Issue20

NEW BUSINESS

MATTERS Your local business to business journal

Points of Interest in this Issue: • Great Rates on Business Deposit Account (p2) • Benefits of changing name to Days Hotel (p8) • Champions for Real Life Entrepreneurs (p10) • FREE Employer Staff Pension Seminar (p11) • The Benefits/Risks of Cloud Computing (p13) • Complete Corporate Start-up Wardrobe (p21) • Huge Savings on your Business Utilities (p26)

BUSINESS TIPS AND ADVICE! Issue 20/2012

April/May

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NEW BUSINESS MATTERS

Editor’s Note I am still trying to understand what effects the budget had on me whilst I sip a cool glass of wine reading the latest issue of the NBM Magazine and looking out over the calm blue sea. Having said that I do not think it is time to put my feet up just yet. Far from it in fact as it looks like my pension is going to be rubbish, so I expect I might still be working when I am 70 years of age.

Before you ask I am only 64 and I feel fighting fit and raring to go!

My optimism has been inspired by an increase in the business we have generated in the month prior to Easter, which may of course have had something to do with the weather! It has been unbelievably mild and sunny for this time of year and strange as it is the sunshine can help us all feel much better about the world, but of course the sun eventually, or sometimes quite quickly, disappears behind a big dark cloud.

This can also happen to your business if you are not careful, so I urge you to not take your foot off the pedal just yet, as I believe it will be several months or indeed years before we are totally out of the woods. Therefore, I suggest you keep on promoting your business at every opportunity, especially with direct sales activity, but if you are having problems finding new prospects perhaps you should also consider using New Business Matters to advertise your business?

Kind regards

Peter Westwood

You can be the only company of your trade or profession represented in this local business to business journal.

For details on the ‘marketing packages’ available, please contact: Peter Westwood on 01202 233580 or email sales@newbusinessmatters.com New Business Matters UK Ltd Spacemaker House, 518 Wallisdown Road Bournemouth, Dorset BH11 8PT Tel: 01202 233580

April/May

CONTENTS 02 BUSINESS SAVER 25 03 EDITORS NOTES 04 TAX ON SMART PHONES 05 CONSTRUCTION MATTERS 06 DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE 07 CONTRACT LAW MATTERS 08 EVENTS & CONFERENCES 09 FURNITURE MATTERS 10 REAL LIFE ENTREPRENEURS 11 ‘FREE’ PENSION SEMINAR 12 MOBILE MARKETING 13 CLOUD COMPUTING 14 TENANCY DEPOSITS 15 PROMOTIONAL GIFTING 16 DESIGN, PRINT & MAILING 17 TECHNOLOGY IN PRINT 18 RECOVERY MATTERS 19 SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS 20 STRATEGIC ADVICE 21 LOCAL VISITING TAILOR 22 TRAINING MATTERS 23 WAREHOUSING MATTERS 24 ‘FREE’ HR CONSULTATION 24 EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION 25 FINE SEAFRONT DINING 25 SPORTS BETTING SYSTEMS 26 REDUCE YOUR OVERHEADS 27 ATTRACT THE BEST PEOPLE 28 IT PRODUCTS & SERVICES The information contained within this publication is not intended to be complete. Whilst the publisher endeavours to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and the publisher accepts no liability for the use of, reliance on or the accuracy of such information. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and therefore the publisher accepts no responsibility for them. All artwork and editorial is copywrite and may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. © New Business Matters UK Limited January 2009 Designed by: Kerry Phillips, Palm Design Printed by: Remous Limited, Sherborne Published by: New Business Matters UK Limited

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 3

ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS

April/May

Income tax treatment of smart phones

By Andrew Hill, Director at Hill Osborne

H

MRC have finally come to their senses and have agreed that the new generation of smart phones can be classified as mobile telephones for tax purposes, broadly five years since they first came into the market.

Previously when such devices were provided to employees for work purposes they were classified

by HMRC as personal digital assistants rather than as mobile telephones.

Accordingly the provision of these smart phones should have been disclosed on forms P11D – returns of benefits in kind, which not only attract an income tax liability on the part of the employee, but also a liability to Class 1A National Hill Osborne Insurance for the employer.

Logo Variant 1

HMRC have now acknowledged that these hi-tech phones generally satisfy the conditions to be classified as mobile telephones and accordingly nil return of such benefits is required. Employers affected by the classification change may now be able to recover Class 1A NICs paid incorrectly as far back as 2006/07.

