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These awesome Blak businesses are nailing it. Here's their top tips

Running a business isn't easy, but these crews make it look like a breeze. Check out their advice for any aspiring entrepreneur.

a WOMAN SITS ON THE the ground surrounded by woven fabrics, baskets, bags and more, with an open laptop before her

Tegan Murdock of Ngumpie Weaving is one of the many Blak entrepreneurs making a name for themselves.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses have never been stronger!

First Nations entrepreneurs have made a name for themselves in as many ventures as you could think of: fashion, art, accessories, design… the list goes on.

More people are interested in Blak culture and creativity than ever, thanks to generations of mob carving out that space. So the time is ripe for you to get out there with your own ideas and creations!

But running a business isn't easy. You've got to have grit, determination and a few tricks up your sleeve.

Here's a few handy tips from some awesome Blak business owners.

Social media

A composite image of a woman working at a laptop, and a view of the laptop screen, with the hashtag #buyblak separating the two
Get social! The biggest hurdle for any business is letting people know you exist, and social media provides the perfect platform. Credit: Daniel Butler
Social media is an integral part of business these days. These crews have learnt how to embrace it to make it work for them. It’ll be easy for you too once you see your business grow.

"My first tip would be to boost your social media engagement," said Tegan Murdock, who started Ngumpie Weaving.

"Jump online a little bit more in the lead up to sales so people know you're around."

She's not the only one to advocate for presence on the apps.

"Utilise your social media!" said Ginny, who runs Ginnys Girl Gang.

"Reels, polls, insights, everything," said the Gamilaraay woman.

It's not just social media though: the wide web is a big place (the clue's in the name) with plenty of room for your message.

"Its really important to have all digital platforms covered, including your emails… to ensure the best engagement and to make sure mob actually see your promotion," said Tahnee Edwards, the brains behind Gammin Threads.

Show the love

People are drawn to products and creators they identify with.

Help them understand just how much love and care goes into your stuff! Behind-the-scenes footage goes a long way in helping people connect with you and your business.

"Tell the story behind your products, and your intention and what it means to you to be able to sell this and reach people," said Jessica Johnson of Nungala Creative.

"Share some beautiful videos and photos of your products," said Tegan.

"Share how you make your products, share behind the scenes. All those little things make a huge difference."

Stay up to date

It's hard work, but you've got to maintain your presence and keep an eye on what's happening. It gives your business life and presence.

"Have content ready to roll," said Jarin, the Jarin Street founder.

"Make sure you have pictures and videos to showcase the products that you're trying to sell, and doing that all the time as well, staying up to date."

"Have fun with it!" said Tegan

"Jump on the latest trends. Reels at the moment are going off, so pop some music in and have fun with it."

Stock up!

two people folding stock in a store
Owning a business is a labour of love! Credit: Daniel Butler
If you stick to these tips, odds are you'll be shifting items off the shelves in no time … so make sure those shelves are full!

"Preparation is key!" said Ginny.

"Make sure you're restocked, you have supplies and you're as organised as you can be."

Know your customer base as well! Take note of which items sell best, as Tahnee says.

"I make sure all my stock is organised and I've got enough of my most popular products."

And one piece of advice that EVERYONE recommends … Buy Blak!

In support of the #BuyBlak movement in Australia, Facebook has partnered with Trading Blak and 33 Creative to celebrate First Nations business excellence and help to equip business owners with the skills and means to establish their online presence.

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4 min read
Published 1 November 2022 11:09am
Updated 15 November 2022 11:09am
By Dan Butler
Source: NITV


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