The Right Place

John talks to neighbour and fellow CA, Christine Du Toit, about her journey and experiences as a working mom and business woman. They discuss similarities between being an auditor and a spy, and the importance of building relationships and maintaining connections with colleagues and mentors. Christine shares her experiences starting her own practice and the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. A healthy balance between work and family life is possible when you have a supportive employer. Scheduling breaks and spending quality time with loved ones will also make you a better business person in the long run. They also discuss Christine's new venture, Lux Audere, which focuses on preserving family businesses and helping with succession planning. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the upcoming Clara Business Network meeting and the importance of having plans in place for the future of your family business. Connect with Christine Du Toit: Website: https://www.chartered.co.za/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-du-toit/ Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ #familybusiness #coaching #businesswoman #networking

John and Rudolf discuss the topic of connection rejection and how to handle setbacks in networking. They share their experiences with rejection and non-responsiveness, emphasizing the importance of not taking it personally. They provide practical advice and strategies for following up and staying persistent, such as using different communication channels and offering alternative options. They also highlight the significance of building relationships and understanding the other person's perspective. The conversation explores the psychology behind rejection and the value of reflection, self-improvement and maintaining positive relationships. Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ #networking #rejection #businesscommunication

Gerhard Cruywagen joins John Watson this week and shares his journey of entrepreneurship, from buying and selling as a child to starting his own computer business, PC Laptops. He discusses the importance of building connections and trust in business and highlights the value of networking. He also talks about his involvement in co-founding the Clara Business Network and the benefits of creating a relaxed and social networking environment. Gerhard emphasizes the importance of maintaining relationships and helping others in order to build a strong network. PC Laptops is known in South Africa as one of the largest retailers for refurbished computer equipment. All refurbished products come with warranties of up to 2 years and they also stock large quantities of new and demonstration units too. https://www.pclaptops.co.za/ Code4U specializes in Thermal Inkjet Printers, Handheld variables & Cartridges while offering sales, services, and support. https://www.pclaptops.co.za/code4u/ Connect with Gerhard Cruywagen here: Website: https://www.pclaptops.co.za/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerhard-cruywagen-32b82958/ Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

Is public speaking scarier than death? And can anyone do it? This week Rudolf and John give their views on these questions and share their own experiences and tips. They emphasize the need for preparation, focusing on the audience, and practicing to overcome nerves. They also highlight that public speaking is not limited to formal speeches, but includes everyday situations like meetings and negotiations. They encourage listeners to take advantage of opportunities to speak in public and develop their communication skills. They believe public speaking is a learnable skill that can set you apart from others, if you have the right attitude and practice to improve. Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

This week John talks to Ilana Steyn, the MD at Company Partners. Company Partners is a One-Stop-Shop for all the Company Registration and Tender Compliance Documents you need. Their online system and team of Experts will get you what you need in record time. Contact them Toll Free on 0800 007 269, or at http://www.companypartners.co.za/ Ilana describes her journey from university to MD and how she embraced technology with an atititude of learning. John and her discuss the importance of consistent networking and emphasizes the need for building relationships, rather than just attending events for personal gain. They agree on the value of outsourcing weaknesses and seeking help from professionals, such as business coaches and accountants. Ilana also shares insights on the challenges and growth opportunities in the business world, including the importance of compliance and having the right systems in place. Business owners should embrace technology and leverage it to improve communication and efficiency. Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

This week John Watson and Rudolf Rautenbach continue their series on "Connect while you're young", with the focus this week being on your first job. How should you start your first job and transitioning to new jobs? What is the importance of networking in the job space? They emphasize the impact of career decisions and the need to make choices that align with your long-term goals. They also provide insights on building connections and relationships in the workplace, highlighting the significance of being a team player and adding value. The conversation concludes with a discussion on avoiding pitfalls in your first job and seizing opportunities to make connections and advance your career. Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity

This week Rudolf Rautenbach interviews Yoke van Dam about her work as a professional speaker and trainer, and her views of networking. They discuss the importance of adding value in networking, the power of building relationships over time, and the role of associations like the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa (PSASA) in the speaking industry. Yoke also shares insights from her upcoming talk at the Irene Business Network event, where she will discuss the strategies used by Nike to compete against other shoe brands. This conversation highlights the importance of continuous growth and finding the right place in one's journey. Connect with Yoke Van Dam: Website: https://y-connect.biz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yokevandam/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity

In this episode, John and Rudolf discuss the importance of networking and building relationships, particularly in the early stages of one's career. They reflect on their own experiences and the lack of emphasis on networking in their school days. They emphasize the need to be aware of opportunities, take initiative, and start something, even if it's small. They also highlight the value of learning by doing and seeking mentorship. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of personal branding and utilizing platforms like LinkedIn for networking and visibility. Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity

In this episode, Rudolf Rautenbach discusses his experience with the Lifework Leadership Program in Pretoria. He explains to John Watson how the program integrates leadership principles with a Christian foundation and encourages participants to live their faith in the workplace. Rudolf shares his personal journey and key takeaways from the program, highlighting the importance of integrating work and religion. He also discusses his role as a group leader in 2024 and the benefits of participating in Lifework Leadership. The episode concludes with Rudolf encouraging others to consider joining the program and emphasizing the importance of respecting each other's beliefs and values in the workplace. For more information on Lifework Leadership visit: https://www.lifeworkleadership.co.za/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity

In this episode, Rudolf and John discuss the concept of giving in networking. They explore the importance of giving value to others and how it can attract the right people to your network. They also discuss practical ways to give, such as connecting people and providing access to opportunities. The conversation touches on the idea of unconditional giving and the importance of reciprocal relationships. They also delve into the concept of value in networking and how it can be multi-dimensional. The episode concludes with a discussion on taking action on opportunities and the importance of responding and following up. Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

John talks to renowned speaker and coach Tina B. about her inspiring journey as a heart and double lung transplant recipient and how it has shaped her life. She discusses the importance of positive thinking, the misconceptions about organ donation, and the emotional experience of connecting with the donor's family. Tina also highlights the significance of living life to the fullest and the value of building genuine relationships. As a surgery coach, she helps individuals navigate the challenges of surgery and provides support to both patients and their families. Tina's upcoming talk at the Clara Business Network focuses on the importance of living in the present moment and finding joy in life. Connect with Tina B. here: Website: https://tinabalive.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinabalive/ Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ Follow The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity

The day after The First Minute Tour concluded, Chris, Rudolf and John sat down to reflect on what they had achieved, and the experiences and lessons learned. The conversation explores the importance of taking risks, embracing the unknown, realising the power of asking and the difference between rejection and silence. It highlights the need for better communication and the demand for training and development in South Africa. The conversation concludes with reflections on success, future plans, and gratitude for the support received. Thank you to everyone who attended an event, bought a book and supported the tour. We could not have done it without you! Connect with Chris Fenning here: Website: https://chrisfenning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-fenning/ Connect with John Watson Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity

In this episode, Rudolf interviews Reinhardt Jobse, a coach and laughter yoga facilitator. Reinhardt shares his background in hospitality and his transition to Peopleworx, where he focuses on coaching, laughter yoga, and workforce optimization. He explains the concept of laughter yoga and its benefits, emphasizing the power of laughter to improve mood and foster connection. They also discusses the importance of networking and relationship building in business, highlighting the value of face-to-face interactions. He shares his experience with Business Networking International (BNI) and the personal growth he has gained through networking. The episode concludes with an invitation to the Irene Business Network event where Reynard will be speaking about laughter yoga. Takeaways: 1. Laughter yoga is a powerful tool for improving mood and fostering connection. 2. Networking is essential for building relationships and growing a business. 3. Face-to-face interactions have a unique impact and should not be underestimated in the digital age. 4. Personal growth and development are key outcomes of networking. Connect with Reinhardt Jobse here: Website: https://reinhardtjobse.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reinhardt-jobse/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

