Frequently Asked Questions
Small Business FAQ | Working With Sam Hicks
Welcome to my small business FAQ page. Here you’ll find answers to common questions about business mentoring, marketing, AI, workshops, websites, photography and working with Sam Hicks
I help small business owners, community groups, and regional organisations with practical business advice, marketing support, digital skills, AI adoption, workshops, and strategic planning.
Whether you’re starting a business, growing an existing one, improving your marketing or simply feeling overwhelmed, I can help you create a clear plan and focus on what matters most.
Do I offer a free initial chat?
Yes.
I offer a free 30-minute online chat to learn more about you, your business, and your goals.
It’s a relaxed, no-obligation conversation where we can discuss your challenges and identify the best next steps.
What is a One-Page Plan?
A One-Page Plan is one of my most popular services.
Instead of creating a lengthy business plan that sits in a drawer, we’ll create a practical roadmap covering:
Your goals
Key priorities
Marketing actions
Financial considerations
Next steps
The result is a clear action plan you can actually use.
One-Page Plans start from $220.
Can I work with Sam one-on-one?
Absolutely.
I offer personalised business mentoring and advisory sessions for small business owners.
micro-owners of any business model (i.e., sole traders, partnerships, etc.), and community organisations.
Sessions can cover:
Business planning
Marketing strategy
Social media
AI tools
Digital marketing
Websites
Customer attraction
Productivity and systems
Sessions are available online or in person where suitable.
What is the Digital Solutions Program?
The Digital Solutions Program provides eligible small businesses with access to mentoring, workshops, and digital capability support.
As an approved mentor, I can help you develop a digital action plan and improve your confidence with technology, online marketing, and business systems.
The program offers exceptional value and support for eligible businesses and is offered via MIC
What workshops do you offer?
I deliver practical workshops across regional Victoria, in person and online.
Popular topics include:
Digital Marketing
Social Media
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Small Business Planning
Websites and SEO
Photography
Customer Service
Community Organisation Development
Workshops can be customised for councils, chambers of commerce, business groups, and community organisations.
Do you work with just regional businesses?
Yes and no –
Most of my clients are based in regional Victoria, although I also work with businesses across Australia online.
I understand the challenges and opportunities that come with running a business in regional communities and tailor my advice accordingly.
Do you build websites?
I help businesses plan, improve, and manage websites.
For simple websites, I can guide you through affordable options and help ensure your website supports your business goals, marketing, and search visibility.
I can also assist you by training sessions to work on your WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace websites.
Can you help with marketing?
Yes.
Marketing is one of my core areas of expertise.
I can help with:
Marketing plans
Social media strategy
Content creation
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
AI-assisted marketing
Email marketing
Branding and positioning
My focus is on practical strategies that suit your budget and available time.
Do you provide photography services?
Yes.
I provide commercial photography services including:
Business branding photography
Tourism and destination photography
Food and beverage photography
Product photography
Photography can be combined with marketing and content creation services.
How do I stay in touch with Sam?
The easiest way is through The 5-Minute Business Boost®.
You can:
Subscribe to the monthly email newsletter
Listen to the podcast
Follow me on social media
Attend a workshop
Book a free discovery chat
The goal is simple: practical business advice without the fluff.
How do I get started?
The easiest way to get started is to book a free 30-minute chat.
Together we’ll discuss where your business is now, where you’d like it to be, and the best way I can help.
Email: sam@samhicks.com.au
How much does business mentoring cost?
Business mentoring and advisory support can vary depending on your needs.
Some clients start with a free 30-minute discovery chat, while others choose a Power Hour, a One-Page Plan, ongoing mentoring, or a workshop program.
I believe in practical, affordable support for small businesses, so we’ll discuss the best option for your budget and goals before you commit to anything.
Reach out to find out more on pricing.
Can AI help my small business?
Absolutely.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a valuable tool for small businesses, helping owners save time, improve productivity, and create content more efficiently.
AI can assist with:
- Social media content creation
- Marketing ideas and planning
- Email writing
- Customer communications
- Research and analysis
- Website content
- Business planning
- Administrative tasks
The key is understanding where AI can support your business while maintaining your unique voice and expertise.
I regularly help businesses learn how to use AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Microsoft Copilot in practical, everyday ways.
What areas do you service?
I am based in Murrindindi Shire in North East Victoria and regularly work with businesses across Alexandra, Yea, Marysville, Eildon, Mansfield, Mitchell Shire, Strathbogie, Mansfield Shire, and surrounding regional communities.
Through online mentoring, workshops, and Zoom consultations, I also work with businesses throughout Victoria and across Australia.
Do you work with start-up businesses?
Yes.
I enjoy working with start-ups and new business owners who are looking to turn an idea into a successful business.
Whether you’re still planning, just getting started, or launching a new venture, I can help with:
- Business planning
- Goal setting
- Marketing strategy
- Website planning
- Social media
- Digital marketing
- AI tools
- Understanding your customers
- Creating practical action plans
Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but having a clear roadmap from the beginning can save both time and money.
Do you work with community groups and not-for-profit organisations?
Yes.
Alongside my work with small businesses, I regularly work with community groups, committees, volunteer organisations, sporting clubs, halls, tourism groups, chambers of commerce, and not-for-profit organisations.
Support can include:
- Strategic planning
- Committee development
- Marketing and promotion
- Social media training
- Grant readiness
- Community engagement
- Website support
- Workshops and training
- Governance and planning sessions
Having served on numerous community committees and volunteer organisations over the past 25 years, I understand the unique challenges faced by volunteer-led groups, including limited time, resources, and budgets.
My approach focuses on practical solutions that help community organisations build capacity, engage their communities, and achieve their goals.
How do I get started?
The easiest way to get started is to book a free 30-minute chat.
Together we’ll discuss where your business is now, where you’d like it to be, and the best way I can help.
Email: sam@samhicks.com.au