Issue 25

NEW BUSINESS

MATTERS Your local business to business journal

Points of Interest in this Issue: • Capital Allowances Tax Relief has changed (p4) • FREE Super Fast Fibre Broadband Seminars (p5) • Up to 50% saving on local Business Dining (p7) • Modular Units reduce construction time (p10) • Funding available to support Cash-Flow (p14) • Criteria to select an Insurance Broker (p21) • The benefits of renting a Mail Box (p24)

BUSINESS TIPS & ADVICE! Issue 25/2013

February/March

N E OP 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 Jumping for Joy! That is certainly what the guy on our front page is doing and I for one want to join in! The reason for my high spirits is to do with the fact that we are now celebrating four years of successfully publishing our business to business journal that has grown over the years to become the most reliable source of business tips and advice within the local conurbation.

But we are not resting on our laurels as we want to be bigger and better! To do this we are bringing in additional resources to help us in our goal and I am pleased to announce that NBM have joined forces with Dorset Publications who produce 9 different community magazines in this same local area. The owners Debbie & Stephen Corney bring with them a wealth of expertise and experience, which will add value to all of our respective advertisers and readers through the expanding market we will now be able to offer them.

Further change for the better is also happening through the association that we are now developing with WSX Enterprise, a local not-for-profit organisation, who help new and established businesses develop and grow.

Additional opportunities to mix with local entrepreneurs will be encouraged through Rural-Net, which offers a unique chance to meet other business owners at five friendly business networks located around Dorset.

We are working with WSX on a planned programme of events throughout the year and further details of these will be notified in due course. Until then watch this space as we continue to jump for joy throughout 2013.

Best wishes,

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 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 0JR Tel: 01202 233580

February/March

CONTENTS 02 BARCLAYS MEAN BUSINESS 03 CONTENTS & EDITORS NOTES 04 CAPITAL ALLOWANCE CHANGE 05 SUPER FAST BROADBAND 06 LAST MINUTE DINING DEALS 07 BUSINESS DINERS SAVE 50% 08 A COMMITMENT TO CLEANING 09 ADVERTISING FREQUENCY 10 BENEFITS OF MODULAR UNITS 11 CONSUMER LAW LEGISLATION 12 PREPARE TO EMBED CHANGES 13 A TRIBUTE TO THE STARS 14 FUNDING YOUR CASH FLOW 15 ENGAGE WITH COUNCILS/MP’s 16 SMART BUSINESS GROWTH 17 DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS 18 KEEPING EMPLOYEES SAFE 19 ACQUIRE CAPITAL EQUIPMENT 20 MANAGED PRINT SERVICES 21 PICK AN INSURANCE BROKER 22 REDUCE YOUR BOUNCE RATE 23 ACCESS YOUR PROPERTY 24 WHY RENT A MAIL BOX 25 DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES 26 EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY 27 UNPACKING PRE-PACKS 28 ELEMENTS OF A LINK BAIT 29 SPORTS BETTING SYSTEMS 30 WHOOPS WHERE DID THEY GO 31 ATTRACT THE BEST PEOPLE 32 OFFICE TECHNOLOGY STRESS 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: Stephen Corney Printed by: Remous Limited, Sherborne Published by: New Business Matters UK Limited

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

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MATTERS ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS

February/March December/January

Are you aware Complying withCapital HMRC Allowances changed?

Real Timehave Information

By Richard Osborne, Director at Hill Osborne By Nikki Papadopoulos, Director at Hill Osborne reduces to £25,000 for expenditure incurred after In the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced a tenfold increase in the amount of Real Time Information (RTI) is (AIA) a newavailable. payroll Annual Investment Allowance legislation HMRC will be introducing in April 2013.

It will affecta the way that information The AIA provides tax write off against profitsisfor submitted toincurred HMRC. on plant and machinery by expenditure businesses and owners of commercial property, Under the HMRC RTI system, employers will but please note it is not available for expenditure be to send data about PAYE, NIC and on required cars. student loans every time they pay their employees, rather than their end of year return, form Changes towith the Annual Investment Allowance P35. RTI will be introduced for some employers The previous change in the AIA reduced the by from April 2013 and will become mandatory maximum annual AIA from £100,000 to £25,000 October 2013. for expenditure incurred on or after 6 April 2012 How does thisfor affect you?

(1 April 2012 companies).

