US researchers build “empty” city
May 18th, 2012
A $US1bn city with no residents is to be built in New Mexico to help researchers test everything from intelligent traffic systems and next-generation …
'Free Content' Archives
Cloud file storage options
May 14th, 2012
Looking for free storage options on the cloud. Here are the top players, and how much you can store. Dropbox.com offers 2GB free storage …
Older voters will decide US presidency
May 4th, 2012
Four years ago when Barack Obama was elected it was young voters who help the balance of power, but this year it’s expected to …
Google aims sky high
April 27th, 2012
Google’s mega rich founders Larry Page and Eric Schmidt are backing a plan to mine asteroids. They are key players in Planetary Resources Inc, …
Dressing for work is serious business
April 20th, 2012
Michael Kors is a judge on TV fashion show Project Runway. He says there are things to do, and things to avoid when dressing …
Credit card surcharge could hurt retailers
April 13th, 2012
A survey, commissioned by public relations agency Impact PR has found Kiwi shoppers are voting with their feet as many say they’d rather leave …
Computer chip breakthrough
March 30th, 2012
New low power super fast chip sets will be turning up on the market in the next few years. The ultra small – 1mm …
Local Govt reforms – mess or magic?
March 30th, 2012
Immediate reactions to the local Govt reforms have been predictably split between the sceptics of big bang reform, who are already condemning the Auckland …
Tip for selling to younger people
March 23rd, 2012
Younger buyers take great heed of online reviews. They are more likely to take notice of previous buyer’s reviews than their own family. These …
NZ hiring outlook remains mostly stable
March 16th, 2012
The latest Manpower Employment Outlook Survey shows plans by NZ business to take on more staff in the coming three months have remained stable, …
Australia facing skills shortage
March 9th, 2012
The five hardest jobs to fill in Aust at the moment make interesting reading. The hardest people to find are somewhat surprisingly, mining engineers …
China now NZ’s biggest source of imports
March 2nd, 2012
China has surpassed Aust as NZ’s largest source of imports. Latest merchandise trade figures show the importance of China to the NZ economy. The …
Big mines to have automated vehicles
February 24th, 2012
Aust mining giant Rio Tinto has approved a $US518m plan to make its iron ore trains ”driverless” within three years. The 41 trains used …
iPad 3 set to dominate tablet market
February 17th, 2012
The iPad3 is likely to be in US stores in early March. It will further seal Apple’s dominance of the sector with more world …
What makes the Germans good!
February 3rd, 2012
Salient comments about doing business with the Germans from Tony Hague, MD of British electronic company PP Electrical Systems.
“People ask why we don’t make …
Office Politics Aren’t Always Bad
February 3rd, 2012
Office politics are often seen by managers as a distraction and something to steer clear of. But avoiding them altogether may hold you back. …
Infrastructure spending gone mad?
November 28th, 2011
The Spanish city of Huesca has an airport with no passengers or airlines using it. The airport was built in 2007 as part of …
Marketing and sales strategies for a slow economy
November 28th, 2011
Consider the following ten-steps to make your business recession proof.
Think big and audit your time. Spend more time with more important tasks such as …
Does NZ need more immigrants?
October 17th, 2011
The role of immigration in a nation’s growth has been proven time and again – it is a positive. The Main Report Group’s Sacred …
Steve Jobs: Inspirational character
October 17th, 2011
The death of Steve Jobs has deeply affected the tech world. Jobs was a massive figure in the “technical revolution” which effectively brought science …
Lessons league can teach your business
October 17th, 2011
The Brisbane Broncos, while not grand finalists this year, are on of the NRL’s most successful clubs. Here are some of the things they …
Google to launch business social network
October 10th, 2011
Watch out Linkedin and Facebook, Google+ is after the business customer. Google will launch a business version of Google+ within the next year. This …
NZ to be at forefront of global food war
October 10th, 2011
Rabobank says a decade of increasing food scarcity lies ahead, with prices shifting higher and becoming more volatile. This is good news for New …
Internet: Too slow for commerce?
October 3rd, 2011
NZ has one of the slowest internet networks in the world.
A global speed survey which looked at 27m downloads by 20m computers in …
Skirts key to success for women
October 3rd, 2011
A UK study has found skirts give a better first impression and are more likely to lead to success in the workplace.
The findings …
Plants, art make staff more productive
September 25th, 2011
Dr Craig Knight, director of PRISM says if you allow staff to put personal items and plants in their workspace, it could make them …
Marketing: Cut through the Christmas clutter
September 25th, 2011
As Christmas looms potential customers will be bombarded with special offers and coupons. Consumers everywhere will grow immune to the sales pitches.
Break through by …
What makes great staff members outstanding?
September 19th, 2011
Here are some qualities which make an already great employee outstanding.
A little bit “quirky.” The best workers are a little different. Unusual personalities shake …
Trend: End of mail?
September 19th, 2011
A growing number of US start-ups are about to make the future of mail uncertain. They’re targeting one of its main revenue sources – …
When does debt turn bad?
September 12th, 2011
The Bank of International Settlements or BIS has now provided a definitive answer as to when debt turns toxic.
Research by Stephen G Cecchetti, …
China becoming new Britain for NZ trade
September 12th, 2011
Professor Bob Buckle from Victoria University has been looking at the Chinese economy and its implications for NZ. He has examined the key changes …
Trend: World economy
September 5th, 2011
The Economist notes the world economy is in much worse shape than it was only a few weeks ago. Growth has slowed sharply in …
Retail: Web fightback
September 5th, 2011
As increasing numbers of shoppers use the internet not only to research product offerings, but to purchase as well, traditional “bricks and mortar” retailers …
Trend: OPEC to split over lower oil demand?
August 22nd, 2011
The International Energy Agency is warning a double-dip recession could cut oil demand growth enough to create a global oil glut next year.
This …
Buffett says ‘tax the rich’
August 22nd, 2011
Billionaire investor Warren Buffett says the US Govt should raise taxes on wealthier Americans to cut Washington’s huge budget deficit, saying the move will …
10 tech tips for boosting business
August 14th, 2011
Here are ten of the most common tech solutions to boost your technological expertise.
1. Go Wireless. Creating a wireless network can help you …
End of cheap goods from China?
August 14th, 2011
Bruce Rockowitzis CEO of Li & Fung, sources more clothes and common household products from Asia than perhaps any other. So when he says …
Why page ranks don’t matter
August 8th, 2011
Tim Gray, a content strategist for Blue Fountain Media says Google’s PageRank has been confusing business owners for years.
Google actually suggests you’re better off …
First impressions count in business
August 8th, 2011
Your ability to make people sit up and notice you straight away can predetermine your level of success. Making a positive first impression is …
Poor world growth won’t stop resilient NZ
August 1st, 2011
Westpac’s latest quarterly economic review predicts NZ’s growth will accelerate in the next year or two, despite the global economy hitting a soft patch. …
Trend: Salary information going public
August 1st, 2011
For decades pay has been something whispered from employer to employee. But keeping it secret might do a disservice to workers, managers, and broader …
What should Murdoch have done?
July 25th, 2011
Rupert Murdoch’s empire is at the heart of an ongoing scandal surrounding unethical news and information gathering – hacking the phones of celebrities, politicians, …
.tel domain launches
July 25th, 2011
IT experts Hairy Lemon suggest businesses look at acquiring a .tel domain. They say .tel domains are a little different from other top level …
Cheque book may check out
July 18th, 2011
Payments NZ (PNZ) is in the early stages of planning a study of cheques as a payment instrument. NZ has one of
the highest uses …
Tax breaks for infrastructure investment?
July 18th, 2011
Staples Rodway Auckland Tax Director Andrew Dickeson says in its 2011 Budget, the Aust Govt introduced incentives for private infrastructure investment.
