BUSINESS CONNECTOR Summer 2017
From London to Shanghi to Belfast, in this edition, Photographer Jasmin Bell tells us about her work and how she adds value for her clients!
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
Mayor of Ards and North Down Launching #ArdsNthDownHour at Clandeboye Estate as part of the Business Beyond Brexit Conference organised by The Acordia Network & Business Alliance
Since our last edition, Acordia has opened a fourth Business Group based in Newtownabbey to help businesses develop and grow in County Antrim rea. The next Acordia conference is due to take place in the Hilden Brewery in Lisburn. The brewery is an iconic building and a tourist attraction on the edge of the City of Lisburn. The keynote speaker is JP Irvine,General Counsel and Company Secretary of the Translink Group. JP will be informing delegates about the proposals for developing the transport infrastructure across Northern Ireland as well as giving details of the new Belfast Transport Hub. Most importntly, he will be giving the conference insights as to how new infrastructural developments will help local businesses as they develop their strategies as we move towards Brexit. Wewill also be having a Negotiating Workshop delivered by international training expert John McCabe of Bespoke Training solutions. Finally, I hope you enjoy reading the magazine and I would appreciate your comments and questions.
All contributors to The Business Connectors Magazine are practicing professionals. They can provide practical advice and offer tailor made business solutions.
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
The Acordia Network & Business Alliance Belfast - Bangor & Ards - Lisburn - Newtownabbey
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To generate more new business through networking, and to learn the marketing skills needed to generate new business in their normal geographic market, Acordia members are well ahead of their competition.
Of course, the opportunities for referrals, collaboration with other businesses and generally getting new ideas & support, go without saying! The Acordia Network & Business Alliance is dedicated to making sure its members are kept up to date with the latest trends in business while at the same time, facilitating high level Strategic Networking across the network. Acordia attracts quality Brands to its membership as well as local SME’s and all transfer knowledge, and support each other’s business in diverse ways.
Acordia has a diverse membership and anyone wishing to join Acordia should contact us to find out if there is a place available in your local branch. Acordia is keen to attract only individuals who seek to participate in our professional networking process, and we therefore take care when admitting new members. Acordia also prides itself in being the only truly ‘Strategic’ networking organisation in Northern Ireland with its own uniquely devised Advanced Networking Training as well as training in advanced Business Improvement & Personal Development Skills.
Building Business Knowledge & Skills Developing Strategic Partnerships Gaining Sales Referrals Personal Development Collaboration Find out how the Acordia Network & Business Alliance connect@acordianetwork.com www.acordianetwork.com +44 (0)754 601 7062
North Down & Ards: Belfast: Lisburn: Newtownabbey
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FSB South East Branch and Portadown Audi invite you to a�end our forthcoming event on Overcoming Adversity - with Gerry Faloona
6.00pm on Tuesday 13 June 2017 Tickets: £5.00 + booking fees - including refreshments Find out more, including how you could win an overnight stay in a Has�ngs Hotel and use of an Audi, by clicking below:
BOOK NOW Want to know more? Visit: Tweet: Tel: Email:
fsb.org.uk/regions/northern-Ireland @FSBNIRegion 07917 628994 mairaid.mcmahon@fsb.org.uk
This is something that I hear on a regular basis. However when I carry out a review of the PPC campaign in question, it is easy to identify why the campaign has failed. It is due to a combination of factors. Here are a few examples: Campaigns that are built without adding any negative keywords: - MXA Digital add an average of 300 generic negative keywords to every campaign before putting it live. Location targeting not set up correctly. When the two factors above are not correctly setup the campaign will receive clicks for services or products that you do not offer or are unable to provide to the end user, due to the location logistics. The ads are quite often directed to the home page, rather than the exact landing page, this causes a high bounce rate as the end user wants to go to the page that contains the exact product or service they are searching for, it also has a negative effect on the Google quality score which will increase the cost of your clicks.
This highlights a small number of errors that we encounter whilst reviewing Google PCC campaigns that clients have either built and ran themselves or an inexperienced digital marketer has built. If you have struggled to get a ROI from your Google AdWords campaign or have given up on trying to grow your business online, think again! We would be more than happy to carry out a free review of current or dormant PPC campaigns and advise you how you can gain great results from a well built and managed PPC campaign.
