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The economy is changing quickly, and small business owners are facing rising costs, cautious customers, tighter cash flow and continued uncertainty. So, what should you focus on during the next 90 days?

Recorded live during NSW Small Business Month, this special episode of Small Business Sorted Live brings together an experienced panel to discuss the current economy, the challenges facing small businesses and the practical actions owners can take now.

Meet the panel

• Michael Miller – Director of Mediation Services at the NSW Small Business Commission
• Wendy Lloyd Curley – Executive Director of BNI Sydney North East and an experienced business owner, professional speaker and networking specialist
• Andrew Lawrence – Owner of The Alternative Board for Sydney’s Upper North Shore and Hornsby, business coach and fractional CEO
• Hosted by Crystal Petzer and Kay Godfrey from Small Business Sorted Live

The panel’s central message is clear: we cannot control the economy, but we can control how we manage our businesses, respond to change and prepare for what lies ahead.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What the current economic conditions mean for small businesses
• Why the next 90 days are particularly important
• How to prepare for Christmas and the quieter January period
• Why cash flow should be reviewed every week
• The benefits of creating a 13-week cash-flow forecast
• Why business owners should follow up outstanding accounts before Christmas
• How to protect your pricing by adding value instead of discounting
• What changing customer behaviour means for your sales process
• Why sales are taking longer and customers are spending more carefully
• How to identify opportunities during difficult economic conditions
• Why good employees may be more available in the current market
• How AI and automation can reduce repetitive work and operating costs
• The importance of having trusted advisers, mentors and fellow business owners around you
• Why networking, partnerships and community become even more valuable in uncertain times
• How to protect your own wellbeing and support your team
• The assistance available through the NSW Small Business Commission
• How mediation can help resolve commercial and retail lease disputes

The panel also discusses the importance of being realistic without becoming paralysed by negative news. Some businesses will struggle, some will close and others will emerge or find new opportunities. Your ability to manage cash, protect your margins and make timely decisions will be critical.

The live audience completed a practical exercise to identify:

• Three recent business wins
• One opportunity to pursue
• One potential threat
• The most important action to take during the next 90 days

This episode is not about creating another complicated business plan. It is about understanding your present position, deciding what you can control and taking focused action.

Whether you are a sole trader, service provider, consultant, tradesperson or growing business owner, this conversation will help you approach the next 90 days with greater clarity, confidence and support.

You cannot control the economic weather—but you can control how you steer the boat.

Connect with us:
Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/
Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/

Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/
Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/

If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.