Most small businesses struggle to stand out.There’s competition everywhere, and finding a way to connect with customers isn’t always easy.But one approach that works time and time again is storytelling.Storytelling isn’t just about marketing—it’s about making people remember you, trust you, and choose you over someone else.People connect with stories far more than they do with facts and figures.A great story helps turn a small business into a brand customers genuinely care about.Why Storytelling Works (And Why You Should Care)People make decisions based on emotion first and logic second.A compelling story taps into that emotional side—it makes your business feel real, relatable, and worth supporting.Think about a local café that shares its journey of sourcing ethically grown beans or a gym owner who started their business after overcoming their own fitness struggles.These stories create deeper connections and make customers feel part of something bigger than just a transaction.What Makes a Great Business Story?A good story doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to be real.Here are a few key elements that work:Why You Started – What inspired your business? Was it a passion, a problem you wanted to solve, or a gap in the market?Your Values – What does your business stand for? Customers are drawn to businesses with values that align with their own.The People Behind It – Who are you? Sharing your journey, challenges, and motivations makes your business more relatable.Customer Stories – Real examples of how your business has helped people add credibility and build trust.How to Use Storytelling in MarketingOnce you have a solid story, use it across different marketing channels:Website & About Page – Introduce visitors to your story, not just your services. This helps them connect with your brand.Social Media – Share behind-the-scenes moments, customer testimonials, and updates that reinforce your business’s journey.Emails & Newsletters – Instead of focusing solely on promotions, use storytelling to engage your audience and build loyalty.Advertising & Branding – A strong brand story should be reflected in everything from your visuals to your messaging.The Bottom LinePeople may forget what you sell, but they won’t forget how your story made them feel.Small businesses that embrace storytelling create stronger customer connections, build loyalty, and stand out in a crowded market.New Zealand has some fantastic examples of businesses using storytelling to connect with customers, build loyalty, and stand out in the market.Here are just two Kiwi examples that showcase the power of great storytelling:Pic’s Peanut Butter – From Garage to Global SuccessPic’s Peanut Butter has an inspiring founder-led story.Pic Picot started making peanut butter in his garage, and through sheer passion and word-of-mouth, it became a globally recognised brand.Their storytelling focuses on their humble beginnings, their commitment to natural ingredients, and their quirky, down-to-earth brand personality, making them highly relatable to customers.https://www.picspeanutbutter.com/about-usAllbirds – Sustainable InnovationAllbirds, the Kiwi-founded footwear brand, has built its entire brand around sustainability.Their story focuses on the journey of creating a shoe made from natural materials, their commitment to reducing carbon footprints, and their ongoing innovations in eco-friendly fashion.Their storytelling isn't just about selling shoes—it's about making consumers feel like they're part of a movement toward a more sustainable future.https://www.allbirds.co.nz/pages/our-storyOh, and here’s another one ...a little bit closer to home.

If you missed part 1 and 2 from previous months, don't hesitate to call MTF Silverdale now, or review previous month's articles under this segment of the Hibiscus Coast App. PPSR The Person Property Securities Register (PPSR) is a list of all high value items that Kiwis own, along with any lender that are currently using them as security. It exists so that MTF, as well as other lenders, can tell if another lender has a security interest over an asset that you may own or are looking to purchase on finance or to raise fund on that asset. Principal The principal is the total amount that you borrow, at the start of the loan. It does not include the interest - this is calculated and charged separately. Security When you apply for personal or business finance, you may need to provide an asset - like your car, home, or business equipment - as "security" for the loan. This means that if you don't make your payments, the lender has the right to repossess the asset. This gives the lender more confidence and lowers their risk, which can make them more comfortable offering the loan. In most cases, MTF use the vehicle you're purchasing as security. Settlement Loan settlement is paying back the total amount you owe - like settling your tab! Shortfall Insurance shortfall is something that we all want to avoid. It happens when your vehicle gets written off, and the amount your insurance company pays out is less than the amount you have left on your loan. There are ways to avoid this kind of problem, give us a call on 09 4210335 if you'd like it explained further. Terms The terms of a loan set out the agreement between the lender and the borrower, and both parties must agree to the terms before a loan can be legally binding.It's vitally important you understand the terms of a loan before signing, and the lender is legally obliged to ensure you understand before a loan can be written. Waiver If you waive something, that means you decide not to enforce it or use your rights to it. When MTF say "Waiver" we are normally taking about our Payment Waiver product, an optional protection that you can choose to include in your loan. When we offer a payment waiver, we are saying: "We know that we have signed a contract with you, but if this specific thing happens, we are not going to enforce the contract. "For example, if your payment waiver includes redundancy cover and you are made redundant then we will waive your repayments while you get back on your feet. Was the above useful? We hope this has helped you to cut through the jargon - it's important to us that you understand the language and feel comfortable and confident about your lending. If we've missed something, or there's another term you'd like to know more about, please call in and talk to us or give us a quick call. You are protected by responsible lending laws. Because of these protections, the content above is not regulated financial advice. This means that duties and requirements imposed on people who give financial advice do not apply to this content. This includes a duty to comply with a code on conduct and a requirement to be licensed. Now that you have a better understanding of borrowing money, why not contact MTF Silverdale by either emailing us at [email protected], call us, or pop into our office for a chat to get pre-approved for your next purchase or financial need.

