The Hertfordshire Business Independent

THE CORPORATE ENTERTAINING ISSUE! CLARE YOUNG

Apprentice star and inspiring entrepreneur gives away some of the secrets to her success!

TOYS FOR BOYS

Forget the budget and head out to your corporate event in style!

DRESS FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS Style secrets for looking

great. . .

ASK THE EXPERTS

PENNY POWER

TECHNOLOGY : First 3D TV Launch moved to May

FEATURE : From Herts to The Jungle – an inspirational story of a local businessman who traded it all in with for a An exclusive interview new life in the Amazon

social media entrepreneur and founder of the LOCAL FOCUS : Borehamwood and Elstree.

UK’s first and largest business social networking site Ecademy BRADLEY WALSH INTERVIEW: The success behind that tour with the strange name

Need some tips on the finer points of business?

Jusk ask!

SUMMER EVENTS

Our guide to the best social events this summer. . .

issue June 2010

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leadership

foresight management

development

strategy

strength

direction

Have you got what it takes to be an effective leader?

career

authority vision

expertise

resources

initiative

aspiration

promotion

Be decisive:

Be proactive:

Sign up now for our fast-track ‘Stepping up to Leadership’ programme. Start in June, finish in July: it couldn’t be easier to complete a professionally recognised management qualification that will help you improve your business and further your career.

Funded places are limited*: if you are a current or future manager living and/or working in Hertfordshire, book now to take advantage of this funding offer.

Be savvy:

Full programme price without funding: £1,800 per person.

Special funded programme price: £900 per person.* Costs include six-day tuition, study materials, assessment for CMI level 5 Leadership & Management Certificate qualification, University of Hertfordshire student membership and Learning Resource Centre access, and CMI membership and registration.

Take advantage of a 50% funding offer* on management skills training at the University of Hertfordshire Business School. This unique funding opportunity is designed to develop not only your self-awareness, your leadership and your management skills, but also leads to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Level 5 Certificate in Management and Leadership qualification.

Manage your time: This intensive course offers three units compactly delivered over three weekends (Fridays/Saturdays), and is underpinned by a state-of-the-art 24/7 online learning platform. It will build on your abilities to lead others in managing resources and information, improve business performance, and to understand customer and market awareness.

Be informed:

* Limited 50% Economic Challenge Investment Funding available to Hertfordshire-based, graduate calibre/ experienced individuals and employees.

SME applicants may claim further funding via T2G L & M funding.

Delivered by

Call 01707 285407/5552 or email m.taylor2@herts.ac.uk to secure your place on one of the following course dates: ‘Stepping up to Leadership’ Course 1: ‘Stepping up to Leadership’ Course 2: ‘Stepping up to Leadership’ Course 3:

11/12th June, 2/3rd July, and 16/17th July 11/12th June, 9/10th July, and 23/24th July 2/3rd July, 16/17th July, and 30/31st July

CONTENTS NEWS A roundup of the latest business news and stories from our region

INTERVIEW : PENNY POWER Revealing the secrets to successful social media

MONEY How SMEs can help to minimise risk when trading internationally

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ASK THE EXPERTS Got a burning question? Maybe we can help!

17 18

BUSINESS SUPPORT Coverting business in a social environment – some tips from sales expert, Andy Preston

INTERVIEW : CLAIRE YOUNG An interview with one of Sir Alan’s Apprentices

20

TECHNOLOGY A round-up of the slightly more aspirational gadgets

24

FSB AWARDS All the news from Hertfordshire’s most glamorous event

28 30

TOYS FOR BOYS Try out one of our alternative methods of transport .

OUT OF HOURS Relax and unwind at the Blue Anchor

DRIVE Drive in luxury and style with latest addition to the Bentley fleet

35

NETWORKING & EVENTS Regular contributor Andy Lopata shares his thoughts on Networking

www.businessindependent.co.uk

03

EDITOR’S WELCOME

CONTRIBUTORS

&

Welcome to the latest edition of The Hertfordshire Business Independent.

CONTACTS

As the summer approaches, we’ve decided to dedicate this issue to social events and entertaining! We’ve gone a little aspirational in this issue too by taking a look at some of the most luxurious ways to travel to the many events happening this summer, as well as exploring some of the most stylish gadgets on the market. If you are planning to attend any events this year, particularly through business, then this issue will be perfect for you. Andy Preston reveals how to conduct business in a social environment and we consult some leading style consultants to find out how get that perfect combination of business and style.

MANAGING DIRECTOR Simon George EDITOR Jenna Gould editor@businessindependent.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS Becky Lewis Richard Watson Clare Waller Andrew Rayner Judith Germain Jennifer Perry John Davis Andy Preston Matt Ladd Mark Howard Terry Sullivan Andy Lopata DESIGNER Karen Birch www.velvetagency.com

ADVERTISING Terry Sullivan terry@businessindependent.co.uk

Sona Shah sona@businessindependent.co.uk TEL : 0844 358 5800 www.businessindependent.co.uk

Published by : Business Independent Ltd. Old Batford Mill Lower Luton Road Harpenden Hertfordshire AL5 5BZ COPYRIGHT Copyright: 2010 Business Independent Ltd All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior consent of the publishers. The views expressed in any of the Business Independent series of regional magazines are not necessarily the views of the publishers Business Independent Ltd. Whilst Business Independent Ltd has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, neither they norany contributing author can accept any legal responsibility for any consequences that may arise from errors or omissions contained in this publication or from acting on any opinions or advice given.

In particular, this publication is general and not a substitute for professional advice and you should consult your own professional advisors where appropriate.

04

We’ve also got a great interview with UK Social Media Entrepreneur Penny Power and find out what Claire Young from The Apprentice is doing one year on from the show. I hope you enjoy this issue and as always please do keep sending us your news and stories.

Happy reading as always! - Jenna

:

Jenna Gould : Editor

OVER A THIRD OF BUSINESSES LOOKING TO HIRE NEW STAFF An encouraging 60% of owner-managed businesses surveyed in Hertfordshire think that the economy will improve over the next 12 months, according to the latest Vantis Market inSight survey. This is compared to just 8% who think the economy will decline.

36% of those surveyed in the Hertfordshire region are expecting to increase their staff numbers over the next year, with only 4% of businesses still looking to decrease the staff numbers. 36% of all Hertfordshire owner-managed businesses surveyed state that there will be no change in the staff numbers over the next 12 months.

Andrew Williamson, Head of Corporate Finance at the St Albans Vantis, a leading UK accounting, tax and business recovery and advisory group, comments: “It is encouraging that owner-managed businesses, the backbone of the British economy, are putting their money where their mouth is. 60% of owner-managed businesses surveyed in Hertfordshire think the economy will improve slightly over the next 12 months and over a third of businesses are looking to increase their staff headcount”.

Attitudes in the Hertfordshire region appear even more positive than those across the rest of the UK, where 54% of owner-managed businesses surveyed think that there will be a marginal improvement in the economy in the next 12 months – this is up 3% since the last Vantis Market inSight survey, six months ago. 4% think there will be a strong improvement in the economy, against only 2% who think there will be a strong decline. There has been a slight drop, from 18% to 17%, in the number of people who think there will be a slight decline.

23% of respondents think it will remain the same (22% previously).

Other findings from the survey show that cashflow listed as the most important issue for businesses, including those in Hertfordshire, with the pricing of products and services a close second. 92% of firms in Hertfordshire are hoping to remain as they are and 4% are looking to expand internationally.

56% of those surveyed nationally said they have a formal business plan for 2010. This is down considerably from 65% six months ago. The Hertfordshire figure is, encouragingly, higher than the national average at 76%.

SOUTHERN BOSSES DEMAND MORE COMPANY CAR SAVINGS 3 out of 4 finance bosses in the South believe they can cut company car costs by up to half according to a new survey by Lex Autolease.

Despite this, almost a third (30%) admit to not knowing the true running cost of their fleet. The poll of 100 company FDs, conducted by YouGov for the UK’s largest provider of company vehicles, reveals that employees should be worried about cut backs to their favourite company perk.

The Lex Autolease survey shows that while 76% of FDs think they can save up to 50% of their fleet costs, the vast majority (70%) believe that actually 10% or less is more realistic.

Lex Autolease argues that company vehicles provide a vital business function and financing such an asset can be managed in a number of different ways to reduce costs. The company points towards a rising trend of firms selling off the vehicles they own and leasing them back to raise cash and reduce expenditure.

Lex Autolease also advises firms to look at their fuel and tax costs to cut out high carbon emitting, fuel consuming cars which will hit businesses and drivers in the pocket.

In a fleet cost review for just nine of its corporate clients, Lex Autolease identified £50 million in deliverable cost savings, which equates to almost £2,000 per vehicle.

LOCAL COMPANY MAKES NEW LINKS Elstree based specialist IT services provider, Imerja, has been appointed

by Business Link Northwest to complete a security upgrade of all its mobile devices following a change in Government legislation.

Following a succession of high-profile Government data losses in recent years, Government agencies need to ensure the security of all devices taken outside of the corporate network such as USB sticks, laptops and Smartphones.

Imerja was appointed to address this issue for Business Link Northwest, which is aligned with parent government association Northwest Regional Development Agency, by carrying out a full evaluation and implementation of an encryption solution.

Ian Jackson, Managing Director at Imerja, commented: “Business Link North West will soon be an exemplary case of how any business, whether public or private, should handle data. More companies need to follow suit as breaches in security are so easily remedied that there really is no excuse”.

Business Link Northwest is part of the national network, Business Link, which provides free guidance and support to all businesses in the North West. The company has several locations across the region and supports around 360 employees.

ALEC STEWART OPENS THE BATTING FOR CLYDESDALE BANK 40 Clydesdale Bank marked its sponsorship of cricket’s domestic one-day competition by giving it’s members in Hertford the chance to quiz Alec Stewart ahead of the first weekend of matches.

The Clydesdale Bank 40 competition looks set to build upon the Bank’s longstanding partnership with cricket. The Bank was an early partner of the highly successful domestic Twenty20 competition and it enjoys strong working relationships with various counties and individual players.

Recognising the success that sponsoring a popular sport can bring to a business, Clydesdale Bank has signed a three-year deal with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

As part of the launch celebrations, Clydesdale Bank members were invited to a teleconference with former England Captain Alec Stewart at the Hertford Financial Solutions Centre in John Tate Road, Hertford ahead of the first round of games on Sunday April 25.

Ian Jackson : Managing Director of Imerja

CASH UP FOR GRABS! If you are a member of a local community group which could do with a cash injection, get in touch for a one-off cash grant of up to £3,000 which is up for grabs for capital items and projects such as equipment or upgrades to existing facilities, production of marketing material and start-up costs.

Groups which benefitted from the scheme last year include the Hertsmere Flyers Swimming Club, based in Borehamwood who received £1,100 towards training equipment and marketing materials, Bushey Youth Scene, which was awarded £750 towards table tennis and table football equipment and Potters Bar Youth Squash got £1,500 towards new equipment to promote the sport in local primary schools.

Funding will be focused on projects which contribute towards the council’s priorities for quality environments, safer communities, decent homes, economic wellbeing and healthy, thriving communities.

Any charity, community group, club or voluntary organisation which is based in Hertsmere or operates for the benefit of residents can apply. Download an application form from www.hertsmere. gov.uk/grants or call 020 8207 7801.

The deadline for applications is 14 June 2010.

Alec Stewart with Clydesdale Bank’s Adrian Wenn who hosted the teleconference

Topics covered included the prospects for the forthcoming Clydesdale Bank 40 season, Alec’s views on England’s winter tours – including the performances of his fellow Clydesdale Bank Cricket Ambassadors Alastair Cook and Paul Collingwood – and Collingwood’s performances in the Indian Premier League.

