Issue 21

NEW BUSINESS

MATTERS Your local business to business journal

Points of Interest in this Issue: • Barclays - OPEN up to Business Success (p2) • Employment Law moves at a pace (p7) • FREE Audit on Managed Print Services (12) • Efficient, Competitive, Innovative Motoring (p14) • FREE Guide on How to print your Book (p17) • Transport, Storage and Warehousing (p25) • Slash your office energy & telephony cost (p26)

BUSINESS TIPS AND ADVICE! Issue 21/2012

June/July

N E P O up to business success talk to our local business experts Whether you are opening a business or are already up and running, talk to Barclays about how we can help make your business a success.

Barclays, proud supporter of businesses in the Dorset region.

Use our expertise to help make your business idea a success too.

Andrew Tapsell Business Development Manager Tel: +44 (0)7775 545851 Email: andrew.d.tapsell@barclays.com

Mark Churcher Area Business Manager Tel: +44 (0)7775 541601 Email: mark.a.churcher@barclays.com

Barclays Business is a trading name of Barclays Bank PLC. Barclays Bank PLC is registered in England and authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered No.1026167. Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.

NEW BUSINESS MATTERS

Editor’s Note Is the man pictured on the front cover of this issue running to catch a bus, is he late for an appointment, or is he in training for the Olympics? If he is anything like me he is always running, because in business you have to run to keep in front of your competitors. You have to be first out of the blocks and first to secure the order, otherwise you will lose out and then you will have to run twice as fast to catch up!

Does this sound like you? If so what do you do about it, especially with so many outside distractions such as the Olympics coming up, which will have all the sports minded people glued to their TV sets. I personally think the Olympics are great and I really do hope that Team GB perform well in all sports and obtain a host of medals, as it is a proven fact that this will also generate the right positive attitude for the nation in general.

Of course when running your own business you will want to convey that same positive attitude to your work, your colleagues and your employees, in order to get the most out of them, as you strive to be the very best you can. In that quest we sometimes need a good team around us and if you are lucky enough to have that then you will surely go on to greater heights. For those of you who are not so fortunate I hope you will find the editorials in our latest issue to be informative, interesting and inspirational.

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

June/July

CONTENTS 02 BARCLAYS MEAN BUSINESS 03 EDITORS NOTES 04 LIMITED COMPANY TAX 05 MODULAR TECNOLOGY 06 DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE 07 EMPLOYMENT LAW MATTERS 08 EVENTS & CONFERENCES 09 FURNITURE MATTERS 10 FSB DORSET - LEP 11 IS YOUR WEBSITE MOBILE 12 FREE PRINT SERVICES AUDIT 13 SQUATTERS UPDATE 14 MERCEDES – BENZ 15 PENSION MATTERS AT NFU 16 PRINT WITH ON-LINE HELP 17 HOW TO PRINT YOUR BOOK 18 PROMOTIONAL GIFTING 19 RECOVERY MATTERS 20 SIGN & DISPLAY MATTERS 21 SOCAIL MEDIA MATTERS 22 TEN THINGS TO SURVIVE 23 LOCAL VISITING TAILOR 24 MS PROJECT TRAINING 25 TRANSPORT & STORAGE 26 SLASH YOUR OFFICE COSTS 26 SPORTS BETTING SYSTEMS 27 ATTRACT THE BEST PEOPLE 28 MANAGED PRINT 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

June/July

Limited Company or Unincorporated Business?

By Richard Osborne, Director at Hill Osborne

F

or those of you in business and trading either as a sole trader or partnership you could achieve tax savings through incorporating and trading as a limited company. This matter is brought up by my clients quite frequently.

The rate of corporation tax has fallen recently and this together with an increase in the rate of National Insurance contributions for the self employed can make a limited company more attractive than it may have been in previous years.

The level of any potential saving will depend upon a number of factors, including:1. The level of profits assessable to tax 2. The way in which the owner of the business Hill Osborne withdraws profits from the company, e.g. salary -v- dividend, and whether profits are retained in the business.

Logo Variant 1

3. The potential extra taxation liabilities that will be incurred in running cars through the company.

There will also be extra costs and administrative work in the running of the limited company including the filing of accounts and annual returns with the Registrar of Companies. In addition the directors have to recognise their duties and obligations in respect of the running of the company’s business although this may be a small price to pay to achieve limited liability, and maybe, a tax saving!!

