More With Moreira: The Business Podcast

In this entertaining podcast, Desmond is in conversation with Jamie Willsdon founder of the “Futures Group” who began with one division – ‘Future Lights & Electrical’ and have now grown to include divisions that mean they can offer a complete and comprehensive service to any block management company. Jamie and Desmond discuss the vision for the Futures group and how creating a strong brand means every division needs to uphold a standard for the others. We all prefer to work with contractors we trust and this is a fascinating conversation where you can hear both sides – that of a contractor and of a block manager. They both value getting it right for their clients and agree that for every one good communication is vital, listen in and enjoy their lively discussion.   KEY TAKEAWAYS We have a strong vision in place and are building a trustworthy brand. Finding really good tradesmen is very difficult when you want to grow a business. We have grown new divisions with the brand at the request of our clients. If

Desmond shares his knowledge on how you can turn the competition into a positive thing rather than a negative thing. He explains how you can use them to the better your business and why it’s important not to view them as competitors.   KEY TAKEAWAYS See competition as a potential ally, you don’t have to gain from them in a monetary way. You can gain value in many other ways, you can learn from them and they can learn from you. Competition could actually be a big resource for you, you don’t have to necessarily keep them all at arms length. Competition should be considered as a positive rather than a negative. They might have skills you don’t have that they may share with you. Having a pool of competitors can be extremely powerful because if you have a problem you could go to them and they are more likely to find an answer than if you were on your own. BEST MOMENTS ‘Is the competition, the competition or a potential partner?’ ‘See opportunity in a problem’. ‘No one had monopoly’ VALUABLE RESOURCES   Mo

Desmond was struck by a Will Smith quote recently, in which he discussed his and his partner, Jada Pinkett Smith’s happiness. In this quote, Smith stated that instead of trying to make his partner happy, they should each instead focus upon their own happiness and present that to the other, thereby breeding this mutual happiness. In this episode, Desmond is philosophically discussing happiness as a concept. What exactly is it and where does it originate? Is it merely a concept? And how can we translate these ideas to business? KEY TAKEAWAYS Happiness should emanate from within on a person-by-person basis, and this happiness should be presented to others. By seeking to make others happy, we are attempting to force joy in others, sometimes as the expense of happiness. One of the reasons customers come to you can be that they are unhappy in some capacity, and are seeking to be happy elsewhere. This doesn’t mean that they start their working relationship with you in a happy place. If people don’t get what they f

Many of the challenges and issues we face in our personal lives can affect the ways in which we conduct ourselves in the business world.  Alex Smith, the CEO of Muscular Dystrophy Research charity, Harrison’s Fund, has found personal success in setting numerous challenges for himself, most notably the physical and mental challenges of training for, and completing, Ironman challenges and marathons. But all the challenges are worth it. Each step forward is made with the intention of raising money and awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a condition affecting Alex’s son, Harrison. In this very special episode, Desmond talks to Alex about the incredible physical and mental challenges Alex completes each day, and the empowering reasons why. KEY TAKEAWAYS Alex yearned to do something epic. Marathons and fun runs never appealed to him as they seemed to be events where people just turned up. Ironman events, however, are different as they force you to train wholeheartedly, because if not, then you won't make i

Many of us have attended events in order to learn from the experience of others. We arrive and watch as those with influential names and aspirational stories ascend to the stage and recount their experiences in ways that drive us to be better. But have you ever wondered how those people took that step to becoming public speakers? What caused them to make that decision? And how can we take those steps ourselves? In this episode, Desmond discusses how speaking from a stage can help both you and your business to grow in all kinds of interesting and empowering ways. KEY TAKEAWAYS Apparently, more people have a fear of public speaking than they do of dying! People in general are scared of speaking in front of others; they lack confidence and self-belief. Speaking on stage is incredibly powerful and has tremendous upsides. You are able to address numerous minds at once. Within twenty minutes you can speak to fifty people. Speaking on stage positions you as someone in authority. Being selected to speak marks you