No matter what the circumstances, small to medium sized businesses are just like humans – they need to adapt to survive.And whilst just a few years ago, Artificial Intelligence (AI) may have seemed out of reach, or probably totally irrelevant to SMEs, it’s now time to jump on board!AI offers powerful tools to help businesses streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and drive growth.Here’s a few examples….Boosting Efficiency and Productivity, Reducing CostsAI-powered tools can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up employees to focus on higher-value activities.For instance, AI-driven accounting software can handle invoicing, payroll, and expense tracking with minimal human intervention.For industries like manufacturing, logistics, or agriculture, AI systems can optimise processes.Predictive maintenance tools, for example, identify potential equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and repair costs.SMEs in exporting can leverage AI to monitor supply chains and anticipate disruptions, ensuring smoother operations.Enhancing Customer ExperienceExceptional customer experiences are essential for building loyalty and standing out in a crowded market.AI tools enable SMEs to deliver personalised interactions, such as tailored product recommendations or customised email campaigns based on customer behaviour.And chatbots, love them or hate them, are now instantly handling customer queries, even outside normal business hours, thus improving satisfaction levels.Improving Decision-Making with Data InsightsAI excels at analysing large volumes of data and extracting meaningful insights.For SMEs, this means better decision-making based on accurate, real-time information.AI-powered analytics tools can help businesses understand sales trends, customer preferences, and market shifts, allowing them to adjust strategies proactively.A small café, for instance, could use AI to identify its busiest times and offer targeted promotions during slow periods.Similarly, a clothing retailer might analyse seasonal trends to stock popular items, reducing overstocking and wastage.Driving Innovation and GrowthAI empowers SMEs to innovate in ways that were previously impossible.E-commerce businesses, for example, can integrate AI to offer personalised shopping experiences, such as curated product recommendations or virtual try-ons.AI also supports product development by analysing market trends and customer feedback.A food producer could use AI to refine recipes or create new products that cater to growing consumer demand, such as plant-based or sustainable options.Overcoming our Unique ChallengesNew Zealand SMEs face unique challenges, such as geographic isolation and a relatively small domestic market.AI can help bridge these gaps by opening doors to international markets.Translation tools, for instance, allow businesses to communicate with overseas clients in their native languages, while AI logistics platforms can optimise shipping routes and costs for exporters.Sustainability is another focus for many New Zealand businesses.AI tools can help monitor energy usage, reduce waste, and implement eco-friendly practices, saving costs while appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.Overall, AI offers immense potential to enable NZ enterprises to compete effectively, even on a global scale.As AI technology continues to evolve, it will provide even greater opportunities for SMEs to thrive.Embracing AI isn’t just about staying competitive—it’s about future-proofing your business and unlocking new possibilities in a rapidly changing world.(And yes, if nothing other than to prove it works, I used AI to help me write this article. It did not write the whole thing – I still exercised final editing rights to make it sound a little less computer, and a little more human ….).Ready to future-proof your business? Contact Matchbox Consulting today to discover how we can help drive efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and accelerate growth for your SME.

