percentage of sales growth in years.

Keeping effective control of revenues and expenses and being aware of when and how much your business  is growing is not easy. In this post we would like to detail some indicators that you need to look at to know if your business is growing.

Income statement

The income statement makes you focus not on what you earn and what you spend, but on profits. If your business is not generating profits, and has not been generating them for years, you have to ask yourself what you are doing wrong and if you really have a business that works.

It is likely that you can make a profit, but you need to cut costs. Your assets may not be performing the function we expected. Or you may have increased your debt so much that your income is not enough to eliminate it.

Increasing profits has to be your priority. One of the recommended economic decisions is not to allocate 100% of profits to debt repayment, but to allocate a portion to savings and to reach agreements to determine reasonable payment terms.

Conversion rate

It doesn’t matter how much traffic your website has if your conversion rate is enormously low. You are making far less money than you could if you invested in conversion optimization techniques.

By increasing your conversions, you are honing your revenue streams to give you a higher return. You can increase your turnover by showing more interest and effort in improving conversions, rather than putting too much effort and work into reducing superfluous expenses whose influence on the business is negligible.

Sometimes, you lose more when you spend too much time reducing small expenses than when you invest your skills in increasing revenue.

Visibility

Group of Business people

When you increase your visibility, both online and in your physical store(s), you are also increasing the number of people who know you and can potentially become your customers.

Measuring the visibility of your business on a full scale is difficult, although on the Internet we can measure web traffic. The fact that our traffic has increased is an indicator that we are going to reach more people and we can increase our turnover, although it will depend on our conversion rate.

Improving your brand

It is difficult to measure, but when your brand improves, your business is growing qualitatively. Some indicators that your brand is improving:

  • People are recommending your products/services more and more. You are generating influence and word of mouth is having an effect.
  • You are being called to participate in congresses or conferences in your sector.
  • The media have set their eyes on you and contact you for interviews.
  • More and more companies want to collaborate or partner with you. They send you proposals to further enhance and grow your business.

The improvement of your brand has an intangible impact on the increase in turnover. Actually, you cannot predict with absolute accuracy all the effects of people talking more and more about you, or the effect your brand creates on people.

Exponential sales growth

There is a significant difference between growing by 2, 5 or 10%, and experiencing continuous exponential growth over the last year. This is a qualitative leap of great importance, which may lead you, for example, to increase the number of employees or even open our offices of your business in other cities, or expand through franchising.

These are signs that your business is booming and has a high growth potential. To realize these qualitative changes, it is of great importance that we have a suitable online management software, in which we can effectively visualize the sales data and our income statement, and we can compare them with previous years.

A mistake is to believe that your business is growing, when it is not really a growth that is maintained over time. Growth can lead you to gain confidence and make you believe that you are better than you are, investing more and taking greater risks, without paying attention to the need to increase the business’ savings in order to have more room for maneuver.

Make sure that your business is growing, and if it’s not you can always check our article on how blogs might help you grow your business.

4 Ways To Benefit From Professional Mould Removal Services

Man Mold Mask

4 Ways Your Business Can Benefit From Professional Mould Removal Services

Mould infestation can also happen in commercial spaces. It can occur due to poor ventilation, leaky plumbing or condensation, resulting in moulds appearing on the ceilings, drywall, floors, or carpets. (1)

Mould growth and infestation could present serious health hazards, affecting your employees’ productivity and work motivation. If you want to ensure a safe and healthy space for all your team members, you need to find ways to eliminate mould growth and mitigate the risk of future mould infestation.  (1)

One way to do this is by consulting a professional mould removal service. So, how can these mould removal specialists help resolve your mould problems in the workplace? Here are four ways businesses can benefit from a professional mould removal service.