This raises the question, …
World economies: Best growth ideas
July 11th, 2011
Growing the economy – changing its balance – is one of the key planks of the Govt. Some say it has not done so …
Trend: Trash turns into treasure
July 11th, 2011
US firms are finding one thing which is going great guns in the slow recovery period is scrap exports. Everything from iron and steel …
Hot desking bad for job satisfaction
July 4th, 2011
The trend towards extreme hot desking (unassigned desks) in the workplace can lead to job dissatisfaction, feelings of powerlessness and identity issues.
Companies have …
Life lessons from successful entrepreneurs
July 4th, 2011
Barry Ritholtz CEO of FusionIQ, a quantitative research firm, has been fortunate to engage many of the world’s top entrepreneurs in conversation over the …
Income inequality in US growing
June 27th, 2011
The US rich – especially the obscenely rich – are getting very much richer than the rest.
• Between 2002 and 2007, 65% of all …
Trend: Technology watchlist
June 27th, 2011
“Augmented reality” is something we have seen before – imaginary lines on sports fields which we see on TV, but do not exist on …
Tapping into tweets can benefit your business
June 20th, 2011
Digital marketing specialist David Rogers asks how can businesses use Twitter beyond posting on an account, sharing news, and chatting with others online?
He …
Kiwi ingenuity reaps rewards
June 20th, 2011
The Kiwi avocado industry has secured a multi-million dollar export deal with Japan thanks to its new food processing technology.
The technology dramatically extends …
Rust is biggest battle for Pentagon
June 14th, 2011
The Pentagon is turning to specialised training to cut one
of its major costs – fighting rust on its ships, planes and vehicles.
The Pentagon …
Tutorial: Get a top rank on Google
June 14th, 2011
Finding the top ways to rank on Google ensures a strong image and unique business presence.
Speak With Google. Don’t speak with Google literally, do …
Trend: China is leading the boom
June 7th, 2011
China’s booming economy is expected to make these the most lucrative jobs in the world over the next two decades.
Architecture and Design: China is …
Healthy lessons from fast food outlets
June 7th, 2011
Business efficiency blog ValueStreamGuru.com says fast-food principles can, and in some cases already do, prove useful in manufacturing:
Standardised products and processes.A Big Mac is …
Flexible working mooted in British law shake-up
May 30th, 2011
Britain’s 30m workers will be allowed to work part-time – even if they have no children.
The Govt is proposing a dramatic shake-up of …
India outsourcing menial work – to the US
May 30th, 2011
Last week we ran an item describing how outsourcing to poorer economies is losing its lustre for western firms.
But as India’s economy booms …
Being a ‘yes man’ can be good for business
May 23rd, 2011
New managers sometimes feel they have to establish their authority by saying “no” a lot. But more often than not, saying “no” is an …
Women outgun men in business creation
May 23rd, 2011
Latest numbers from US show women there are not only earning more degrees than men, but are also starting more businesses.
The number of …
Being bold: How to create customer experience
May 16th, 2011
Customer experience is everything your brand does. It can make or break your business. You must design and deliver an experience the customer will …
Aussie bosses spying on workers
May 9th, 2011
The Australian Worker’s Union has started a campaign to stop employers using high-tech devices to spy on their staff.
The AWU wants a law change …
‘Netiquette’ on Twitter
May 9th, 2011
If you are using Twitter as a marketing or communications tool for your business, or are thinking of starting, get familiar with Twitter lingo. …
Some industries in terminal decline
May 2nd, 2011
Some industries are in terminal decline, and are shedding jobs on a huge scale. They will keep disappearing even after the economy picks up. …
Trend: Mobile revolution hits Africa
April 26th, 2011
Africa has had widely accessible TV for only about 10 years – already 80% of content is African.
Now the arrival of three submarine …
Top tips for entrepreneurship
April 18th, 2011
Linkedin creator Reid Hoffman says “having a great product is important, but having a great idea for product distribution is more important.”
He knows …
How to draft a better contract
April 5th, 2011
When putting a contract together for sale of your product or provision of services, be sure it covers all eventualities.
1. Define The Scope Of …
Google changes the way it searches
April 5th, 2011
Businesses relying on high search engine rankings for their income need to be aware Google has launched an update designed to reduce rankings for …
Are you management material?
April 5th, 2011
Management writer Jeff Haden says if you recognise yourself in any of the following, reconsider before taking a management role – in your business …
Printing coupons can drive sales
April 5th, 2011
During recessions, customers look for ways to save money.
In the US, coupon use has dramatically increased. The fastest growth is taking place in the …
Editor’s update and your Monday Morning Mind Opener
April 5th, 2011
NZ Electricity prices reached $19,750 a megawatt hour during maintenance on high voltage lines last week, compared with normal prices of less than $100 …
Growth: Privatisation Critical For Economic Growth
February 11th, 2011
Massey University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Lawrence Rose has endorsed the Govt’s partial asset sale plan, saying selling state assets would improve market liquidity leading to better productivity.
Food Prices: Higher Export Food Prices Hurting NZ?
February 11th, 2011
A new study by the NZIER has found rising international food prices cause a net welfare loss to the country.
Prosperity: NZ Prosperous Compared With Other Nations
February 4th, 2011
Britain’s Legatum Institute has ranked NZ fifth on its international scale of the prosperity, with the education system rating as the best in the world.
NZ Economy: Deficit Tops $15bn – Govt Borrowing Up
February 4th, 2011
The scale of the task facing the Govt this year, and post election, is outlined in new figures showing the amount it has to borrow each week has jumped from $250m to $300m.
Economics: Sovereign Default Is Top Risk For 2011
January 28th, 2011
The World Economic Forum says the risk of sovereign debt defaults remains one of the biggest threats facing the world this year.
Customer Service: 3 Ways To Keep Your Customers
January 28th, 2011
If you’re losing customers, or just afraid you’re going to lose customers there are a few things you can do to tighten the bond …
NZ Economy: Farmers Help Shave Trade Deficit
December 8th, 2010
Federated Farmers says NZ should make sure it keeps focused on the sector which is doing most to help rebalance the economy – farming. …
Foieign Investment: NZ Should Use Foreign Money – Wisely
December 1st, 2010
Senior UN official and former WTO leader Supachai Panitchpakd says NZ must remain open to foreign investment but should learn from past mistakes to …
Solvency: Concerns Over SME Viability
November 24th, 2010
ANZ commercial managing director Graham Turley has raised concerns over the survivability of some small businesses that have survived the recession. He says they …
Corporate Structure: Has The Limited Company Had Its Day?
November 17th, 2010
NZ Accounting says these days, limited liability companies don’t really protect you from anything – other than the debts your company would owe if …
Management: Performance Based Pay Best
November 11th, 2010
Moyle Consulting director Jarrod Moyle is calling for organisations to increase their use of incentive pay. He says his company’s remuneration surveys have …
NZ Oil Supply: Oil Supply And Price Shocks Will Hurt NZ
November 11th, 2010
In spite of known and (potentially very large) unknown oil reserves, NZ’s isolation could make it very vulnerable to coming, expected oil supply and …
Exports: More Added Value Worries
November 10th, 2010
Research commissioned by the Govt confirms what many have been saying for years – NZ is underperforming when it comes to high-value, processed food …
Energy Efficiency: Saving Energy Improves Profits
November 5th, 2010
EECA says most NZ businesses could substantially improve their bottom line by tackling energy use and eliminating waste. A Statistics NZ business survey has …
Leadership: Passion and Drive Killing Good Leaders?