TIP: Where mobile phones are provided to employees make sure the contract is in the name of the employer otherwise the special rules applying to mobile phones is not effective.

If you would like to review the tax implications of your company smart phones why not contact Hill Osborne and take advantage of a free one-hour consultation.

C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N TA N T S & B U S I N E S S A D V I S E R S

Our aim is to provide you with the best possible service and we do this by giving you a direct access to the Partner who is responsible for your affairs. This ensures that they will be able to develop a close relationship with you and establish a thorough understanding of your business. Clients can take advantage of a wide range of services as listed below.

• • • • •

Auditing Accounts preparation Taxation compliance including Self Assessment Personal and Corporate Tax Planning Inheritance Tax Planning DSM – Design Solutions in Media

D1, Arena Business Centres, Holyrood Close Poole, Dorset, BH17 7FP, UK

[T] 0845 500 4600 [E] info@dsm-design.co.uk

• • • • •

Payroll Bureau Business Start-ups and advice on acquisitions and disposals Raising of business finance Management consultancy Company secretarial services

Hill Osborne, Tower House, Parkstone Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 2JH Tel: 01202 678555 Fax: 01202 666071 Email: enquiries@hill-osborne.co.uk www.hill-osborne.co.uk

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

CONSTRUCTION MATTERS

April/May

Choose an innovative Solutions Provider!

By Landon Reid, Sales and Business Development Director, EWL International

W

hen choosing a Main Contractor for your specific project you should first of all look at a Company that has several specialist divisions, such as Planning & Consulting, Design, Construction, Funding, Refurbishment and Maintenance and one who can offer any of these services in isolation or as a full turnkey solution to suit your requirements, which will ensure you get the best possible advice and service!

Whether you are considering a small House Extension, an Industrial Building, a Sports Complex, a Modular School Extension, a Hospital or Treatment Room, a multi-storey Car Park or Boat Park (RotaDock), then you should choose an innovative solutions provider who has an efficient, no-nonsense approach, with staff that are well trained, knowledgeable and, perhaps best of all, take pride in their work.

If you are having difficulty in finding such a company then look no further than EWL International, who are proud of their reputation for high quality products and service.

Our professional and experienced team are willing to assist you with your projects, whatever size they may be and will provide you with feasibility studies, design layouts, budget and funding options to suit your requirements, which make us one of the UK’s foremost Main Contractors.

To find out more about EWL International and the work we undertake, please feel free to contact me by email at info@ewlinternational.com or telephone 01202 853 300 or visit our website at www.ewlinternational.com.

We are an international construction company and together with our subsidiary companies we specialise in; Project Design and Construction Management, planning, surveys, architecture, design engineering, building control, refurbishments, and the provision of additional project funding. We can also supply RotaDock developments, a dry stacking system for boats, and Modular Technology for railways, student accommodation, schools, houses, car parks, office buildings and many more.

Planning

Design

Construction

Funding

Operating Maintenance Refurbishment Modular

We have created these different divisions so clients can choose to use only a certain discipline of the project or if required the full turnkey solution EWL International Ltd Discovery Court Business Centre, 551-553 Wallisdown Road, Poole, BH12 5AG Email: info@ewlinternational.com Website: www.ewlinternational.com

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 5

CONNECTIVITY MATTERS

C4L advert 144x210 vFINAL - 1_v4.pdf 1 23/01/2012 09:35:38

April/May

Building the South’s digital infrastructure, changing business forever...

C4L’s high speed, high capacity fibre network has been built to enable the lowest levels of latency alongside the highest levels of resilience. Coupling this with space and presence in over 40 premium UK data centres and round the clock UK based technical support, C4L provides all-encompassing internet infrastructure solutions at significantly lower costs.

The expansion of our Bournemouth data centre, one of the largest colocation facilities in the South, is just the latest chapter in a truly amazing success story.

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So let’s talk about how we can care for your data, across your whole IT infrastructure, right down to the very last byte.

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Reliability. Flexibility. Scalability.

Stay connected: www.C4L.co.uk /blog /twitter /linkedin

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

CONTRACT LAW MATTERS

April/May

Consumer Contracts!

By Susie Sanusi, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors Contracts between businesses and consumers are highly regulated. The Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1999 (the Regulations) are one example of such regulation and are the subject of a recent statement by the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

The Regulations provide that contractual terms which are not individually negotiated, and which contrary to the requirement of good faith, cause a significant imbalance between parties’ rights and obligations to the detriment of the consumer, are unfair and will not be binding on the consumer. They also give the Office of Fair Trading and other qualifying bodies the ability to apply for injunctions against businesses which seek to use unfair terms.

