Presentation notes concerning general success factors for small business, what I have learned from mentoring women and strengths that women should unashamedly use.

1. Peter Bender
BLING 17/8/16
www.aquilaconsultancy.com.au

2.  This is the supporting material for a round table discussion at BLING
which is a women’s business group located in Childers, Qld, Australia.
 The three discussion areas included general small business success
factors, what I learned from mentoring women leaders and strengths
that women should use when in business or leadership.
Notes for online readers

3. Small business success factors – latest
research
 Nine months of research explained in five minutes
 What the researchers write about
 What the business schools teach
 What entrepreneurs say
Adblowz.com

4.  I completed my Master in Leadership this year and this included doing
a nine month research project into what are the critical success factors
for a small business.
 The researchers focus on ‘business skills’ as being the most critical
factor but we all know businesses that are successfully run by owners
with limited business skills – think our beloved tradies here.
 Business schools focus upon accountancy and law but let’s get real,
most business financials are never read let alone critically drive success.
 Entrepreneurs however, focus upon cashflow and the ability to get new
clients. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxJ2TMbMNFU
Notes for online readers

5.  Inhibitors to success for women include breaks in careers including part
time work due to caring for kids and parents
 I often hear poor managers explain to women that “We won’t give you
the opportunity but we will mentor you”
 You may need skills but you definitely need a door kicker! A key leader
or mover and shaker that will put you name forward with force.
What have I learned from mentoring
women?
www.aquilaconsultancy.com.au

6.  Time management – full time job, kids, needy husband and a business!
 Emotional intelligence – you really do know what I am thinking
 Realism rather than risk takers – banks will love you
What 3 strengths do women have that they
should be unashamed to use?
www.aquilaconsultancy.com.au

7.  Use forums like BLING
 Facebook or Linkedin “Aquila – small business consultancy” (Door
kicker)
 Use your strengths – give it a small go, learn and try again.
Where to from here?
www.aquilaconsultancy.com.au