Dawn Ferrier runs TalkSmart Training, a mobile training company that delivers quality focused and tailored First Aid courses to organisations, community groups, and government agencies across regional Australia. She joined the Digital Solutions program with the goal of expanding her online skillset and digital strategy.
When COVID-19 hit in 2020, Dawn’s business pivoted to delivering training courses online. “I’m a partner to Allen’s Training, and they responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by implementing the new online mode of delivery. Training Desk is a new feature, and all participants and clients have access.”
Unlike many small business owners, Dawn has seen a mammoth growth in her business in the last twelve months. This growth has made her more conscious of her online activities and increasing website traffic.
Dawn came across the Digital Solutions program online and registered on the spot. “I had a phone conversation with Michael who was brilliant to speak to,” Dawn says. “He understood the challenges of being a sole operator and travelling long distances.”
“After I logged into the Education Portal, I found a wealth of information. Living in a regional town, access to programs is extremely limited. I now have access to quality programs that I could complete in my own time and still be able to run my own business without taking a day off.”
Dawn jumped into the broad range of online courses on offer and hasn’t looked back. “The courses I’ve undertaken have been simple to use and the knowledge is related in a way that is extremely easy to understand. This is my first port of call now whenever I want to upskill.”
Digital Marketing Strategy has been one of the most beneficial for her business. “I have learned that I need to measure, evaluate and be consistent. I found the Facebook and Instagram modules helpful. I have also learned about SEO and how this can vastly improve the web traffic to my webpage, along with cyber security.”
Dawn now has a social media strategy, posting to just one platform rather than posting to different platforms repeatedly. She is in the process of creating a MailChimp email campaign and has recently converted to a cloud-based accounting program in Xero that has saved me countless hours.”
The Digital Solutions program has helped Dawn navigate all the changes the pandemic brought regarding online business. “We are in a changing world, and I need to keep in touch with emerging trends,” she says. “The Digital Solutions program offers a wealth of knowledge and there is a huge amount of expertise situated within a one stop shop.”
She has also made the most of the additional program offerings, having participated in the Remotivate, Reengage, Revitalise virtual conference. “This provided excellent information. I am very appreciative that I can go back and watch this again.”
“I recommend all small businesses join the program,” Dawn finishes. “It is easy to use, and you can utilise the information at any point in time.”
.png){kind=spacer}
