Hamish Jones’ Post

Some personal news. I have made the decision to put my name forward as a candidate for Moonee Valley City Council in Airport Ward at the upcoming Council Election in October. Election day in Moonee Valley is officially October 26 although you will get yur ballot papers in the weeks prior to this and need to post or deliver them back before deadline. Like many municipalities across Victoria, Moonee Valley is transitioning from multi-member wards to single member wards. The newly created Airport Ward covers the suburbs of Strathmore, Strathmore Heights and Essendon North. I think there's a need for change in Moonee Valley and a need for focussing on core priorities of Council. If you live locally, and are interested in helping my campaign, I'd love to chat further.

🔍 Work and Workplace Trends to Watch in 2024 🌟 In February this year, the World Economic Forum released an article entitled “6 work and workplace trends to watch in 2024.” Here are the trends that the WEF suggested and impact these trends would have 1️⃣ Impact of Generative AI - Expected to see boosts in productivity, especially in knowledge intensive industries. At the same time there are concerns about job loss, and automation risks 2️⃣ Rise in Global Digital Jobs - Expected to grow significantly, creating new opportunities globally. 3️⃣ Unemployment - Predicted to rise slightly, emphasising the need for re-skilling. 4️⃣ Pop-up Offices - Hybrid workspaces are becoming more popular. Whilst technology enables remote work, many younger people coming into the workforce still crave human connection so want to be in the office occasionally. 5️⃣ Skills Development - the workforce is changing. New jobs are being created every day. For example, there’s a common idea that jobs will be lost to AI. The more likely outcome is that jobs will be lost to people that use AI. You need to develop these skills to remain employable. 6️⃣ Women’s Workforce Participation - Increasing focus on closing gender gaps. We’re 7 months into 2024. We’ve just started a new financial year. Do you agree with these trends? What others have you identified?

20 years ago, when I started in the telecommunications industry, all people cared about was how much data was included in their mobile phone “call plans” Over time, digital transformation and productivity completely changed the way business is run and completely changed my own business. I still have fond memories of my first blackberry and still remember the amazement of the first iPhone. Now, our conversations don’t start with cost or plan inclusions - they start with business goals and processes, cybersecurity and workflows. I wanted to put together this brief document to cover some of the topics we’re regularly talking about and those areas we see are the biggest opportunities for digital transformation in the next financial year and beyond. But first a couple of questions that need answering. What is Digital Transformation? Digital transformation refers to the integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how you operate and deliver value to customers. It’s about leveraging technology to improve business processes, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation. Why is Digital Transformation Important? In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses must adapt to survive. Digital transformation is crucial because it enables organizations to stay competitive, respond quickly to market changes, and meet the evolving needs of customers. By embracing digital transformation, businesses can achieve greater efficiency, reduce costs, and unlock new revenue streams. You don’t need to implement all areas mentioned in the document below. As you swipe through each page it may seem overwhelming. Get in touch with me for a free 15 minute chat and we can explore what the next “digital transformation” steps might be for your business and, who knows, we might even decide it’s a great opportunity to work together. 

ChatGPT was announced in November 2022, and now many of the tools we use every day have “AI” integrated in some way. I am an early adopter. I started using ChatGPT about a week after it was introduced and have used it, or other tools, pretty much daily since. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a small business owner, leveraging AI can streamline processes, enhance productivity, and provide a competitive edge. Many are worried that AI will take jobs. I would argue that those using AI effectively will take the jobs of those that don’t use or understand AI AI offers transformative benefits, from automating routine tasks to providing powerful data-driven insights. It can significantly improve customer experiences, optimise decision-making, and drive innovation across various aspects of your business. Now you’re probably asking “this all sounds good, but where do I start?” It can be difficult. How do you choose the right AI tools, and how do you ensure they deliver value? Below I have shared a carousel on how I’ve looked at AI tools, and a process I go through with my own clients to help them with AI integration. Discover a simple yet comprehensive framework to seamlessly integrate AI into your business operations and unlock new growth opportunities. Swipe through the carousel for insights and actionable steps! Feel free to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments. 

I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Founding Member at BNI Unite (Moonee Valley)

Here are 10 ways I'm using ChatGPT to help boost my own productivity. From language translation to fitness planning, discover 15 practical ways to integrate this powerful AI into your daily routine. Swipe through to explore each example! If you'd like a copy of the prompts I use, please leave a comment below.

Imagine transforming your business into a thriving hub of engaged customers, loyal advocates, and enthusiastic supporters. What if I told you that building a strong community is the key to making this a reality? In 2008, Ivan Misner, in Episode 36 of his podcast, shared the theme of “Changing the Way The World Does Business.” The idea of community building and connection has always resonated with me—even before I joined BNI myself. In today’s digital age, and in a post-COVID world, the power of community cannot be overstated. For small business owners, fostering a vibrant online community can lead to increased customer loyalty, enhanced brand awareness, and invaluable word-of-mouth marketing. Year in, year out, trusted referrals and trusted referral sources always come out on top as the preferred way people want to do business. We’re talking about as high as 90% of people looking to trusted referral sources. You need your community because this community becomes your trusted referral partners—those who will recommend you in their own circles. But how do you go about building such a community? Here are 10 tips that have worked for me. If you have your own suggestions, I’d love it if you could share them below.