The Clydesdale Bank 40 is designed to appeal to sport loving families and with the majority of matches taking place on Sunday afternoons, it is set to become a regular weekend fixture throughout the summer.

A considerable number of Hertfordshire residents, who already contribute more to the taxman’s coffers per head (£10,500 on average) than any other town or city in Britain, will have received a nasty shock in their latest payslip, as the highest marginal tax rate (61%) since 1988 came into effect from April 2010.

It is estimated that up to 600,000 people across the country will be affected, a large majority of whom are based in the South East. It is not only very wealthy individuals who will be affected; Doctors, Head Teachers and anyone earning over £100k a year will be hit by the new rate.

Like so many other stealth taxes, the 61% marginal rate will only be noticed by the most alert taxpayer. It has been structured by HM Revenue & Customs so that an individual’s personal allowance entitlement of £6,475 is gradually whittled away by £1 for every £2 of income over £100,000. Anyone earning between £113k and £150k will have found their net monthly pay reduced by £216.

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NEWS

HERTFORDSHIRE TAXPAYERS IN PAYDAY SHOCK! RESIDENTS HIT BY LARGEST MARGINAL TAX RISE SINCE 1988

THE BUSINESS CLUB TAKES ITS UNIQUE CONCEPT TO WATFORD

Local business development and networking group, The Business Club launched its second venue in Watford on 11th May, welcoming around 70 local businesses to an energetic evening of speed networking.

Sarah Robertson, Sales & Marketing Director at TaxAssist, Mark Fordham, winner of ‘Accountant of the Year’, and Phil Sullivan, Operations Director at Tax Assist.

LOCAL ACCOUNTANT WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Harpenden-based accountant, Mark Fordham, has won ‘Accountant of the Year’ at the 2010 TaxAssist Accountants Annual Conference.

The award was presented in recognition of Mark’s outstanding performance since joining the UK’s leading tax & accountancy specialists for small businesses. Over 180 national accountants were nominated for the award.

On collecting the award, Mark said: “To be recognised for my achievements in this way is a great honour. I’ve worked very hard over the years to provide an excellent service to my clients, to build a great team and a sound reputation among our small business clients”.

Mark has provided specialist tax and accountancy services for small business owners since 2003.

It has been a whirlwind 12 months for Mark who just last year impressed judges at the British Franchise Association’s Franchisee of the Year Awards, earning himself the Bronze award despite tough competition from top franchises including O2 and McDonalds. “I am constantly impressed by the determination and entrepreneurship of people throughout Harpenden & St Albans and it’s really satisfying to work so closely with my clients. While I manage a whole range of services on their behalf, they can get on with growing their businesses and realising their ambitions for the future”.

The Business Club, West Herts has been hosting fortnightly events at The Harpenden House Hotel since October 2008 and, having recently signed its 100th member, business owner Karen Birch and Membership Director, Katrina Sargent felt the time was right to expand the club.

“Many of our guests travelled to our events from Watford and we have a number of members who are Watford based.” advised Katrina.

“We conducted some research in the area and our concept was welcomed with great enthusiasm, so Watford became the natural next step for The Business Club”.

What is appealing for many is that although the Watford venue is new for the club, businesses are not having to take a risk on a brand new group but instead are joining an established club with a substantial existing membership and may visit either of the two venues.

The Business Club aims to provide its members with a vibrant environment in which businesses can grow and prosper. Held in the evening, events are informal friendly and fun.

Katrina commented “People love the atmosphere at our events and as we attract an average of 20 guests per event, there are always new people to meet and connect with. We were hopeful we could replicate the same energy in Watford and it looks like we have”.

The Watford meetings are also held fortnightly on alternate weeks to Harpenden with a variety of event formats from speed networking, to business development workshops, to networking & speaker events and skills development.

For more information and to obtain a complimentary guest pass, visit www.the-businessclub.org

thebusinessclub building better business

Katrina Sargent Membership Director : The Business Club

EAST OF ENGLAND FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2010 TEACHING AWARDS

Spotlight shines on education professionals

Exceptional teachers will be among a host of education stars from schools across the East of England who will shine as finalists at the 2010 Teaching Awards.

Applause and praise will greet the announcement of their names at a heart-warming ceremony held at The Rhodes Arts Complex, Hertfordshire, on Thursday June 24th. The finalists, in 11 categories, will be cheered on by pupils, parents and colleagues at a prestigious event hosted by BBC presenter Susie Fowler-Watt.

Celebrating twelve years of recognition for unsung heroes, the Teaching Awards will focus on finalists - headteachers, teachers, teaching assistants, governors, school teams and sustainable schools - from across the East of England. Each of the 11 winners will receive a Plato - the Teaching Awards symbol of excellence in education. Distinctions and commendations will also be presented.

Baroness Shirley Williams, chair of the UK judging panel will lead a workshop for all finalists before the ceremony and pianist Fiona Hill from Plume School alongside her daughter will provide musical entertainment for guests during the reception. Sarah Dignasse, 2006 Headteacher of the Year in the East is from Plume School.

The Teaching Awards were founded by Lord Puttnam CBE in 1998 to focus on inspired professionals who make the positive achievements of pupils possible. Following the tenth anniversary celebrations in 2008, Will Wyatt CBE, former deputy director general of the BBC became the new chairman of the Teaching Awards Trust and Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson accepted the role of president.

Congratulating the shortlisted finalists, Caroline Evans, chief executive of the Teaching Awards said: “This is a record year for the Teaching Awards with more than 9,200 nominations. Each and every one has been thanked for making a difference to the lives of children and young people. Now the finalists have been chosen and our judges have visited all their schools.

Our summer ceremonies are a terrific celebration of all that is good in education and I am excited to be meeting the new Class of 2010. Good luck everyone and well done for coming this far”.

Graham Holley, Chief Executive of the Training and Development Agency for schools (TDA) comments: “Congratulations to the winner of the TDA Teaching Assistant Award. We have now got more support staff than ever in our schools. They offer additional support to pupils who need it and allow teachers to focus, without distraction, on other students. Their role within the classroom has been proven to improve student attainment. This award goes a long way to showcase their achievements and the positive impact they are having in the classroom”.

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LOCAL BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP DEFIES RECESSION

Thriving local business networking group BNI Edgwarebury has been judged the top chapter in the UK and Ireland for 2009.

The chapter beat 619 others to win the accolade with their outstanding all round performance. Despite the recession, the 38 BNI Edgwarebury members passed business worth over £770,000 to each other throughout the year.The Bushey-based group, which was formed 12 years ago, achieved the highest total score against seven criteria including number of business referrals generated and chapter growth and won the Chapter of the Year Award.

Aquarius Design is proud to be working with Lee Valley Regional Park Authority to promote the London 2012 Olympics.

The Lee Valley White Water Centre, currently under construction in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, is located just north of the M25 between Waltham Abbey and Waltham Cross. It will be owned, funded and managed by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority after the Games but will also open its doors to paddlers and rafters in Spring 2011, when visitors will have the opportunity to ride the nerve jangling rapids ahead of the Olympians!

As part of an ongoing process to raise awareness of this world class facility and to promote the Centre’s legacy beyond London 2012, Aquarius Design was recently commissioned to design and build a mobile exhibition which launched at the Best of Britain and Ireland Show at Olympia in March and will be touring public venues in London and the South East over the coming months.

Aquarius Director Mark Holland with Lee Valley Park’s Marketing Manager, Karen Lister (right) and Marketing Executive, Rebecca Massey (left) at the Best of Britain and Ireland Show

RECOVERY IS STILL TOO FRAGILE FOR SMALL FIRMS TO EMPLOY MORE

As unemployment increased to 2.5 million, new figures from the ‘FSB Voice of Small Business Index’ show that while small firms are slowly moving into recovery they still are not in a position to take on more staff.

In a survey of over 1,400 members of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), 63% of small businesses said they will keep employment levels on hold over the next three months, which confirms that firms are not yet ready to take on more staff.

But while the recovery is continuing steadily, it is still fragile - one in four (23%) respondents expect their business situation to worsen over the next quarter, while two in five small firms expect no change in the performance of their business.

The FSB is calling for a renewed economic stimulus to help small businesses continue to create jobs, get access to crucial finance, innovate and start up new businesses.

BUSINESSES ARE STILL SHY OF GOING TO THE BANKS, FSB RESEARCH SHOWS

Small businesses are still avoiding the banks as latest figures from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) show only 18% of small firms have approached the banks for new credit.

In a survey of over 1,400 FSB members, only 18% of businesses have applied for new credit, with 50% of these successful in their application.

As the state owned banks have been given new lending targets by the Government, the survey also revealed that just over a third of businesses (36%) had their application refused with 12% yet to find out the bank’s decision.

For businesses with existing finance, the survey showed that 16% had seen an increase in the cost over the last two months. Of these, 44% saw between a 2 and 3% rise, but more worryingly 12% saw interest rates hiked anywhere between 10 and 14% at a time when the base interest rate is at an all time low. Only 1% of respondents had seen the cost decrease.

The FSB has been critical for some time of the banks and their lending criteria and believes that the introduction of the Small Business Credit Adjudicator announced in the Budget will help to ensure small firms are given a fair deal and a right of appeal against decisions made by big banks.

FSB North and East Herts Chairman Pam Charman said: “Trust needs to be restored between banks, bank managers and businesses as credit conditions remain tight for small firms. We hope the new Government will look at the best way to address the issues in the banking system to ensure that the UK has the necessary financing structures to support further economic recovery”.

“Small businesses continue to bear the brunt of the financial crisis and are being penalised with extortionately high interest rates. At any time, not least when the economy is on such a fragile path out of recession, a 10% to 14% increase in costs is highly unreasonable”.

BUSINESSES IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND STRUGGLE FOR RECOVERY

Equifax Business Failures Report for Quarter One 2010 suggests that Businesses in the East of England are succumbing to recessionary pressures.

Leading business information provider, Equifax, has released it’s Business Failures Report for the first quarter of 2010, revealing an apparent steely determination by UK businesses to survive despite the recession. However, businesses in the East of England are not faring quite as well with a small increase in failures in the first Quarter of 2010 compared to the last three months of 2009.

However, for businesses in the East of England the picture isn’t quite as positive. Whilst year on year, there was a 12% drop in businesses going under for Quarter One, compared to the last Quarter of 2009 there was a 2% increase in failures.

Other regions that saw increases in failures in Quarter One compared to the last three months of 2009 include the East Midlands, with a 10.9% increase, Wales with a 10.5% uplift and the South West at 14.8%.

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NEWS

CREATING A SPLASH IN HERTFORDSHIRE!

THE POWER OF SOCIAL NETWORKING Penny Power has never been in more demand. Her speaking and training schedule is exhausting to witness and her energy is equally matched. She is loving life; after 12 years of trail-blazing the concept of networking online Penny is now seeing the business community join Ecademy in their thousands every day and she is still committed to ensuring that everyone learns the philosophy and the methods that will make their time online profitable.

Penny is a prolific writer on the subject of social media and networking and her list of articles and Blogs would astonish even the most active writers. We caught up with Penny and enjoyed learning her values and what she feels makes the difference between those that just ‘make a noise’ and those that make a difference.

In a world where we are constantly being shown the next great thing and the next brilliant idea, there is a pressure on everyone to follow the crowd and keep adapting themselves and their businesses. Penny Power, Founder of the UK’s largest online business social network, Ecademy and Author of ‘Know Me Like Me Follow Me,’ reveals the secrets to social media success.

Social media is a hot subject at the moment, but there is so much to take on board!

When I meet and mentor business start-ups and established businesses that want to run faster, one of the things I say to them is ‘drop your shoulders, take a big breath and come down to basics’. The reason I say this is because people are getting caught up in technology hype, forgetting that ultimately the best thing for business is to ‘connect, listen and talk’.