For expenditure The last end of after year 1 return, form P35,the will be for incurred on or January 2013, maximum the tax year 2012/13,£250,000. due for submission by May annual AIA became Hill Osborne 2013. Thereafter, you will have to submit online a full submission (FPS)and each you make Thispayment is for a two year period so time the annual AIA a payment to your employees.

Logo Variant 1

1 January 2015.

These returns are to be submitted for all employees, including thoseofwhose are As the accounting periods many earnings businesses below1 the National Insurance earnings span January 2013, a pro ratalower calculation oflimit. the maximum required.now?

Should youentitlement start doingisanything Yes, such as ensuring you are registered with Beware!

HMRC for PAYE online, ensuring certain data you hold is complete and accurate,may etc.not be entitled In some situations, a business to thecan AIAwe as computed above as the AIA limits How help? may to beadvantage shared with otherOsborne’s businesses that Whyneed not take of Hill payroll are underWe common ownership. bureau? can assist in submitting the monthly returns and ensure you are complying with all the What to do? regulations.

If you would like to review the implications for If youcompany would like to review implications your please contactthe Richard on 01202 for your company please contact Nikki on 678555 or send an email to: 01202 678555 or send an email to: richard@hill-osborne.co.uk nikki@hill-osborne.co.uk

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 Director 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

BROADBAND MATTERS

February/March

Installation of new green boxes!

By Lesley Stephenson, Bournemouth Chamber Executive Some parts of Bournemouth have been fortunate enough to have benefitted from having Super Fast Fibre Broadband for the past few months.

However, we are pleased to announce that by the end of March it should be available throughout the Borough of Bournemouth as BT complete the installation of their new green boxes.

The new Super Fast Fibre Broadband offers a stronger faster and more reliable broadband signal than the existing broadband that uses the older non-fibre network. This will offer a number of benefits to businesses that subscribe to the new Super Fast Fibre Broadband, which is available from BT Open Reach, as well as many other broadband suppliers, and includes: • Increased upload and download speeds.

• Improved Fault Finding & Repair reducing downtime should a fault occur.

• Improved speed and quality of Video Conferencing • Efficiency gains for businesses through potentially saving travel costs & reducing carbon footprints.

Tuesday February 19th Breakfast Seminar – AFC Bournemouth from 7.30 am Thursday February 21st Lunch Seminar – The Norfolk Royal 12.30 pm Wednesday February 27th Evening Seminar – The Miramar Hotel 6.00 pm Tuesday March 19th Breakfast Seminar – AFC Bournemouth from 7.30 am Thursday March 21st Lunch Seminar – The Norfolk Royal 12.30 pm Wednesday March 27th Evening Seminar – The Miramar Hotel 6.00 pm.

This is an exciting opportunity for businesses throughout the Borough of Bournemouth as Bournemouth Borough Council, through their recession funding, have teamed up with Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce to increase awareness throughout the business community.

To find out more or to register your place please visit the BCTC web site: www.bournemouthchamber.org Or email sfbb@bournemouthchamber.org

To see what this new Super Fast Fibre Broadband can do for YOUR business, please register to attend one of our 6 FREE seminars to learn more.

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

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

BUSINESS DINING MATTERS

February/March

Half price business dining arrives in Bournemouth!

By Patrick Knight, CEO of Pouncer Media Ltd

Irrespective of whether you’re celebrating a successful deal, a co-worker’s birthday, or treating a client to lunch, how nice would it be if you had the opportunity to eat at Bournemouth’s best restaurants for 50% less than the normal cost? Well now you can, thanks to a revolutionary new lastminute dining deals website called TablePouncer.

The concept is simple, even the best restaurants have empty tables that they would like to fill. They give TablePouncer exclusive last-minute deals on their unfilled tables, with discounts of up to 50% off your total dining bill. These attractive deals are then advertised on the TablePouncer website, where you, the diner, can book a table easily and securely.

With hundreds of restaurants already registered, and significant numbers joining the website all the time, finding a deal and booking a table could not be easier. Simply go to www.tablepouncer.com and choose which city you’d like to eat in. Next, enter your preferred date (you can book for today and tomorrow), sitting time and the number of diners in your party (tables for up to 12 diners are available). You will then be presented with a list of the best local restaurants and deals that match your requirements, offering discounts of up to 50% off your total bill. Here are just a few of the great restaurants on offer in the Bournemouth area: Aruba Bistro Du Vin Ciao Cristallo Echoes The Crab

little easier, but if you do find yourself having difficulties, a trained team of dedicated experts are on hand via phone, email or live online chat to help you out.

