BJ Biz Buzz News

Recently we participated in an online conference held by the Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit. (B.A.W.B.)

We heard about many initiatives around the world where business is taking a leading role to create a more positive future for all - economically, environmentally and socially. In doing so, they are also building goodwill with communities, employees, customers, suppliers and others.

And they are finding their efforts to make a better world are having a positive impact on their bottom line! Doing good works and building goodwill also increases profits.

All very inspiring stuff! :-)

It caused us to reflect on how businesses - including small businesses like our own - are contributing in similar ways.

So for this issue of BJ Biz Buzz News, we went "goodwill hunting" on the web. We hope you enjoy browsing the articles and resources we found.

What do you get if you put a graffiti artist in with a automotive repairer?

No, not a spanner in the works, but a combination that benefits both parties.

Here is why...

Recently Sue and I were talking to Alan Summergreene of Milton Park Automotive Repairs, who asked us, "Do you know of a graffiti artist I can use?"

So Sue called Sam Spooner, who's in charge of graffiti and Vandalism at Knox City Council, for a recommendation.

Sam laughed and said, "It's great to have someone call to employ a graffiti artist. We usually get people calling to ask us how to get rid of graffiti!"

Anyway, thanks to Sam, we were able to link Alan with James Rolfe, who painted a fantastic three piece mural (see photos) on the back wall of the garage.

(Click on a photo to view full-sized image.)

The outcome of our connecting Alan and James?

Alan ended up with a great mural and James got paid work.

And our commission?

Something that money can't buy.

Goodwill.

BJ Biz Buzz E-Zine readers may be interested in contacting those mentioned in the above story:
Alan Summergreene (Milton Park Automotive Repairs): (03) 9761 7777
James Rolfe (Graffiti Artist): 0438 081 542
Samantha Spooner (Graffiti & Vandalism, Knox City Council): (03) 9298 8415

The definition of "business goodwill" contains several elements. And, as most business owners are aware, a financial value is placed on business goodwill when buying or selling an established business.

From the NSW Small Business website, comes the following definition: Goodwill may be seen as the capitalised cost of taking over an established business with established suppliers, clientele, cashflows, trained employees and systems of operation ? compared with starting a business from scratch.

Business Victoria also has information about goodwill as a component of valuing a business for purchase or sale.

One aspect of business goodwill - one thing that gives a business its "edge" - is its reputation. And this isn't only related to the quality of its products or efficiency of its core services.

Our "goodwill hunting" expedition showed us that, almost always, a good reputation also comes from behaving ethically, and with a commitment to the "triple bottom line". That is, a commitment to making a positive difference in the community in which that business operates - economically, environmentally and socially.

Browse the various websites offered in this month's e-zine - perhaps particularly the BAWB Media Library with its digital audio and video stories.

All over the world, businesses of all sizes are finding find their "business edge" is greatly improved by their good works - doing good is truly good business!

Many business people, including small business owners, belong to service clubs. Through their involvement with these clubs, they help to make a very real and positive difference for others in their communities and around the globe.

Through service to others, these businesses are also building goodwill.

To find service clubs in your area, visit your local council's website.

Or visit these sites to find the location of these service clubs in your area:

• Apex Australia
• Lions Australia
• Rotary in Australia
• Zonta

Issue # 3: February 2006
Theme: Effective Networking

Issue # 4: March 2006
Theme: Business Presentations and Public Speaking

Issue # 5: April 2006
Theme: Time Management

On our website you may also view previous issues.

Suitable for business owners and/or their staff.

Helpful information for your business.

A great chance to network!

When Noah heard the weather forecast he ordered the building of the ark. That was Leadership.