In this episode, John has a conversation with Rudolf to learn more about his journey and experiences. They discuss Rudolf's early childhood memories, his family life, his journey to becoming a CA, his transition to the consulting world and skills development, and his current role as a business owner. Rudolf also shares his perspective on being in the right place and his plans for the future. Takeaways • Childhood memories can shape our perspectives and teach us valuable life lessons. • Family is a support system that provides love, forgiveness, and a sense of belonging. • Transitioning between different career paths can be challenging but can also provide valuable learning experiences. • Being in the right place means finding fulfillment and making a positive impact in your chosen field. • Building strong relationships and valuing connections with others is essential for personal and professional growth. Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

This week Rudolf interviews Hannes Nienaber about his work in covering school sports in South Africa with Supersport Schools. They discuss the importance of networking and building relationships in gathering information, the value of the network in providing support and resources, and the challenges of managing negative news while maintaining integrity. Hannes shares his insights into the selection of the SA Schools rugby team and the pressure and professionalism involved in his work. The conversation highlights the significance of recognition in school sports and the role it plays in building relationships and communities. Connect with Supersport Schools here: https://supersportschools.com/ Connect with us here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson Website: https://johnconnects.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach Website: https://createinfinity.co.za Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

Rudolf and John discuss their recent networking events and the importance of having a vision for oneself and one's business. They also share tips on boosting confidence in networking, such as being prepared, asking easy questions, and leaving a good impression. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and remembering people's names. They also discuss the significance of giving others space and closing the event properly. Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

In this episode, John and Rudolf welcome international speaker and author Chris Fenning to the podcast. They discuss Chris's passion for communication and his transition from technical roles to communication specialist and author. They also explore the universal and cultural challenges in communication and the importance of balancing detail and conciseness. Chris shares insights on the role of silence and pauses in effective communication and strategies for addressing resistance to change. The episode concludes with a discussion of upcoming events and workshops in Cape Town and Pretoria. Connect with Chris here: Website: https://chrisfenning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-fenning/ Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqbsYVyG_XCjn-2_0CZN1Zw Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

Rudolf and John discuss their experiences with organizing and hosting business networking events. They introduce the Irene Business Network (IBM) and the Clara Business Network (CBN) and explain how these events are structured. They emphasize the importance of building relationships and trust in networking and share their plans for the future, including the introduction of the Network Accelerator Program (NAP). They also discuss the role of the MC and share funny and memorable moments from their events. Finally, they encourage others to start their own networking events and offer their assistance and guidance. Connect with The Right Place here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

This week John Watson talks to Kirsty Scully, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Senior Financial Planner at Core Wealth. Core Wealth was built on long-term relationships, recommendations and word of mouth, not through paid advertising, taking short cuts or working for incentives. These traditional values have stood them in good stead and, combined with an innovative approach to technology and unique investment research capabilities, make them one of the leading wealth managers in the industry. John and Kirsty discuss the importance of networking and building relationships in the financial planning profession. Kirsty also shares her journey in the industry, how her role as the chairperson of the board of the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa has impacted her career and highlights the culture of connecting and relationship building at Core Wealth. She provides insights into the upcoming Clara Business Network event and the topics she will be discussing, including how to avoid paying unneccesary tax, how to protect your wealth for future generations and also how to diversify smartly. Connect with Kirsty here: Website: https://corewealth.co.za/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kirsty-scully-cfp®-0870ba8 Connect with John Watson: Website: https://johnconnects.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach: Website: https://createinfinity.co.za Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/

Here we go, episode 1! Welcome to The Right Place. John and Rudolf unpack what lead them here, where they are going and why they feel this is important for you to be a part of. The journey of a 1000 miles starts with 1 step - this is theirs! Connect with us here: Website: https://therightplace.co.za/ Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/the-right-place-community YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheRightPlaceCommunity Connect with John Watson Website: https://johnconnects.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-watson-ca/ Connect with Rudolf Rautenbach Website: https://createinfinity.co.za Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudolf-rautenbach/