Enhance your Business Skills
Running a business requires broad skills. Just as your business needs to grow, it’s important to expand your business skills too.
Running a business isn’t easy. From understanding your product and knowing your audience, to business governance and legal compliance, you need a broad range of skills. We’ve put together a guide to help you find relevant advice and training programs for you and your staff.
Mentors
A great way to develop your skills and get advice is through a mentor.
Young and innovative entrepreneurs (aged 18 to 35) with a business idea can improve their skills and confidence through the Business SA, South Australian Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (SAYES).
A new approach to the way government provides services to business is through the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. Subject to eligibility criteria, you can book a Business Evaluation, where an assessment is conducted at your business’ premises, resulting in a report and recommendations for the business to make improvements. Your business assessor will coach and mentor you to implement the recommendations for up to 12 months.
Educate yourself
We’re not talking about asking Siri here, sometimes it pays to do a course to educate yourself or update your skills.
Here in the city, we’re spoilt for choice in education providers.
WEA and TAFE SA are a great place to start for introductory courses. UniSA, Adelaide University and neighbouring Flinders University offer courses in everything from starting a business, to specific skill sets such as Finance, Marketing and Computer Skills. Check with your accountant as costs may be tax-deductible.
If you can’t get to an external course, you can also study online at your own pace. Lynda.com offers a great range of useful courses and many universities now allow you to study online (it's even free if you're a City of Adelaide library member).
If you don't have time to dedicate to study, we highly recommend you look at the Growing a Business checklist on the Australian government Business website.
Brush up on your business rights and obligations
Many trade and business associations offer training and support for members. Check with your local representative.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC ) offers a free online education program designed to help small businesses learn more about their rights and obligations under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010.
Safework SA is the state government agency responsible for administering South Australia Work, Health & Safety Act and industrial relations laws. They offer free educational and advisory services.
Remember, as an employer, you are legally obliged to protect the health, safety and welfare of your workers and other people who could be adversely affected by work carried out by your business under the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (the OHSW Act).
FAQs
Mentorship through programs like South Australian Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (SAYES) and the Entrepreneurs’ Programme provides personalised advice and skill development, crucial for young and innovative entrepreneurs.
Yes, platforms like Lynda.com and university online courses, some of which are free for City of Adelaide library members, allow for flexible skill enhancement.
Trade and business associations, along with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC) online education program, provide training and support to understand your rights and obligations under business laws.
Costs for courses related to business skill development may be tax-deductible. It's advisable to consult with your accountant for specific tax benefits.