The FSA statement provides commentary on terms which it still commonly finds businesses using, and which are of concern under the Probate, Wills & Powers of Attorney|Divorce/Family Law| Commercial Matters|Employment Advice| Court Representation|Accident Claims|Moving Home| Parking Available

Regulations, such as terms which give businesses the right to unilaterally vary or terminate contracts, or which are not in plain and intelligible language.

The statement goes on to stress that it is for businesses to ensure their terms are fair and that disputes will be determined by the courts.

It also highlights that what is fair in one context might not be in another. It is often difficult for businesses to keep up with changes in regulation and to assess whether their contracts are fair and enforceable.

At Dickinson Manser LLP we are here to help, so if you would like any advice or information on consumer or commercial contracts, or any other business law matter, please contact Susie Sanusi on 01202 673071 or send an email to: s.sanusi@dickinsonmanser.co.uk

Big business, small business, we’re the business.

• commercial leases • commercial property transactions • property development • business transfers • commercial agreements • shareholder/company matters • partnership matters • dispute resolution and mediation • employment law matters For a no obligation discussion, please contact Mark Daniels or James Love on 01202 673071

BROADSTONE – 221 The Broadway – 01202 692308 POOLE – 5 Parkstone Road – 01202 673071

www.dickinsonmanser.co.uk

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 7

EVENT MATTERS

April/May

Russell Cotes Road, East Cliff, Bournemouth BH1 3AB 01202 552111 www.dayshotelbournemouth.co.uk So why did we change our name to Days Hotel ?.......

Many of our clients have been asking us this question.

Some thought we had sold the hotel, but we can assure you that this is not so. Some thought we had joined a group.

Again the answer is “no”.

The answer is……..

We felt that clients who are coming to Bournemouth and do not know our lovely town, or the hotels here, will probably book via the internet and choose a branded or group hotel as they will then be assured of the quality, style and standard of the venue they choose.

Wyndham Hotel Group is a global brand. Days and Ramada Encore are two names under that banner.

In September 2006 we opened our sister hotel – the Ramada Encore in Bath Road, Bournemouth. This hotel has been very successful and in 2011 won the “Hotel of the Year” from all the Ramada hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Asia...

We know and like the way that Wyndham do business and have come to know the personnel at Head office, with whom we have a good working relationship.

Joining a brand means adhering to certain standards of accommodation, service, standards of employment etc. and this is all carefully monitored to ensure that the standards are not only put in place but that they are kept up. One of the standards is that the hotel is renamed as Days Hotel for easy recognition as a brand member. However, the family are still running the hotel, which we love doing.

We have refurbished all our bathrooms and many of our bedrooms.

The foyer area has had a large conversion to make it a modern, light and airy place also taking advantage of the great sea views.

So why not come and see for yourself?

We would welcome the opportunity to show you around so that in the future, if you are in need of conference, banquet, town centre accommodation or any of our other facilities, you may save lots of time and trouble as you will know just where to come…..

Page 8

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

FURNITURE MATTERS

April/May

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Tel: 01202 622331 | www.CozyBay.co.uk

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 9

FSB MATTERS

April/May The Federation of Small Businesses

The FSB is Britain's leading business organisation with over 200,000 members. It exists to protect and promote the interests of the self-employed, and all those who run their own business.

The FSB in Dorset has 4,000 small businesses as members.

FSB Regional Office: 01425 280080 : www.fsb.org.uk/wessex

Champions for Real-Life Entrepreneurs The Federation of Small Businesses Real Life Entrepreneur campaign aims to highlight obstacles faced by people starting their own business, and the necessity of Government support to create an entrepreneur-friendly environment. In times when all we hear is negative news about the economy, it is more important that we increase efforts to rekindle an atmosphere of entrepreneurship that involves every aspect of our local society, making the proposition of setting up and running a business a realistic prospect for anyone with a good idea. Turning a good idea into a business is one of the most positive acts an individual can perform for themselves and the community in which they live.

Society accepts that the best ideas have humble beginnings and that often, the smallest businesses tend to take the biggest risks. In a society dominated by celebrity culture, ‘celebrity entrepreneurs’ have emerged as inspirational figures we are encouraged to aspire to.