Google officially announced that it now receives more searches from mobile devices than it does from traditional desktop computers. With this is mind it’s common sense that your website must be mobile friendly. You can achieve this in one of 2 ways: have a mobile version of the website or by creating a ‘responsive’ website. A responsive website is a site that re-positions and re-styles content dependent on which device it is being viewed on. So if somebody is viewing your website on a mobile device like a phone, it will automatically reformat the content to make it easy to read. The responsive website is generally easier to manage as it is the same code, whereas a mobile version sometimes involves running effectively 2 separate websites.
Creating great content about your industry is a brilliant way of generating more leads and improving your website ranking. The more pages and content you have on your site the more Google has to read and decide that you are an authoritative source for your industry. People love to share good content. The shared content then acts as an ambassador for your company on the Internet and can drive more traffic to your website – and more traffic means more potential leads.
Social Media is very powerful in terms of SEO. If you have more likes, shares and comments on your blog post then it’ll give a positive signal to Google that people find your content useful and interesting.
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
By Alan Stewart
There is constant attention in the media to the increase in cybercrime and the growing threats to businesses as a result. Its important to reduce the risk of exposure to your business by regularly updating all your software & anti-virus products. You can even go further by investing in full network audits & penetration tests to identify any vulnerabilities in your infrastructure, so you can shore up the gaps. However, basic staff awareness training on how to spot something suspicious and general do’s and don’ts online will go a long way to complement any infrastructure measures you have in place.
There are a lot of options on this one, but the main theme is get a Data Back-up Strategy if you don’t already have one. We would advocate a secure off-site encrypted cloud solution, why? If you are using CD/DVD, external drives or flash drives not only is this time consuming and extremely prone to errors, but these could all fail and you could lose your important data. The main thing is, do it daily, test your backup works regularly and that you can restore your data quickly, you want to minimise any downtime.
If you would like to discuss any of your IT requirements with us, please call us on 0800 123010 or email alan@precept.IT or for more useful information visit our website at www.precept.it
Tell us how Precept IT can Help Your Business!
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
Hello, I'm Jasmin and I’m a portrait photographer based in Belfast, with access to a ‘State of the Art’ studio located on the Upper Malone Road.
I understand that having your portrait taken can be a daunting experience to those who are not yet experienced in front of the lens. I always work patiently with all my subjects and I often do a short confidence building session to ensure they enjoy the experience. My strategy is to get the subject’s confidence soaring to have ‘your best you’ ready.
I have a First Class BA (Hons) in Photography and have six years’ experience photographing people in London and Shanghai, before returning to my native Belfast.
A range of photographic packages to suit individual needs and budgets. These range from digital images to printing and framing.
With retouching I can provide removal of fine lines, virtual weight reduction, teeth and eye whitening, not to mention, skin correction to provide the full ‘Hollywood Treatment’. Also, by request, we have a hair, makeup and styling team to help make your vision a reality.
I work with a wide range of people from business professionals, to families and pets.
For commissions, portrait sessions or to discuss a potential project, please
…Keep your Customers - Interested… Informed… and Buying…
So Why is SMS Your Best Modern Marketing Tool? ● 89.9 Million UK mobile subscriptions ● 97% of SMS marketing messages are opened within minutes ● SMS coupons are 10 times more likely to be redeemed than regular coupons ● A low Cost way to build customer loyalty ● Most users aim to keep their mobile phone numbers for life. Text messaging is an instant and powerful communications tool when you need to promote to your customers - Instantly! Text Messaging is the Fastest way to Strengthen Relationships and Boost to your Business. Text messaging for business or SMS (Short Message Service) is the quickest and most reliable way to get your message across! Start off by collecting existing and prospective customer mobile numbers… How? TextpertMedia will show you the techniques for building a powerful mobile number database.
To stir up business in a hurry, create a special promotion and let your best prospects know right away with a text. Give your customers the right offer and they will come flocking to you! Promote a new product or service with instant SMS messages. No lead time and no expensive advertising copy needed. Just a simple text message. Send coupons directly by text. It’s the cheapest way to send, and it’s 10 times more likely to be acted on!
Let Textpert Media Do the Work to Boost Your Response Rate and Build Your Business Fast! Call Us on 07923444875 or Text WIZARD to 61216 and we will call you!