November 5th, 2010
Passion and dedication are good things, so is a healthy ego. But when you dedicate your life to work to the exclusion of all …
R&D: NZ Too Complacent On Science
November 3rd, 2010
NZ’s No.8 fencing-wire myth of inventiveness has been lashed by the Govt’s chief science adviser, Sir Peter Gluckman, who says the country needs to …
NZ Manufacturing: Value Added Still Vital For Manufacturers
October 27th, 2010
Victoria University Professor of Management Lawrie Corbett has delivered a blunt message to NZ manufacturers – they must create and retain more ‘value-added’ products …
Social Media: How To Succeed In The Social Media Space
October 22nd, 2010
79% of NZ of small businesses say the internet is crucial to their business and having a social media presence is a big part …
Technology: Business Must Get Ready For “New Internet”
October 22nd, 2010
InternetNZ and the New Zealand IPv6 Task Force are concerned the message about adopting the new Internet Protocol, IPv6, is still not getting through …
Economic Policy: CTU Economic Strategy The Way To Go?
October 20th, 2010
The Council of Trade Unions has released an alternative economic strategy. CTU Economist Bill Rosenberg, says the strategy is based on six principles: Fairness; …
Internet: Social Media Gets Better Online Results
October 15th, 2010
has surveyed 668 small and medium NZ businesses to find out how they use the web to do business. The company wanted …
Economics: Currency Wars Must be Averted
October 15th, 2010
A body representing the world’s financial institutions, the Institute of International Finance (IIF) has warned the world’s major economic powers must do more to …
NZ Growth: Double Dip Still On Cards For NZ
October 13th, 2010
BERL’s latest set of forecasts make gloomy reading. The independent economic forecaster says NZ’s economy faces “significant” risk of a double-dip recession, with the …
Exports: Food Still Vital For NZ’s Future
October 6th, 2010
Sunny Verghese, group managing director and CEO of Olam International says NZ and Aust will be powerhouses in the global agriculture industry in the …
NZ Resources: Oil Indystry Tells NZ To “Think Big”
September 29th, 2010
Oil and gas industry leaders want NZ to start thinking of the country as a continent larger than Europe, with the same resource potential, …
Trade: New Opening For NZ Into Europe
September 3rd, 2010
In what could be a crucial new avenue into the EU, NZ has joined the influential ASEM group of countries, which groups 27 EU …
Economy: Economy Firing On Two Cylinders
September 3rd, 2010
Fears of a double-dip recession in the US are seeping across the Pacific and the downbeat attitude of financial markets has reached NZ’s shores …
NZ Economy: Economic Liberalisation No Silver Bullet
September 1st, 2010
The dominant approach to economic development in NZ since the mid-1980s has been economic liberalisation. But the NZ Institute says this has defocused efforts …
Law: Double Edge To Latest Labour Law
August 27th, 2010
On the plus side of the ledger Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson has introduced a Bill to amend the Holidays Act so workers will be …
Management: Boost Risk Assessment In Tough Times
August 27th, 2010
SMEs are being urged to step up their risk assessment processes as they work hard to stay in business during the toughest year they …
Small Business: Tough Year Ahead For SMEs
August 25th, 2010
SMEs are likely to find this year the toughest since the recession began. Massey University research shows a spike in business failures and staff …
Succession Planning: Selling Not Sole Response To Succession Planning
August 20th, 2010
Accountancy firm Staples Rodway says more than 50% of small and medium-sized businesses in NZ are expected to be sold over the next five …
Welfare: Employers To Part Fund Welfare Costs?
August 20th, 2010
If recommendations included in a new report on welfare are acted upon, it could be bad news for business. The report, by a working …
Tax: New Measures To Help GST Transition
August 18th, 2010
Revenue Minister Peter Dunne says the switchover to 15% GST is going to be harder than expected so he’s opted for a shortcut to …
Management: Cash Flow Still Crucial In Business
August 13th, 2010
One of NZ’s biggest companies, Mainfreight, says the discipline of weekly profit and loss reports from its 166 worldwide and NZ branches is a …
NZ Economy: Official – SMEs Economy’s Engine Room
August 13th, 2010
A Ministry of Economic Development report on SME structure and dynamics shows SMEs are the meat of the NZ economic sandwich. The figures show …
Trans Tasman Relations: Call To Drop Tasman Passenger Checks
August 11th, 2010
Aussie budget airline Jetstar has called on the Aust Govt to take the initiative on trans-Tasman border simplification, by dropping local immigration checks and …
Economy: Exporters Lead Economic Growth
August 6th, 2010
The latest ASB Quarterly Economic Forecast suggests exports will keep NZ growing out of recession. ASB Chief Economist Nick Tuffley says large and rapidly-growing …
Revised Energy Strategies Finally Released
August 6th, 2010
Energy Minister Gerry Brownlee has finally released the Govt’s new draft energy and energy efficiency strategies, seeking public submissions by September 2, and hoping …
Infrastructure: PPP Issue Raises Interesting Questions
August 4th, 2010
The Govt has raised the PPP issue again in recent weeks, with a new prison to be built by the private sector for state …
Technology: Social Networks Winning Business
July 30th, 2010
A global survey shows social networking has become a mainstream marketing business tool in the B2B world with fully 40% of businesses having successfully …
Productivity: How To Match Australia’s Productivity
July 30th, 2010
Much has been made recently of Australia’s superior economic performance and ways NZ can catch up. Grant Amos, a Registered Psychologist at Selector Ltd, …
Mining: The Mining Decision – A Political Defeat
July 28th, 2010
Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee first floated exploiting the nation’s most protected conservation lands – those covered by Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act …
Trans-Tasman Accounting Standards Closer
July 23rd, 2010
Another step in the integration of the trans Tasman economic and regulatory _systems. Aust and NZ are now one step closer to having a …
Economy: Recovery Not “Living Up To Expectations”…
July 23rd, 2010
A new BNZ survey has identified a plunge in business confidence, which the bank says is a result of the economic recovery failing to …
Resources Hunt: Huge Iron-Sands Opportunities Identified
July 21st, 2010
In what could be a huge boost for NZ Inc, local offshore ironsands explorer Trans Tasman Resources (TTRL) believes a 10m tonne a year …
Sustainability: CEOs Say Sustainability Is Critical To Success
July 16th, 2010
A survey released by the UN Global Compact and Accenture says 93% of CEOs believe sustainability will be critical to success. 766 CEOs were …
Customer Management: Keep Your Customers Loyal
July 16th, 2010
Customer loyalty can be a huge boon to your business. But building strong customer loyalty takes time and consistent effort on your part. Committing …
Trend: Emergence Of The New Middle Class
July 14th, 2010
A new prosperous middle class is rapidly emerging in countries such as China, Russia, Brazil, India, Turkey and Indonesia. In 2009, 70m new middle …
Customer Service: Poor Customer Experiences Punished
July 7th, 2010
NZ businesses should take note of a new study which shows NZ consumers are fighting back against poor customer experiences by removing their business …
NZ Economy: The NZ Economy – Emerging Conclusions
July 2nd, 2010
The NZ Institute is about to release a discussion paper on NZ’s economic strategy. The findings include:
• NZ has many opportunities to improve labour …
NZ Economy: Stalling Migration Bad For Economy
July 2nd, 2010
Immigration is a leading driver of economic growth, and latest figures show it is on the wane. Official seasonally adjusted figures show the number …