It’s hola from Malaga this time as Desmond speaks to Chris Goodacre in Malaga, Spain! Chris helps British citizens and ex-pats to relocate from Britain to Spain, aiding in various compliance issues and ensuring that their lives transition seamlessly. In this highly insightful conversation, Desmond and Chris discuss the impact of Brexit, the changing attitudes of British holiday-goers, the correct procedures when it comes to operating a business in Spain, and the many challenges he faces in integrating British people into the Spanish way of life. KEY TAKEAWAYS Brexit has proved very challenging for Chris, and the imminence of it threatens his livelihood greatly. But conversely, it has been a huge boon to his business in the run up to the actual split from the EU. It has also made many ex-pats who already live there, put their business matters in order before the deadline passes. If you’re an ex-pat and you’ve done your paperwork beforehand. you’re going to be okay as you will be a part of the EU. Freedom of

One of the key lessons learned from Daniel Priestley’s Key Person Of Influence is that people buy what they want, not what they need. It’s a maxim that proves true all over the world, but why is that? What causes this phenomenon? And more importantly, how can business owners harness this phenomenon to drive sales and marketing? In this episode, Desmond discusses Priestley’s lesson, and tells you why you should be applying it now. KEY TAKEAWAYS In Singapore, the government tax combustible engines highly. It’s very expensive to drive there, and even buying a car can be up to 3 to 4 times more expensive. This means that luxury cars are prohibitively expensive. And yet, against this restrictive atmosphere, luxury vehicles are highly sought after. In fact Ferrari sell more cars there than anywhere else in the world. Many marketers look to advertise to people’s needs, failing to see that what drives sales are the items and services we desire. If you constantly pitch the things people need, it grows boring. There

Desmond is talking to Ben Hume Managing Director of Evolve Property & Block Management. They discuss the ways in which block management companies are portrayed and what it takes to be a great block manager.  They also talk in depth about the challenges of managing new builds, the government’s approach and attitude towards property management and what people in the sector are really like.  There are way more good companies than bad but in the sector there is a battle going on, If you work in block management this podcast is a must, listen in and find out more.     KEY TAKEAWAYS  Current challenges  We have lots of new builds and as property managers we are having to put in lots of warranty claims because things haven’t been signed off properly or the work has been completed to the right standard  We are often seen as responsible but we don’t have anything to do with the build we come in after the building is complete to manage it  The agent gets the blame but this is completely misplaced  Staff  Clients

Desmond is reflecting on the personas and masks we put on to face the world and how we present to our colleagues, customers and bosses.  It’s all about what’s expected of us and what we expect of ourselves but the most valuable thing anyone has to offer to the world is their true and authentic self.  Desmond shares his own journey from the persona he took on at the start of his working career to the realisation and value he’s found in being himself and how this is of true value to others. Listen in and you’ll also end up realising that being yourself is the most important thing.     KEY TAKEAWAYS  The authentic you is the most valuable thing you have to offer in the world and the best part about you is you  Maybe you are in your workplace and you’ve always felt you aren’t able to be yourself.  It is the gold within you and it is only when you present the authentic you that you will feel some sort of liberation in the way you live your life.  When you start showing up in the world and presenting yourself,

“It’s one of those difficult jobs that you don’t notice if it’s going well" In this episode, Desmond is in conversation with property manager and CEO of ARMA, Nigel Glen, to discuss the many issues that arise in block management, the common perceptions and misconceptions, the regulations they’d like to see added and changed, and their unique solutions for many of the problems they face on a daily basis. KEY TAKEAWAYS Management of properties isn’t just about finance. It’s all encompassing. You are responsible for their health and safety. You have someone else’s life in your hands. Nigel had never worked with the public before becoming a block manger, and was surprised at the levels of aggression he found himself facing.  There is a sense of ownership when it comes to tenants and property managers. Nigel feels that if managers were employed on an hourly basis then tenants would fix many minor issues themselves. As it is, their initial fee seems to give them a sense of entitlement on his time. When assessing