If you missed part 1 last month, don't hesitate to call MTF Silverdale now or review last months articles under this segment of the Hibiscus Coast App.Debt Consolidation A borrower may decide to transfer their existing dents from many sources into one loan, paying one interest rate with one regular payment.This may decrease the interest paid overtime, or simply be a more convenient way of managing your personal finances.Deposit A deposit is an initial amount of money that you pay upfront to confirm a purchase, often required by a lender so that you have some equity in your purchase that is being financed.Direct Debit When you set up a direct debit, you are giving someone else authority/approval to take regular payments from your bank account on a set schedule, which may ne weekly, fortnightly or monthly in line with your income.Dishonour If your direct debit (DD) doesn't go through because there wasn't enough money in your account, this is known as a dishonour.MTF doesn't charge dishonour fees, although other lenders and your bank might.Equity Equity is the difference between how much your vehicle is worth, and how much you have left to pay off.Guarantor A Guarantor is usually (but not always) someone who can make it easier for a lender to accept the borrower for a loan - often they will have a better credit score, or the ability to cover the loan payments if the borrower can't.As with a co-borrower, the Guarantor has the same legal responsibilities under the loan as the borrower.Interest When you borrow money from any lender, you'll need to pay back the interest as well as the original amount that you borrow plus any establishment fees.Interest and establishment fees is the cost of borrowing, and allows the lender to cover their own operating expenses.Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (or MBI) This is an optional insurance policy designed to protect you from expensive repair bills on your vehicle, should it break down or develop a fault.As with any other insurance product, you pay a premium (which may be added to your regular loan payments) and have obligations to fulfil in order to keep the insurance cover active.An MBI has a limited range of breakdown conditions that may be covered for each vehicle, so ensure you read and understand your MBI terms and conditions before purchase.MTF Silverdale can issue a MBI for an existing vehicle without finance if you wish to protect against the unexpected, Simple email us on [email protected] for further details.Payment Waiver Payment Waiver is an optional MTF product that can cover the cost of your loan repayments due to unforeseen life events such as illness, injury, unemployment, terminal illness, death or bankruptcy if a business.There are a variety of Payment Waiver levels to choose from to suit your situation and the premium cost for this product can be added to your regular loan repayment, spreading the cost over the term of your loan.Was the above useful?We hope this has helped you to cut through some of the jargon - it's important to us that you understand the language and feel comfortable and confident about your lending.If we've missed something, or there's another term you'd like to know more about, please call in and talk to us or give us a quick call.You are protected by responsible lending laws.Because of these protections, the content above is not regulated financial advice.This means that duties and requirements imposed on people who give financial advice do not apply to this content.This includes a duty to comply with a code on conduct and a requirement to be licensed.As this is part 2 of 3 instalments, and you feel you want to know the rest now, don't hesitate to email us at [email protected] for the full jargon buster!

To thrive in today's competitive market, small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast need to embrace content as a strategic tool.Acting like a multi-channel media company is essential, engaging customers across email, websites, social media, business networks, and mobile apps.This article explores actionable strategies to craft a winning content strategy and maximise its potential, with a focus on local opportunities.Act Like a Media CompanyTo develop a robust content strategy, businesses should think of themselves as multi-channel media companies.This involves planning how customers will:Find your brand (visibility)Connect with it (engagement)Take action (conversion)It’s also key to use the right kind of content for each platform:Long-form content: Blogs, podcasts, and videos on platforms like YouTube provide depth and build authority.Short-form content: Social media posts such as Instagram captions or Facebook updates drive engagement.Visual content: Diagrams and infographics effectively convey complex ideas.Video content: Highly versatile and engaging, video can be repurposed for emails, social media, or ads.Choose the Right PlatformsRather than trying to be everywhere, focus on one or two platforms where your ideal customers are most active.Here’s how businesses on the Hibiscus Coast can get started:Select platforms aligned with goals: For visibility, consider tools like Google Business Profiles and Facebook Ads. For local reach, the Hibiscus Coast App is a valuable platform for digital advertising and directory listings.Leverage each platform strategically: Engage with followers, optimise metadata, and collaborate with other local businesses.Optimise your website: Ensure it’s Google-friendly, provides a seamless user experience, and highlights your unique offerings.Tailor Content for Each PlatformContent should serve a specific purpose and align with the chosen platform’s strengths. For example:If visibility is the goal, focus Instagram content