Their accomplishments are widely recognised and their wealth and status are perceived as the reward of their hard work. However, this perception therefore, anyone who has a good idea and takes the risk of putting it into practice is an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs are people who take risks, work hard, and make something from nothing. The vast majority are not celebrities, and go unsung. These are the people - the real-life entrepreneurs - that we must champion.

The FSB has invited influential people within the local Dorset business community to support the spirit of Entrepreneurism, and become ‘Champions for Real-Life Entrepreneurs’. Several of our Dorset MPs and Council representatives have pledged their commitment to the campaign, and with their support, various events and activities, to profile and support entrepreneurs, will be organised throughout the local area.

What is a real life entrepreneur? en-tre-pre-neur is a noun from Old French ‘entreprendre’ (to undertake), and by definition is the owner or manager of a business enterprise, who by risk and initiative attempts to make profits.

Photo of local MPs in support of small businesses: Christopher Chope (MP for Christchurch), Tobias Ellwood (MP for Bournemouth East), Ken Moon (FSB Wessex Regional Chair), Richard Drax (MP for South Dorset), David Ramsden and Tim Colman (FSB Officers)

FSB Local Contacts: FSB Regional Office, Christchurch Tel: 01425 280080 E-mail: wessex@fsb.org.uk Neil Eames, Development Manager, Wessex Tel: 07920 846684 E-mail: neil.eames@fsb.org.uk FSB website www.fsb@org.uk/wessex

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

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Risk management services are provided by NFU Mutual Risk Management Services Limited.

NFU Mutual Financial Consultants advise on NFU Mutual products and services and in special circumstances those of other providers.

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INTERNET MATTERS

April/May

Mobile Marketing – More than you expect!

By Bryan Benjafield from greenmessage

I

n today’s ever-changing technological world, “Mobile Marketing” is a phrase that’s increasingly used, but what does it mean?

Well in simple terms it’s marketing that’s specifically targeted at mobile devices.

This however can take many forms in the way it is distributed, interpreted and used. Make sure the communications you send out are both viewable and legible on a mobile device. This could take the form of e-mail newsletters or a website.

If they view it on a mobile and it’s too small or incompatible then the chances are they won’t bother to look for a second time.

Another aspect of mobile marketing is to actively connect with somebody on a mobile level.

You could use an SMS (Text Message) system, to either broadcast a brief message or to give a prospect/client an opportunity to use their mobile

Page 12

to interact with your business, either through entering a competition, voting, or simply signing up to receive further communications. All of these are ways of increasing the interactivity with your customer, whilst simultaneously increasing your own database of both mobile numbers and e-mail address.

Finally, when marketing to anybody on a mobile level it is important to bear in mind how much time that person has when they are reading your communications or sending information - keep it brief and easy to read!

For more information on how a mobile solution can work for your business, please contact Bryan Benjafield on 01202 802205, e-mail bryan@greenmessage.co.uk or visit www. greenmessage.co.uk.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

IT MATTERS

April/May

CLOUD COMPUTING – AGAIN! THE BENEFITS AND RISKS

By Mike Burden, Head of IT at Copyrite There probably aren’t too many business directors now that have not heard about Cloud Computing. Undoubtedly it has its benefits, so much so that the foundations of Cloud Computing have been around for many years delivering to many organisations.

Cloud Computing can help those that want to outsource the effort and costs of maintaining servers and applications, also allowing capital expenditure on new equipment to be replaced by operational expenditure. Operationally, it particularly suits those that need to access data and systems from anywhere, and should allow usage to be scaled up and down as required.

Adopters of Cloud Computing do need to exercise some caution. They will need to be sure of the capabilities of their computing provider, checking out how resilient the service is and how secure the data is. The other key factor is to check out the agreement, nothing is for ever and adopters need to ensure they can exit with minimum fuss.

What is it?

Just like a cloud, it’s pretty fuzzy around the edges as to what it exactly is.

Getting started Adoption need not be a full blown launch into placing all of your IT systems in the Cloud.

Some chose to start with the email messaging services, or their backup processing. Others will take virtual server capacity to move their applications to, or will adopt their application providers cloud based solution (often referred to as Software as a Service – SaaS).

There are an ever-growing number of providers in the market place. For many customers the choice of where to go is a difficult one.

Some like the security of a big name provider, others like the personal service of a local provider, who will often be “white labelling” another providers service.

If you are not sure where to go for the services or even if to go Cloud, unfortunately there isn’t one best answer. You will need help and guidance.

