Top 5 tips from a start-up NDIS Business
Expert blog series | 3 minute read
Starting a new business can be pretty daunting, especially when you consider that only a small percentage will remain operational after 3 years. People around you might be saying things like, it’s a risk, what if you fail, how will you make ends meet when you start?
I think it’s very wise to ask all of these questions to yourself and consider your answers carefully. I think I had these questions and about 6579 others that went through my head prior to starting. However, at some point, it’s time to take the plunge and let’s be honest, while there are things that are pretty damn scary, there are some very cool things about having your own business.
So I did it! I started Mpower You not long after the NDIS rollout in the Ipswich/West Moreton region in 2018. Since then, the business has grown from just me and one other Support Coordinator to currently employing over 40 people and still growing. Mpower You focus on delivering a flexible service model with a participant centred approach. Of course, every business is different but here are some things that I believe have helped me.
1. Start small but plan for big.
I have a lot of people ask me about setting up a business and I always give this advice as the first step. I hear so many people say things like, I just want to do this on my own, so I won’t be having any staff or why would I bother with writing a business plan, I am only small or I will just test the water before I think about putting everything in place.
It’s so much harder to change the way you do things and the systems that you use and need as your business grows. It’s always easier to plan for big and just be small for a while, rather than plan for small and not have things set up for when you grow (because you will if you have a good plan and do it well)
2. Focus on what you do well.
It’s hard to be everything to everyone. I knew that we did certain things very well, so planned to offer these services and maintained a focus on ensuring we could do these at the highest possible standards. It does mean saying no at times and this is ok. Word will soon start to spread that you can provide certain services with a high level of skill. Don’t be afraid to refer people to another business because they can do certain things better than you.
3. Compliance.
As an NDIS provider (registered and unregistered) there is a ton of things we need to know when it comes to compliance. Then when we think we know it, it will change. Find ways to stay on top this as it can be a mine field. Whether you utilise a compliance system or you manage your own systems, you will need to spend plenty of time making sure you are on top of all NDIS and Quality Safeguards changes so there is always lots of reading to do.
4. Software.
I relate this back to “start small plan big.” I believe that good software is essential for NDIS providers. Make sure it will grow with you because it’s not fun implementing something and then changing after a period of time because it now doesn’t suit you.
Have your website ready to start when you start because people will want to check you out. Other types of software can be implemented as you grow such as, form builders, electronic signatures, staff communication tools, online training platforms and a host of other useful and time saving tools.
5. Networks and contacts.
Know what’s happening in your area. Join networks, meet people, help other businesses. It’s not a competition. We work with people with particular needs, and we all do things differently. Know who does things you don’t and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your peers.
5.1
Ok, so there are only supposed to be 5 things, but I really needed to sneak this one in. Appreciate your team, you cannot have a great business without a great team. A long time ago I read something about surrounding yourself with people who know more than you. I really believe this is key for growth.
AND BREATHE!
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Shelley Davie, Founder and Managing Director, Mpower You Pty Ltd Shelley Davie is a carer, mother of four and grandmother of eight. She has worked in various roles in the community and disability sector for more than a quarter of a century and while she feels pretty old at times, the experience she has gained has set the scene for creating a successful NDIS business. During her working life she has worked in a variety of roles including Disability Employment, Supported Wage assessor, National Disability Coordination officer (NDCO), Partners in Recovery and just for something a bit different, owned and managed an air conditioning and electrical business with her husband. Shelley has a firm belief that sharing knowledge, networking and mentoring others is an integral part of success. Now and then when she isn’t working, you might find her camping, cooking or just binge-watching the latest series on Netflix! You can contact Shelley via email or by visiting the Mpower You website. |
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