The rise of social media has confused many people and I have watched it happen to thousands of people over the last 2 years. I can only think that because both social networking and social media are being conducted online with the use of technical tools and software, people think they can do one thing for all of their needs.

If you are purely ‘making a noise’ then you are marketing to yourself. The jewels out there are the people who want to find you and then talk to you. These are the people that want you to move from marketing to them to talking to them. Remember Seth Godin ‘turn strangers into friends and friends into customers’.

Ask yourself — ‘what are my needs now?’ You will probably answer, ‘more sales’, but is that true? If you need more sales, why is that? Are you networking effectively? Do people really want to buy what you are selling? How are you marketing your business?

Is your website efficient and optimised? Do you get many people coming to you, or do you always have to find your clients?

Belonging to a social network that performs as a community rather than just somewhere to connect gives you the opportunity to build a very successful business based on advocacy, referrals, collaboration, advice, care, kindness, inspiration, tough feedback and friendships - this is why we call it a Social Business Network.

Lets face it, what you do is not interesting. Sorry. Anyone can find a stranger in the Yellow Pages and buy from them; however YOU are interesting, you have all sorts of experiences, thoughts, vulnerabilities and ideas that make you fascinating. Your journey to this point in your life is interesting. Why you do what you do is interesting. Many factors lead to your expertise today, when you join the dots of your life, and connect your head to your heart you display your passions and your core talent, this is what creates business growth and develops you as a person.

So, don’t treat business places like LinkedIn and Ecademy like some giant networking event where everyone stands around and throws business cards at one another, and then go home feeling that they have just spent another night out and question ‘what was achieved?’ Treat it as your new community, your friend, someone that wants you to be successful, and a place where you can feel safe asking for help, telling your story, and gaining respect because of who you are — an expert, and someone who is living the dream of loving what they do.

How important is networking for businesses in the current climate?

Over the past 3-4 months I have really noticed the divide between those people who have networked and those who have not. I am staggered by the requests I get to help people learn how to build an online network, it takes up the majority of my time.

When we started Ecademy 12 years ago many of our friends were dis-interested and thought we had ‘lost our marbles’. They said we needed to get a ‘proper job’ and for years they watched the struggle of building a network. Now these people are coming to us for help. The online world is beginning to be mass-market, we are at the start of the shift to online connecting and it is critical that we all share the responsibility to ensure that business people don’t abuse them by brining their direct marketing experience to a world where that is inappropriate.

If you have friends that are coming to you for help then give them advice, help them, guide them and show them how to build their reputation as a friend to others. Those that are not being mentored are making such enormous mistakes, they are pushing and they are selling online.

It is now so clear to us all that building a network of people that respect, understand and ‘follow’ you is a basic business task and need, however for many they are only just starting this journey and they are starving and they are lost, and critically, many are not doing it very well.

Reach out, be a friend. You have many people that could benefit from knowing and your understanding of this new world is something you should not hold onto - you should give it away in abundance.

You were recently quoted as saying that friendships were becoming weaker due to the online world? What did you mean by this?

I have witnessed some terrible attitudes and behaviour on Facebook on the ‘Walls’ of young people’s profiles. The fact is that the world wants to be friendlier and more supportive, but sadly many are just connecting. They are not being friendly. A friend to me is not just a connection. A friend supports, cares and does not judge.

They would never humiliate or publicly display anger.

Recently I was at a student conference and at the end of my talk where I say ‘friendship is the killer app for business’, a Student put his hand up and said that he was lonely and isolated despite being friends with hundreds of people on Facebook.

We, Ecademy, have always stood for depth of friendship. We stand for people going out of their way to help others and notice other people. Friendship is about supporting people and having a relationship that is much more than just a connection - the hype around Facebook and Twitter needs to calm down so that people see this decade and the technology that we are exposed to as more than just futile conversations. Many have been obsessive connectors and forgotten to just be a ‘friend’.

My hope is, and my passionate speaking and writing on this subject is driven by the fact we actually have an opportunity for the world to be better and people to have real support and dare I say ‘love around them’, but not if people only connect and ‘make a noise’.

You created Ecademy effectively from your kitchen table 12 years ago whilst raising your three young children.

Why was your business idea so successful?

I had an opportunity when I became a mother to step back and look at the world. Most women do this when they create the next generation. I had time to reflect on the good and the sad, on the anger and the hopes. I could really feel that the world was becoming dis-connected. People were increasingly living isolated lives and I saw the Internet as a way of bringing people back together.

I also saw that family life could return to Western Society because the Internet allowed us to work flexible hours and put family back into the centre of our lives. Ecademy and the Internet has allowed me to cherish my children and cherish my husband.

I have worked incredibly hard. I don’t think many people realise that. There is an illusion that Internet businesses just ‘happen’. But they don’t. The competition for attention, the constant need to serve your members well and the need to lead your company and lead by example means there are very few days to rest. I was told by a member of ours that the value they like most in me is my ‘tenacity and staying power’. It meant a lot to me. I have made a commitment to make a change and I will.

I recently read a paragraph in a magazine which I think sums this up perfectly - an interview with Edwin Moses, the American 400-metre hurdler who had an unbroken run of 122 victories over 9 years, 9 months and 9 days.

“I certainly worked harder than everyone else, but I definitely wasn’t any more talented. My high school was very strong in track and field events and there were a lot of students who were better than me. But I didn’t mind training hard and working myself to improve. I was more determined and stuck at it more than other guys who were better than me but who lost the necessary drive somewhere along the line. It never entered my mind that I was something special, that I had a talent or anything like that. I made it to the top of track and field, but I might equally have done so in physics or another area of science instead. That’s the way I was raised’. (courtesy of Mercedes magazine) I don’t think I am any different to the thousands of small businesses working hard across the globe. Everyone who has tenacity and drive and who work so hard and never give up deserve success.

I guess the moral of this story and the secret to my success is to find the thing you love and then stick at it. www.ecademy.com

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INTERVIEW : PENNY POWER

So, if a business is interested in increasing its social media activity, where should they start?

HOW SMES CAN HELP TO MINIMISE RISK WHEN TRADING INTERNATIONALLY As international business becomes increasingly common practice for SMEs and with so much capital potentially at stake, it is imperative that these businesses seek the right guidance and advice in order to help manage their financial risk as much as possible.

This is not only to protect themselves against negative currency fluctuations but more importantly to enable them to have increased foresight and control.

A study by American Express FX International Payments found 39% of UK SMEs now conduct international business.

Over one in three of these UK SME business leaders have cited ‘currency fluctuations’ as their overriding number one concern when dealing with business from overseas. By not protecting themselves against fluctuating exchange rates, businesses are potentially leaving themselves open to volatile market conditions that could impact their cash flow and business performance.

Undoubtedly, there are massive opportunities for UK businesses to trade abroad, however, trading internationally can often be a complex process, and it’s therefore not surprising that 15 per cent of SME business leaders who do regularly trade internationally say they find it difficult or extremely difficult to navigate the international payment process.

Rocco Magno, Director of FX International Payments (FXIP) offer you a named account relationship manager. This enat American Express offers the following advice for busi- ables you to build a trusted relationship with that service nesses when trading internationally. provider and to ensure your time is spent on your core area of business. As international business becomes increasingly common practice for SMEs, it is important to seek the right Plan ahead Take control of the management of international pay- advice, not only to minimise risk against factors outside of ments and secure exchange rates where possible so that your immediate control but also to enable them to plan your business is not subject to sudden or dramatic chang- and grow your business effectively. es in exchange rates.

Forward contracts can provide protection from currency exchange rate fluctuations by locking in an exchange rate over a specific period. That rate is determined when a contract is purchased based on the period chosen, helping to control cash flow by locking in future costs, and minimising risk.

Streamline international payments to cut administration time With the world getting smaller, you need to move money around the world faster than ever before. Foreign exchange specialists focus 100 per cent on their core business of foreign exchange. This means streamlining operations and being able to pass the rewards of these efficiencies onto their customers. The ability to make fast, efficient payments overseas can be a significant contributor to a company’s success.

Always check the exchange rate

Always check the exchange rate you’ll be paying for goods and services. Exchange rates vary and as seen over the last 12 months, they can fluctuate quite dramatically. It is important to be aware of exchange rates and any variations. American Express FX International Payments offers a daily currency update from exchange rate commentators enabling its customers to track currency from day to day.

Seek support

Look for companies that provide a high standard of customer support, proactively manage your account and

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CASE STUDY Nick Wintle is Managing Director of IGS UK (International Graphics Sourcing), a company that specialises in sourcing, purchasing and facilitating products relating to the digital print industry, as a result Nick conducts international trade with both suppliers and clients across Europe and spends approximately £3m per annum on purchasing currency and the same on incoming currency.

Nick founded the company back in 2006 and now employs a staff of 10.

Whilst Nick has extensive experience in trading internationally he still manages his financial risk carefully and values specialist advice. Nick explained, “Last September, we purchased over $1m in forward contracts when at the time of purchase the contract rate was around 1.9.

A few months later, as the world was gripped by credit crunch, the value fell to below 1.45.

By using American Express FXIP we were able to fix and protect our margins to the value of £450,000. This is obviously a significant amount for a small business and savings that can be invested elsewhere within the business.”

See website (www.americanexpress.co.uk/fxip) for further information.

TAX LANDSCAPE FOR THE NEXT GOVERNMENT Richard Watson, Head of Tax at KPMG in St Albans looks at some of the tax measures that the new government is considering in its bid to tackle the deficit

Full details of what is planned are unlikely to emerge until the next Budget, which is due to take place 22 June.

Perhaps the most eye-catching proposal so far by the new coalition government is the plan to realign capital gains tax rates towards income tax rates. The plan is to seek ‘a detailed agreement on taxing non-business capital gains at rates similar or close to those applied to income’. We take this to mean that the 18 percent rate of tax on gains on non-business assets could be increased close to the higher 40 percent rate of income tax or even the top rate of 50 percent. This is a major issue for entrepreneurs and business owners. Individuals considering the sale of assets - and who are fortunate enough to have a capital gain - could be facing a doubling in the tax to be paid. Those in this position may well be considering planning to bring forward or trigger a capital gain in order to secure the current rate of 18 per cent.

We await more details, but there will apparently be generous exemptions for gains related to business assets , which together with the reversal in the rise of employer’s national insurance contributions will be welcome news to the business community.

Many businesses, particularly from the SME sector will breathe a sigh of relief at the confirmation that employers’ national insurance contributions will not be going up.

However the 1 percent rise for employees will go ahead.

Other measures unveiled include :

Income Tax

The key Lib Dem pledge was to raise the income tax threshold to £10,000 and the government have agreed to announce a “substantial increase” in the personal allowance from April 2011 in the next budget with a longer term policy objective of reaching a £10,000 threshold. Whether this will apply to all taxpayers regardless of income or be clawed back in the case of high earners remains to be seen.

Environmental Tax

There is an agreement to switch to a per-plane rather than a per-passenger duty, with a proportion of any increased revenues destined to help fund increases in the personal allowance mentioned above.

Corporate Tax

This is the area with the least clarity. The Conservatives pledged to reduce the headline rate of 28 percent, funded by changes to the capital allowance regime and perhaps to the rules around the taxation of debt. Such a move runs a risk of creating distinct winners and losers and is likely to be the subject of much debate between now and the budget.

VAT

Still no word on VAT, which means it remains the elephant in the room. As a quick revenue raiser it’s a tempting option and it had been widely expected that, whoever got in, it would go up post-election. It still could. A rise from 17.5 percent to 20 percent - the average EU rate - would raise around £12 billion a year while keeping the UK competitive.