What next?

If your IT provider isn’t talking to you about this yet, we can help, just call Copyrite and start taking steps to better deploy your IT. Tel: 01202 848866 Email: info@copyrite.co.uk Web: www.copyrite.co.uk

Ultimately it means you will have more of your IT outside of your own environment, and less on your own in house servers and desktops.

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 13

LETTINGS MATTERS

April/May

CHANGES TO TENANCY DEPOSIT FROM 6TH April 2012

By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals Since April 2006, if a Landlord or letting agent takes a deposit from a tenant then this must be protected by law. Up until now, the penalties imposed for not doing so has been severe.

Although, still severe if not protected the amended legislation has closed some loopholes, where landlords have successfully appealed against the penalties imposed on them for protecting the deposit late.

Currently a deposit must be protected within 14 days from receiving the deposit, failure to do so means a Section 21 notice (absolutely vital if you need to evict a tenant) would not be recognised in a court of law and the tenant was entitled to three times the deposit given plus their deposit!!

After the 6th April 2012 this has been extended to 30 days, so good news for landlords, as this gives them more time to protect the deposit and issue proof of certificate along with an ’Information for Tenants’ leaflet to the tenant, however, there will be no exceptions for those who go over the 30 days.

The penalty for not protecting the deposit within 30 days will be fined between one and three times the deposit and will be unable to use a Section 21 notice until the penalty is settled with the tenant, even if protected before going to court.

Importantly still, the tenant can seek compensation immediately after the 30 days and even after they have vacated the property.

If you want to keep up to date with the latest information with the lettings industry then email Sharon@moveonrentals.com to receive our monthly newsletter.

420 Poole Road, Branksome, Poole BH12 1DF

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

GIFTING MATTERS MATTERS PROMOTIONAL GIFTING

April/May February/March

OLYMPIC IDEAS: HOW YOU CAN WIN!

By Stephen Burge, MD of BH1 Promotions

I

think it is fair to say, when it comes to promotion people are keen to capitalise on the exposure that national events can bring to their business.

Right up to the point when they realise they cannot use any of the branding due to restrictive legislation!

However, with some clever lateral thinking there are other ways the opportunistic marketer can win!

2012 presents a number of opportunities such as the Queens Diamond Jubillee, Euro 2012, Wimbledon, Olympics and Paralympics. We already have some generic artwork on file for general use, but away from focusing on the Olympic rings consider shifting your attention towards useful/topical gifts that will offer much better ‘product placement’ for your organisation.

BH1 has a wealth of experience serving a wide range of national accounts in a multitude of sectors. which gives them a great insight to providing the best solution when it comes to promotional merchandise for events.

For example, ahead of Sailing events in Weymouth, why not consider low-cost scatter items like floating key-rings, folding binoculars or fridge magnets with useful race dates on to get your brand across to the enthusiasts?

Like anything, planning is key. Know what events are on the horizon and plan backwards four weeks from then.

Naturally you will start to build up a promotional calendar which can help in formulating a yearly marketing model.

For more ideas on how Promotional Gifts can work for you this summer contact steve@bh1promotions.co.uk or give us a call on 0845 2261 701

Page 18 a FREE copy go to Towww.newbusinessmatters.com advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 Page 233580 To receive

15

LEGAL MATTERS

April/May

Remous Limited, Wyvern Buildings, North Street, Milborne Port, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5EP

Page 16

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

PRINTING MATTERS

April/May

New Technology and how it helps you!

By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited

D

uring the recession the printing trade has been severely hit with several printing companies going to the wall, mainly due to having their turnover reduced by 50% or even more? The reason they saw their turnover decrease was purely due to their customers seeking a better deal from an alternative supplier, most probably from one that has invested in new technology over the last two years?

Without continual investment in new plant and equipment no printing company can honestly say they are giving their customers the best quality of print, the best price or indeed the best service available, because it is only possible to stay ahead of your competition if you embrace technology and install machines that will bring key improvements to the efficiency, quality and service you can offer!

The heart of any print company is the Press Room and due to the changing demand of deadline print you have to invest in the very latest of presses that will provide the following advantages: • ISO Accurate Colour Management • The worlds fastest ‘make ready’ times • Double running speed at 16,000 sheets per hour • Environmentally Sound with less waste, less power and less chemistry One such machine that can deliver all these advantages is the Komori Lithrone S29 five colour B2 press, which will allow your customers to enjoy the benefits of maintaining a competitive price, when supplying small or large quantities, whilst at the same time still supply the consistency of quality you desire and within the deadline dates that you request.

