About the Author: Ashley Thomson
Professional Journey
Ashley started in business improvement in 1998, working for an Australian consulting company. He honed his skills by optimising corporate giants like Coles Group, Myer, ANZ Bank, Telstra, and Zurich Insurance. This hands-on experience gave him practical insights into the workings of great businesses and the pitfalls of poor performers.
Accolades and Awards
Ashley’s exceptional coaching prowess has earned him a place in the prestigious Coaching Hall of Fame (2019). Additionally, his achievements have been acknowledged through multiple awards, solidifying his reputation as a world-class business coach. He leads a team of award-winning business coaches at Tenfold, setting the gold standard in the industry.
Expertise Across Industries
With diverse experience spanning FMCG, manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, construction, trades, retail, and professional services, Ashley has successfully coached businesses across various sectors. His expertise lies in coaching mature businesses with revenues ranging from $5M to $50M, guiding them through complex financial structures, marketing strategies, operational improvements, and leadership development.
Innovative Problem Solver
Ashley’s background as a convergence task force manager and project manager at leading organisations like Show Ads and NewsCorp – PMP Print equipped him with the skills to streamline complex business functions. His ability to sift through data, identify key business drivers, and provide agile financial models enables businesses to thrive in competitive markets.
Published Author and Global Authority
Ashley’s influence extends far beyond his coaching practice. He co-authored “The Quiet Sales Genius,” a definitive guide to effective sales strategies. He has been featured in prominent publications, podcasts, and conferences, cementing his status as a thought leader in the coaching community.
Ashley’s influence reaches across the globe, with features and accolades from esteemed platforms such as:
Tradie Business 101: How to Hire Employees
Introduction: Addressing a Common Challenge Hiring employees can be one of the most daunting tasks for small-to-medium business owners in the trades or service industries. It's a common challenge that many of my clients face: how do you find the right people to join your team; people who are skilled, reliable, and fit well with your business culture? You're not alone in this struggle. Many business owners feel the pressure and uncertainty that comes with hiring new employees. But don't worry—I'm here to guide you through the process and make it as smooth as possible. Who am I? With ...
![Chart of Growth in Wages Bill vs State Economy [Australia]](https://tenfoldcoaching.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Growth-in-Wages-Bill-vs-State-Economy-320x202.webp)
Small business explainer: What’s Going On in the World in 2025? Part 3 – Australian Productivity
In the final of our 3-part series for Tenfold clients and other small-medium businesses, we’re turning to the topic of Australian productivity as we address the questions: “What is going on in the world? What does it mean for Australia, and how might it impact my business?” As a refresher, part 1 I explored issues in China, what the impacts of those issues mean for Australia, what signal to watch, and what to do as a business owner. You can revisit the article here: Small business explainer: What’s Going On in the World in 2025? Part 1 – China In ...
Small business explainer: What’s Going On in the World in 2025? Part 2 – Trump’s US
This briefing is part 2 of our 3-part series for Tenfold clients: “What is going on in the world? What does it mean for Australia, and how might it impact my business?” In the first part, "Small business explainer: What's Going On in the World in 2025? Part 1 - China", I looked at 3 key issues in China, what it means for Australia, what signal to watch, and what to do as a business owner. In Part 2 we're looking at the incoming Trump presidency and the touted policies on tariffs and trade changes. And then in Part 3 ...
Small business explainer: What’s Going On in the World in 2025? Part 1 – China
In the second half of 2024, questions that frequently came up in coaching sessions were: “What is going on in the world? What does it mean for Australia, and how might it impact my business?” These questions were based on global and local factors: China: We heard about the Chinese economy faltering and the Chinese government having to provide stimulus. Trump policies: We heard Donald Trump was going to impose big tariffs on other countries and then learned he will become President again. Australian productivity: We kept hearing about Australia’s productivity problem, but no one seemed to have a clear ...
AI for Electricians and Electrical Contractors: How to Use AI in 2025 [Examples]
AI tools are on the rise. As a business coach specialising in the strategic growth of electrical contractors in Australia, I've seen firsthand how artificial intelligence tools are revolutionising our industry. A lot of electrician business owners are already using AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity and more recently DeepSeek for basic tasks like writing emails or creating blog posts. But AI can do so much more. In this article I'll provide real examples of how electrical contractors and electricians use AI tools in their business in these key functions: Smarter job management and scheduling AI-powered planning for electrical work ...
Tradie Business 101: How to Improve Productivity
Productivity is a Common Challenge for Tradies If you're a small-to-medium business owner in the trades or service industries, you've probably faced the challenge of improving productivity. Whether you're a plumber, electrician, or builder, juggling heaps of tasks while maintaining high standards can be overwhelming. You're not alone; a report from Master Electricians Australia on key trends reshaping electrical contracting highlights the importances of productivity for electricians. I know it's similar for other trades and construction service businesses too. How do I know? I’m a seasoned tradie business coach, electrician business coach and Managing Director of Tenfold Business Coaching. ...
Tradie Business 101: How to Increase Your Pricing
Introduction: Addressing a Common Challenge If you're a small-to-medium business owner in the trades or service industries, you've probably faced the common challenge of pricing your work. How do you set your prices to ensure you make a good profit while remaining competitive? It's a delicate balance, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Many of my clients have struggled with this very issue, and it's important to know that you're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process with practical, actionable advice. About the Author: With a Masters in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical ...
Tradie Business 101: How to set prices to make good profit
Setting your Prices to Make Good Profit Everyone knows the TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S. , the much-loved series about, as the name says, friends. As a business coach for tradies, I'd make a show called P.R.O.F.I.T. It would be a reality show about how to price your work to make a good profit. It would be riveting stuff: high tension drama of the balancing act between covering costs and being competitive, plot twists of ensuring your prices are agile, a bit of comedy when a prospect says, "Can you do it cheaper if I supply materials?" (ha ha ha - ...
Small business: Seven tips to manage Cash Flow over the Holiday Season
Introduction The holiday season is a joyous time of year, but for small businesses, it can also bring unique financial challenges. Effective cash flow management becomes crucial during this period to ensure smooth operations and prepare for the months ahead. This is particularly important for businesses in the electrical contracting sector, where maintaining a steady cash flow can make a significant difference in overall stability and growth. In this blog, we will explore seven essential tips to help small businesses, especially those in the electrical industry, navigate the holiday season with confidence. With insights from small business coaching and guidance ...
Tradie Business 101: Managing Admin
Introduction Mastering administrative tasks is essential for running a successful tradie business. Effective admin management ensures that your operations run smoothly, allowing you to focus on delivering quality services and growing your business. It involves organising your schedules, managing client communications, handling paperwork, and keeping track of invoices and payments. Good admin practices help streamline processes, reduce stress, and improve overall efficiency, providing you with the clarity and control needed to steer your business toward a sustainable future. Let me introduce myself: I'm Ashley Thomson, a seasoned business engineer using first principles in coaching. My career started with a ...