  1. You’ll be given a proper mould assessment

    The best thing about having professional mould removal services work for you is that they take their time to inspect the type of moulds present and determine the primary cause of the infestation. Several kinds of moulds could infest your offices, like the Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and others. They may differ in toxicity levels, which may require different mould-removal treatments and solutions. (2)

    Professional mould removers can conduct proper mould assessment using the right tools and equipment. So, if you suspect that your office has an underlying mould problem, you can book a free inspection with a trusted mould removal company like MouldMen. Ultimately, you can save yourself energy and time from diagnosing the mould problem yourself and potentially putting everyone’s health at risk.

  2. The mould problem will be treated and eliminated properly

    Once the professional mould removers have assessed and determined the type of moulds infesting your building and the areas affected, they can begin treating and eliminating the moulds properly. Because they have enough experience, skills, and complete tools, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that they’ll successfully get rid of the moulds in your office.

    Furthermore, mould spores tend to quickly spread across the building and could also potentially grow in hard-to-reach areas like the foundation, cracks in the walls or your office attic. The professional mould removers won’t have any problem locating these sources and clearing out the rest of the remaining mould spores to prevent them from spreading. Eventually, this results in a more extensive cleaning which you or your employees may not be able to execute on your own. Thus, you need to seek out business directories to find the service nearest you.  (1)

  3. Mitigate future mould problems

    Even if you’ve successfully removed the moulds on the infected areas, there’s a great chance they can still grow back if the root cause is still left unresolved. For example, if the leaky plumbing in your office bathroom is left unfixed or your office still has poor ventilation, moulds will eventually spread again in no time.

    Thankfully, the professional mould removers will not only remove the existing moulds, but they’ll also help mitigate the risk of future mould problems. They’ll help identify which areas are highly at risk of mould growth and give you some tips, suggestions, or solutions to make your space an unlikely environment for mould growth. Ultimately, a seasoned mould remover can accurately identify the mould-prone areas and educate you and your employees on how to stop mould infestation from occurring again.

  4. You can save time, energy and money

    Generally, many business owners may not have much time on their hands to deal with mould problems considering that they also need to handle business-related tasks and responsibilities. Unfortunately, the longer you wait to address the mould problem, the worse it gets and the costlier the damage will be. Even if you or your employees try to handle the mould problem on your own, it’ll also cost you time, money and energy. You’ll have to buy cleaning products and temporarily interrupt your team members from their responsibilities to deal with the mould.

    Meanwhile, if you hire a professional mould removal service, you don’t have to worry about dedicating time, energy, money and manpower to resolve your mould problems. The professional mould removers can work fast and remove mould effectively while you and your employees can focus on your job responsibilities without constantly worrying about the mould.

    Key Takeaway 

    Mould infestation is a serious problem that no business owners should overlook. Furthermore, mould removal operation is also not an easy task, especially if you don’t have the skills, knowledge, and right materials to go through the process.

    But with a professional and reputable mould removal service, you know they’ll address your mould problems properly. Most importantly, having help will let you know that your space will be mould-free, and you can provide a safe and healthy environment for your employees and clients.

    Professional Mold Removal

    References:

  1. “Basic Facts about Mold and Dampness”, Source: https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm
  2. “Types Of Mold And How To Remove Them”, Source: https://www.thespruce.com/different-types-of-mold-4772562

What is Dermapen?

What is Dermapen

What is Dermapen?

This revolutionary micro-needling device (also known as collagen industion therapy) aims to tighten, lift and rejuvenate skin to visibly improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, trauma scars, pigmentation and enlarged pores.  It is safe and effective for all types and skin colours.  There is a no risk of post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation.   When compared to traditional dermal rollers, Dermapen causes less epidermal (skin) damage, reducing levels of pain and discomfort.

How Does It Work?

Dermapen advanced technology and oscillating stamp-like pen, vibrates and glides over the skin systematically creating micro-punctures which cause the body to naturally respond by launching processes to repair the physical damage.  The result is an increased production of new healthy collagen and elastin.  The punctures also act as micro-channels that carry topical nutrients used during the treatment deep into skin layers for an increased effect.

Is The Treatment Painful?