Communication has gotten faster and easier these days, making it simple to conduct business and make new connections. But the flip side to this new world is that those who like to breed negativity are finding it a lot easier to do so.   Haters, trolls, and even “Hatertrolls" are becoming more and more prolific, and can easily take down a day that began as positive. But what’s the best way to combat this unfortunate movement? And how do you restore your own positivity in the face of such negativity? In this episode, Desmond talks about the best ways to block out the haters.   KEY TAKEAWAYS  Bullying is taking on many forms. As well as personal and professional, there have even been instances of companies bullying other companies.   “Hatertroll" is a new term, described by the Urban Dictionary as “an individual who radiates negative feelings, emotions or energy towards people who stimulate positive energy”   Most haters or bullies begin their campaigns against people who have succeeded in some way. If these a

Don’t try too hard to separate your identity from your own business. The truth is, though very difficult, adding a personal influence to your business is what will elevate you among your competition. People buy from you because they like you, your personal brand, your values, your objectives, etc. Maybe, it’s time we recognise that they aren’t as separate as we think they are.  In this episode of the More With Moreira Podcast, Ricky Conaghan, the Founder of Hatch, sits with Des to talk about the power and art of authenticity. Discover how you can build your brand, set up a business plan, find your market, device marketing strategies, and many more while being true to yourself, today.   KEY TAKEAWAYS  Prepare a business plan, especially in the financial aspects. Ricky has to learn this the hard way. He was naïve before to go all in and expect nothing but success. Though it all worked out, he would’ve done things differently if he knew what he knows now. If you believe you aren’t ready yet, then educate yours

Desmond’s been inspired by a lady called Claire Bates, she has just completed her master’s degree with a 1st. In this episode Desmond shares how Claire’s inspired him and how you can take the same learnings and apply them to your life. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ask yourself what you’re doing in your career? Are you just drifting but in the same role/position? If you’re happy and life’s just a peach for you right now, then well done. Many people don’t find that in their life and when you see or hear other peoples journeys it can often make you question where you’re at in your own life. You don’t want to be dead and think you just wasted your time not being sure or committing to something. It’s not always about the outcome, even though this is what school teaches you. It’s not right that we’re taught that if we fail our life is bad because this isn’t the case. BEST MOMENTS ‘Are you putting in the graft?’ ‘Anything and everything is possible’ ‘Failing is good’ ‘Fail, fail, fail, achieve’. VALUABLE RESOURCES Hillcrest

Desmond is in conversation with Gija Melnupe who is an aspiring garden designer and also works in the property training arena. They talk about how learning can be there but you have to be receptive to it for it to make a difference and why everyone should get a chance to make their own impression, one that is free from preconceived views that are usually incorrect.  This is a fascinating conversation and well worth a listen.    KEY TAKEAWAYS  I love to garden and garden design I now realise it was something that was always there, it was the thing I should be doing but it wasn’t until someone else saw it in me that I was able to understand I could be doing it.  Everybody wants the same thing in their garden – an entertainment space, a space for the kids and anything else is an add on  It’s good for kids to have their own space and it’s even better if it’s not a square.  People think carefully about their interior design and because there are items we all have such as a sofa in the living room there is a star

“Being different is not the holy grail on gaining more customers.”  Sometimes, you can’t just help but to shake your head on how similar (and dull) most marketing tactics are lately. So, in this episode of More with Moreira Podcast, Des shares how you can pitch your outcome, services you offer effectively.   Entrepreneurs tend to focus on the wrong things, like trying to be different, when instead, they can easily be themselves and sell more. The best marketing strategy is with your and ready to be honed. You probably just don’t know it yet.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  It’s difficult to stand out from the competitors nowadays, since from Des’ observations, everything looks too similar. Nothing that’s distinct enough to actually sell their services skyrocket high.  Stop thinking of ideas on how you can be different from them and instead, think of what is unique with you, yourself. Being introspective is the best start for anything.  The best marketing strategy is to let the customers know who are behind the services th

