Business ownership course demand reflects times

Business ownership course demand reflects uncertain times

Aoraki Polytechnic business ownership courses are being seen as a lifeline for many Timaru people who have either been made redundant, or fear they are about to be.

A strong surge in interest in Aoraki’s Certificate in Business Ownership courses, noticed over the last few weeks, is being attributed by course co-ordinator Julie Loffhagen to uncertain job prospects forcing a career rethink among workers.

“We had inquiries from people who have been made redundant, people who fear redundancy, those who are just unhappy in their jobs, and even from people who don’t know what they want to do,” she said.

The tougher economic climate had one positive factor, Ms Loffhagen said.

“It reinforces the need to take stock of one’s own job situation and evaluate whether it was time to strengthen and build on skills, or perhaps even take the plunge into one’s own business.”

A review of achievements and goals was just as important for individuals as it was for businesses, she said.

Aoraki’s next business ownership course starts on May 9 and like the previous four, will be guided and tutored by one of New Zealand’s leaders in business development and management training, Lisa Metcalfe, of Waipukurau.

Ms Metcalfe said she “absolutely loved the energy of small businesses”.

“The reason I do what I do is because the type of people who take the plunge and give business a go for themselves are really exciting people to be around.”

Ms Loffhagen said Ms Metcalfe was a leader in business training and came to Timaru three times during the 12-week course to conduct one-day workshops.

The remaining course component was online and used new internet-based technology.

“We use a Wiki. It enables students to enter material directly into the polytechnic’s website where it could be marked in a progressive manner through the course rather than waiting to hand in an essay at the end,” Ms Loffhagen said.

However, a reasonable level of computer skills and internet access is required and she recommended those who were challenged by the technology do a basic polytechnic computer course first.

Describing the business ownership course as “nuts and bolts” involving about 10 hours online a week, Ms Loffhagen said a prime value lay in business plan development.

“A business plan is central to any new business and is a requirement of agencies such as WINZ and lending institutions when a person approaches them for funding or advice.

“We often hear from people who have been to institutions with a business idea to be told that they first need to learn how to write a business plan.

“Our course teaches all components of a business plan including finances, marketing, an action plan, legal compliance, ACC, and taxation,” Ms Loffhagen said.

ENDS

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