Of course if the artwork is not supplied right at the front end then it will all be to no avail, so technology also plays a part in the Origination Department, which is where your artwork is checked. An integral part of any production system would be an Agfa ApogeeX PDF workflow that will highlight any problems to ensure an accurate reproduction of your artwork on press.

Finally, the technology in the Finishing Room needs to be as equally efficient to ensure that the first class print quality is not destroyed by poor bindery equipment, which needs to be as highly automated as the Press Room. Wherever possible it would also help if this machinery was available in-house under the watchful eye of your own experienced operators.

If you are searching for a print company to provide you with all the benefits that new technology can offer then please look no further than Remous Limited, a family run design, print, finishing and mailing company based in Dorset, close to Sherborne and the Somerset Border, who have over the last two years invested £800k in the latest printing and finishing equipment.

When coupled with the comprehensive printing knowledge and customer care ability that is available in-house and at a local level, with our Sales Manager Peter Westwood, you can see why you should select Remous as your print and design provider, giving you access to one of the best equipped printing companies in Dorset.

If you want to enjoy the Remous ethos of ‘making you look good on paper’ then please do get in touch for any urgent jobs or quotations that you require by calling 01963 250920 or by sending an email to peter@remous.com

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 17

RECOVERY MATTERS

April/May

BY GRAHAM DOWN | www.bscorprecovery.com

Banning company directors One of the questions we’re often asked by directors of insolvent companies is “Can I carry on being a director of my other companies?”

The answer is “Yes” – but the authorities will look carefully at your conduct as a director of the failed business, and may apply to Court to have you banned from being a director for a period of time.

Although the number is increasing, it continues to be a mystery why so relatively few applications are made to have directors disqualified, particularly when the behaviour we sometimes see can be pretty appalling, with directors running

businesses to the detriment of suppliers and customers, seemingly not giving a moment’s thought to the realistic prospects of being able to pay suppliers or properly fulfill contracts, and treating tax payments as almost voluntary donations.

For those who are caught, then the effects on the individual’s other businesses can potentially be devastating.A ban will last for a minimum of 2 years, and a maximum of 15 years.For directors who ignore the ban, the penalty

for acting as a director whilst disqualified is up to two years imprisonment and/or a fine.And you don’t necessarily have to be called a director – it applies to anyone who gives instructions about how the company is run, whatever their job title. It gets worse, as anyone acting under the instructions of a director they know to be disqualified can be personally liable for the debts of the company.

An individual can ask the Court for permission to act as director despite the ban.

Provided that the director can demonstrate that he has mended his ways, that PAYE and VAT liabilities are paid on time and that there is professional advice available on a regular basis, such applications are often successful.

Of course, every case is different, and specific circumstances require specific advice. At Burton Sweet Corporate Recovery we’ll always try to find positive, practical solutions.

cash flow problems …or worse? clear, professional advice for you and your business when you need it most. contact us for a free initial consultation call: 01202 313624 | www.bscorprecovery.com 2nd Floor, Bristol & West House, Post Office Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1BL

Page 18

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SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS

April/May

WHERE’S THE RETURN ON INVESTMENT?

By Katherine Hanson – Soci@lite

M

any businesses have yet to be convinced of the benefits of Social Media either because the very words are not synonymous with business or they cannot see how it enables them to measure ROI. As Social Media is still a fledgling phenomenon, a tangible track record is difficult to demonstrate and, although it is true that its impact does need to be measured, marketing based solely on ROI misses the point.

Rather than What’s the ROI we should be asking; what does or will success look like?

Today’s Social Media savvy consumers publish and share their customer and brand experiences, therefore it has a far greater impact on the overall customer relationship than other forms of marketing.

As Social Media is also an extension of good business ethics, each interaction should be

approached as a valuable exchange (i.e. interesting content or ethical bribe such as a Newsletter, free e-book, etc.) rather than a monetary Return on Investment.

If you look upon Social Media as online word of mouth, this really encapsulates its usefulness to businesses and, in the words of Ford Motors, “you can’t just say it, you have to get the people to say it to each other”. People do business with companies they know, like and trust, so every online exchange is an opportunity to nourish relationships and network beyond prospects and investors.

This is what will make you money in the long run.