Clearly the biggest challenge facing the new coalition government is the need to reduce the enormous budget deficit. The announcement that new coalition government intends to reduce spending rather than increase taxes is a first step in the right direction. Ideally we should protect any spending that represents an investment in the future, areas such as infrastructure and research.

All in all we are heading for a period of change. But with uncertainty comes opportunity.

Now is the time for businesses to be thinking about what they want from tax - and how to engage in and influence the debate in the coming weeks and months.

Richard Watson can be contacted via e-mail at richard.watson@kpmg.co.uk

MONEY

According to the European Commission the UK’s deficit in 2010 is set to hit 12% of GDP - more than any other country in the EU. Therefore, the priority for the new government must be to set out a clear and credible plan to tackle the deficit and to encourage economic growth.

LEGAL COLUMN In each issue Clare Waller, a Director at HRJ Law, a legal firm with offices in Hitchin and Welwyn Garden City is on hand to answer your legal problems. Please email them to clare.waller@hrjlaw.co.uk. We regret that no personal correspondence can be entered into.

I run a printing business and am a director and controlling shareholder.

Can I also be an employee?

It has been generally accepted that directors can be employees but until recently there has been conflicting legal authority about whether or not a controlling shareholder could qualify as an employee.

This issue has now been clarified by the English Court of Appeal who recently held that two controlling shareholders were also employees. This decision also means that directors and shareholders who qualify as “employees” are eligible to claim payments such as statutory redundancy payments and unpaid wages from the National Insurance Fund if a company becomes insolvent. The issue in this appeal was of importance given the current number of insolvencies and the consequential claims by directors for payment from the NIF.

the event of an insolvency, the question of employment status had to be determined at the date when the company became insolvent.

Lord Justice Rimer, giving the judgment of the court, said the court had first to determine whether or not the putative contract was a genuine contract. The second issue was whether, assuming the contract was genuine, it amounted to a contract of employment rather than a contract for services.

As a result it is increasingly important to identify whether it could be argued that a true contract of employment between a company and its director(s) and/or shareholders(s) exists since this will effect the individual in question’s entitlements, and the procedures that must be followed when carrying out processes such as redundancies, dismissals and transfers.

For further information log onto www.hrjlaw.co.uk Please note that the answers provided are for general guidance only. If you have any legal problems you should always ensure that you obtain specific legal advice.

The Court of Appeal set out new guidance for tribunals Bob Fahy, Solicitor and in doing so it expressly rejected previousLLP view that Matthew Arnoldthe & Baldwin an individual could not be an employee if they were the www.mablaw.com controlling shareholder of a company. It also held that, in

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SOLICITORS

ASK THE EXPERTS Welcome to the HBI expert panel, our newest feature which brings the experts to you! This issue we have an SEO expert, a social media expert, an expert in online crime and a chartered accountant, so if you have a question for one of our experts, why not get in touch with us on experts@businessindependent.co.uk

ANDREW RAYNER I am trying to gain more recognition online. How can I utilise SEO to do this?

Much of your SEO strategy can be done yourself – there are a few key areas where you can focus your efforts.

For starters, think like your customer – and if you can’t, then ask one of them – what words or phrases would they use to find what you do for them? Let go of any technical jargon that doesn’t speak your customers’ language – your website needs to be full of the words and phrases they consider relevant to what you offer them. Also, if you have “bugs” in your code search engines may “mark you down” as they are unable to correctly index and interpret the content presented. Use page descriptions wisely – the description is the summary text that appears underneath the search result when you appear – make sure it encourages someone scanning through the results to click on yours. SEO involves a great deal of trial and error, research and analysis, and, patience. SEO can be boosted through other internet marketing approaches – social media is one way of helping to drive traffic to your website and supports your overall internet findability.

Andrew Rayner, E-mphasis, www.e-mphasis.com

JUDITH GERMAIN How do companies use social networking alongside employment?

Most Generation Y individuals are coming round to the idea that many good job vacancies are filled by networking rather than the more traditional route of the job board. Unfortunately there seems to be little separation between the candidate’s personal and professional lives when it comes to the use of sites such as Facebook. This can mean that they unwittingly share personal photos of themselves in an unflattering light and express opinions that they wouldn’t want a future employer seeing. It is now becoming common practice for HR Departments to check social networking sites to see how candidates represent themselves and see how their friends refer to them. This protects the company and helps to achieve a more rounded picture of the individual.

JudithGermain, Dynamic Transitions Ltd, www.dynamic-transitions.blogspot.com

JENNIFER PERRY How can I keep all the information stored on my computer secure?

Phishing attacks to steal software code are becoming an increasing problem across the globe. Spear phishing is when criminals gather information, often by social networks, on a specific individual or group. Spear phishing is growing because is more lucrative than sending spam to millions of ordinary consumers. These attacks are often targeting a person who has financial job role, which is why it’s vital that financial and HR departments are aware of this growing problem in efforts to keep their business systems safe from online criminals. In many cases, the criminal sends a personalised message, which is spoofed to appear as though it has come from a friend or colleague. In some instances when the recipient opens the message, it has an attachment that down loads a key logger that allows access to the corporate network and online bank accounts. Unfortunately, key loggers are often not detected by anti-virus software and this type of attack is not prevented by network security because it is human error.

Jennifer Perry, E-Victims, www.E-Vicitms.Org

JOHN DAVIS Cash flow has traditionally been an issue for many businesses. The Federation of Small Businesses recently found that 41 per cent had dipped into personal saving and 43 per cent used overdrafts to stave off the recession.

Decide in advance what your firm’s policy is to be with regard to late payment of amounts owed to you. Any business that is paid ‘late’ is entitled to charge statutory interest (8% above the prevailing base rate) on top of the amount owed. Ensure that you send out any invoices promptly, accurately stating payment terms. If you still have not been paid, ask your solicitor to send a letter to the debtor, stating or implying the consequences of a continuing failure to pay. A well worded letter will often produce the intended outcome. You can take action to recover your debt through the courts. Claims of up to £5,000 will go through the ‘small claims court’. Should you win your case in the small claims court, you may be allowed to claim costs, including legal costs, against the other side. See www.moneyclaim.gov.uk.

John Davis, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, http://uk.accaglobal.com/

www.businessindependent.co.uk

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ASK THE EXPERTS

What can I do if cash flow becomes a serious threat to my business?

Support the ReachOut Plus 100 Club

By joining the charities' 100 Club your business has the opportunity to: Profile the company’s commitment to the Charity and indicate something of the values held by your business to the wider community.

Gain the satisfaction that you are making a positive difference within the community where you do business by giving back to that same community and helping those most in need.

Fulfil your corporate social responsibility pact and highlight the partnership within your promotional material and annual report.

Enjoy a free day’s boat hire and 30% discount at our residential conference centre Chellington, in Bedfordshire.

Corporate partners invest just £42.67 per month (£500 pa) to help us help those who need it most.

To find out more about supporting the ReachOut Plus 100 Club please contact us:

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COMMUNITY

Encourage your employees to take part in an exciting charity challenge such as a skydive, 10k run, golf day or abseil and network at our free black Tie Dinner and other networking events.

BISHOP’S STORTFORD

IN FOCUS : BISHOP’S STORTFORD AND SURROUNDING AREA

Bishop’s Stortford is a charming market town situated in rural Hertfordshire on the Essex border. Just 30 miles up the M11 from London (and the nearest town to London Stansted Airport) Bishop’s Stortford is the perfect getaway from the rat race.

Although built up around the river Stort the town actually got it’s name from William, Bishop of London, who bought the Stortford Manor and estate in 1060. The river was named in the early 1600 after cartographers visited the town and deemed that the town must have been named after the ford over the Stort.

Records show that Bishop’s Stortford has been occupied by the Romans (who abandoned it in the 5th century) the Saxons and the Normans, gradually growing into the bustling town full of pubs, cafes, shops and entertainment venues that we see today.

Situated on South Road, The Rhodes Art Complex brings a mix of arts, a museum and the Thorleybourne Gallery to the town famous for its Farmer’s Markets which are held on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Each year Bishop’s Stortford hosts their Carnival and Fun Day, this year being held on Saturday 19th June. This is a great opportunity for businesses, groups or community organisation to show off their wares to the many families that line the streets to watch the floats going past.

To either side of Bishop’s Stortford there are numerous small villages for you to peruse or take a leisurely stroll. St Michael’s Mead has a 40 acre country park which has a stunning lake and offers the perfect Sunday relaxation, whether it is through exploring the park or fishing for free in the lake.

A few miles away lies Mountfitchet Castle where you can take the family and travel back in time to 1066 and wander around the Norman Village at this heritage site.

Back in Bishop’s Stortford there are many leisure facilities and sport obviously plays a large part in the lives of the population.

There are many clubs, including rugby, cricket, hockey and tennis. There are also two football clubs, Bishop’s Stortford FC and Bishop’s Stortford Swifts.

For anyone wanting a day away from London, somewhere nice to live (Bishop’s Stortford was voted 7th best place to live in a 2006 program by channel 4) or just the opportunity to soak up some much needed sunshine (it is claimed that Bishop’s Stortford has some of the hottest summers in the UK) then Bishop’s Stortford is the perfect place for you.

Are you up to date on the law regarding your company, staff and premises?

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Consultants who can help you with Health & Safety and Human Resources issues should be regarded as crucial to your success and profitability.

The services we offer are tailored for the individual company and may include:

Dirtbusters is happy to quote on one-off cleans or regular contract work. If you have your own cleaning team but just need that extra help or specialised cleaning of tiles on walls or floors, carpets, rugs and upholstery, ovens and cooker hoods.

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CONVERTING BUSINESS IN A SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT Many sales teams often do business ‘outside’ traditional business hours and business venues.

There are 2 main areas that you need to be careful about.

The first is the personal versus business part. In a typical business meeting, the ‘personal’part, also referred to as ‘building rapport’ or ‘icebreaker’ tends to be fairly short, and you get down to business pretty quickly. The aim of a business meeting is usually to either persuade the person to buy, or to at least move them to the next stage in your sales process.

Once you move into a more ‘social’ environment, that changes things and the emphasis should be far more on the ‘personal’ side of things. The talk of doing business should be secondary to the personal stuff.

First of all, it’s very difficult to look at any kind of brochures, paperwork, contracts or any kind of written documents over a meal.

You end up in the awkward position of either trying to balance documents over plates and cups, or you end up spilling drink or food all over them - not exactly the professional image you were looking to portray is it?

Secondly, one of the biggest things you have to realise is that YOU are on show far more in a social environment than you would be in a purely business environment. By this I mean your personality, your sense of humour, your conversation skills and many more of the social aspects to your personality rather than the business ones. By the way, if you’re on the golf course, add personal ethics, honesty, temperament and sense of fair play to that list!

I’ve seen many deals lost because the salesperson couldn’t control their temper on the golf course, or had a few too many at a corporate event, and left the potential client in absolutely no doubt who they want to do business with, and who they don’t! No matter how relaxed you feel you can get with a potential client, don’t be unprofessional.

Therefore you need to keep your business head on at all times, especially if the occasion involves alcohol. I’m asked a lot by salespeople? is it okay to drink with clients?? Ultimately it comes down to personal choice, but as a general rule I probably wouldn’t, until you know the client very well, and even then I’d still be careful? Even when I knew the client very well, I’d still stick to one or two drinks maximum.

In terms of answering the other question I’m normally asked ‘what should I pay for?’, generally speaking, the client or prospective client will probably have expectations that you’re going to pay for everything. You should also make arrangements for picking them up and taking them home if necessary.

You need to aware of how much the event will cost (so you don’t get into trouble over your expense account) but don’t expect the client to pay for anything; you’re taking them out after all.