on attracting new, relevant prospects.Use consistency to your advantage by creating a posting schedule that fits your capacity.Practical Steps for a Winning StrategyStart with a Clear Offer and Audience:Define your target audience and ensure all content aligns with their needs. For instance, a Hibiscus Coast café might focus on promoting fresh, locally sourced menu options to attract nearby residents.Solve Customer Problems:Frame content around addressing your audience’s challenges. For example, a local landscaper might share tips on maintaining gardens during the summer months.Create a Lead Magnet:Offer valuable content, such as a free guide to local events or an exclusive discount, in exchange for email addresses.Build Relationships:Share your business’s story, offer perks to loyal customers, and foster a sense of community by supporting local events.Understand the Customer Journey:Map out how customers discover, engage with, and buy from your business. Align content with each stage of this journey.Leverage Video Content:Short, authentic videos showcasing your products, services, or team resonate well with audiences and can be repurposed across platforms.Use Storytelling:Incorporate personal stories, insights, and practical tips to make your content relatable and memorable.Prioritise Quality Over Quantity:Focus on creating high-quality content that provides real value, rather than churning out large quantities of mediocre materialThe Path to Long-Term SuccessA well-crafted content strategy transforms a business into a trusted resource for its audience.Small businesses on the Hibiscus Coast can build stronger connections and drive growth by acting like a media company, focusing on the right platforms, and maintaining regular updates.Start small, stay consistent, and adapt as needed to see lasting results.Is your business making the most of its content strategy?The right approach can help you attract more customers, strengthen your brand, and drive real growth.If you're unsure where to start or how to refine your strategy, Townsquare Media can help.

Starting 1 April 2025, New Zealand will implement significant changes to its progressive income tax system, which taxes higher income levels at increased rates.These adjustments aim to simplify the tax structure and provide relief to low- and middle-income earners while maintaining the progressive approach for higher-income brackets.Here is what you need to know about the current and upcoming tax rates, and how they might impact you.Current Tax Rates (Until 31 March 2025)Currently, income tax rates are as follows:$0 – $14,000: 10.5%$14,001 – $15,600: 12.82%$15,601 – $48,000: 17.5%$48,001 – $53,500: 21.64%$53,501 – $70,000: 30%$70,001 – $78,100: 30.99%$78,101 – $180,000: 33%$180,001 and over: 39%These rates apply only to the income within each bracket.The cumulative tax calculations, which help estimate the total tax liability within each bracket, are as follows:$0 – $14,000: 10.5% ($1,470)$14,001 – $15,600: 10.74% ($1,675)$15,601 – $48,000: 15.30% ($7,345)$48,001 – $53,500: 15.95% ($8,535)$53,501 – $70,000: 19.26% ($13,485)$70,001 – $78,100: 20.48% ($15,994)$78,101 – $180,000: 27.57% ($49,621)$180,001 and over: 39% (per extra dollar)E.g. if you earn between $70,001 and $78,100, put 21% of net revenue into your tax bank savings account for income tax.To cover GST, add the 15% on invoices paid to the bank tax savings account.Upcoming Tax Rates (Effective 1 April 2025)$0 – $15,600: 10.5%$15,601 – $53,500: 17.5%$53,501 – $78,100: 30%$78,101 – $180,000: 33%$180,001 and over: 39%Similar to the current system, these rates apply only to income within each bracket.The cumulative tax calculations for the new rates are as follows:$0 – $15,600: 10.5% ($1,638)$15,601 – $53,500: 15.46% ($8,270)$53,501 – $78,100: 20.04% ($15,650)$78,101 – $180,000: 27.38% ($49,277)$180,001 and over: 39% (per extra dollar)Implications and ConsiderationsThese changes reflect the government’s efforts to adapt the tax system to economic conditions and fiscal policy goals.By raising income thresholds for lower tax brackets, more income will be taxed at reduced rates, potentially easing the financial burden on low- and middle-income earners.For higher-income earners, the retention of the 39% rate for income over $180,000 ensures the progressive structure remains intact, requiring those with greater financial capacity to contribute proportionally more.Additionally, the streamlined tax brackets effective from April 2025 may have implications for businesses and individuals, including:Adjustments to withholding tax calculations.Updates to payroll systems.Impact on financial forecasting and provisional tax planning.Practical Tips for Tax ManagementTo ensure you’re prepared for these changes, consider setting up a separate bank tax account to allocate tax and GST payments each month.This approach helps you stay on top of tax obligations and avoid surprises when payments are due.Remember, taxable income is calculated as revenue minus expenses, not just the total of sales invoices.A More Streamlined FutureThe upcoming adjustments to New Zealand’s income tax system represent a significant step towards a more streamlined and progressive structure.Whether you’re a low- or high-income earner, these changes are designed to balance simplicity with fairness, ensuring the tax system continues to support economic growth and fiscal responsibility.Need Help Navigating the Changes?At David Hooper Chartered Accountants, we specialise in helping businesses and individuals adapt to tax changes with ease.From business advice to trust and rental accounts, we ensure you're equipped to thrive under the new tax regime.Contact us today at [email protected] or phone us on 09 421 1635.

