Anjian Australia

www.anjian.com.au

1. Tell us about your business

Established in 1993. Specialising in figurenes and gift lines that represent ancient world and faith traditions. Many original statues designed by Annie Whitlocke. Traditional, alternative, multicultural and contemporary. We are an ethical trader and highly involved in the community and world charities. We wholesale and export.

2. When and why did you start your business?

1993

3. On a personal level, what have you achieved with of your business?

I have been able to assist many charity organisations through my business. I am secretary of the Mornington Peninsula Interfaith Network and on the committee of the Jamchen Buddhist Centre. This further enhances my understanding of the potential problems of 'difference'. I hope to continue to educate and sometimes challenge through our products.

4. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in growing your business?

1. recognising people's prejudices when specific product lines are brought out. 2. learning that honesty can be translated in many difference ways. 3. we have come close on two occassions to closing our doors due to poor choices 4. learning how to work with different genders, cultural beliefs and backrounds. 5. teaching compassion in the workplace 6. learning cold calling and being true to the ethics of the business 7. learning that I wil never know enough and still be okay about it. 8. Learning that life is not always about business and that not all busines is 'work' but just another valuable activity.

5. What activities have been successful in promoting your business?

Trade Shows, networking with specific organisations, mentoring, donating to charities, volunteering, involvement in community, links, website.

6. What activities were less successful for marketing your business?

Leaflet drop, mass mailing, newspaper ads.

7. Name your favourite thing about your business

1. Freedom 2. Being able to make decisons and be responsible for outcme 3. Being able to make my staff feel valued 4. Being able to help others 5. design, educate, research and explore 6. taking chances

8. Who or what other businesses or business people inspire you?

The businesses that silently help without expectation of thanks. Cirque Du Soleil with Global Citizenship, Helen Keller, Warren Buffett, Muhammad Yunus Biography: Grameen Bank Founder

9. What are your plans for the future of your business?

To expand product range and to use the Anjian products to teach and help others.To do trade shows overseas.

10. Share your best business tip with our readers.

Remain ethical and know the entire process of how your products are made. Establish a reason for being in business. Never stop studying and never underestimate another human being. Ask ask and ask some more. Don't pretend to know more than you do.

Visit us at: www.anjian.com.au