How do you apply franchise system in your business for non-franchise business? How to expand your business with Maxis? How to leverage social media for your business? How to manage your business based on “VA Fastest” model? How will GST affect your business?
These five pertinent issues were addressed at the SME Business Conference held recently at Impiana Hotel, Ipoh.
Sponsored by Maxis Berhad, the conference in Ipoh, the first stop of a nationwide roadshow beginning this year, was attended by some 200 business owners, or potential owners, hoping to take their business to the next level.
The first speaker, Sahar Sahad of Smart Franchise Partner, talked about the use of information technology in the franchise system, brand development, business communication, the application of franchise technology solutions such as business reporting and Customer Relationship Management (CRM).
The second topic, “Grow Your Business With Maxis” was presented by Afni Ediantie, Head of Product Marketing SME Enterprise Solution for Maxis Berhad. She dwelt on the differences and effectiveness in internet and mobile marketing, particularly response time for text messaging which is 90 seconds and email which takes over 2 days.
The talk by Johanqz Ooi of HeppiFace on leveraging social media for business was one of the more interesting topics for the Y Generation. While it is now very common for businesses to run social media campaigns, Ooi cautioned that owners must first know the objective of the campaign. Is it to boost brand awareness? Capture lead information? Boost page likes? Bring walk-in customers? The type of campaign can only be worked on once the objective is identified.
On the subject “Business Management Made Simple” based on “VA Fastest” model, Well Kam of VA Learning shared the importance of having a vision for the company. “VA Fastest” is an acronym for Vision, Action, Finance/Financial Management, Accounting & Accountability, Sales/Marketing/Branding, Technology, Environment, Systems and Team.
The final presentation was on how Goods and Services Tax (GST) will affect businesses. Presented by Nor Ismail Sabian from the Royal Malaysian Customs of Perak, attendees were able to get first-hand information on GST, which will be implemented on April 1, 2015, replacing the current Sales and Service Tax (SST). Most were interested to find out how GST is computed.
The taxation rate will be fixed at 6 per cent while the threshold for businesses is RM500,000. Businesses that do not reach this figure in annual turnover are not required to be a GST-registered company. However, voluntary registration is encouraged.
For socio-economic benefits, certain products and services are not subjected to GST. They include basic groceries such as rice, flour, sugar and cooking oil, education, public transportation and health care services.
This half-day conference was an education of sorts for all. Other cities that Maxis Berhad will cover this year are Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang.
Emily