Put the people, their interest, and your relationship with them at the centre of your business. Why so? Our guest today, Claire Bates, emphasises that technical skills, numbers, figures, and whatnot are as important as communication—internal or external and verbal or nonverbal. In this episode, Des talks to Claire, who’s also a Property Manager at Hillcrest Estate Management, to discuss about this more. Claire believes that management companies should give importance also on education as it easily brings resolution to any small or big disputes. More knowledge, better performance, better results. Listen in to the More With Moreira Podcast to discover more. KEY TAKEAWAYS Claire shifted from the service industry to the property industry, and according to her, these fields have similarities. Both are fuelled by effective communication—there’s a need to talk to clients and higher authorities. Always go the extra mile. When you’re trying to build and grow a business relationship with someone or hoping to close a

‘Build momentum now so you are at the top of everyone’s list’    Desmond is talking about how to effectively ‘double down’ and gain traction for your business stealing the march on everyone else.  There are 2 distinct periods in the year when businesses take a slower approach - Christmas and the summer but whilst the world is wallowing in the holiday season there is an opportunity and Desmond shares exactly how you can work to build momentum and get your business to the top of everyone’s list. Listen in now and find out how to ‘double down’ and get the steal on your competition.     KEY TAKEAWAYS  There are 2 times in the year when business owners relax and take their foot of the accelerator, Christmas and the summer.  Whilst the world is wallowing in the holiday season there is an opportunity.  You can be doubling down with your efforts and steal the march on everyone else.  You have to be committed and plan to maximise the moment.  If in your space everyone has quietened down and you are the only one ta

What does your ‘images’ say about your company? It’s not new to anyone to invest on your visual branding. This is done so you can sell your products and services. To be the best, hire the best graphic designer to help you realise and easily communicate your ideas. In this episode of the More With Moreira Podcast, Des talks to a trusted friend Suzi Newton, a known freelance graphic designer and illustrator. Suzi shares some of her experiences whenever she provides her services. She highlights that collaboration and communication between the client and the artist is very important—a business’ ideas and an artist’s style should be both given importance and not undermined. Aside from this, she also talks about freelancing in the creatives industry. Tune in to discover more! KEY TAKEAWAYS Companies don’t put a lot of thinking in their designs, especially the logos, when they are only just beginning. Most of the time, they let the independent artists or designers decide on everything. This situation will pose s

‘You should look at social media as a power and a force for good in your business and explore what opportunities there are to embed social media as part of your marketing strategy’ Lots of people communicate on social media platforms for business and are using it in different ways with varying amounts of success. Social media is a powerful communication tool for any business and you should be embracing social media and doing something with it to drive your business forward. Desmond shares the many ways you successfully weave communication through social media into the various strands of your business to increase engagement, provide value and position yourself successfully within your niche.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Social media is a medium and marketing content across platforms should be consistent with all other marketing for the company. The platforms enable you to be creative with the content you create and market more regularly, potentially for free. You can connect with people and it is possible to build a

“The biggest value that you have in the world is just in your head and your heart.” Today on the episode of the More with Moreira Podcast, Desmond is joined by John Joseph to talk about how we can empower and shape the minds of the young people. As an individual who didn’t have the access to social and financial education when he was young, just like most Gen X, he wants to make changes for the future generations through his experience and knowledge. Joe is very passionate about helping the youth unlock their potential and have the right mindset so they can achieve more in the future. Aside from this, they also talk about how music can be healing, how we can deal with the fear of failure, why we should maintain a healthy and nurturing environment for us (and everyone else), how diversity can help in decision-making, and many more. It’s not too late to give back by contributing value to others. Learn how you can use your success to help others achieve it when you tune in. KEY TAKEAWAYS Music has helped Joh