In summary, doing business in a social environment is all about your rapport with the client or prospective client. They will be asking themselves a number of questions while you’re in the social environment, and while these may be similar to ones they would be thinking about in a business setting, they are highlighted more in a social setting. Questions like - Do they like you personally? Are you getting along with them? Do you have similar interests? Are they comfortable and relaxed with you as a person? Do they trust you? Can they develop a friendship with you as well as a business relationship?

The more they can answer these questions in the positive, the better you’re doing and the more chance you have of either turning them into a client, or them becoming more loyal to you as a supplier.

So remember that when you move to a social setting, the personal aspects of the interaction take on greater importance, your personality and personal qualities are more on show, stay sober (or at least fairly sober) as much as possible and make sure you have enough budget to pay for everything. Stick to these guidelines and you won’t go far wrong. I look forward to hearing about your future sales success!

Andy Preston is a leading expert on Sales and Sales Management.

You can see more about Andy at www.andy-preston.com

BUSINESS SUPPORT

Typically they may conduct business at lunch, over an evening meal, through corporate entertainment or even on the golf course! If this is you, and you need to sell in more of a ‘social environment’ there are various things you need to be aware of. Leading sales performance trainer Andy Preston of Outstanding Results explains how to avoid the pitfalls and help advance your own sales success.

I’m usually asked questions like ‘when should I start to talk business?’, ‘what do I need to be aware of before I arrange a social/business meeting?’, ‘should I drink or not?’ and ‘what should I pay for?’

But first of all, we have to realise that doing business in a social environment is different to doing business in a more formal environment, and we have to treat the two differently in order to get the best results.

In the business environment, as soon as you arrange a meeting with somebody, there is an unspoken agreement that you are there to discuss business, and if you’re not currently supplying that company or that person, they know you are there to try and persuade them to take your product or service over their existing solution. Therefore by agreeing to the meeting, the prospect has to have admitted some level of curiosity or interest in seeing you and listening to what you have to say.

However, in a more social environment, the same rules don’t always hold true. If you’re meeting someone for lunch or an evening meal, they may just be coming along because they’re interested in a free meal! They know they’re going to get a sales pitch at some point, but they tend to be a little more relaxed because it is a social environment than they would be in a traditional business environment, and therefore suddenly switching to a business conversation unexpectedly can catch them off guard.

This is even more the case when it is a round of golf, or corporate hospitality at an event, where it is very much a social environment.

Here there is a good chance that if you’re inviting prospects along (i.e. you aren’t doing any or much business with them yet) that they may have accepted the invitation just because the wanted to attend the event? Especially if it’s something like Wimbledon, The Open Golf Championship or similar. As someone who was originally a professional buyer, before I moved into sales and sales training, I know this to be the case! Many buyers would talk about what companies were offering what corporate hospitality, and then the buyers would deliberately contact those companies purely to try and get an invite to the event! They may have little or no intention of doing business with the company; they just wanted an invite to that particular event!

Now I’m not saying that goes on with your buyers, or still goes on in the industry today. What I am saying is that if you’re offering corporate hospitality to someone, or a meal or a game of golf, you’re not on the same footing as you would be for a formal, professional business meeting.

LIFE AFTER THE APPRENTICE Best known for her television stint on the Apprentice, Claire Young has certainly been busy.

Since leaving the series, she has set up a successful wedding hospitality business but most recently, Claire has been spending time in Hertfordshire with The Herts Young Chamber of Commerce. Her continuing success in working with enterprising young people has made her quite the talk of the town.

The Hertfordshire Business Independent caught up with Claire as the new Junior Apprentice series hits our screens.

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“

I find it difficult to switch off and my brain is always whirling away with ideas!

I see opportunities in most situations, step back and think if there’s a commercial venture to be created.

”

I had no idea what I wanted to do when I was younger but have always worked hard and pushed myself. It was during university – whilst studying for a science degree – curiosity drew me to business and I applied for over 80 graduate schemes. I wanted to earn a good salary, learn new skills and this seemed the best option. I fast tracked up the career ladder working for 3 large blue chip companies and then applied for The Apprentice – I haven’t looked back since!

How did you change after your experience on the Apprentice, which set you up for who you are today?

I learnt to listen, take feedback and survive criticism.

I developed a very thick skin and focussed on winning – The Apprentice is just like business in the real world in that respect. To be successful you need to set yourself goals, be blinkered and just really go for it! Also the experience opened my eyes to a whole new industry – the media world and that was very interesting.

After you completed The Appretice, you set up Elegant Venues. This came from inspiration during the programme, where you had to sell wedding dresses. Do your ideas tend to spring on you from nowhere, or are they most often formed out of careful thought?

I find it difficult to switch off and my brain is always whirling away with ideas! I see opportunities in most situations then step back and consider if there is a commercial venture to be created.

Have there been any other unusual moments that have left you with a good idea for a business?

Yes but that’s related to a new business idea – once it’s launched I’ll explain!

Have there been any other unusual moments that have left you with a good idea for a business?

Yes, but that’s related to a new business idea – once it’s launched I’ll explain!

Who is your biggest female idol?

Oprah Winfrey. I grew up watching her on TV and think she’s incredible. She has a vast business portfolio and is worth £2 billion! She also gives back and has a school for young girls in South Africa.

You are a major part of ‘Backing Young Britain’, and you have recently spent some time in Hertfordshire with the Young Chamber of Commerce.

Tell us a little bit about what you do.

I work with young people in a number of ways. I’m passionate about unlocking talent and seeing them grow! Every person has a skill, it’s sometimes just a case of finding it and then matching the job to go with it. I enjoy teaching enterprise, business and setting challenges. I often find students are ‘spoon fed’ at school and the sessions I do with them makes them think and engage the brain! With the Hertfordshire Young Chamber of Commerce, there were a number of secondary schools competing in the one day. enterprise challenge to develop a new soft drinks and marketing campaign. Some brilliant pitches by the young people! In particular I like working with young women, I don’t believe there are enough role models for them going into schools and I’d like to change that.

Has it restored your faith in young people?

I’ve always believed in young people and sometimes I think that’s the issue. They need to believe in themselves and have high aspirations! With hard work and drive anything is possible.

The new series of The Junior Apprentice is due to hit our screens this summer, which provides a version for young enterprisers, aged 16 and 17. What advice would you give to those who are about to face Sir Alan?

Be brave, be bold and speak up for yourself! Also work as a team player on the tasks. Get as much sleep as you can, the days are long!

You also support a number of charities, is there anything coming up which you are due to take part in?

I’ve just done a skydive for the British Red Cross and next weekend I’m running 10km for Race for Life which is for Cancer Research. I work with Enterprise UK, The Prince’s Trust and UKL Youth working with young people on a regular basis.

Do you have a motto?

JDI – Just do it! Less talking and more doing please!

Let’s make things happen. www.claireyoung.co.uk

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INTERVIEW : CLAIRE YOUNG

You are best known to us as the 2008 finalist of The Apprentice, have you always been an enterprising woman?

TECHNOLOGY Becky Lewis looks at the latest gadgets on the market.

DIAMOND BLACKBERRY BOLD II Have you ever wondered how you could improve on your Blackberry?

A Liverpool based company has brought out a new Diamond Blackberry Bold II. Already one of the best mobile phones in the current market, designer Stuart Hughes, 39, thought he would bling them up.

With only 10 made you could be the proud owner of this diamond encrusted Blackberry, complete with approximately 6ct of VVS1 diamonds plus a hand finished Ostrich foot wallet.

A steal at £14,995.

iPADS When Apple brought out the iPad there were mixed responses from the public, ranging from the “I want it!” to the “it’s hideous”.

So how do we make items such as ipads more appealing? We cover them in gold of course!

Covered in 22ct gold plus 53 diamonds – including sparkling gems in the famous Apple logo – this luxurious iPad will cost you a mere £130,000, a substantial increase on the usual modest £600.

Producing solely for the high end market Mr Hughes commented, “It’s all about having something that’s different”.

NINTENDO WII If you asked most people what the point of a Nintendo Wii is, the most common answer would be “to play games on”.

So it’s with some surprise that you can now buy a Wii covered with 2,500 grams worth of 22ct gold, where the buttons are home to flawless diamonds.

At £299,995 this is “officially the most unique and expensive Wii in the world” and only 3 have been made, possibly because each one takes six months to create.

PRESTIGEHD SUPREME EDITION TELEVISION

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If you like the idea of gold encrusted iPads, diamond Blackberrys and diamond/gold Wiis you will love this television.

With a 55” screen the base and outer frame consists of 22ct gold, has 48 flawless diamonds around the outer frame and the remaining area is set with Aventurine and Topaz.

With the inner screen layer made up of hand sewn alligator skin, only 10 have been made.

But if the £1,000,000 price tag still doesn’t make it appealing, why not try the PrestigeHD SUPREME Rose Edition?

Although the details of the two are similar the look is different. The Rose Edition also has a 55” screen but the base and outer frame consists of 28kg of 18ct rose gold whilst the outer frame is adorned with 72, 1ct Flawless diamonds. Also different is the remaining area which is set with Sunstone and Amethyst.

With the same hand sewn alligator skin inner screen, only 3 of these Rose Edition televisions have been made.

All for a bargain £1,500,000.

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WEBSITE DESIGN

Web design is at its simplest described as creating presentations of content that is delivered to an end-user through the World Wide Web, by way of a web browser or other web enabled software. The main purpose of web design is to create a web site – a collection of electronic documents and applications that reside on web servers and present content and interactive features to the end user in the form of web pages.

Web pages and web sites can be static pages (pages that don’t change) or can be programmed to be dynamic pages (pages that automatically adapt content depending on user input).

There are a number of languages used to create dynamic pages including PHP, JavaScript and ASP. As the internet has evolved so has web design, popular with most large companies are CMS (content management systems) CMS allow you to build complex websites and powerful online applications easily. They also produce a standardised design format and allow non-technical users to update content, pages, links etc.

Once you have built a web site it will need to be uploaded to a local web server or, an externally hosted web server usually via FTP (File Transfer Protocol). A site then needs hits (or visits).

A good way of increasing traffic is by SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) which is the term used to increase the volume, or quality of traffic to your site from search engines via search results.

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Because we take the time to understand your needs and your market, we will always build the most effective and appropriate website for your business and, more importantly, your customers.

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Contact us to explore the best options for your business.

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TECHNOLOGY

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PARENTS AND STUDENTS WANT MORE CONTACT? A new study by YouGov states that over 65% of teachers and parents want more contact, especially out of hours.

With both parents working and high workloads, parents are increasingly unavailable during the day and parent evenings.

Society is becoming ‘tech savvy’ and seeking less formal forms of communication. The education sector must embrace digital tools but what technology is available and what effect will it have?

A forward thinking College that has embraced technology is New College Stamford, a 4,000 student facility for 14 to 19 year olds.

The College operates two wireless broadband networks, one for staff and a student/ guest network. The college find that allowing access from students own equipment both encourages study and reduces pressure on college owned equipment.

Staff members utilise the wireless network to take registers electronically so eliminating the need for students to act as traditional ‘runners’.

The College invested in a Siemens telephone system ten years ago. Since then the system has undergone a number of upgrades however, rather than replacing everything, the supplier Integra ICT ensured that much of the “core” hardware including handsets was retained, making best use of the original investment.

The latest upgrade to the system has enabled wireless working for voice users. As well as improving communication and saving time it enhances security and response times in cases of incidents.

Consideration is being given to soft phones on laptops. In principle this means that all staff members including teachers can simply “log on” and be permanently connected as an extension in any location across the college.

This kind of soft phone can be implemented for minimal cost.

So how do schools meet the need for communication whilst respecting privacy?

THE TIME IS RIGHT TO INVEST IN TRAINING

Text and email communication are two possible routes but, this would need to be managed. Learner mentors are a possibility but consideration must be given to acceptable limits and terms and conditions.