Let's be real – running a small business on the Hibiscus Coast isn't just a job, it's a passion.And in today’s digital world, that passion needs a powerful voice.The reality: businesses that aren’t mastering content are becoming invisible. Content is the language of growth – it's how you stand out in a noisy digital landscape.We know the struggle. Limited time and tighter budgets make it hard, but smart, practical strategies can help you connect, compete, and convert in 2025.Here are three actionable ways to transform your business, even with limited resources:1. Your Google Business Profile: Your Digital StorefrontThink of your Google Business Profile as the digital window display for your business.Most potential customers will check you out here before they even step foot in your store.Quick Wins That Actually Work:Review Hustle: Ask happy customers for reviews. Make it easy and personal.Response is King: Respond to all reviews, even negative ones. It shows you care.Keep It Fresh: Regularly update business hours, contact info, and photos.2. Email Marketing: Not Dead, Just SmarterForget those spammy newsletters.We're talking about emails that people actually want to read.Your Email Game Plan:Irresistible Sign-Up Incentives: Offer discounts, guides, or local tips.Speak Directly to Them: Personalise content based on audience segments.Value, Value, Value: Share useful tips and insights – make your emails feel like friendly messages, not sales pitches.3. Advertise Locally with Precision and ImpactThe Hibiscus Coast App is changing the game for local advertising.This hyperlocal platform lets you connect with potential customers exactly where they are – on their smartphones.With 3-5x higher engagement than traditional media, it’s an opportunity you can’t afford to ignore.Why This Matters:Always-On Audience: The average smartphone user checks their device 58 times per day.Instant Engagement: Your message appears when and where it matters most.Real Insights: Platforms like the Hibiscus Coast App offer real data on who’s engaging with your ads.The Real Numbers (No BS)A recent survey revealed some eye-opening stats about small businesses like yours:Small businesses with fewer than 10 employees spend less than $500/month on marketing.65% of business comes from word-of-mouth.Most businesses spend just 1-10 hours per week on marketing.Over half of small businesses use AI to streamline content creation and social media.Your 2025 Game PlanBe Consistent: Small, steady actions beat sporadic big efforts.Embrace Digital Tools: They’re here to help, not replace you.Stay Connected: Your community is your greatest asset.Ready to Elevate Your Business in 2025?Success begins with strategy. Whether you’re optimising your Google Business Profile, creating impactful email campaigns, or exploring hyperlocal advertising, small, focused actions can lead to transformative results.At Townsquare Media, we specialise in helping businesses like yours achieve sustainable growth through tailored marketing and media solutions. Let’s turn your vision into a data-driven, results-focused strategy. Contact us today to discover how we can help your business thrive.