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
Know the ‘True Potential’ of your Financial Capabilities! BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
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For me, planning for the financial future is more than just looking at numbers; it’s the people and dreams behind the figures that matter the most.
Protecting you and your family from unforeseen circumstances is essential now, and in the years to come. I can provide protection cover in the various forms of life, critical illness and disability solutions as well as guidance on Inheritance Tax.
I can simplify your life by addressing all aspects of your financial wellbeing.
Recognising that everyone’s personal situations are unique, I will take the time to get to know you and what’s important. Whether it’s a worry-free retirement, saving for your children’s education, fulfilling a lifelong ambition, leaving a legacy to your loved ones or a cherished cause, I can work with you every step of the way. I can simplify your life by addressing all aspects of your financial wellbeing.
Through the use of True Potential’s awardwinning technology, I can provide straightforward and transparent advice in a simple and convenient way along with giving you 24/7 online access to your complete financial affairs. As a result, you will be better informed, confident and empowered to reach your financial goals.
I encourage you to take the time to explore my website— and discover more about my ‘Beyond Wealth Management’ service and how you can benefit. Email-stevencrothers@tpllp.com Mobile-07919 392124
Beyond Wealth Management’
Jonathan Perkins
LET ME INTRODUCE MYSELF I would like to introduce myself as Jonathan Perkins. Portadown Audi Business Development Manager. My role is to provide a bespoke level of service to the local business community for the Audi product. Whether it be an SME, Sole Trader or large Enterprise I can help. Many Business’s find looking after vehicles a chore and an inconvenience and that is where I can help ease the pressure by advising on the best product and funding option for your vehicle and business needs. Should you have one vehicle or a fleet of vehicles you are equally as important to us and I would be glad to help. I am completely mobile and will happily come to your business to discuss the options. Having full support and backing from the manufacturer by dealing with me you can also avail of specific business offers. Having 17 years motor trade experience including workshop, Retail sales and Business sales with the Audi Brand I am confident your business will value from my expertise.
Indian Head Massage Emotional Freedom Techniques For Ever Living Aloe Vera Products
Reiki Reflexology Aromatouch
Simply Serene Complementary Therapies began in January 2016. I currently operate a mobile service of Reflexology and Indian Head Massage for people in their own homes which is ideal for or those who want to have an individual one hour relaxing treatment without having to leave the house. It is also ideal for people who are less mobile and require treatment at home.
I worked in a highly pressurized office environment for a number of years so I fully appreciate the stress that many people are under at work. This prompted me to branch out into corporate wellbeing. Overall, I provide a pop-up therapy room at the office where staff can come and de-stress for a short time with some Reflexology or an Indian Head Massage. The Indian Head Massage is by far the most popular treatment as it relieves tension in the back, neck, shoulders and head.
I believe in encouraging clients to help themselves and I facilitate Reflexology self-help workshops to teach clients techniques to aid relaxation and to assist with everyday ailments. I have been developing my business over the last year and I hope to continue to grow and provide more treatments and health and wellbeing programmes for clients.
I am a qualified Reiki Master teacher and I am planning to start Reiki Level 1 courses to enable people to self-treat. I am also an Emotional Freedom Techniques Master Practitioner and I’m trained in Aromatouch Techniques and I’m hoping to develop my work in these areas. I am currently studying for the VTCT Level 4 Reflexology Diploma and this will enable me to work with Maternity and Fertility clients and people with life limiting conditions.
I have diversified my business interests and I am now a Forever Living Aloe Vera business owner. I love getting out an meeting people, sharing the great products and I continue to be busy with lots of fairs.
Recent updates from the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer have clarified that sole traders, the selfemployed and buy-to-let landlords with income of less than the current ÂŁ83,000 VAT threshold will not have to start quarterly reporting until 2019, a one-year deferral from the planned
introduction date. Businesses over the ÂŁ85,000 VAT threshold will have to report under quarterly reporting from April 2018. Businesses, self-employed people and landlords will be required to start using the new digital service as follows: - those with income/turnover above VAT threshold (currently ÂŁ85k for 2017/18) will have to start quarterly reporting if they have profits chargeable to income tax and pay Class 4 national insurance contributions (NICs) - those below the VAT threshold will have to start reporting on a quarterly basis - currently reporting via self- assessment (if they have profits chargeable to income tax and pay Class 4 NICs (ie, turnovers below VAT threshold) - all VAT payments will have to be processed through Making Tax Digital - above taxpayers will quarterly report if they pay corporation tax from 2020. Note that the details on incorporated businesses and partnerships under quarterly reporting have still not been confirmed. A consultation on the penalties regime for Making Tax Digital will be issued on 20 March, as well as more details on the administration system for quarterly reporting.