New College Stamford is currently using a text messaging service to notify staff and students of important information such as school closures and events.

Some aspects of technology such as video and web conferencing do offer potential sources of income for schools. New College Stamford are successfully using web and video conferencing to maintain communications with outlying staff in remote sites and are trialling presence software so staff can see when their colleagues are available for communication, whether that be at their desk, in the classroom, or out of the office.

Overview of communication platforms – • Internal and external phone communication.

Voice mail systems accessed from both phone and PC • Voice recording systems.

• Discreet instant messaging via teacher laptops.

• Conferencing and Collaboration, connecting in real time to teachers via the internet.

• Sophisticated call routing for out of hours Homework Hotline.

• email/SMS and voice mail – mass notification • Video and Web Conferencing – Courses for disparate students. Income potential.

Integra ICT provides ICT solutions to clients, integrating communication systems and improving business process. www.integra-ict.co.uk Tel 01767 684898 Email: info@integra-ict.co.uk

St ALBANS SCHOOL HMC Day School 780 pupils Headmaster: Andrew Grant MA ENTRY FOR BOYS at 11 and 13 ENTRY FOR BOYS and GIRLS at 16+

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EDUCATION & TRAINING

FSB AWARDS

FSB AWARD CEREMONY IN HERTFORDSHIRE BOASTS A VARIETY OF WINNERS FROM SPECIAL NEEDS FOR CHILDREN TO POND MAINTENANCE As media partners of the FSB Awards, the Hertfordshire Business Independent were there with a front row seat, as small businesses from across the county gathered this week to find out whether they were winners of a coveted FSB Business Award 2010. Almost 40 companies made it to

the finals and the winners were announced at a glitzy event at Tewinbury Farm on 13th May. Hosted by Look East presenter Susie Fowler-Watt the awards ceremony is designed to recognise and celebrate the huge contribution small businesses make to the local economy.

The overall winner, Hannah Couzens Photography, picked up first prize in the Young Business Person of the Year category and Employee of the Year category, but also walked away as the overall county winner with a prize of £1,000 cash and £20,000 worth of advertising – £5000 of which was very generously contributed by HBI! Maree Atkinson of the FSB said: “The standard of entries was really high and were a fantastic reflection of the diverse nature of Hertfordshire’s thriving small business community. I’m thrilled so many businesses entered and I’d like to thank every one of them for doing so.”

Susie Fowler Watt also praised the quality and calibre of the finalists pointing out the awards were a great celebration of the achievement of small business against the backdrop of recession.

The complete list of winners are: Best E-Business Award JAM, telephone answering service, Borehamwood Best New Busines Award ASD Visual Aids Ltd, visual aids for children with educational needs, Broxbourne

Employee of the year Award Gemma Knischel, Hannah Couzens Photography, Cuffley/ St Albans Enterprising Business Award Women With Waders Ltd, pond maintenance & construction, Hitchin Environmental Responsibility Award Abbey Steel and Shearing Company, steel stockholder, Stevenage Fair Trading Award TP Plastering and Building Services, Ware Self Employed Person of the Year Award Blue Mark Entertainment, mobile disco and lighting etc, Hatfield Service Excellence Award Proalfa, Alfa Romeo Specialist, Watford Staff Training And Development Award Swan Fostering Ltd, independent fostering agency, Hitchin Young Business Person of the Year Award Hannah Couzens, Hannah Couzens Photography Ltd, St Albans/Cuffley.

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FEATURE : THE FSB AWARDS

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DRESS FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS SAVILE ROW TAILOR MARK MARENGO PUTS HIS PERSONAL STAMP ON SUITS “I would always go for a suit with real working cuffs. Even if you have bought it off-the-peg it should look still look as though it has been tailored. It sounds obvious but check that the quality of the fabric is very good and make sure it fits well. For example, your jacket should have sleeves which reveal about half an inch of your shirt cuff and the hem on your trousers should reach your shoes and have a slight break. I would also go for a one or two button single breasted jacket – it just gives a more sophisticated appearance.

I wouldn’t be too OTT with what you’re choosing. It should be the quality of the cut and of the fabric that should shine through. I would avoid anything baggy as it looks un-thought-through and stick to very plain fabrics. Patterned and stripy fabrics can detract away from your talent.

Shoes should continue the note struck by your suit. If you are wearing a dark suit then your shoes should also be dark, either black or dark brown. Similarly, you should apply this to your overcoat which should ideally be the same colour – a navy suit teamed with a navy coat etc...

To keep your suit in a good condition, use a Corby trouser press, dry clean your trousers and never dry clean your jacket as it often ruins the canvas. When your jacket is in need of a refresh, just hang it up in steamy bathroom to get rid of odours”. www.markmarengo.com

AWARD WINNING PERSONAL AND CORPORATE STYLIST, LISA TALBOT,

specialises in helping both women and men with their style and image.

She helps you to get a better understanding of the colours and shapes that suit you, then apply that to your own personality and lifestyle to help you develop a new revitalised wardrobe. (Photo ref Lisa Talbot 1) “During every consultation and shopping trip I teach you all the secrets you need to know about everything relating to your style and image and most importantly we have fun along the way” says Lisa.

So when it comes to entertaining your clients this summer, why not consider these few pointers?

“We make an opinion on anybody within the first 7 seconds of meeting them and before they say anything. Our image is our personal branding.

Appearance has a significant impact on the way we initially perceive people To appreciate the impact of the above; 1. Think of someone who has recently made an impression on you 2. What did you visually notice about this person 3. You will have formed an opinion of this person....what factors did you take into account to arrive at this conclusion?

During corporate events or corporate entertaining we still have to bear in mind we are still representing the company we work for and therefore need to portray the correct image.

Styles can be varied depending on the corporations for example; Media, Marketing and Advertising work in a more artistic, casual environment so what they wear will reflect their business.

Employers who work for a corporation for example; Telecommunications, Banking and Pharmaceutical work in more business

attire (suits for men and women) and smart casual (Chinos and Blazer for men, structured dresses for women). Those working in a customer facing environment will always need to reflect a strong, businesslike dress code.

We must dress appropriately for any business situation.

Men’s fashions move slower than women’s and trends are few and far between.

The current trends for Spring/Summer 2010 are super and can be worn in so many different ways to suit each age group and occasion.

www.lisatalbot.co.uk

20’S 30’S 40’S WOMEN

Military and Tribal trend - The ancient world is at the centre of this trend. Dresses in chain mailed inspired detailing and military styles with sequins are a great mix giving this look a feminine twist.

Patterns and Prints – Great, bold and brilliant. With super dresses and trousers worn with a block coloured top this trend is really fun and colourful.

In our 20’s trend is very important and in some cases will need to be played down in the corporate arena.

WOMEN

The maxi dress is a must have this summer. This pretty yet sophisticated garment can look both sexy and feminine when worn with beautiful wedge shoes and there are lots in the shops which will suit various body shapes.

Flip Flops are a ‘no-no’ for any corporate event.

Sheer fabric is a must this season and can be used in multiple ways including layering and feminine draping. These can be tops worn over smart tailored trousers or shiny fabric leggings

The boyfriend blazer – The blazer has found new sophistication and it is the pinnacle of relaxed cool. These are great over jeans, smart tailored trousers and look on trend and sexy.

The fitted, structured dress looks amazing on the majority of body shapes and looks sophisticated and sexy but oozes professionalism – You will be taken seriously in a dress like this.

Being a style and image consultant I know just how many of you struggle to find clothes that suit and fit your body shape. I firmly believe that when you look good you feel great and the best asset we all have is a smile on our face. When we smile our confidence is greater and you will find more people are drawn to you and want to listen to what you have to say. In the corporate world this is very important.

Whether you’re apple shaped, pear shaped or the perfect hour glass shape, once you have determined your body shape you will be able to dress in the most flattering way. Shopping becomes so much easier and you feel more confident when you know how to dress your shape.

We have all stood in front of a mirror and tried to work out what body shape we are but, in reality when we look in the mirror we see a different shape to what we actually are.

Also once your body scale is determined i.e.; Long legs, short body, small bust you can dress accordingly to balance the body”.

Lisa will be running Style workshops in Esporta Health Club, Hemel Hempstead on Thursday 17th June from 10am to 12.30pm and will be covering Colour Analysis, Body shapes, Accessories and Savvy Shopping.

WOMEN

Nick Malenko is an award winning stylist who’s charismatic, endearing and down to earth persona has helped Nick establish himself as a well respected name in the hairdressing industry and a must have for the latest celebrity shoot, media event or International show.

With a career profile including celebrity hairstylist for some well known names such as Katie Price, Melinda Messenger, Sarah Harding and Barbara Windsor, his flexible attitude and exceptionally quick but thorough styling makes him a natural presenter on stage or television. With great communication skills he combines both a wealth of knowledge with a fabulous entertainment factor.

Nick, who is also hairstylist for LK Today and ITV2’s Colleen’s Real Women, offers some of his best advice to men and women for how to impress at your corporate event. www.roystonblythe.co.uk

If you have long hair and wish to wear it down, make sure it is styled or at least looks ‘done’.... the messy bedhead look will not do! Blow-dry hair straight with smoothness and volume or, if your hair is naturally curly, use a good serum to make sure curls are defined and glossy.

For mid-length hair, the bob is the ultimate in versatile; wear it sleek and chic in the office and then just add product for a trendier look in the evening. The shape right now is choppy, and can be worn any length. For daytime, blow-dry the hair with plenty of volume and lift to create an on-trend, but still professional shape.

If you like your hair off your face for work, you can’t go wrong with a good updo.

Keep it neat and classic but still with a nod towards what’s in; the textured bun is the perfect example. Pull hair into a high ponytail, making sure there is some rootlift around the face, curl the ponytail with tongs, and pin into a slightly messed-up large bun. Ponytails are also hot right now - prevent them for looking too little-girly by creating loads of height on top and making the ponytail itself high up on the head.

MEN The look of the moment is the tailored cut short around the sides and back, and longer on top - think Ralph Lauren ads.

Use product on any length hair for a textured look CELEBRITY: ALEX CURRAN Recently Nick styled Alex Curran for Royal Ascot. Alex wanted something that was simple, but on-trend allowing her striking dress to really be the centre of attention.

Nick blow-dried the hair with volume at the root and pulled the hair into a low ponytail before creating a neat, but textured knot at the back. The result was very neat and classic, but with a nod towards the textured, mussed-up effect that is really hot at the moment.

FEATURE : DRESS FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

HOW TO WOW CLIENTS IN BUSINESS WITH YOUR HAIRDO

WOMEN To really impress at work, keep it professionallooking but still fashionable

TOYS FOR BOYS This month, if you are thinking of getting around for your corporate event, then why not try something a little different? Here, The Hertfordshire Business Independent have treated you to a day out in a car, on a boat and on board a private jet.

FAIRLINE TARGA

If a more nautical arrival is what you are after, then why not step on board the newest of the fleet of luxury liners from Fairline’s unique Targa range.

Exemplary of the quality design and craftsmanship of the entire Fairline range of luxury motor yachts, the award-winning Targa 38 express cruiser offers a remarkable feeling of space on board and delivers impressive performance on the water.

The internal layout of the Targa 38 is designed for overnight accommodation for the owners plus two guests. The light-filled Targa 58 GRAN TURISMO offers a new style and layout of interior cabin space from the Fairline. The master cabin and cleverly designed en-suite are placed forward which provides expansive full-width accommodation and with only the foredeck above, natural daylight floods through overhead glazing.

An optional double berth insert is also available to convert the saloon table into an occasional double berth. The saloon has seating for six and features a state of the art entertainment console.

The Targa 38 also includes a comprehensively equipped galley with panoramic hull window, a spacious open plan cockpit and plentiful sunbathing areas.