New Year’s Eve – that day we make all sorts of resolutions, often only to start breaking them approximately 24 hours later.But have a look at the following few business ideas, and see how many you can adopt as resolutions for 2025 – and then will stick to as the year goes by….1. To look forward, start by looking back.Review your goals for 2024 – did you achieve them all? Did you achieve any?If not, why not?Use your learnings from this exercise to make sure your goals for 2025 are truly going to make a difference.Targets shouldn’t be so easy to hit that they aren’t really a challenge, but they have to be realistic and within your capabilities at the same time.2. Don’t try to be all things to all people in 2025.Stick to what you know, and what you believe in, and don’t be swayed by others’ strong opinions.3. Don’t say one thing to one person, and the opposite to another especially if they are both members of the same team.Chances are, they will talk to each other.Be consistent in your approach.4. Whatever system you use, keep it up to date.If it’s MYOB, or Xero, or whatever, keep the data input and the reporting current all the time, and above all don’t let the backlog get too big to tackle.5. Use your system to produce reports that are meaningful and useful to you – and then use them.Reporting just out of habit, and using the info, is about as useful as not reporting anything at all.Put yourself in a better place to identify issues well before they become real problems.6. Stay on top of cashflow.Know ahead of time when the pinch points might be, and take as much action as you can to reduce the impact.Sometimes the simplest of actions can make a difference – here’s just one example: change your invoice payment prompt from 20th of the following month to 7 days after invoice – not everyone will meet this last request, but even if just a few do, then your cashflow WILL get better.7. Don’t ignore the creditors – doing so will NOT make them go away unfortunately.Hoping they don’t notice won’t work, nor will not communicating.8. If you have specific known obligations coming up (tax payments for example) and you put money aside for these things regularly, you will find the bills when they do fall due are so much easier to deal with, and you won’t fall behind.9. If you DO put money aside in this way, remember it is solely for the stated purpose and is NOT to be ‘borrowed’ to pay something else that crops up.Yes, I know you intend to put it back before the tax bill is due, but will you?10. When you are paid by a customer, clear the associated materials immediately from the revenue.Or if you haven’t been billed by your supplier yet, then put the money aside and pay the resulting invoice the day it is received (but don’t forget point 9 above)Paying attention to these suggestions may just make the difference your business needs in 2025, so every best wish for the year ahead.And maybe – just maybe – these goals stand a better chance of being met than the usual ones like eating less chocolate, going to the gym regularly and so on.Send me a message on www.matchboxconsulting.co.nz if you’d like to have a chat about all this over a coffee.Happy New Year, from Andrew.

If you're new to the world of borrowing money, it might seem like we're speaking another language! The loan industry is filled to the brim with words that seem to be designed to make things unclear, instead of the opposite. Hopefully this will help untangle the jargon and make it easy for you to understand the ins and outs of loans. Here are some words you will likely come across: Arrears If your loan or account is "in arrears", that means that you've missed one or more payment. You want to avoid being in arrears – it's not great for your credit score and can ultimately cause further fees. If you think you might fall behind on repayments, it's a good idea to contact your lender as soon as possible. Asset An "asset" is something of long-term value that is owned by you, or your business. This is often also called "collateral". Common personal assets are your home and car. If you're in business, you might own office computers or factory equipment. Authority In loan terms, giving authority means giving permission - not putting someone in charge. When we set up a direct debit for your loan repayments, we will request payment authority. When you grant this authority, you are saying that we are allowed to withdraw money from your bank account, on a regular schedule and at a pre-set amount. CCCFA This is NZ legislation that lays out many of the rules for both parties in a contract for consumer finance (its full name is Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act). The most important job of the legislation is to protect consumers from being taken advantage of when taking out a loan and to make sure you're given the opportunity to fully understand what you're signing. Co-borrower This refers to someone who will join you in signing the loan contract. The reason for including a co-borrower are varied, and the co-borrower has the same legal responsibilities under the loan as the borrower. Credit Score or credit history Credit scores are like haircuts: we all have one, and some are better than others! Your credit score is a number between 1 and 1000 that gives lenders an idea of what your previous financial history is like, along with how good you are at paying your bills. Most credit scores are between 300 and 850; if yours is above 500 you're doing OK. Credit scores are based on everything you've done financially in the past - so if you've had a loan, buy now / pay later or internet bill and paid it off on time, then that's a good thing for your credit score. Having a negative history - like a bankruptcy, debt collection, or a lot of missed payments - lowers your overall score. If you have a good credit score, it will be easier to borrow money and it may assist in getting a better interest rate. Was the above useful? We hope this has helped you to cut through some of the jargon - it's important to us that you understand the language and feel comfortable and confident about your lending. If we've missed something, or there's another term you'd like to know more about, please call in and talk to us or give us a quick call. You are protected by responsible lending laws. Because of these protections, the content above is not regulated financial advice. This means that duties and requirements imposed on people who give financial advice do not apply to this content. This includes a duty to comply with a code of conduct and a requirement to be licensed. As this is part 1 of 3 instalments, if you feel you want to know the rest now, don't hesitate to email us at [email protected] for the full Loan Jargon Buster!