enquiries@ bmgaccountants.co.uk www.bmgaccountants.co.uk 02891 800 542
Even before Teresa May triggered Article 50 to start the process of withdrawal from Europe, much has been said about negotiating the best possible deal for the UK. The Europeans, will of course be negotiating to protect the best interests of the remaining states. The negotiating teams on both sides face an enormous task, with a multiplicity of issues to be resolved, and multiple stakeholders to be kept happy. Fortunately, our day to day business negotiations are a lot less complex. Never the less there are some common principles and good practice which can be applied to both scenarios . What are the issues on the agenda – ours and theirs? What information do we have? What information do we need? What questions do we need to ask? – what’s most important. Must haves, as opposed to nice to haves. and tell the other side what you want. Where possible, get your proposal in first. This lets you set the agenda. – find out what the other side’s issues and priorities are. . Only concede in return for concessions of equal or greater value from the other side. Something which costs us little can be of considerable value to the other side. Don’t give it away – trade it. when the deal is done!
John McCabe has been training negotiators in organisations across abroad range of industries and sectors in the UK, Ireland, Europe, USA and the Far East, for over 20 years. He is the owner of Bespoke Solutions, a Learning and Development Consultancy who specialise in providing tailored solutions to fit the client’s specific needs.
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
By Jimmy Roberts
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Everyone knows that we are in a fast moving digital age, and no-one wants to wait any more! Instead, everyone wants everything today. The growth of the Internet has facilitated this “now” demand and every business needs an online presence to showcase their products and services in the 24 hour shop window which is the world wide web. No matter what you offer, accommodation, food, professional services, home furnishings or even a nursing home – you will benefit from a website. Your services can be highlighted, your location identified and you can sell your products and receive payment to promote your business
However with all this opportunity comes competition so your website needs to attract customers, inform and be easy to use.
All too often websites are designed with so many that the core we have 15 years’ message is lost. At experience of building and supporting business websites. We understand small businesses and their needs and all our sites are created to give maximum exposure on the web. We utilise the latest “Responsive” technology to ensure your site looks great on Mobile, Tablet and Desktop. If your website is not mobile-friendly then it will not be viewed by the 38 million smart phone users in the UK, thereby losing you valuable custom. What’s more, all our sites are self-editing – YOU can make changes, add special offers, replace images, and add pages all with the help of your local consultant based in Belfast. This gives you peace of mind that your investment is protected and always working to promote
Finally - That investment! Our entry level site, professionally designed, costs only £200 +VAT and a low monthly subscription of £20+VAT. As your business grows a simple upgrade to a multi-paged site or to e-commerce is a small step.
BUSINESS CONNECTOR magazine
A This allows you to free up your valuable time to concentrate on your own core skills, which enables you to grow your business. As a business owner, you have many hats to wear especially in the early days, so SMART people delegate and value their time more. Efficiency begins when you understand that as the business owner, there are certain tasks you no longer need to do. Outsourcing offers you a safe pair of hands to get support in your business where you need it most. It will maximise your productivity and efficiency, whilst remaining cost effective and flexible. Productivity and efficiency are frequent topics of conversation for businesses for a simple reason: when you figure it out, your revenue increases!
We specialise in providing creative business and administration support for entrepreneurs and business owners who understand the value of At SmartPA, we provide an emotional intelligence and desire to help our clients and entrepreneurs to achieve more and grow their business. We provide a support system that inspires people to be, do and have more. When we engage with a client, we act, think and behave as if we were part of their business. We fully engage with their company ethos and beliefs, the service is seamless. We have highly trained and fully accredited partners, with a vast range of skills-sets, and therefore we can support a huge range of businesses. From start-ups to large corporate organisations, SmartPA is proving invaluable support to companies of all sizes. Contact us today to find out how we can help you work “Smarter not Harder!