Management: 8 Great Proofreading Tips
June 30th, 2010
1. Take your time. You can’t proofread a document at the same speed you read a novel – slow down and concentrate.
2. Increase the …
Consumer Law: Changes On The Way For Consumer Law
June 25th, 2010
Consumer law, some of it more than 80 years old, is in for a shakeup. Consumer Affairs Minister Heather Roy has launched a discussion …
NZ Debt: NZers Must Save More, Borrow Less
June 23rd, 2010
Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard says more household belt-tightening and a stronger switch by banks away from unproductive personal credit growth are necessary if …
NZ Economy: NZ’s Net Debt Edges Higher
June 18th, 2010
With sovereign debt fears stalking global markets, news NZ’s debt position is not improving will be of concern. Latest figures show the Government’s cash …
NZ Economy: More Employers Planning To Hire Staff
June 18th, 2010
The latest Manpower Employment Outlook Survey Employer has found hiring activity in NZ is expected to continue its uphill climb back to a pre-recession …
NZ Economic Growth: Hospitality A Solid Economic Barometer
June 16th, 2010
Hospitality Association CEO Bruce Robertson has questioned the strength of the economic recovery, saying trading conditions for its more than 2500 members were still …
Foreign Investment: Treasury – Less Control On Foreign Investment
June 11th, 2010
Treasury Secretary John Whitehead says the Government could be receptive to lowering investment screening thresholds for foreigners looking to buy assets in NZ. The …
NZ Economy: NZ Set For Rapid Growth
June 11th, 2010
The IMF says NZ is likely to grow faster than most of the developed world in the medium term. It points to rising commodity …
Trade: NZ Set To Chalk Up Russia FTA
June 9th, 2010
Although the Russians may have the cynical motive of getting WTO recognition as a result, NZ has nevertheless scored a big coup in becoming …
Budget: Not Enough To Catch The Aussies
June 4th, 2010
The verdict on this year’s budget from business leaders is the Govt must do more to keep NZ competitive internationally. While the decision to …
NZ Management: How Does NZ Management Measure-Up?
June 4th, 2010
A new international study which looked at NZ management skills, focusing on manufacturing, has found management practices in NZ are ‘middling to average.’ This …
Management Skill: More SMEs Turning To Mentoring For Help
May 28th, 2010
Although some may cringe at the name, more SMEs are turning to mentoring to help them through economic tough times in the wake of …
NZ Tax: GST Change May Cost Businesses “More”
May 28th, 2010
Consultancy Deloitte says the task of adjusting business systems to account for a rise in GST will be a bigger job, and thus potentially …
Economic Planning: A Skills Agenda For Prosperity
May 26th, 2010
The NZ Institute’s latest recipe for boosting NZ’s economic fortunes is boosting skills. It says labour productivity – output per hour worked – is …
Business Opportunity – Food Safety Products
May 21st, 2010
US Demand for food safety products in the United States is expected to rise 6.7% a year until 2014. The US food processing segment …
Legislation: Business Not Happy With Proposed Legislation
May 21st, 2010
In a challenge to National’s business friendly credentials, a new survey by software company MYOB has found NZ business owners strongly oppose several of …
NZ Research: Business Supportive of Govt R&D Focus
May 19th, 2010
Prime Minister John Key’s announcement science and innovation will be at the heart of next week’s Budget is a positive step forward, say business …
NZ Exports: Engage Emerging Markets With Caution
May 14th, 2010
Peter Sherwin, a business adviser for accounting firm Grant Thornton NZ, warns while Emerging Markets are leading the world out of recession, NZ businesses …
NZ Economy: Gain For NZ, But Not Without Pain
May 14th, 2010
The latest edition of the bi-annual Regus BusinessTracker survey shows global economic growth is progressing steadily, but full recovery will not be reliably under …
Tax: Aust Corporate Taxes Go Down, Eventually
May 12th, 2010
Australian company tax cuts give NZ some breathing space. The Henry tax review had recommended the corporate tax rate be slashed to 25% but …
Electricity Supply Security: Grid Upgrade To Help Power Supply Security
May 7th, 2010
Businesses worried over electricity supply security will be pleased Transpower has been given approval from the Electricity Commission to proceed with a $170m upgrade …
Emissions Trading: No Australian ETS In The Near Future
May 7th, 2010
Pressure on the Govt to drop NZ’s ETS is likely to increase with revelations the Aust Govt has shelved its emissions trading scheme for …
NZ Exports: NZ Businesses Missing Out In South Asia
May 5th, 2010
Despite a Free Trade deal being negotiated with India, South Asian countries – India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan – are …
NZ Business Management: NZ Businesses Better In The Crisis?
April 30th, 2010
It appears NZ businesses performed better than their Australian counterparts during the global financial crisis. Accounting software firm MYOB’s business monitor study surveyed 1000 …
NZ Technology: NZ Broadband Plan GETS OECD Thumbs Up
April 30th, 2010
The Govt’s $1.5bn plan to put 75% of NZ homes on fibre optic cable broadband has been backed by the OECD. The Paris based …
Subsidy Money Available
April 28th, 2010
The Tertiary Education Commission is interested in boosting workplace literacy. Its Workplace Literacy Fund helps eligible employees boost literacy, language and numeracy skills. Your …
Workplace Safety: Safe Handling Of Chemicals For Businesses
April 23rd, 2010
The Department of Labour (DoL) and ERMA NZ have developed a guide to help businesses keep themselves and others safe. “Chemical Safety in the …
Management Skills: Advisory Boards: How Do They Work?
April 23rd, 2010
Last issue’s article “Advisory Boards Can Fill The Gaps,” led to a number of emails asking how to work with an advisory board. They …
NZ Trade: Is A US Trade Agreement Really Vital?
April 22nd, 2010
John Key has been doing the hard yards in the US, meeting with Vice President Joe Biden, touching base with trade representatives and gaining …
Emissions Trading: ETS Changes Loom For NZ Businesses
April 16th, 2010
Businesses will need to carefully assess the impact of the changes to New Zealand’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). Carbon obligations for liquid fossil fuels, …
NZ Economy: Funds Management “Back Office” A Step Closer
April 16th, 2010
A private sector working group is to advise on the steps needed for New Zealand Inc. to create an international fund services industry.
The International …
NZ Economy: The Recovery – Steady, Not Spectacular
April 14th, 2010
The latest Institute of Economic Research survey of business opinion shows the economy is getting better, but the recovery will be fragile and more …
Innovation: NZ Institute Calls For Lead On Innovation
April 9th, 2010
The NZ Institute is calling on the Govt to create an Innovation Council, saying it should be chaired by John Key. It says economic …
Oil Prices: Rising Oil Prices Set To Push Up Freight Rates
April 9th, 2010
Trucking industry representatives are warning freight customers to expect a rise in cartage rates this year as transport companies are forced to pass on …
NZ Economic Output: Productivity Commission A Winning Move?