The new Targa 44 OPEN, which has been introduced alongside the latest Targa 44 GRAN TURISMO model, was also launched at the Show.

Featuring a large open cockpit, the Targa 44 OPEN model will enable customers of the ever popular entry-level Targa 38 to upgrade to a cruiser with an even greater entertaining space.

For customers seeking a hard-top express cruiser, the new Targa 44 GRAN TURISMO has been revised to reflect the latest Targa 44 design and includes the new cockpit layout. Both Targa 44 models are powered by Volvo stern drive engines.

PUTTING CLASSICS ON THE COMMON

One day a year, Harpenden Common (that vast tract of common grassland sweeping you into the town centre as you approach from the South) resonates to the sound of 1,200 classic vehicles from all over the UK being parked by their owners for the biggest mid-week classics meeting of its kind in Britain.

Every decade is always well represented: from Rolls Royces and Maseratis to Austin A40s and Morris Minors even a Sinclair C5.

Classics on the Common is a non-profit event but it does give the organisers an opportunity to raise funds for charity. The classic vehicle owners make a modest donation to register and although there is no entry charge to the public, Harpenden’s townsfolk have always responded generously when approached with the collecting buckets.

Local businesses, pubs and restaurants lend support too by donating tombola prizes.

Last year the event raised £9,800. This year, Rotary charities and good causes will be the beneficiaries with the main recipients being Herts Air Ambulance, Hertfordshire Action on Disability and ShelterBox. The success of Classics is not difficult to understand. For the proud owners it provides a display window for their treasured vehicles and for the public, vicarious delight and admiration.

This year’s Classics on the Common will be held on Wednesday, 28 July. If you want to learn more about the event visit the official website www.classicsonthecommon.com

FEATURE : TOYS FOR BOYS

Fairline Targa 38

THE PRIVATE JET ADVANTAGE

Perhaps for the more daring and more cash option, why not arrive in true style by hiring a private jet?

“Perhaps the most precious commodity anyone has is time,” says George Galanopoulos, Managing Director of London Executive Aviation (LEA) – one of Europe’s largest private jet charter operators.

“A business jet is the ultimate timesaver. The schedule is entirely built around you and eliminates all that wasted time. We go when you are ready, not the other way around. Instead of using major hub airports, we fly between smaller airports that are far more convenient and relaxing,” he explains.

“Not only can you fly from somewhere close to home or your office, but we can often drop you almost at the door of your ultimate destination. That saves many hours and lots of stress which is the main reason that people opt for private jet travel”.

Whether it is serving your favourite sushi or supplying your preferred maga zines, LEA create a travel experience that is truly bespoke”.

As one of the largest businesses of its kind in the UK, LEA has an aircraft for

George Galanopoulos onboard LEA’s Falcon 900EX long-range jet LEA’s Cessna Citation Mustang entry-level business jets

any occasion. It’s fleet of 24 business jets are based at six airports, including Luton, Stansted and Oxford. LEA’s aircraft range from the entry-level, four-passenger Cessna Citation Mustang, right up to the large-cabin Falcon 900EX which can whisk up to 14 passengers across the Atlantic.

To find out more about LEA’s services, visit www.flylea.com or telephone 01708 688420

BUSINESS RATES Don’t throw your money away

What are Business Rates?

Business rates are a tax based on the rateable value of the property, which reflects its rental value. They change depending on the premises i.e. differences in locality and amount of alterations.

It is important to remember rateable values can be challenged!

Who assesses the rates and how are they calculated?

The Valuation Office Agency of the Inland Revenue assesses the rateable value of all relevant properties in England and Wales. Every 5 years the valuation office publishes a new rating list for each billing authority, which shows the rateable values of all properties in its area. This new ratings list has come into effect as of 1st April this year.

What properties are subject to business rates?

Almost all business premises are assessed for rates and have a rateable value. There are a few exemptions.

How are Business Rates calculated and when do I pay?

There are two main factors: the rateable value of the property and the level of the uniform business rate (UBR), which is expressed as a fraction of a pound. To calculate your annual rates payable just a simple multiplication of one by the other is necessary. The rateable value of a property is broadly its open market rental value (the rent it would fetch in the market), assuming the tenant insures the premises and carries out all the repairs.

You will receive a rate demand around the 1st April each year. This is usually paid in ten equal monthly installments.

Business rates are payable by the occupier of the property.

If you are a tenant, the lease will sometimes state that your rent is inclusive of rates.

What has changed this year?

Rental valuations may have increased since the last revaluation, however, the multiplier has adjusted so that the total business rate tax yield has stayed broadly the same following the revaluation (allowing for inflation).

In England the multiplyer for 2010/11 is 41.4p, down from 48.5p in 09/10 (for small businesses it has reduced to 40.7p,down from 48.1p). You can check and compare your new rateable value online at www.voa.gov.uk/2010.

The 2010 revaluations have been mixed across the sectors in their change from the previous 2005 list. Generally across the country most industrial and distribution properties,

offices (particularly older properties, in the Thames Valley and South East England) and secondary and tertiary retail locations will be paying less for their rates. On the other side of the coin, most West End and City London offices, Foodstores, Leisure properties and properties valued on the Contractor’s Test basis will be paying more.

What is Transitional Relief?

Transitional relief was introduced to spread the impact of some of the largest changes in business rates arising from revaluation. The idea was to limit the amount by which rates payable could rise, in real terms, in any single year.

The limits are different for large and for small properties and for different years.

The transition scheme over the next five years incorporates upwards and downwards phasing. It will be very significant for the current 2010 list, as changes in Rateable Values are so polorised between London and the rest of the country that many properties will remain in phasing for the whole five years.

What properties might be exempt?

Agricultural, most churches, Charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs receive 80% mandatory relief. Nonprofit-making organisations may apply to the billing authority for discretionary relief (up to 100%).

What can I do if I think my rates might be too high?

Occupiers (or other qualifying persons) may lodge an appeal against their rateable value.

It is advisable to consult a Chartered Surveyor about your business rates liability at an early stage. You are then well prepared to decide whether it is worth mounting a challenge.

Fixed time limits apply to certain types of appeal it is vital to take good professional advice.

Appeals are served on a specific form usually obtained directly through the valuation office. It can take months, or even years, before an appeal is decided, however, if you are suffering hardship as a result of delay, it may be possible for the appeal to be fast tracked.

Most appeals are settled by agreement, but if this is not possible they are referred to the local valuation tribunal.

Where this happens you will receive notification of the date and time of the hearing. If either party is dissatisfied with the tribunal’s decision there is a further right of appeal to the Lands Tribunal. Costs begin to be incurred at this level. Yet further appeals to the Court of Appeal may be made on a point of law only.

Rating is complex and by seeking the expert advice of professionals you may find that there is an avenue, either as a business premises occupier or owner, to severely reduce the annual business expenses.

For expert advice on rates and all property valuation matters contact LBB on 0207 822 8850, email: info@lbb.org.uk.

www.businessindependent.co.uk

29

PROPERTY

If you occupy a business premise you are almost certainly liable to pay business rates. In the following article we aim to give you a crash course on how business rates are calculated and how to make sure you are not paying anymore than you should.

Mark Howard, a valuer at Chartered Surveyor, Langley Byers Bennett answers a few of the most commonly asked questions about business rates.

PAUL BLOXHAM AT THE BLUE ANCHOR FRESH, SEASONAL AND RUSTIC PUB DINING Local chef, broadcaster and restaurateur Paul Bloxham is to open another gastropub, The Blue Anchor in St Albans, Hertfordshire in partnership with local independent brewery McMullen & Sons.

Fergus McMullen, Director of McMullens said: “We are delighted to be working with Paul Bloxham. A good pub has been part of our success for over 180 years and now that good food is such an important part of our continuing success and strategy of constantly striving to exceed our customers’ expectations, it is great news that we have an opportunity to work with such a talented and local chef”.

Paul Bloxham, said he is very much looking forward to taking on The Blue Anchor and creating a destination known for its delicious food and welcoming service. Building on the reputation he has achieved at award-winning The Tilbury in Datchworth, The Blue Anchor will serve fresh, seasonal and rustic British dishes with a twist using quality local British produce for which Paul has become a passionate advocate.

Paul Bloxham said: “Opening in St Albans is a tremendous opportunity and I am hugely excited by all our plans. With our own smoker, for example, we are going to provide The British Charcuterie and have dishes of home-cured salmon, duck and beef pastrami, salamis, home air-dried ham and sweet-cured bacon. With the fantastic fresh ingredients available on our doorstep we really can stick to our ethos that the simplest things done well can be outstanding.”

As well as a carefully selected wine list featuring wines from all four corners of the globe, The Blue Anchor will stock a number of ales and beers including its very own ale made by McMullens, which will be brewed with food in mind.

The Blue Anchor is ideally situated close to the heart of the historic city of St Albans with its glorious cathedral and wonderful history and the pub’s garden runs down to the River Ver with great views across to Verulamium Park and beyond. Refurbishment of The Blue Anchor will enhance the convivial ambience of this charming Victorian pub with stone floors, oak panel walls and brick fireplaces.

Hertfordshire chef and restaurateur, Paul Bloxham has an infectious passion for food and cooking. A staunch advocate of seasonal British produce he is also a tireless crusader for local suppliers and the Daily Market Menu at his award-winning pub The Tilbury in Datchworth reflects this as will the daily menus at his new pub, The Blue Anchor in St Albans.

Paul is an entertaining writer, creating recipes for national magazines as well as recipes for children and those with allergies. He also writes a monthly column on seasonal ingredients for a national magazine and Hertfordshire’s regional papers. Over the years Paul has appeared on numerous food programmes as TV chef and presenter most recently on Market Kitchen.

The Blue Anchor, which has its own car park is now open. To make a reservation call, 01727 855038 or book online www.theblueanchorstalbans.co.uk 145 Fishpool Street, St Albans, AL3 4RY

National Journalist and PR Consultant Laura Berrill Knows what the press want, how to get your business, services and events exposure without costly advertising.

Generated an unprecedented amount of publicity for numerous clients.

01727 836646 / 07944 555238 lauraberrill@btinternet.com

ON STAGE

BY TERRY SULLIVAN

The month of June brings two very diverse shows to the area’s stages offering something for everyone:On Friday 18th at the Alban Arena, St Albans you can watch 50’s/60’s singing sensations ‘The Platters’. I recently managed to catch up with lead singer John Cheatdom and asked him about his 53 year singing career. John has been with the group for over 28 years touring all over the world including the UK, Europe, their homeland USA and extensively in Mexico. Prior to this Cheatdom has sung and recorded with the group ‘The Velours’ who he had a hit with in 1957 with ‘Can I come over tonight’.

One of their most memorable concerts happened in South Africa during the ‘Yes Vote Concert’ in the 80’s. John‘s favourite songs include ‘It’s Only Make Believe’ (Conway Twitty), ‘All In The Game’ (Tommy Edwards) and The Platters Classic ‘Harbour Lights’. He can count the likes of Gladys Knight as one of his closest friends although he has never managed to record with her .He told me he would also love to record with the likes of Johnny Mathis and Smokey Robinson as they continue to record albums yearly in the studio including re-recording and updating their old hits and some new compositions. But fear not fans of the group, they will be performing all of their classic hits including ‘Only you’, ‘The Great Pretender’ and The No1 hit ‘Smoke Gets In your Eyes’ live on this tour.

The Langley

On Saturday 26th June at The Grove Theatre, Dunstable, one of the hardest working men in the music business rock singer, Steve Steinman brings his new show ‘Bat The Symphony.’ Steve, the man behind ‘Vampires Rock’, ‘Meat Loaf Trilogy’ and his new show ‘Bad Boy Johnny and The Prophets of Doom’ (which made Russell Crowe a big star in Australia in 1989) has just finished its first tour of the UK with two sell out nights at London’s Shaw Theatre.

