UCT Start and Manage a Managing Agency

Module 1 introduces the student to starting a business, what motivates people to do so and why managing agency is a good business opportunity. We look at what makes a successful entrepreneur, briefly what starting a business involves, and what challenges there might be.

In this module, we explain the fundamentals of managing agency, the appointment process, and what duties the managing agent has to the association and the association to the agent. We identify the statutory bodies and related organisations that affect managing agency.

Module 3 is an overview of contracts, we describe the various laws that affect the operation of a managing agency, what licenses are required, and commercial lease agreements.

In this module, we explain the requirements for registration of a business, registration for tax purposes, and unemployment insurance and workmen’s compensation for the employees. We cover developing a business plan, finding appropriate premises and the actual start up of the business.

Module 5 deals with accounting and book keeping, the requirements of SARS, profit planning and budgeting, and managing a cash flow.

In this module we look at recruiting, training, and appraising the performance of staff. We deal with organising and coordinating the functions of employees, the laws that directly apply to the business’ relationship with employees, and dealing with HIV/AIDS at work.

Module 7 deals with selling the product, how to price services, promote the business and how to use traditional and modern electronic media marketing systems.

Module 8 explains business management, the importance of planning and how to go about it, building a positive team environment and how to focus the team effort, and controlling and growing the business.