March 31st, 2010
Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly says NZ will be the winner in gaining a Productivity Commission. He notes “productivity growth is fundamental to …
NZ Trade: Trans Pacific FTA Gaining Momentum
March 26th, 2010
What started as a 2001 FTA with Singapore is set to become a powerful “new generation” regional FTA the US has made a top …
NZ Economy:2010 Global Recovery Will Be Stronger
March 26th, 2010
OECD chief Angel Gurria says global economic recovery will be stronger than previously estimated this year, helped by robust growth in China and India. …
NZ Energy Requirements: No Chance To Hit Renewable Energy Target
March 24th, 2010
NZ’s top professional engineers say it’s a pipedream to think the country can have 90% renewable energy by 2025. IPENZ, the Institution of Professional …
Business Value: Guard Your Reputation From Online Damage
March 19th, 2010
The 2009 “Managing Reputation” survey, by Senate Communications and Baseline Consultancy shows social media was instrumental in creating reputational damage for NZ organisations in …
NZ Employment: Employers Set To Hire Staff
March 19th, 2010
Manpower’s Employment Outlook Survey shows overall employment optimism across NZ continues to improve. But hiring intentions for the next three months have softened somewhat …
Business Investment: Sort Red tape Or Lose International Investment
March 17th, 2010
International investors could bypass NZ if problems with the Financial Advisers Act are not sorted out. Colin McKinnon, Executive Director of the NZ Private …
Corporate Trust: Trust in Business Rises Globally
March 12th, 2010
You would have thought perceptions of business and the financial sector took a hammering during the Global Financial Crisis. But the 2010 Edelman Trust …
NZ Wages: Bigger Trans Tasman Wage Gap Bad For Business
March 12th, 2010
A new survey by accounting firm Grant Thornton show the wage gap with Aust is set to widen, and may herald the start of …
NZ Economy: Economic Recovery Not Going To Be Pretty
March 10th, 2010
The public library is going through a major revamp. The library of the future is a modern multi purpose building, complete with multi media …
Interest Rates: Mid Year Target Still Likely For Interest Rate Rise
March 5th, 2010
Analysts JP Morgan now think the Reserve Bank is going to hold off its tightening till July, with a 50bp hike. Previously, JP Morgan …
NZ Productivity: Catching Up With Australia – Everyone Must Help
March 5th, 2010
Andrew Gawith a director of Gareth Morgan Investments has been looking at the vexing problem of how to improve NZ’s economic position in relation …
Advertising Trend: Technology Sparks Advertising Revolution
March 3rd, 2010
Businesses now have the ability to reach potential customers anytime, anywhere, and to target only the most promising prospects. This is changing how buyers …
NZ Regulation: Increased Penalties for Price Fixing?
February 26th, 2010
A discussion paper looking at options criminalising of cartels has published for comment. Hard-core cartels are formed when rival firms agree to not compete …
NZ Economic Plan: Inflation Goals – Bad For Economic Management?
February 26th, 2010
The IMF is turning economic orthodoxy on its head in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis, and is calling for the overthrow of …
NZ Economy: Recovery Still Threatened By Changing Economy
February 19th, 2010
ASB Bank’s economics team is warning businesses despite NZ coming out of recession, there are still several things to be aware of as the …
NZ Productivity: Improve Performance To Close Tasman Gap
February 19th, 2010
While John Key and Alan Bollard lock horns over whether NZ can or can’t catch up with Aust by 2025, business performance specialist John …
NZ Economy: Key’s Recipe For Growth – Luke Warm?
February 17th, 2010
Analysts have been lining up to take John Key’s “Step Change” plan for the economy apart. The speech was probably one off the most …
Trend – Globalisation Under Fire?
February 12th, 2010
Business analysts McKinsey say globalisation is under fire and declining due to decreased support for global trade liberalisation in the face of economic challenges. …
NZ Emissions Policy: NZ Signs Copenhagen – But Is Aust Plan Better?
February 12th, 2010
NZ has signed the Copenhagen accord, reaffirming its basic global climate change pledge of a conditional emissions reduction target in the range of 10%-20% …
NZ Exports: Technology Now NZ’s Third Biggest Export
February 10th, 2010
The Technology Investment Network’s 2009 report says technology was NZ’s third-biggest export industry last year, outpacing wine and meat exports. Tech exports last …
Emissions Policy: Govt Faces Problems With Emissions Allocations
February 5th, 2010
The Environment Ministry is warning it can only promise “best endeavours” in giving trade-exposed industrial emitters of greenhouse gases covered by the Kyoto Protocol …
Trend For 2010 – Trust In Business Running Out
February 5th, 2010
Trust shapes every relationship. It is the foundation of commerce. Eroding trust levels raises the cost of doing business. Management consultants McKinsey points out …
NZ Economy: Business Wants Action Now
February 3rd, 2010
A new survey of public and private sector CEOs by PricewaterhouseCoopers has found the nation’s business leaders are gaining confidence about the year ahead …
NZ Communications: Businesses Want Reliable Broadband
January 29th, 2010
Businesses struggling with inconsistent, and at times non-existent, broadband services are calling for improved internet access and speed. Many are pinning their hopes on …
NZ Economy: 1.8% Growth For 2010, Or More?
January 29th, 2010
Credit agency Dun and Bradstreet is tipping the NZ economy will grow by 1.8% in 2010. But this is somewhat lower than Westpac’s prediction …
Economic Policy: Tax Reform Must Be In The Budget
January 27th, 2010
The Govt is to focus this year on lifting the economy’s performance. A big part of this is centred on tax. This makes Budget …
Human Resources: People Are Productivity
January 22nd, 2010
Most business productivity is attributed to people. Focus on people, both employees and customers to gain a huge business advantage over your competitors. …
NZ Economy: NZ Recovery Will Gain Pace In 2010
January 22nd, 2010
JP Morgan has some good news for business as we go into 2010. It says:
• Expansion will quicken in 2010 as exports lead economy …
Tax Changes: Tax Reform Must Take Debt Into Account
January 20th, 2010
The NZ Herald’s Editors say the tax issue is one of the most crucial facing NZ, particularly as Auckland University professor of tax law …
NZ Compared With Australia: The Scale Of The Task
January 18th, 2010
In its report, the 2025 Productivity Task Force points out the typical NZer has less than the typical Australian here are some examples:
• …
NZ Catching Australia: Serious Value in Taskforce Report
January 18th, 2010
Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly says the first report of the 2025 Task Force displays a comprehensive grasp of the factors which could …
NZ Economic Growth: Unemployment Still The Big Global Concern
December 4th, 2009
As we approach the end of 2009, a turbulent year on financial markets, many economies probably feel like they have dodged a bullet – …
NZ Tax Policy: Tax Reform Crucial For New Economic Direction
December 4th, 2009
Treasury has just released a report it prepared for the Govt in August, in advance of Cabinet’s meeting to prepare its economic strategy for …
NZ Economic Policy: Tax Reform Crucial For New Economic Direction
November 27th, 2009
Treasury has just released a report it prepared for the Govt in August, in advance of Cabinet’s meeting to prepare its economic strategy for …
Customer Relations: Two Common Reasons Why Businesses Fail
November 27th, 2009
There have been a fair share of businesses go under recently. Some may have suffered from these two easily cured problems:
1 – Copying Your …
NZ Business Skills: Women Begin To Dominate Professions
November 27th, 2009
A new Ministry of Education report shows two-thirds of bachelor degrees last year went to women, the highest figure ever. The report says women …
NZ Trade Relations: Malaysia FTA Boosts Big Export Market
November 20th, 2009
The Free Trade Agreement NZ and Malaysia have signed will help deepen ties with the southeast Asian nation which already takes $1bn of exports, …
NZ Economic Salaries: Are Top executives Being Paid Too Much?
November 20th, 2009
Remuneration consultant Strategic Pay doesn’t think NZ CEOs are being paid above the odds. It says most pay excesses are in the private sector. …
NZ Business Education: Women Begin To Dominate Professions
November 18th, 2009
A new Ministry of Education report shows two-thirds of bachelor degrees last year went to women, the highest figure ever. The report says women …
NZ Emissions Trading: Tough Road Ahead On Emissions Bill
November 12th, 2009
The NZ Business Council for Sustainable Development says NZers oppose nearly all the major changes the Govt proposes to make to emissions trading and …
NZ Immigration Policy: High Skill Migrants Only “Part Of Picture”
November 12th, 2009
The Department of Labour has been looking at immigration and its value to the economy, and it seems policy settings are all wrong. It …
NZ Emissions Trading: Tough Road Ahead on Emissions Bill
November 6th, 2009
The NZ Business Council for Sustainable Development says NZers oppose nearly all the major changes the Govt proposes to make to emissions trading and …
NZ Trade Policy: Malaysia FTA Boosts Big Export Market
November 6th, 2009
The Free Trade Agreement NZ and Malaysia have signed will help deepen ties with the southeast Asian nation which already takes $1bn of exports, …
NZ CEO Pay: Are Top executives Being Paid Too Much?