TIP: Speak to your accountant who can advise on whether incorporating your business can be of advantage to you.

If you would like to review the tax implications of your company please 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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CONSTRUCTION MATTERS

June/July

Using Modular Technology in the Domestic Market

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

S

ome innovative concepts have been created using Modular Technology and in doing so it has saved commercial clients valuable construction time, whilst improving on quality, reducing risk and saving money. Now using those same philosophies, that have redefined big commercial projects, it is possible to help home owners and add value to their properties, without the headache of months and months of disruption to their family life.

Modular units can be used for Bathrooms, Garages, Roofs, Room Extensions, Loft Conversions, Barn Conversions and many more! To construct a typical room onto a house by conventional methods would normally take at least 8 to 12 weeks. By doing this with modular units it would only take 4 weeks, saving around 60% of the time.

If you want to investigate how Modular Technology can help you save time and money then you need to choose a Company that can offer the full turnkey solution, someone that will meet with you to discuss the best solution for you, including dealing with Architects and Engineers for all the required drawings and submissions, ensuring the works comply with all Statutory Design and Construction Regulations.

At EWL International we have all these facilities in-house, giving you one point of contact to deliver the whole project from start to finish, including dealing with Planners, Building Control and the Statutory bodies like gas, water and electricity. To find out more please do give me a call on 01202 853 303 or send an email to Landon@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

June/July

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.

C

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

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Call to connect with our team

08000 098 024

www.C4L.co.uk/reliability

Reliability. Flexibility. Scalability.

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

Page 6

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EMPLOYMENT LAW MATTERS

June/July

Employment Law Changes

By Susie Sanusi, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors Employment law moves at a pace and it is important for businesses to keep abreast of developments, but it is not always that easy. Some employment issues gain a great deal of publicity but others do not and it is often unclear from the media how and when changes will apply.

There have been some recent changes to employment law which businesses may not be aware of. These include increases in the weekly rates of statutory maternity, paternity, adoption and sick pay and an increase in the minimum amount of time for which an employee must have been employed to be able to claim unfair dismissal. This minimum period of continuous service used to be set at one year but for employees who commence work after 6th April 2012 it will be increased to two years. Many businesses will welcome this change but it is important to note that this continuous service Probate, Wills & Powers of Attorney|Divorce/Family Law| Commercial Matters|Employment Advice| Court Representation|Accident Claims|Moving Home| Parking Available

threshold only applies to unfair dismissal claims and not other claims such as those for discrimination.

The government has also recently indicated that further changes to employment law will follow shortly. These are expected to include giving parents more flexible leave arrangements and making further reforms to the procedures used by employment tribunals in order to reduce the number of claims and the length of time they take.

At Dickinson Manser LLP we make sure we are fully abreast of employment law developments so we can help you.

If you would like any advice or information on employment law 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

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Page 7

EVENT MATTERS

June/July

Russell Cotes Road, East Cliff, Bournemouth BH1 3AB 01202 552111 www.dayshotelbournemouth.co.uk SO, WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE DAYS HOTEL?.........

What makes us different?

Our team makes the difference. They are genuinely keen to please and make you happy with your visit to Days Hotel. They smile and are friendly and approachable.

The Views are stunning.

Many of our bedrooms are sea facing with bay views. On the upper floors these can be from Old Harry Rocks to the Needles.

Four of our conference rooms and also our bar have sea views too.

Many guests like to eat “alfresco� on our terrace in the summer.

Natural Light.

All our conference, meeting and banquet rooms have natural daylight and most of them are enhanced with climate control.

Car Parking.

We have a large car park for patrons of the hotel whilst attending business here, which is free of charge.

Packages to suit your pocket.

Price is a sensitive issue and we appreciate that it will be important.

We feel confident that we can tailor make the event to suit your needs and budget. We do not cut corners. We give the same good standards of service and food for which we have always been renowned. Special diets are no problem, just ask.

Care and courtesy are the foundations of our business.

Special offers and options.

We have special offers which change frequently. Keep an eye on our website in order not to miss out. Our recent offer to book summer afternoon teas has been very popular. Champagne and strawberries in June. A great place to meet friends or business contacts.

Wedding, banquets and many events are catered for by our caring staff team.Why not come in and ask for a show round? We would be delighted to show you our facilities and discuss any details for your event over a relaxing cup of coffee.

Page 8

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FURNITURE MATTERS

June/July

Exceptional Outdoor Leisure Furniture Ranges in: Woven, Aluminium and SynTeakTM

.