A mild numbing cream is applied to lessen discomfort 30 minutes prior treatment.  Unlike other methods of needling Dermapen’s unique oscillating system further increases tolerance by diffusing nerve sensation hence only vibration with light pressure is felt.  After the treatment you can expect the skin to feel warm and slightly tight, similar to that of light sunburn.  This will progressively reduce over a period of 2 days.

What Is The Downtime?

Dermapen offers non-ablative technology that eliminates the risk of heat injury and preserves epidermal integrity, providing the most ideal balance between optimal results and minimal downtime.  Petechiae may appear on areas of thin or more delicate skin and may last for 2-3 days before eventually dissolving.  Minor skin flaking and potential skin dryness may also occur up to 3-4 days.  The use of a suitable moisturiser and sunscreen is recommended to keep your skin hydrated, enhance results and promote repair.  Application of mineral make up may be applied to camouflage any redness.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Dermapen can be safely repeated every 4-6 weeks until you achieve the desired results.  For collagen induction we recommend to start with 3 treatments but with a minimum separation time of 4 to 6 weeks between treatments.  For scar reduction an average of 3 to 6 treatments are recommended.  The number of treatments required will depend on how each individual responds to the treatments and the extent of the damage at the beginning.  Most people will begin to see results after the very first appointment and within several days to several weeks you will notice a smoother, brighter, more radiant appearance, however, the condition full effects of the treatment do not appear until several months later.

BOOK YOUR DERMAPEN TREATMENT TODAY!

Checklist For Moving Out Cleaning

moving Boxes

One of the most demanding aspects of moving out is post-moving cleaning. While many people make it the last resort, if you want a more productive and organised moving scenario, you need to clean and dispose of junk every time you pack something and cover a part of your home. In such cases, you need a deceased estate rubbish removal services.

But before you proceed with hiring cleaning services, you must perform some cleaning operations yourself. If you’re failing to manage a disposal routine post-moving out and even before that, here’s what you need to do.

Start Small

Like you start packing by gathering your clothes and optimising your closets; similarly, start small when you’re cleaning the house. It will make things easier for you if you clean by a checklist. For instance, start from your bedroom, which contains the primary essentials for packing.

Buy a couple of recycling bags, and while your pack your clothes, dispose of anything unnecessary or unwanted. Since transportation services also cost a lot, you will have to manage your luggage. While you dispose of old and unnecessary clothing, you can pack them up in trash bags to make them easily portable.

Once you cover the bedroom, ensure that all mirrors are cleaned. Dust all surfaces thoroughly before locking the door to the bedroom the final time and ensure that the garbage cans are empty.

You must also vacuum rugs and carpets that are floor-mounted. In multiple cases where homeowners convert their property into a rental, they take care of things like thoroughly cleaning due to state tenant and rental regulations.

Keep The Place Sanitary While Packing

You will be using the house while you’re packing, so don’t forget to clean the bathrooms now and then. Many homeowners don’t fulfil sanitary requirements and risk their healths and others. As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to clean the house and sanitise the bathrooms thoroughly.

Ensure that you cover the bathroom mirrors, sinks, and walls if they are tiled. Bathrooms are effortless to clean since they’re solely made of washable flooring and wallpaper. Regularly cleaning toiletries will unburden you from thoroughly cleaning the house post-packing and moving out.

Move On To The Kitchen

Most people have built-in open kitchens that are one of the first visuals around the interior of their houses. Since kitchens are operated almost daily, it’s hard to undermine the importance of cleaning them.  But when you’re moving out, you need to clean it entirely in and out if you’re leaving home for rental purposes.

Since many people take their appliances with them when they move out, but if you’re keeping some electrical cooking appliances, make sure that you clean them out after the last usage to make them appear good as new. Overall, dust all surfaces in the kitchen once and vacuum or scrub the flooring.

Finalise Cleaning Processes

Ensure that there is no rubbish around the exterior walls of your home. Mow the lawn to make it look as good as new. Add finishing touches by collecting all the trash cans post-moving out and placing them outside so the rubbish removal services can locate them quickly.

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