The coming holiday break will be a time for family, relaxation, and recharging the batteries. For business owners, it can also be an opportunity to prepare for next year while still enjoying the festive spirit.Here are some tips to help you balance a well-deserved holiday with getting ready for 2025.Plan and PrioritiseWhat will 2025 bring?Begin by prioritising tasks that will set a strong foundation for the new year.This means setting new goals, identifying areas for improvement, and mapping out the steps to achieve these objectives.Creating a detailed plan can help you focus your efforts on what’s most important.Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.This will allow you to make steady progress even during the busy holiday season.By planning ahead, you ensure that when you return to work, you can hit the ground running.Reflect and ReviewReflecting on the past year is crucial for making informed decisions about the future.Take time to analyse what worked well in 2024 and what didn’t.Review internal information such as sales data, customer feedback, and market trends.This analysis can provide valuable insights into where you should focus your efforts in 2025.Updating your SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) can be particularly useful.Understanding your business’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the opportunities and threats it faces, will also help you develop a strategic plan for the new year.Engage Your TeamIf you have employees, involve them in the planning process.Engaging your team in discussions about the future can provide new perspectives and ideas.You can start by sounding them out before the break, gathering their thoughts and suggestions.Alternatively, you can include them in the planning process after the holiday, ideally in the first week back.This allows you to think things through yourself before presenting a more concrete plan.Involving your team not only boosts morale but also fosters a sense of ownership and motivation among your staff.A motivated team is essential for achieving your business goals.Be OrganisedOrganisation is key to a smooth transition into the new year.Ensure your financial records are up-to-date, review your progress against the budget, and start thinking ahead to the next financial year, which for many will be just three months away.(And before you head off to the beach, just double check to make sure you are going to get through Christmas and New Year safely, cashflow wise).Set Personal GoalsFinally, set personal goals alongside your business objectives.Aim to enter 2025 with renewed energy and focus, both in your personal life and business activities.Personal goals could include spending more time with family, improving your health, or learning a new skill.Balancing personal and professional goals will help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is essential for long-term success.By following these tips, you can make the most of the holiday season while setting the stage for a prosperous 2025.Enjoy the festive break, recharge your batteries, and come back ready to tackle the new year with enthusiasm and a clear plan.Merry Christmas everyone – and here’s to a prosperous New Year!

Nothing beats a good old-fashioned Kiwi road trip.Luckily, it's an all-season activity in NZ, but during the festive season there are more Kiwis doing just that - raising the need for greater care.Before every road trip, things must be planned, considered, packed and (crucially) communicated.Here's a guide to tackling your next road trip to make sure you and your whānau are safe:1. Check your vehicle Before you hit the road, it always pays to do a quick vehicle check to ensure everything is in tip-top condition.a. All tyres are in good condition, and the spare is at the correct tyre pressure.b. Check your windscreen, wipers and mirrors, if your windscreen has a chip or crack get it fixed, check your wiper blades and top-up the washer fluid.c. Check that your lights are all working including indicator and brake lights.d. Do you have a current WOF and registration?e. Does the car need a service?f. If you're unsure, head to your local testing station where they'll check brakes, structure, steering and safety belts.2. Plan your route carefully A good plan will help you relax, whether you've driven the route before or you've got GPS to show the way.a. Check NZTA Journey Planner (https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz) for real time updates on disruptions or information you should know about your route.b. For example; SH1 between Turangi to Waiouru, including the Desert Road, will be closed from Monday 13 January 2025 for around 2 months.3. Pack the essentials Make sure you take your map, notebook and pen, first aid kit, water, umbrella, phone charger, hand sanitiser, sunglasses and a toilet roll or tissues for that unexpected moment.You could even take a used ice cream container or plastic bag in case of car/motion sickness.Snacks, a good playlist and sunblock also never go amiss, as well as activities for your children which might include their favourite toy.4. Tell friends or family about your plans It's always a good idea to let someone know about your plans in case of an emergency - that's the thing with the unexpected, you never