Contact Katherine on 01202 798270 or katherine@social-ite.co.uk to see how I can help you navigate the world of online marketing and master the metrics!

Soci@lite Social Media, Blogs & Articles, Email Marketing, Content Writing & more The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about (Oscar Wilde) 01202 798270

07771 303932

katherine@social-ite.co.uk

www.social-ite.co.uk

www.facebook.com/dorsetpa

www.youtube.com/user/thedorsetpa

www.twitter.com/so_cialite

https://plus.google.com/u/0/

www.linkedin.com/in/katherinehanson

www.yoursocialmediator.wordpress.com

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 19

STRATEGY MATTERS

April/May

CAN YOU SMELL IT TOO?

By Paul Haley from Sterling Business

Y

ou know that it’s more than just a feeling when it’s lighter mornings, longer days, some weak and watery sunshine, holiday adverts, buds appearing and Easter already passed. Yes; that’s right it’s Spring! Apart from the flowery rhetoric and positivity returning you still have to spring clean all the detritus and baggage out of the guest bedroom.

Isn’t it strange that we are only a few weeks past a really really cold February snap and our whole outlook has changed. Good times are just around the corner and this is not a government press release or a party political broadcast, it’s just that it was going to happen anyway regardless of whatever anyone did!

Natural cycles are not just bikes made out of recycled paper they are a natural rhythm of life just plodding along in the background. 7 good years, 7 bad years, heard that one before or not?

On a 14 year business plan Joseph had it 50% awesome and 50% crap so let’s skip the crap bit, life would at least be a bit easier if not better!

This must have been the first business plan developed with future risk analysis built in.

The fact that it was conceived off the back of a dream only goes to show that either dreams are important or the seriously troubled mind can create a successful business strategy.

If you are looking for the green shoots of recovery you will need a strategy in place, so please contact me now before it’s too late!

Page 20

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TAILORING MATTERS

Ready-to-wear suit in PURE WOOL + 3 cotton shirts + 3 silk ties

April/May

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£499

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Corporate Start-up Wardrobe We are delighted to offer a complete start-up wardrobe with three entry levels. Each wardrobe package has a two-piece suit, 3 cotton shirts and 3 silk ties. All garments are specially selected to create the right first impression.

Please make an appointment to view the range of materials and styles available.

To arrange an appointment call John Parrett

01202 289090 Fox Tailoring Compton Acres 164 Canford Cliffs Road Poole Dorset BH13 7ES john@foxtailoringbournemouth.co.uk www.foxtailoringbournemouth.co.uk

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 21

TRAINING MATTERS

April/May

Print & Web Design Training – A Penny Well-Spent

By Lucia Marigliano from trainingsouth.com

T

raditionally, print and web design was outsourced to consultant firms until recent years. Budgetary reviews, together with the advent of affordable design software, have resulted in more businesses taking on their own print and web design preparation. In reality, lack of experience in best practice, coupled with a frustratingly misplaced ‘user-friendly’ tag on the purchased software, often concludes in wasted man-hours attempting to achieve satisfactory results. Invariably, organisations will return to outsourcing some or all of their design requirements (the software boxes and manuals occasionally making adequate doorstops!)

So what is the answer?

Training is a sensible option – so is stepping into a minefield! What do you look for in training?

Attaining the next level in PhotoShop, InDesign or Dreamweaver (and what might the next level be

for your requirements?) Perhaps you could reach expert level in one or even all of these – only to find that your website or brochure still hasn’t turned out the way you intended.

Training should be about helping you to improve your skills in what you need, not about what the manual says. Training should demystify all those terms and – nay – even explain what all the different software is for! Moreover, Print and Web design training should take you beyond just learning the software: you should be given an understanding of best-practice; of practical but visually-compelling techniques; skills in optimising your web ‘search-ability’; disciplines which help you to reduce your man-hours in compilation.

In these times when every penny spent is a penny ill-afforded, spend that penny wisely on training that will improve your effectiveness and utilisation, not increase your collection of manuals.

Your Mobile Training Provider

Based on the Dorset South Coast, Training South is a training provider dedicated to delivering training that is productive, that is effective, that covers your needs and not the manual’s outline!

Providers of: • Apple Mac & PC training • Print & Web Design training • Application and Practical Knowledge Skills • Microsoft Office • Microsoft Project • Other Microsoft Applications incl. Visio & Expressions training • Personal Skills Development training Tangleweed Cottage Ringwood Road Bransgore,Dorset BH23 8AA

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www.trainingsouth.com email: info@trainingsouth.com tel: +44 (0)1425 674898 mob: +44 (0)7770 376 181

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

Big enough to cope - Small enough to care!