Are you going to remain competitive or are you going to fall by the wayside in business? The recent CPA Australia Business Technology Report 2023 was an illuminating read. It provides crucial insights into the state of technology adoption among businesses - it does this for businesses of all sizes but when reading it I focussed particularly those with fewer than 50 employees. Here are the key takeaways and actionable recommendations: Key Findings: ☎ Only 45% of small businesses have a digital transformation strategy. We really need to see this expand in Australia for business to remain competitive. ☎ Increased cybersecurity protections and technology investments are the top priorities for businesses as many understand the need for increased data protection (although I’d argue that businesses are not fearful enough when it comes to protecting their computer systems.) ☎ Financial costs and shortage of technology talent are major barriers for many companies when it comes to digital transformation. (I’d say that part of this comes down to a lack of awareness of some of the more cost-effective opportunities available to them.) ☎ Upskilling employees and seeking external advice are effective strategies to address these challenges. Recommendations for Small Business Leaders: 1. Develop a Digital Transformation Strategy: Businesses with a strategy are more likely to see increased profitability and to enhance their competitiveness going forward. 2. Invest in Cybersecurity: Protect your business from cyber threats by implementing robust cybersecurity measures. 3. Upskill Your Team: Invest in training programs to enhance the cybersecurity and technology skills of your existing employees. 4. Leverage External Expertise: Work with technology vendors and consultants to navigate complex technology landscapes. 5. Automate Repetitive Processes: Use tools like ChatGPT and Zapier (just examples) to improve efficiency. If you’d like to explore any of these recommendations further and how they might work for your business, please get in touch so we can discuss a tailored digital transformation strategy for your business. Let’s leverage technology to drive growth and unlock your business’s full potential together!

You don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money on software. How I’m using my iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air and Apple Watch to achieve productivity gains. As a Virtual CTO (and oftentimes tech counsellor) I often come across people that have subscriptions to a number of software services that they aren’t using effectively. Often times this actually leads to anxiety as thy feel they aren’t being as proactive as they could be. My first conversation often involves simplifying their processes using existing devices and software that’s preinstalled. For many, this means the Apple ecosystem. I wanted to share with you how I maximise my productivity using the built-in software on my iPhone, iPad, and Mac. 1. iCloud: Your Digital Hub iCloud is the cornerstone of Apple’s ecosystem. It ensures all your devices are in sync, whether it’s photos, documents, or notes. By storing everything in iCloud, you can access your data anytime, anywhere, ensuring you never miss a beat. You can also share iCloud files with others if there is. need to share files and collaborate. . 2. Reminders and Calendar: Stay on Top of Your Schedule Apple’s Reminders and Calendar apps are powerful tools to keep your tasks and appointments in check. They sync seamlessly across all devices, allowing you to set reminders for important tasks and schedule meetings effortlessly. If, like me, you have multiple calendars too, they can all be integrated with the Calendar app. 3. Notes and Files: Organize Your Thoughts and Documents The Notes app is perfect for jotting down ideas, creating checklists, and even scanning documents. Paired with the Files app, which organizes all your documents in one place, you have a powerful duo to keep your professional and personal life organized. 4. FaceTime and iMessage: Communicate with Ease Stay connected with colleagues and loved ones through FaceTime and iMessage. When I am at my desk I can send messages and make calls from my desktop, knowing that those messages are synched across devices in case I need continue a conversation away from my desk. 5. Health and Fitness: Balance Work and Well-being The Health app on your iPhone tracks your fitness and well-being metrics, helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Integrate it with your Apple Watch for a complete picture of your health. 6. Similar Options for Android and Microsoft Users While this post highlights Apple’s ecosystem, similar apps and functionalities exist for Android and Microsoft users. By leveraging these built-in tools, you can streamline your life, both personally and professionally. For most people this is enough of a starting point to boost productivity - both personally and professionally. Do you feel like you’re missing out with your tech? Would a Productivity session help you? Get in touch if you’d like to find out more. I’m here to help you leverage technology to its fullest potential.

Today I want to talk about referrals. Mainly because you if you ask many business owners, the’ll tell you that a large part of their business comes from referrals. Here are some key statistics: The average small firm receives 60% of its revenue from referral campaigns. 92% of consumers trust referrals from friends and family more than any other type of marketing Most of my career has been spent in the telecommunications industry. Our main competitors are big companies with large marketing budgets that I can’t compete with. This is why I am so passionate about networking and referrals. Even with these numbers I am convinced that SME’s can do referrals better. With a well thought out strategy and system, when leveraging technology you will set yourself apart from other business owners in your field. 👥 Why Referrals Matter Referrals are not just leads; they are warm introductions built on trust. According to Dr. Ivan Misner, the founder of BNI (Business Network International), referral marketing is one of the most effective ways to grow your business. But, how do you systemise and optimise this process? 🛠️ Creating Systems for Effective Referral Generation 1. Leverage Technology: Utilize CRM tools to track and manage your referral network. Platforms like HubSpot or Salesforce allow you to keep detailed records of your interactions, follow-ups, and the value each referral brings. 2. Join a Network: BNI offers a structured environment for developing and exchanging quality business referrals. With its proven system, BNI helps you build lasting relationships that lead to consistent business growth. There are also other less formal business networks and service organisations like Rotary.  3. Educate and Empower: Regularly educate your referral partners about your business. The more they know, the better they can refer the right prospects to you. Use tools like webinars, newsletters, and social media to keep them informed. 4. Track and Analyze: Use analytics to understand which referrals convert the best. Adjust your strategy based on data to focus on the most productive sources. 💡 Key Takeaways • Consistency is Key: Systems bring consistency. Regularly engage with your network and nurture your relationships. • Value Exchange: Make sure your referrals are a two-way street. Provide value and support to your network. • Stay Educated: Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial. Keep up with the latest in referral marketing and technology. 🚀 Call to Action I am a member of BNI. If you’d like to visit a chapter in metropolitan Melbourne I can help connect you with the right Chapter for you. If you want to leverage technology better to enhance community, I can also help here.