November 6th, 2009
Remuneration consultant Strategic Pay doesn’t think NZ CEOs are being paid above the odds. It says most pay excesses are in the private sector. …
NZ Trade Relations: Malaysia FTA Boosts Big Export Market
October 30th, 2009
The Free Trade Agreement NZ and Malaysia have signed will help deepen ties with the southeast Asian nation which already takes $1bn of exports, …
Work/Life Balance: Work/Life Advice Now The Recession Is Receding
October 30th, 2009
These practical tips are adapted from comments by personal branding consultant Alan Weiss.
• Don’t try to restore everything you cut, but do restore your …
Business Energy Management: Poor Energy Management Costs You Profits
October 30th, 2009
The Energy Management Association (EMANZ) is lamenting the poor showing by NZ companies when it comes to sound energy efficiency and energy management practices. …
Accident Compensation Row: Employers Wary About ACC Competition
October 28th, 2009
The Northern Employers and Manufacturers Association says employers are wary about the reintroduction of an open competitive market for ACC workplace accounts. It says …
NZ Business Earnings: Business Incomes Continued To Rise In 2008
October 23rd, 2009
Despite the country sliding into recession last year, figures for the 2008 year, the latest available, show it wasn’t all bad for NZ businesses. …
NZ Trade Policy: Tariff Cuts On Hold For Years
October 23rd, 2009
For once something for manufacturers and unions to get excited about together – the Govt says there will no unilateral reduction of any tariffs …
NZ Employment Data: Staff Numbers And Wages Tipped To Stay On Hold
October 23rd, 2009
The NZIER’s latest survey of the business mood has found firms are not expecting to lay off more staff in the December quarter, after …
NZ Tax Reform – Accountants Fly Tax Flag For Small Businesses
October 21st, 2009
The NZ Institute of Chartered Accountants says the Govt’s tax review is ignoring small businesses, so it has come up with its own scheme …
NZ Tax Policy: Accountants Fly Tax Flag For Small Businesses
October 16th, 2009
The NZ Institute of Chartered Accountants says the Govt’s tax review is ignoring small businesses, so it has come up with its own scheme …
Tourism Set To Boom In Medium Term
October 16th, 2009
The importance of tourism and its business potential have been outlined in new figures from the Ministry of Tourism. They show international tourism expenditure …
NZ Economic Recovery: High Dollar Hinders Export Led Recovery
October 16th, 2009
After last week’s optimism from Treasury, pessimism this week from forecasters BERL. The group says in the short term a boom in log sales …
NZ Trade Policy: Tariff Cuts On Hold For Years
October 14th, 2009
For once something for manufacturers and unions to get excited about together – the Govt says there will no unilateral reduction of any tariffs …
Business Growth Figures: Business Incomes Continue To Rise In 2008
October 9th, 2009
Despite the country sliding into recession last year, figures for the 2008 year, the latest available, show it wasn’t all bad for NZ businesses. …
NZ Skills Shortage: New Battle For Staff Looming
October 9th, 2009
Human Resources professionals are warning businesses to be prepared for a possible return to a labour shortage. Trade Me is reporting a “significant” jump …
NZ Economic Growth: High Dollar Hinders Export Led Recovery
October 9th, 2009
After last week’s optimism from Treasury, pessimism this week from forecasters BERL. The group says in the short term a boom in log sales …
High Dollar Not All Bad News For Exporters
October 6th, 2009
Research by Westpac economists shows over time, the exchange rate has helped rather than harmed commodity producers. The bank’s economists say the Kiwi tends …
Venture Capital Review Says Keep Govt Involved
October 2nd, 2009
A review of NZ’s venture capital industry has recommended continued Govt involvement in the sector to build on “encouraging but modest” growth in the …
Call For SMEs To Create Lobby Group
October 2nd, 2009
Labour’s small business spokesperson, Manukau East MP, Ross Robertson, has called on NZ businesses to set up a small business lobby group to represent …
Business Not United Behind New ETS
October 2nd, 2009
The NZ Business Council for Sustainable Development says the ETS deal National has put together with the Maori Party and which will now go …
New Battle For Staff Looming
October 1st, 2009
Human Resources professionals are warning businesses to be prepared for a possible return to a labour shortage. Trade Me is reporting a “significant” jump …
Use Positioning Strategy To Demolish Competition
September 25th, 2009
Find a product attribute which captures the customer’s imagination. Look at the problem with fresh eyes and fresh data. Find a new attribute customers …
How Good Are Economic Forecasters?
September 25th, 2009
Economists come under pressure from investors when their forecasts miss the mark. And justifiably so. Aust analysts CommSec have looked at the performance of …
Management – How Apple Manages To Win
September 25th, 2009
Over time, Apple has built a seasoned management team optimised to support bold new product initiatives (and recover from the occasional flop). Here are …
Treasury Says Recession May Be Over
September 25th, 2009
In a piece of huge positive news, Treasury says the recession may be over and unemployment is not likely to reach previously expected heights. …
Will Bollard Buckle On Rates Promise?
September 18th, 2009
Foreign-exchange traders are betting Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard will abandon his promise to keep interest rates at a record low. Bollard has hit …
Oil – THE 4th Pillar For NZ’s Economy
September 18th, 2009
Oil production is becoming a fourth pillar of the NZ economy, behind dairy, meat and tourism. Latest figures show in 2008 oil export earnings …
Brownlee Proposes Mining On Conservation Land
September 18th, 2009
What Gerry Brownlee proposes as far as mining on conservation land goes can be summed up in three sentences: “We are going to be …
NZX’s Trading Supervision Role To Go?
September 11th, 2009
Commerce Minister Simon Power is hinting the Govt is likely to move supervision of market trading away from the NZX. Power points to a …
Small Firms Start To Bust Recession
September 11th, 2009
A new business confidence survey shows the engine room of NZ business, the SMEs are starting to come out of recession, but they’re upset …
Regions Say ‘No’ To Big Trucks
September 11th, 2009
Regional transport committees for most of the upper North Island – including Auckland – oppose allowing heavier trucks on main roads despite Govt and …
Brownlee Proposes Mining On Conservation Land
September 8th, 2009
The Govt has ignited a new storm with hints it will push forward NZ’s game of catch up with Aust in the economic stakes …
Older Staff – Still Worth Having
September 4th, 2009
Figures from Britain show the value of having older workers. They show over-sixties employed by McDonald’s are making the fast food chain more profitable …
Be Ready When Recovery Arrives
September 4th, 2009
Dennis Laundy business advisory director at Adelaide firm William Buck says businesses need to be ready to ramp up production when the economic recovery …
Cadbury Caves In On Chocolate Change
September 4th, 2009
Cadbury is to get rid of palm oil from its chocolates after a public outcry. The firm started using the oil recently as part …
Demographic Change Will Affect Your Business
September 1st, 2009
Most societies are ageing rapidly and simultaneously facing a dramatic decline in the number of births. What are some of the main implications of …
Sports Sponsorship Does Have Business Benefits
August 28th, 2009
Associate Professor Kevin Voges of Canterbury University has co-authored a study with two Queensland academics which has found consumer perception of a company which …
Errant Directors To Face Harsher Penalties?
August 28th, 2009
The Securities Commission wants some company directors banned for life, and more sent to jail, as part of an overhaul of securities laws.
At present, …
Public Private Partnerships On Fast Track
August 28th, 2009
Finance Minister Bill English says NZ is a decade behind other countries in using public-private partnerships to accelerate, manage risk, and get value for …
Is The Dollar A Threat To The Economy?