Steve started out on a very different career path when he worked as a chef in his then home town of Manchester where he opened, and ran, his own restaurant. He then applied for the TV show ‘Stars in Your Eyes’ after one of his customers heard him singing. He went on to win the series playing Meat Loaf . Bat the Symphony is his biggest project to date and has been his dream for many a year and combines a 40 piece orchestra with Steve’s very own regular rock band to perform all of Meat Loaf’s biggest hits. Having seen all of Steve’s other shows I know with the addition of Steve’s amazing vocal talent, this will be a great experience and a real treat for both rock and classical fans alike.

Banqueting & Conference Suites

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• Stage/Dance floor/Catwalk • Changing rooms • Multi-storey public car park for 700 cars adjacent to venue

OUT OF HOURS

At The Langley we appreciate that corporate clients require personal touches to their events – whether it be complex presentations, conferences, marketing or training events, we can provide the complete setting with multi-media functionality fully available and the right facilities at hand

SOCIAL DIARY : JUNE 2010 With all the talk in the media of South Africa’s World Cup Tournament running between 11th June and 11th July, you would be forgiven for thinking it was the only event being held.

We’ve done a round up of some of the events in June that gives us all a chance to glam up and have fun.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVAL 2010 : 8th – 19th June 2010

Back in 1514 Thomas Wolsey acquired Hampton Court and over the next 11 years went about changing Hampton Court from a Manor House to a Palace.

Today Hampton Court Palace is still standing strong and is host to the Hampton Court Palace Festival, now in it’s 18th year.

With a line up boasting Katherine Jenkins, Michael Bolton, Van Morrison, Michael Ball, Simply Red and many others, this year’s festival – 8th – 19th June 2010 – is destined to be an excellent event. Tickets are around £63-£73, depending on who you wish to see. Although you can spoil yourself and book a hospitality package. Starting with a Champagne & canapé reception, followed by dinner and reserved seats in the VIP covered Grandstand, prices are from £249 +VAT (minimum of 2 guests). www.hamptoncourtfestival.com

ROYAL ASCOT : 15th – 19th June 2010

There are some things in life that are truly British and Ladies Day at Ascot is one of them. Officially called Gold Cup Day, it is traditionally on the 3rd day of the event which this year will be 17th June 2010.

There is a strict dress code for Royal Ascot with items such as jeans, sportswear and shorts strictly banned, unless you have tickets for the Silver Ring which only states “smart” as it’s requirements. Tickets for Royal Ascot start from as little as £14 for group bookings (10 or more) in the Silver Ring (please note that Saturday 19th June 2010 has sold out). Grandstand admission is between £42 and £66 and Royal Enclosure tickets are only available through sponsorship of a current badgeholder. Race times start at 2.30pm each day and finish by 5.35pm leaving you plenty of time to go and have dinner somewhere local. With 18 restaurants in the near vicinity (www.racemeetings. co.uk) there is something for everyone. www.ascot.co.uk

WIMBLEDON : 7th June – 4th July 2010

Another British tradition is strawberries and cream whilst watching the tennis and, if you’re really unlucky, Cliff Richard singing during the rain!

Wimbledon opens each day at 10.30am with games provisionally booked to play from 12.00pm (courts 2-19) although a few start at 11am. Centre and No’1 Courts start at 1pm with the finals at 2pm. Tickets are available through members ballots and these are now closed. There are, however, 500 tickets daily for Centre 1 & 2 Courts. Roughly 6,000 Ground Admission tickets are available daily on the doors. www.wimbledon.org

LONDON CLOTHES SHOW : 25th - 27th June 2010

Running for 3 days the London Clothes Show is a great chance to let your hair down and have fun – whilst checking out what’s in season next year!

Visiting the Fashion Theatre, Style Stage and Designer Beach can be thirsty work so a trip to the Champagne Bar to revitalise you is always welcome. Or, if you fancy a style change why not visit the Stop & Chop where celebrity hairdressers are performing makeovers for visitors picked out of the crowd. Tickets are available from £26 and include entrance fee, plus a seat in the Fashion Theatre.

Alternatively, for £38 your entrance ticket will also include a premium seat in the Fashion Theatre, a goody bag and a show guide. (subject to a £2 booking fee). Doors open from 11am on Friday 25th and 9am on both Saturday and Sunday. www.clothesshowlondon.com

HENLEY REGATTA : 30th June – 4th July 2010

Henley Regatta is a free event and many spectators flock to the river banks in their finery to watch the events go by. With a maximum of 88 events in a day there is plenty to see.

There is The Stewards Enclosure which is situated on the Berkshire bank near the finish which is private and only allows admission to members and their guests. Temple Island, close to the starting line, is a unique corporate hospitality venue which includes a four-course luncheon by world-renowned chef Albert Roux.

But, if this isn’t your cup of tea then a champagne picnic on the river banks is always a clear favourite.

BEDFORD RIVER FESTIVAL : 17th & 18th July 2010

The dates for the 2010 Bedford River Festival are confirmed as the 17th & 18th July.

Preparations are well under way for the Festival but they are still looking for participants across the Festival weekend. Here are some of the ways in which you can participate.

Festival Parade : Be it a decorated vehicle, band or on foot, help launch the 2010 Festival as well as collecting money for local charities. The parade generally begins on De Pary’s Avenue, working its way down through the High Street, winding around St Paul’s Square and its final destination, Riverside. The traditional opening of the Festival, the Parade, is a great fun packed way to kick off Bedford’s premiere event.

Raft Races : Build your own raft and enter a team to race down the river and support local charities. This is always a highlight of the festival and it is always interesting to see how many rafts cross the finish line!

Music Stages If you are a local singer/band/music or theatre group and want to showcase your talents at the Festival, why not apply to perform on one of the five live music stages across the site?

For more information visit www.bedfordevents.co.uk/river_festival.

17tH & 18tH JULY, FROM 11AM

FANTASTIC FREE FAMILY FUN! THE EMBANKMENT AND RUSSELL PARK BEDFORD

cil rough Coun Bedford Bo presents...

Dragon Boats • Raft Races • Food & Drink • Music Stages Village Green • Fireworks • Funfair, Rides and much much more!

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Web: www.bedfordevents.co.uk Email: events@bedford.gov.uk DSD Design, Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street

OUT OF HOURS

Carnival Parade • Sports Village • Heritage Village • Arts & Craft

BENTLEY MULSANNE

DRIVE IN LUXURY AND STYLE : BECKY LEWIS LOOKS AT THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE BENTLEY FLEET WHEN FOUNDER W.O BENTLEY SET OUT TO CREATE SOMETHING WHICH WAS AT THE PINNACLE OF MOTORING, I BET HE NEVER THOUGHT HE COULD HAVE INSPIRED THIS

DRIVE

Bentley wanted something large, refined, comfortable, and of course fast! Skip forward to the 21st century and that is exactly what he got: a legacy that embodies all of these characteristics.

This is the Bentley Mulsanne. This is like nothing else on the road.

The Mulsanne is inspired by W.O Bentley’s crowning achievement, his 8-litre engine, a powertrain that transformed his vehicles from being rugged, sporting tourers, into refined automobiles. But, while it is a fitting tribute to the original, the Mulsanne’s V8 engine has been completely redeveloped to be more refined, efficient, lighter and integrate the latest technologies. The Mulsanne’s V8 sees the introduction of two new control systems: Cam Phasing and, a first for the flagship motoring sector, Variable Displacement.

Variable Displacement imperceptibly powers down four cylinders when cruising with a light load and the moment you press your foot down, it seamlessly brings all eight cylinders back into play. The overall result is an improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions of up to 15%.

In the Mulsanne, the twin-turbocharged V8 engine has a staggering 505bhp (similar to that of a Corvette) which will deliver 0-60 in 4.8 seconds. Every major component from the forged crankshaft to the pistons are now designed for even better engine response. It will still achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, plus improved refinement and torque.

Centred around a 60-Gigabyte hard drive, the Mulsanne’s multimedia system allows storage of thousands of your favourite songs or pictures.

There are even two SD memory card slots and in available markets, a telephone SIM card slot.

The Mulsanne’s standard audio system comes with 14 speakers powered through six channels, digital sound processing and full iPod® and MP3 player compatibility.

And if that wasn’t enough, you also have the choice of over 100 exterior paint choices in a range of Metallic, Solid, Satin, and Pearlescent finishes. For individuals who prefer even greater personalisation, they can accommodate requests to match a colour that is uniquely personal to you.

NETWORKING DO YOU COME HERE OFTEN?

TEN TIPS TO GET YOUR REFERRAL MESSAGE ACROSS (PART ONE)

BY ANDY LOPATA When someone asks me what I do at a networking event, I always respond “I network”, “I’m a networker” or something similar. I do this because I want to intrigue people and get them to ask me what I mean, and listen to the answer. After all, when someone asks you what you do in that situation, it is no more than the networking equivalent of “Do you come here often?”

Last night I was at a business networking event. Over dinner one attendee, who had asked me earlier what I do, asked me how being a networker could be a business. This was exactly the reaction I look for, it had obviously been on her mind for some time and she really wanted to know the answer. This led our group into a discussion about when to let people know what you do. If you tell people straight away, they will immediately decide how relevant you are to them and how much more they want to listen. Because they haven’t bought into you yet. Intrigue people so that they really want to know and they’ll listen far more carefully.

But to what extreme can you take this intrigue? I had been in a meeting earlier in the day and was describing a contact from my network. As I described him I suddenly realised that I don’t really know what he does. He has an excellent reputation as a successful businessman with great contacts and as someone really worth knowing. But I don’t know what he does.

I had enjoyed a 1-2-1 with him only a couple of months ago, but still I don’t know what he does. At my next meeting I asked my colleague, who also knows this person, what he thought he did. He has known him for four years...and he doesn’t know!

And at last night’s event I saw someone else who shares this contact, and he doesn’t really know!

The upshot is that I (and I’m probably not alone in this) am very keen to get in touch with my contact to arrange another meeting as soon as possible and really try to understand his business and what opportunities he is looking for. I don’t know if that is the outcome he is looking for, if so it’s brilliant networking, or if he simply doesn’t know how to communicate his business. At what stage do you tell people what you do and how effectively do you communicate this? Do you trot out the standard ‘elevator pitch’ fare as soon as someone asks what you do? Do you make your answer relevant to the person asking or give everyone the same response? Or do you make them wait for an answer, ensuring that they really want to know?

So what do you do?

Let’s focus on building the relationship with people first, find out who we have a rapport with and develop that before worrying about what each of us does. This approach comes from a belief that you pursue the relationship, not the sale, when networking and knowing what comes first.

Andy Lopata is one of the UK’s leading business networking strategists and co-author of the Amazon.co.uk bestselling book ‘and Death Came Third! The Definitive Guide to Networking and Speaking in Public’. For more information visit www.lopata.co.uk

VISIT OUR WEBSITE, www.businessindependent.co.uk FOR A FULL ROUND-UP OF THE REGION’S NETWORKING EVENTS.

www.businessindependent.co.uk

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NETWORKING & EVENTS

To me, “what do you do?” is the networking equivalent of asking an attractive woman “do you come here often?” when you see her in a bar! You’re not genuinely interested in the answer, it’s just a way to get chatting.

In other words, it’s an icebreaker, and that’s fine. After all, icebreakers are what we are discussing here. However, do you really want “what do you do?” to be asked of you as an icebreaker, when the person asking isn’t interested in the response? I know I don’t. I want people to have a genuine interest when they ask me that, based on having got to know me and a desire to know more. However generous our spirit when we attend events, we are rarely in that position as soon as we approach people.