. . y a B n w o r Create you

Cozy Bay Ltd | Unit 26, Upton Industrial Estate, Factory Road, Poole, Dorset, BH16 5SL | England & Wales Reg. 06641823

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

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

Page 9

FSB MATTERS

June/July 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

Small Businesses meet Dorset MPs in Westminster Representatives from the FSB recently met with a selection of Dorset MPs to discuss key issues affecting the development of small businesses within the county. Discussions focussed on issues such as access to finance, public procurement opportunities, tax simplification and other local concerns such as broadband services, the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership and business rates.

In particular, access to affordable finance remains a significant issue for small firms, and the FSB is continuing to lobby Government to investigate alternative sources of finance in order to stimulate lending and provide greater competition.

With three Dorset MPs in attendance, showing their support for businesses, there were very positive discussions concerning the issues impacting the Dorset small business community, and a consensual agreement on the importance of small businesses to the local and national economy. The FSB in Wessex will continue to lobby on behalf of small businesses locally, and is hopeful that, through regular meetings, our MPs will look to tackle, key issues and barriers to small business development.

Photo of local MPs, Tobias Ellwood (MP for Bournemouth East) and Richard Drax (MP for South Dorset) at a recent FSB meeting in Westminster

Businesses driving the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) The newly formed Dorset LEP is a partnership between local authorities and businesses, designed to promote local economic development. The LEP will work across both public and private sectors to tackle economic issues, in order to drive sustainable local economic growth and to create conditions for private sector job growth within the local community.

There is small business representation within the Dorset LEP and a significant potential for stimulating various small business focussed priorities. The success of existing small businesses and new start-ups will be what fuels economic growth. The FSB is keen to support the LEP and the concept of councils working more closely with local businesses. Placing business at the heart of local communities is a very positive step forward for Dorset.

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

Page 10

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INTERNET MATTERS

June/July

Is Your Website Mobile?

By Marcus Edgar from radikls.com

T

he days of websites being viewed only on PC screens are becoming a distant memory, more and more people are viewing your site not on the big screen it was designed for, but on a much smaller hand-held device. Chances are your site can be viewed on one of these mobile devices already, but how much scrolling and zooming is involved in getting to the required information?

How difficult are those buttons (that look great on a big screen!) to use on a much smaller screen?

And how many people simply give up opting for a site they can use on their device?

for ‘local’ businesses now that it’s easier to do a quick Google Voice Search than calling directory enquiries whilst on the move.

It’s been suggested that by 2013 more people will be accessing online content from their phones and tablets than their PC’s. Mobile websites are favoured in Google searches when searching from a mobile device, this fact alone makes having a mobile optimised site a must, especially

So, now is the time to have your website optimised for viewing mobile devices capturing your part of this expanding market! For more information phone FREE on: 0800 068 0589 or email: nbm@radikls.com

By embracing technologies available on most mobile devices like GPS or QR code readers, real value can be added to your online presence and customer experience. The interactivity made possible on mobile devices can take your site to a new level of usefulness, opening up new means of marketing your business and gaining customers.

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

Page 11

IT MATTERS

June/July

Control Costs by Managing your Documents!

By Phil Ford, Copyrite Business Solutions

In today’s challenging business climate, reducing and controlling costs is more important than ever. When management are preparing strategies to increase revenues by improving business processes these should always include the integration of document management costs.

Companies that embrace a Managed Print Services (MPS) approach and implement a comprehensive output management strategy can realise substantial benefits such as-

Through on-site and off-site services, our team can learn about your needs and how we can incorporate change management always considering the most critical component of continued success – your employees.

As a consequence Copyrite are able to help manage your entire document environment and you benefit from just one point of contact and continue to achieve you goals.

• Decreased document related expenses • Controlled expenditures • Increased employment productivity • Eliminated or significantly reduced waste •C ontinuous improvement with document lifecycles • Greener corporate citizen status

FREE Print Audit – Quote NBM 21 Copyrite are offering a no-obligation FREE Print Audit and if you would like to organise one for your company then you will need to quote: NBM 21 when you call 01202 848866 or send an email to info@copyrite.co.uk However, Copyrite’s Managed Document Services (MDS) is able to reach far beyond the realm of just print. Our focus is centred on end users and how we can engage employees to make long term improvements to your document processing and business efficiency.

