How important ARE those business relationships? In times of crisis, they area extremely important it seems, and this was the message that was sent out to the Entrepreneurs and SMME owners from around the country recently when they Zoomed into the weekly Entrepreneurs Workshop, hosted by award winning business women, Margaret Hirsch (Executive Director, Hirsch’s) and Marlene Powell (top Business Coach with ActionCOACH).
The Guest Speaker at the recent workshop, Tracy Reeves who is one of the Co-owners of the family owned business Fotomax, a specialist print shop in Durban, told the story of how the company had found strength in rebuilding their business after the premises had been totally destroyed in the unrest and looting that took place in July. “Although we lost our premises, the machinery and equipment that kept it going, we did not lose the most important components – our staff and our business associates, many of whom we had done business with over the 41 years that we have been operating. They were a tower of strength to us. From Hirsch’s, who offered us free premises in one of their storerooms at their head office, to the team at Fuji who lent us a printer. We have literally risen out of the ashes and are eternally grateful to everyone who has helped us get back on track.” She said.
Margaret, who was instrumental in helping set Fotomax up in the Hirsch’s warehouse at Head Office explained that when you “hit a crisis run through it. The minute you hesitate, it’s too late.” She explained. Marlene told attendees that forming solid business relationships was key to building a successful business. “ 30% of your time should be on relationship building. Find out where YOU fit in with your customers and suppliers and make sure that you spend time on keeping them happy. Future proof your business so you can continue and make sure that everything is tangible and measurable.” She concluded.
Margaret and Marlene will be joined by Dr.Mary Morolong-Nonkwelo, Founder, the Empowerment Network, on September 17 from 11 to 12. Her topic is on the importance of story telling in business. She has published a series of books entitled “Share your Story” a collaborative effort with approx. 150 ordinary people. She believes that storytelling is an instrument for community and organizational transformation. Click on http://bit.ly/2MbtT28 to join.
ENDS.