know what's around the corner.5. Check out local must-try places Sure, we all know that Google reviews and Tripadvisor have ratings on local eats and activities - but why not hear the latest from the locals?Use social media to find the local hotspots for the freshest flavours and activities.Search for your destination or hashtag on Instagram and Facebook to get the latest!If you need a new vehicle for your upcoming trip, then there is still time to be pre- approved to find that replacement vehicle to ensure you and your whānau are safe.As detailed recently by Waka Kotahi (NZTA), people are twice as safe in a 5- star vehicle than a 1-star vehicle.Contact MTF Silverdale on 09 421 0335 or email us at [email protected] so that we can help make that trip even safer.From the team at MTF Silverdale, we wish you all safe travels, and an enjoyable and rewarding upcoming holiday season.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, email remains the cornerstone of professional communication. Whether it's for sealing a deal, clarifying a point, or simply staying in the loop, email keeps the wheels of business turning. But here’s the thing: how you manage your inbox can say a lot about your professionalism.There seem to be two distinct camps when it comes to email etiquette. On one side, you have those who acknowledge emails promptly—ensuring that communication flows seamlessly. On the other side, there are those whose inboxes might as well be black holes, leaving senders guessing if their message was even received.If you’re reading this and thinking, “I could do better with email,” you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: mastering email etiquette doesn’t require a massive overhaul. With a few simple habits, you can not only improve your communication but also enhance your reputation and relationships.Why Quick Email Responses Make a DifferenceLet’s break down why responding to emails promptly is one of the smartest professional moves you can make:1. Respecting Time and EffortWhen someone sends you an email, they’re investing their time to communicate with you. By responding quickly, you’re acknowledging their effort and showing that you value their time. It’s a small gesture, but it goes a long way in building mutual respect.2. Projecting ProfessionalismQuick responses signal that you are organised, proactive, and on top of your workload. These traits don’t just help you manage tasks—they help you stand out. Whether you’re corresponding with a colleague, a client, or a potential partner, your email habits can create a lasting impression of reliability and competence.3. Avoiding MiscommunicationEver had an email sit too long in your inbox, only to realise later that a missed reply caused confusion or frustration? Delayed responses can escalate minor issues into major headaches. A timely reply can nip problems in the bud, clarify misunderstandings, and keep projects on track.4. Strengthening RelationshipsWhen you respond promptly, you’re sending a subtle yet powerful message: You’re important to me. This kind of attentiveness can foster trust and deepen professional relationships, whether you’re dealing with a long-time client or a new connection.5. Taming the Inbox BeastLet’s face it—an overflowing inbox can feel overwhelming. By addressing emails as they come in, you can keep your inbox manageable and reduce stress. A clear inbox isn’t just satisfying; it’s a productivity booster.How to Step Up Your Email GameIf you’re convinced that better email habits can make a difference (spoiler: they can), here are a few tips to start implementing today:Commit to the 24-Hour RuleMake it a priority to respond to emails within 24 hours, even if it’s just to acknowledge receipt and let the sender know you’ll follow up soon. This keeps the communication loop active and sets expectations.Use Smart ToolsSet up filters, labels, or folders to organise your inbox.Automate responses for routine queries, and block time in your schedule to tackle emails in focused batches.Prioritise ClarityWhen replying, be concise and clear. Address the key points and, if necessary, confirm next steps to ensure everyone is aligned.Acknowledge When You’re BusyIf you’re swamped, a quick response like, “Thanks for your email! I’ll get back to you by [specific time/date]” can go a long way in maintaining trust.End with a Call to ActionWhen appropriate, close your email with actionable steps or a question to keep the conversation moving forward.Why 2025 Is the Year to Master This SkillAs we move further into an era dominated by digital communication, the ability to manage emails effectively is no longer optional—it’s essential. The difference between those who respond promptly and those who don’t often comes down to opportunities gained or missed.By adopting these practices, you’re not just improving your email game—you’re enhancing how others perceive you in the professional world. After all, in a world of endless notifications and messages, being responsive and attentive is a rare and valuable skill.So, as you dive into your inbox today, take a moment to consider: are you sending the right message with how you respond? A simple, timely email reply could be the first step in unlocking better relationships, smoother workflows, and greater success in 2025.