Page 12

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LETTING MATTERS

June/July

SQUATTERS UPDATE!

By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals In January 2011 I wrote about the young man from Latvia who gained entry into a 10 million pound empty property through an open bathroom window and began squatting. He then sent word to his friends in Latvia to come over and join him because according to him ‘Britain is one of the few countries where it is easy to do’.

He also told a reporter ‘The law states…if there is any empty building which is not being used, you can put it to use in any way you see fit and what a shame to not get the most of this place’.

The 10 million pound property in London reportedly boasted 10 bedrooms, four bathrooms and a swimming pool in the upmarket area of Highgate, where neighbours are millionaire bankers and celebrities. This brought outrage and a demand for a change in the law. In the last 13 years Britain has seen a spectacular rise in the

number of people who have taken over empty properties.

British law stated occupation of empty properties is a civil, not a criminal, matter in England and Wales, unless entry is forced. Police can act only if the squatters commit offences such as theft or criminal damage, but as of 1st September 2012 the law will change. It will now be a criminal offence to take up residence of another person’s property without their permission and the squatters will face up to a £5000 fine and a six month prison sentence.

Although this does not mean that squatting will be eradicated; it will help landlords and homeowners avoid lengthy and costly legal battles!

420 Poole Road, Branksome, Poole BH12 1DF

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Page 13

MOTORING MATTERS

June/July

14717 Generic Bus Advert 220x144 Poole_Layout 1 17/05/2012 09:15 Page 1

C-Class

Efficient. Competitive. Innovative.

Isn’t that just what business needs?

High standard specification and residual value. Low CO2 emissions and whole-life cost.

Combined with competitive finance, a Mercedes-Benz increases performance, not expenses.

Now that’s a distinct business advantage.

• ECO start/stop technology for reduced fuel consumption • BlueEFFICIENCY technology for lower emissions • Class-leading safety innovations such as Pre-Safe® anticipatory safety system • Extensive range of vehicles to suit all requirements and budgets

Call our Business Development Manager, Mark Wingate, to discuss your business needs on 01202 666330 or 07850 204393.

Alternatively email: mark.wingate@mercedes.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz of Poole Holes Bay Road, Poole BH15 2BD 01202 666 330 www.mercedes-benzofpoole.co.uk Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Saloon range: urban 15.5(18.2)-50.4(5.6), extra urban 33.6(8.4)-76.3(3.7), combined 23.5(12.0)-64.2(4.4). CO2 emissions: 280-117 g/km.

Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Sport Saloon at £29,665.00 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at £645.00 (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months‘ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Prices correct at time of going to press (05/12).

Page 14

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PENSION MATTERS

June/July

Are your retirement plans good enough?

Call 01202 764322 to arrange a financial review or pop into the office to talk to us at NFU Mutual Office, 16 Landseer Road, Westbourne, Dorset BH4 9EH NFU Mutual Financial Consultants advise on NFU Mutual products and services and in special circumstance those of other providers.

We do right by you

Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

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

Page 15

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

Page 16

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PRINTING MATTERS

June/July

How to print your book!

By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited

I

t has been said that everyone has one book in them and perhaps you are no different?

Over recent years this market place has seen a considerable increase in the number of people looking to publish their own book and if this is something you are considering doing then here are a few guidelines for you to follow.

There are some key decisions you will need to make, which will have a big influence on the cost of the project, and you will need to take professional advice to get the best value for money. Books can be instruction manuals, fiction, user guides or memoirs, but in terms of production they are all held as a valuable piece of literature that requires due care and attention!

Printing – This could depend on your content, but basically if the quantity you require is small then from a cost point of view you would look at digital printing, but for larger quantities and the best quality then litho printing is best.

Binding – Most people choose Perfect Bound, which is like a paperback book and the fastest and

Size – The actual size of your book and the

most cost effective method. PUR Bound, which

number of pages you are considering will play a

appears the same but is more durable, will have

big part in the value for money element of your

the pages sewn into one block and they can never

project. If you can make your book fit a more

come loose. This is the most durable method,

available paper size and you are flexible on the

but also the most expensive. Finally there is Case

number of pages you are writing you will be able

Bound, which involves making a hard case, sewing

to save money.

the pages together and then ‘casing in’ the book blocks similar to Encyclopedias and Dictionaries.

Colour – This is the big one! The more colour you have the more expensive it becomes, but you can be clever with colour and get more value for money by letting colour fall on the right pages; then it will come at minimal cost.