August 21st, 2009
Reserve Bank governor Alan Bollard says the exchange rate is not helping the sustainability of future growth and if the easing in monetary conditions …
Putting Productivity In The Front Seat
August 21st, 2009
Business NZ has been casting its eye over productivity and how to lift it in NZ. It says the buck stops with the private …
Key Hits Unemployment
August 21st, 2009
Continuing his anti-recession “rolling maul” John Key has promised further measures to tackle soaring unemployment on top of a $152 million plan to get …
Productivity Will Stay Down Until The Dollar Falls
August 14th, 2009
More discussion on how to bring the dollar down – the NZ Manufacturers and Exporters Association is warning overly optimistic comment and forecasts of …
What The Aussies Do On Tax Is Important
August 14th, 2009
While NZ and Aust draw closer to a single economic market, there are other indications of how closely related the two economies are even …
Emissions Reduction Targets All Unaffordable
August 14th, 2009
Employers & Manufacturers Association (Northern) CEO Alasdair Thompson says the “40% cut by 2020′ being promoted by Greenpeace cannot be afforded by NZers, and …
Kiwi Investors Resist Playing The Share Market
August 7th, 2009
Wealthy Kiwi investors are not putting their money into the productive economy – they are sitting on their fortunes and resisting the temptation to …
PM’s Adviser Warns Science Community Fading
August 7th, 2009
In what will be seen as a blow to NZ Inc’s long term competitiveness, Professor Peter Gluckman chief science adviser to John Key, says …
Low Productivity Not Easy To Change
August 7th, 2009
A new book ‘Employment Relations in NZ,’ by AUT employment relations Professor Erling Rasmussen says NZ’s low productivity goes back several decades and there …
5 Reasons Business Plans Won’t Cut It
July 31st, 2009
1. Not defining the problem. A business plan should define a problem and explain how your business will solve it. It should be focused …
Treasury Concerned About Volatile Kiwi
July 31st, 2009
Treasury is increasingly concerned about the strength of the NZ dollar, which it says is one of the big potential spoilers both for economic …
Lessons Of Recession Not Being Learnt
July 31st, 2009
Infometrics CEO Gareth Kiernan says the pain of the recession is not deep enough to teach NZers what they need to learn. He says …
Show Customers You Truly Appreciate Them
July 24th, 2009
You can have the best product or service out there, but if you do not treat your customers well, they will not come back. …
Heavier Trucks Could Be Economic Boon
July 24th, 2009
The Govt looks set to pass an Amendment to transport regulations allowing trucks to operate at up to 50 tonnes on certain routes. The …
Exports To China Help Boost Trade Surplus
July 24th, 2009
Imports are collapsing but exports are rising, especially to China after the FTA which came into force late last year. This helped push May …
Who Do We Love? Best Brands Revealed
July 17th, 2009
The Reader’s Digest Trust survey has found NZers have lost faith in big Aust owned banks, and think Cadbury and Tip-Top are the best …
Redundancy’s Four ‘Rs’
July 17th, 2009
If you are facing the possibility of making staff redundant remember the four R’s.
Reason: Redundancy is a situation where employment ends because the position …
Don’t Fear Carbon Charging
July 17th, 2009
A joint study for the Ministry for the Environment by the NZ Institute of Economic Research and Infometrics into climate change policy concludes introducing …
Aust Business – Boost GST To Get Business Tax Cuts
July 10th, 2009
The Business Council of Australia wants the company tax rate to be halved, with GST lifted from 10% to cover the revenue shortfall. The …
Boosting Productivity – 7 Drivers To Look For
July 10th, 2009
A joint study by Govt, business groups and unions has identified seven key drivers for improving productivity.
1. Building your organisation’s leadership and management capability.
2. …
Business To Govt – Get On With RMA Reform
July 10th, 2009
A new report showing only four of the country’s 84 councils are fully complying with the law by processing resource consents on time proves …
Worst Of Financial Crisis Over?
July 3rd, 2009
The Swiss-based Bank for International Settlements, the only international organisation to predict the global financial crisis, is now saying the worst of it has …
Distribution Vital For Brand Building
July 3rd, 2009
New University of Waikato Management School research has shown the most significant factor in building a new brand is distribution, rather than the traditional …
Reasons For Retailers To Be Cheerful
June 26th, 2009
Accounting and business advisory firm Grant Thornton says despite the recession it’s not all gloom for retailers – here’s why:
?Recessions, even deep ones, come …
How To Manage Older Workers
June 26th, 2009
Older workers are becoming a crucial component of the labour force as employers continue to battle a skills shortage. But these older staff members …
US Export Subsidies Decision Was Always Likely
June 26th, 2009
Massey University Agricultural trade policy specialist Professor Allan Rae says the US decision to reintroduce export subsidies on dairy products is disappointing and could …
Two Critical Leadership Qualities For Today
June 19th, 2009
Many important qualities good leaders possess become even more critical during tough times. Demonstrate personal integrity and maintain personal credibility. When faced with …
Reasons For Retailers To Be Cheerful
June 19th, 2009
Accounting and business advisory firm Grant Thornton says despite the recession it’s not all gloom for retailers – here’s why:
?Recessions, even deep ones, come …
Poor Work Culture Costs Billions A Year
June 19th, 2009
Poor work culture and a lack of workplace leadership are costing NZ businesses more than $2.6bn a year. Culture & leadership expert Paddy Steinfort …
Recession Helps Business Publishing
June 12th, 2009
The success of books about business and the economy has been as much of a surprise to the publishers as to many of the …
Blame Govts And Regulators For The Crash
June 12th, 2009
A new book with contributions from some of the world’s leading economists, challenges the myth the recent banking crisis was caused by insufficient statutory …
NZers Pessimistic – Don’t Trust Business
June 12th, 2009
A new report on life in NZ, called ‘Attitude New Zealand’ has a few lessons for businesses. It shows widespread concern for household …
Seven Habits Of Successful financial leaders
June 5th, 2009
All Chief Financial Officers of top companies exhibit most of these habits:
1. Take a seat at the strategy table. The CFO should be involved …
Signs Of Hope From US Economy
June 5th, 2009
Economic forecasters are tipping the US economy will begin growing in the second half of this year, while the jobless rate is expected to …
Banks Told To Keep Lending To Business
June 5th, 2009
The Reserve Bank is calling on trading banks to keep lending to “creditworthy” borrowers. As signs of improving confidence appear, the Reserve Bank warns …
ASB/ Main Report Regional Economic Scoreboard – March 2009 Quarter
May 29th, 2009
Download As PDF
How hard is recession hitting your region?
Don’t Be Scared To negotiate For A Better Deal
May 28th, 2009
Despite the fact there’s a recession on, people looking for a move to a new position shouldn’t be scared to negotiate on salary. Specialist …
Help For Organisations To Develop Standards
May 28th, 2009
Standards NZ has just published a new standard – a compliance programmes standard. It helps organisations develop compliance programmes which demonstrate adherence to legislative …
US Index Bodes Well For Recovery
May 28th, 2009
An index developed decades ago by the US Independent Economic Cycle Research Institute suggests the US economy, and thus the world, may recover before …
NZ Online Marketing Innovations
May 21st, 2009
Two innovative online services have been launched for the benefit of local businesses. Wellington’s Synthesis Marketing has developed a service which gives business owners …
Businesses Highlight Employee Deficiencies
May 21st, 2009
While employment conditions have changed considerably since Statistics NZ did its Business Operations Survey in 2008, it reveals some telling facts about the way …
Look East For The New Economic Future
May 21st, 2009
David Mahon, MD of Mahon China Investment management says NZ businesses must look to China for impetus to bring about much needed economic change. …
Education Spending Most Effective For Economy
May 15th, 2009
A new Australian study claims putting money into higher education will yield greater benefits for an economy than spending on industry and general tax …
Promotion A Health Risk?