With many years experience in the transport, warehousing and storage industry we are able to provide a quality, efficient service that is second to none!

Our vast knowledge means that our customers will enjoy a more personal and professional service, allowing us to be very flexible to meet all their needs!

• • • • • • • • • •

Delivery and collection within the BH postcode, including a tail lift facility.

With the Pallet Network we operate anywhere in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

We can handle anything from a small half pallet to full loads.

We offer a next day economy service with pre booked timed deliveries.

We operate from a 30,000 sq. ft. industrial unit on Holton Heath.

The warehouse benefits from a full security system including CCTV. Cost effective – Only pay for the storage positions you use each week.

State of the art IT system allows you to track your consignment every step of the way.

We operate our own fleet of vehicles to ensure reliability and on time delivery.

We also offer racked or bulk storage, with unloading of vehicles and loading of containers.

We can palletize unloaded goods, label and dispatch all from our warehouse.

We currently store a range of goods for our customers from, raw materials to finished goods, to machinery and even bathroom suites. If you have a similar need then please do get in touch!

Poole Bay Warehousing Ltd D’orial House, Holton Heath Trading Park Poole, Dorset BH16 6LE Tel: 01202 624 716 – Fax: 01202 625 761

BUSINESS MATTERS

April/May

• Are you spending far too much time dealing with staff issues?

• Are you sick & tired of the red-tape surrounding employment legislation?

Leave the stress and worry behind. Let Change Partner HR be your Virtual HR Manager and get back to what you do best... ...running your business and looking after your customers.

Call now and take advantage of a FREE 2 hour consultation

Tel: 07990 776 021 Email: mandy@changepartner.co.uk www.changepartner.co.uk

What sort of relationship do you have with your computer?

Does the thought of spending time with your computer fill you with frustration and dread?

Is your computer eager to help or does it seem to stand in the way of everything you try to do?

Or do you just ignore it and hope it will go away?

I can teach you to communicate more effectively with your computer so that you can make the most of it. Whatever your line of business, your computer is an eager employee and can become your friend. You just need to know how to talk to each other.

For more details visit www.nimbus-solutions.co.uk or call Jo Hansell on 07733 341452 Take advantage of your computer... it won’t mind!

Page 24

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

LEGAL MATTERS

April/May

UK MONEYOnline

Info@ukmoneyonline.co.uk

Sports betting systems are a great way to make TAX FREE money. “Timing is everything, especially now when the world is in deep recession… Do not miss the boat with our amazing tax-free cash generation business opportunity?” Create an immediate “tax free” income from anywhere in the world using your computer, iPad or mobile telephone.

Our traders have a 10 year track record in the “Sports and Index Trading Markets” and our trading results are updated daily. We have a full range of trading strategies on a pay as you go basis, information only and Trader’s Club membership.

Our very successful trader Colin Harris returned over 2020% tax-free profits in 2009- 2010 gross of Betfair’s commissions using a 5% staking plan. Past performance is no guarantee for the future… In February 2012, our Horse Laying system generated over 50% tax free profits.

Contact us today for a free information pack: Tel: 07971511934 • Email: Info@ukmoneyonline.co.uk • Website: www.ukmoneyonline.co.uk

Fine Seafront Dining at Ocean Bay Restaurant A short trip over the Sandbanks Chain Ferry by car, bus or bike leads you to the picturesque town of Swanage and its premier seaside Restaurant, "Ocean Bay". There is plenty of window seating to admire the views and the relaxed atmosphere gives a sense of holiday, day or night.

We are a family friendly restaurant and also offer a children's menu.

We use local produce for our menus to create interesting dishes with fresh fish, quality seafood or meats. Vegetarian options and special dietary requirements are catered for and we have party menus available to suit your function.

Full à la carte menu and extensive wine list available Roast Lunch is served all day Sunday for £9.95 For all our seasonal menus and special offers please go to www.oceanbayrestaurant.com Tel: 01929 422222 now to reserve your table Ocean Bay Restaurant, 2 Ulwell Rd, Swanage, Dorset BH19 1LH

To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 25

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Comparison is correct as of 16 March 2012. Up to 80% saving is compared with BT’s standard business rates. Charges, terms and conditions apply.

See the Utility Warehouse website for full details.

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