Paper – Different types of paper can lift and brighten up images or it can dull the text, so you need to choose your paper carefully. Also different papers work better for different print processes, therefore careful consideration on how it will be printed is essential.

These are some of the more important decisions you need to ponder before choosing a printer and if you are looking to ‘print your book’ then perhaps you should consider Remous as your print partner? We have been printing books for over 30 years and we have set up a production line to complete the whole process in-house, making us perfectly placed to help at the planning stage.

Check our website at www.shortrunbooks.co.uk or even better our YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/remousprint

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PROMOTIONAL GIFTING MATTERS

Page 18

June/July

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

RECOVERY MATTERS

June/July

BY GRAHAM DOWN | www.bscorprecovery.com

The Myths of Directors’ Liability When the company goes into liquidation the liquidator will investigate the company’s trading background and will want to find out the reasons for its failure. That investigation will include a detailed review of the conduct of the directors. The liquidator’s function is to get back as much as he can for creditors, so he’ll be looking for any claims that he may be able to make, including against the directors.

But I have limited liability ...

Wrong. Not only can directors be made personally liable if they allow a company to trade to the detriment of creditors when they ought to have known that it could not avoid liquidation, but there are a whole range of other claims that the liquidator might be able to make, such as for breaching the legal duties of being a director, preferences, transactions at an undervalue, payment of unlawful dividends, and much else.

But I resigned as a director before the company went bust ...

But I took professional advice in good time...

Wrong. You were still responsible for the way that the company was run whilst you were there, and the liquidator’s investigation will cover a period of at least three years.

Right. Of course, it may not be possible to change what’s already happened, but the fact that a director took professional advice as soon as problems started to emerge, and then acted on that advice, will certainly help him defend any claim that may be brought.

But I was a director in name only...

Wrong. The law doesn’t distinguish between different types of director, whatever they are called, so a nonexecutive director may be equally culpable for any wrongdoings of other directors. In fact, he may be in even deeper trouble for neglecting the duties which being a director carry.

At Burton Sweet Corporate Recovery we won’t charge you for just listening to your problems, setting out your options in a clear, jargon-free way and recommending a solution tailored to your specific needs. Call us today.

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

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

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SIGN & DISPLAY MATTERS

June/July

!

E T I B H T I W

www.ajprint.co.uk Page 20

&

Tel. 01202 765400

Email. sales@ajprint.co.uk

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS

June/July

Get LinkedIn to the right Social Networks!

M

By Katherine Hanson – Soci@lite

any professionals see LinkedIn as ‘a place they keep their CV online and maybe have some connections with people they know professionally...not as a place to get business intelligence, to research problems, to establish an online presence where other people in the network can find them’, commented LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman recently.

However, LinkedIn has now established itself as one of the leading Social Media channels. Here are some of the features you can take advantage of: • Choose a custom URL for your public profile, e.g. www.linkedin.com/in/katherinehanson.

Google is more likely to display your name in a search and you will appear more reputable (assuming your profile is also complete of course) • Much the same as Facebook’s ‘like’ button, you can ‘follow’ your favourite companies and receive automatic updates in your LinkedIn feed

• Create a Company Page (free) to increase engagement and ensure your company provides the most tailored and relevant messages • Utilise ‘Updates’ to build new connections and discover what people in your industry are sharing • Use LinkedIn Groups to promote and track your industry and competitor activity • Export your connections to a spreadsheet and add them to your Marketing list or Newsletter LinkedIn is an interface for professionals who want to find out more about you – use it to benefit from the buzz about your business.

If you would like assistance with setting up or enhancing your LinkedIn profile or to book one-on-one or group training please contact Katherine on; 01202 798270 or send an email to; katherine@social-ite.co.uk

Social Media, Blogs & Articles, Content Writing, WordPress websites & more The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about (Oscar Wilde)

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

Page 21

STRATEGY MATTERS

June/July

Kill Your Business Stone Dead?

I

By Paul Haley from Sterling Business

normally hate bullet pointed lists but going through the basics sometimes needs a bit of structure, so here you are.

The

top

10 things that can and will kill your business stone dead.

1. Failing to sell stuff - It’s kind of important that someone other than you wants your stuff and is willing to part with the hard earned to get it.

2. Not keeping your eye on the cash You must have heard that ‘cash is king’ and unfortunately it’s true, without cash you lose your home, your kids don’t wear the best clobber and you all eventually starve. It’s no fun living eating cardboard and beans.