May 15th, 2009
Most people who are in work would welcome the extra money and responsibility which comes with a promotion – but a new study suggests …
Banks Pull Plug On Job Summit’s $2b fund
May 15th, 2009
John Key says the banks “pulled the pin” on the job summit’s proposed $2 billion equity fund. It was to have been co-sponsored by …
How To Get The Best Deal From Suppliers
May 8th, 2009
Many growing companies consider certain supplier relationships to be above review. This removes any incentive for suppliers to give you the best deal. Take …
Customer Service – Absolute Focus Is The Key
May 8th, 2009
We all know successful organisations are about engaging people, employees, partners, and customers, but many businesses find it difficult to convert this knowledge into …
De-Floating The Dollar Back On Agenda?
May 8th, 2009
Arguments over whether to de-float the NZ dollar have picked up. BERL Chief Economist Ganesh Nana says the kiwi dollar is one of the …
Customer Service – Absolute Focus Is The Key
May 1st, 2009
We all know successful organisations are about engaging people, employees, partners, and customers, but many businesses find it difficult to convert this knowledge into …
Unequal Pay And Perks Crucial For Productivity
May 1st, 2009
Treating top performers the same as weaker ones is being called “strategic suicide.” HR researchers at America’s Rutgers University say the current vogue of …
De-Floating The Dollar Back On Agenda?
May 1st, 2009
Arguments over whether to de-float the NZ dollar have picked up. BERL Chief Economist Ganesh Nana says the kiwi dollar is one of the …
The Right Way To Value Your Business?
April 17th, 2009
The traditional formula for selling a healthy business is between one and two times turnover, or four to eight times earnings. But relying on …
Innovative Cost Savings Saves Jobs
April 17th, 2009
A survey of 92 of NZ’s top businesses by remuneration specialists, dsd Consulting, has found businesses are seeking innovative ways to manage their costs …
NZ’s Productivity Lagging
April 17th, 2009
The NZ Manufacturers and Exporters Association Figures has lashed latest official figures showing NZ’s Multifactor Productivity (MFP) has grown by an average of only …
Poor Cashflow Planning Causes Business Failures
April 6th, 2009
Lack of cashflow forecasting is the single largest problem small businesses face. National Bank specialist business manager John Eaden says not enough businesses map …
Get Your Mission Right
April 6th, 2009
Most business owners know they need a mission statement, but having one doesn’t guarantee success. In fact many are so massaged they say nothing. …
NZ Business Needs To Protect Core Skills
April 6th, 2009
The Govt needs to think carefully before deciding to limit temporary work visas for skilled migrants or interfere in any way with the retention …
Sharper Email Marketing Vital During Recession
March 9th, 2009
In the current economic climate, delivering relevant offers and information is critical for connecting with budget-strapped consumers and getting them to spend. Donna Richardson …
Long Working Hours Damage Brain Function
March 9th, 2009
Researchers from University College London and the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health warn working long hours damages employees’ brain function and is as bad …
Trend – Paying Customers To Leave
March 9th, 2009
Not so long ago, credit card companies were throwing money at people to get them to sign up. Now, as they struggle to contend …
What Consumers Won’t Live Without
March 9th, 2009
While the US economy is forcing many consumers to make sacrifices in order to save a few bucks, a handful of must-haves remain on …
Some Hope In Latest Forecasts
March 9th, 2009
While the mainstream media has focused on gloomy headline figures in the NZIER’s latest quarterly survey, there is some positive thinking in it as …
Key And Rudd To Work Together Against Recession
March 9th, 2009
John Key and Kevin Rudd, say they will work together to help each other’s country emerge from the global recession. Rudd says “governments will …
Alt-A – The New Fear For Banks In USA
March 6th, 2009
After “subprime” comes “Alt-A.” There are fears the global banking system will be hit by a second wave of huge losses, caused by defaults …
If You’re Cutting Staff Do It Properly
March 6th, 2009
Many bosses admit the current economic crisis is giving them a chance to restructure their firms in ways they should have done before, but …
Emissions Trading Schemes Threatened
March 6th, 2009
While the Govt desperately tries to find an emissions trading formula to suit everyone, the issue could be moot anyway – the price of …
Simplicity: The Next Big Thing
March 2nd, 2009
An emphasis on focus, speed, streamlining processes, and finding common platforms has characterised the best companies for years. But simplification is not the norm, …
How Do You Motivate Yourself?
March 2nd, 2009
Leadership guru Jack Welch says keeping yourself pumped up during tough times is crucial as your employees need to see your confidence. He says …
R&D Crucial When Times Are Hard
March 2nd, 2009
Keeping up with R&D is a vital part of making sure your business is in good shape on the other side of the downturn. …
ASB/Main Report Regional Economic Scoreboard December 2008 Quarter
February 27th, 2009
Download As PDF
Sex Just Not Selling Anymore
February 23rd, 2009
Global marketing maestro Martin Lindstrom, has been scanning people’s brains to see how they react to ads, jingles and product smells, and he says …
Exceeding Expectations: The Key To Value
February 23rd, 2009
Exceeding expectations is the means by which value is created and things get sold. You can exceed expectations in price, quality or service and …
Personal Credibility Matters In Business
February 23rd, 2009
To be influential in business and earn the respect of potential clients, you need strong personal credibility. Having people believe you is critical to …
What’s Happening With NZ’s Aust Relationship?
February 20th, 2009
Is NZ being taken for a ride by Aust? Our economic future is tied strongly to theirs, but in certain areas, we are letting …
Wild Currency Ride Set To Last
February 20th, 2009
Economists are predicting the dollar could be depressed for years yet, with a potential exchange rate below US50c. Good for exporters, but not the …
Take Control Of NZ’s Currency
February 20th, 2009
In July 2007 The Main Report quoted NZ Institute head David Skilling, who was calling for NZ to take more control of its …
Carbon Calculators Not Up To The Task
February 16th, 2009
Current tools available for local businesses to calculate their carbon emissions are disappointing. A Waikato Management School masters student, Pauline de Haes, has tested …
Marketing Tips To Help Weather The Downturn
February 16th, 2009
Here are some proven niche marketing tips to help your business weather the economic downturn:
• Clarify your value. In times of turmoil, customers analyse …
Start Your Insurance Renewal Programme Early
February 13th, 2009
Your premium renewal process should really start around four months before renewal if you are to avoid nasty premium increases. If you ran into …
Traits For Entrepreneurs
February 13th, 2009
In tough times an entrepreneurial spirit might be the difference between your business staying afloat or going bust. Here are five traits which make …
A New Kind Of Capitalism On The Way?
February 13th, 2009
Robert Peston, a BBC financial commentator says the semi-permanent nationalisation of the banking system, soon to be followed by significant taxpayer support for real …
2009 Consumer Spending Tipped To End NZ Recession
December 8th, 2008
In some positive news for us all in the lead up to Christmas, the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research says a pick-up in …
NZ Rates Well In Tax Survey
December 1st, 2008
Despite detractors saying NZ has a high corporate tax rate, a new PricewaterhouseCoopers World Bank study shows NZ businesses are well off when it …
State-Owned Enterprises In For A Shake-Up
November 27th, 2008
Some of the country’s biggest businesses – the state-owned electricity enterprises and other Crown entities – can expect a major shake-up under the new …
Can Keynesian Economics Save Us?
November 10th, 2008
JM Keynes was one of the 20th century’s most influential economists. He disputed the idea recessions are self-correcting. He made the argument it is …
Cabinet Blends Experience And Fresh Faces
October 23rd, 2008
John Key has concentrated his top Ministers into the economic portfolios (himself with Tourism, Bill English, Finance and Infrastructure, Gerry Brownlee, Economic Development, Energy …
