Book review: The Business Bible is a thorough launch pad for aspiring entrepreneurs

Welcome to the SmartCompany monthly book review.

This month we’re talking about The Business Bible by Victoria Devine.

An ex-financial advisor, Devine has built a substantial following via her She’s On The Money (SOTM) podcast providing advice to millennials about smart money management practices. The SOTM brand has produced two earlier books, plus a second podcast series called The Business Bible.

Devine’s down-to-earth and intelligent approach to financial management has resulted in a significant public following, and the She’s On The Money podcast attracts over 1 million listeners each month.

What is the focus of The Business Bible?

This book is a startup 101 guide. It’s a how-to book for people wanting to start their own business and it covers all the key topics that must be addressed to make a business operational. Devine’s friendly tone guides the reader through all the key responsibilities of business ownership, providing a comprehensive overview of small business responsibilities.

The book addresses determining and measuring goals, legal considerations, operational and marketing advice and, of course, financial management for business.

There are plenty of SOTM business examples and insights, plus a variety of case studies detailing the experiences of several Australian business founders. Readers following the careers of Brittany Saunders of clothing brand FAYT, or Michelle Hu of travel bag brand ÉTOILE will enjoy reading the insights they provide about their startup journey.

I found the wide variety of case studies shared throughout the book to be the most informative and insightful inclusions in The Business Bible.

Given the anticipated popularity of this release, I would have liked to have read more about self-care in the book. The startup experience can be challenging and although Devine does address this realisation, it would have been great to read a case study specifically about this in the book.

Flourish PR owner Angela Ceberano comes close with her candid discussion about starting her business, and is one of the early case studies detailed in the book.

The Business Bible is a book that provides breadth of business knowledge rather than depth. It is a thorough launch pad for aspiring entrepreneurs who may then realise they need to learn more about a particular topic because they read this introductory book. 

Why read The Business Bible?

This is a book for someone with limited business experience. If you are thinking about starting a business or side-hustle this book is a valuable resource. I found the very practical advice about the more mundane aspects of business ownership to be very well written.

Devine’s business experience shines through, using a tone of authority that tells the reader each step she has identified in the book is important for business success. 

Is The Business Bible easy to read?

This is an easy and engaging read. The case studies throughout the book highlight the topics raised.

Leanne’s bookshelf rating?  (Five stars equals must have)

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Where can you get The Business Bible?

The business book specialist – Rereadable.com.au or any major bookstore.

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