3. Not chasing for payment - They owe you so go out and get it.

4. Under pricing - Most small businesses and larger ones too don’t value what it is they do high enough. Remember it’s not what you do it’s what happens when you’ve done it that matters.

5. Failure to do reality checks on your basic business idea - Mad ideas are usually just that, Mad! 6. Forgetting about the competition - Tricksy they are indeed - selling similar stuff to you and to your clients right under your nose, keep an eye on them or maybe both eyes!

7. Not getting the right advice when you need it - That’s where I come in.

If you want to know about the three most important ideas without which you may not survive, then please contact me now before it’s too late!

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

TAILORING MATTERS

June/July

The perfect wedding suit for the perfect wedding day The high end London tailoring service that comes to you Our unique service will enable every client to benefit from our extensive knowledge to achieve well fitting clothes with quality touches that single out the stylish from the safe and the samey.

The growing trend for couples to marry in a broader range of locations and the introduction of the Civil Partnership Bill means a more diverse ‘look’ for the wedding ceremony is now available.

Whether it is the traditional top hat and tails, a contemporary lounge suit, a lightweight cotton/ linen in pastel shades for that romantic overseas wedding, Fox Tailoring can cater for most occasions and tastes.

• Classic lounge suits • Traditional tailcoats • Colour analysis • Lightweights, cottons, silks and linens

To arrange an appointment call John Parrett

01202 289090

• Home/office visits available • Made-to-measure shirts – classic and fashion

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 23

TRAINING MATTERS

June/July

MicroSoft Project Training – Tools for the Trade

By Lucia Marigliano from trainingsouth.com

F

ormal Project Management techniques have been the flavour of the month, the year, and the decade for, well…decades! Prince2, APM, Six Sigma green belts and black belts – robust methodologies which the newly-qualified project manager ventures to implement, all with the help of Microsoft Project.

When I first started using MS Project, I was amazed how quickly the software actually helped me to lose control! A tool that should have helped me to save time, actually made me waste a vast number of man-hours. Each time the project changed or progressed (and projects tend to do both), attempts to update my MS Project file were often futile, and habitually I would simply re-enter the new information – my Gantt charts did look very impressive, even though they plotted my plan

for the next two years (a plan that changed about once a week). And, I’d never had so many red resources in my life!

Microsoft Project is probably the flagship of Microsoft Office software (at least it ought to be).

It is an excellent piece of software, if used capably: it can centralise all your project-related information; it is super-efficient in updating your project progress, as well as producing clear, valid data that can be two-way linked to other MS Office files, or shared online; you can create an effective shared-resource pool, using tricks that go beyond the manual and make it easy to maintain; reports abound and can even be tailored to suit.

If your MS Project doesn’t do this, you’re not using the wrong tool – you’re just using it wrongly.

You need training!

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

Page 24

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

TRANSPORT MATTERS

June/July

T: 01202 624 716 F: 01202 625 761 E: info@poolebaywarehousing.co.uk W: www.poolebaywarehousing.co.uk

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

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

Page 25

BUSINESS MATTERS

June/July

Slash your office costs and get all your utilities on one bill

Office Phone

Office Mobile

Office Internet

Office Gas

ALL Y UTILI OUR TIES ON ONE BILL

Office Electricity

The Utility Warehouse offers the full range of utilities. They can save your business money and make your life simpler in the process.

You could benefit from:

• Save on your services • 10% extra discount on your energy • 10% extra discount on your telephony services • Up to £200 to help you switch • Award-winning customer service • CashBack on your office expenses and personal petrol

One call is all it takes!

Contact Peter Westwood TODAY! Tel: 01202 233582 or 07837 113224 Email: peter@best4value.co.uk Website: www.best4value.co.uk

LEGAL MATTERS

Some benefits apply only to customers with ‘Gold Status’ (ie. customers who apply for four or more main services, and pay by Direct Debit). Charges, terms and conditions apply.

See the Utility Warehouse website for full details.

UK MONEY Online MONEYOnline

April/May

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 20092010 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

Page 26

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

open til late - biz exchange size:Layout 1 21/05/2012 00:51 Page 1

for for candidates candidates and clients and clients Open ’til 8.30pm every Thursday evening.

Call 01202 680311 or come and see us.

Make use of our private booths for those discreet, off-site interviews Get involved here