Once you’ve made your choice, your reservation is confirmed by paying a small booking fee of £2.50 per diner, and your saving on the meal is automatically taken off your final bill by the restaurant. It truly is as simple as that and the benefits of TablePouncer for the business user are many! Our unique booking system is quick, uncomplicated and intuitive, allowing you to take advantage of significant savings at the very lastminute.

Unlike other discount dining providers, TablePouncer offers its members complete discretion when using the service, and you will never be asked to produce a voucher or printed email confirming your booking. The reservation is instantly sent to the restaurant when you pay the booking fee and the saving is automatically taken off your bill at the end of the meal.

In summary, TablePouncer provides one of the worlds most advanced and sophisticated discountdining services currently available. It offers the business user fantastic discounts, discrete service and the flexibility of being able to arrange lastminute meals at top restaurants with savings of up to 50%.

We’d love you to experience the joys of TablePouncer for yourself and are offering all New Business Matters readers one free booking for up to 12 people (WORTH UP TO £30).

To redeem this great offer, just visit the website www.tablepouncer.com and enter promo code NBM1 when making your booking.

The Print Room WestBeach You can narrow your search further by using drop down menus to select certain types of cuisine or even a particular spend per head. TripAdvisor integration provide helpful reviews of each establishment, making your dining choice a

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

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CLEANING MATTERS

February/March

How can we better serve our customers?

By Sebastian Popa, MD of TotalClean Solutions The best organisations always ask the question; "How can we better serve our customers?" In my opinion the answer is by concentrating on three fundamental components; people, processes and management.

Any company’s success ultimately relies upon training your employees to be the best they can, using the best processes and having a management team that is dedicated to serving their customers in the right way! These three components allow you to provide consistent and quality driven services every day. If you expect this from yourself and your employees then your promise will be seen by your customers in every service you provide!

As always, with each New Year come new resolutions and new goals. I therefore suggest that you make a commitment in 2013 to be committed and focused on those things which will allow

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you to become a substantial business and trusted partner in your community.

In 2013 TotalClean Solutions have made a commitment to continue to follow the above principles and to concentrate on better serving our customers by providing them with; leading information and resources, top-notch services, outstanding customer service!

Our primary initiative is to move forward as experts in the cleaning industry for both the Commercial and Residential markets within the local conurbation of Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and the surrounding towns.

If you are having difficulty in finding a cleaning company that can meet these high standards then you should give TotalClean a call on 01202 509091 or send an email to: contact@totalclean-solutions.com

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

COMMUNITY MAG MATTERS

February/March

How many times does an advert need to be seen?

By Stephen Corney, Director at Dorset Publications So how many times does a potential client need to see your advertisements before he/she will remember, respond and then buy from you?

Marketeers call this effective advertising frequency.

Some say around 3 to 5 times. This is known as the 3+ frequency. Industry research has shown that consumers need to see an advertisement around 3 plus times before it becomes effective, i.e. can recall product and/or brand.

Others quote the magic number 7, which is known as the seven times factor. According to many, the cardinal rule of thumb in advertising is: potential customers usually need to see the name of a product or service seven times or more before they’re motivated enough to even think about making a purchase.

Finally,a learned gentleman by the name of Thomas Smith, a nineteenth century London businessman (1885) said that it can take up to

20 times!! (His sequence is quite amusing, but unfortunately too long to fit here!)

With all this research and theory on the table, does that mean that people will automatically buy your product or service if they see your advert 3, 7 or the 20th time? Well not really, if what you are promoting is not relevant to what they need, want or are searching for. You therefore need to make sure your message is clear and that it is getting to the right people. However, it is still important to know the more places or the longer period of time your advert is available to be seen, the greater your chance at making that sale.

Our advice then is to make your budget stretch as far and long as possible. Another benefit of community magazines over traditional daily or weekly newspapers is that they get kept far longer and referred to time and time again, increasing the chance of multiple impressions of your advert.

Would you like your business to reach 1000s of potential residential clients on a monthly basis?

Full colour A5 glossy magazines distributed by our own team of distributors - you can rely on us! » Free artwork design » A free article, the same size as the advert booked in one of the months, with a 3 months booking » Free advertising on our magazine Facebook pages » A free listing on our Website Directory pages » Each magazine is fully uploaded every month on the internet via our website

Call Debbie or Stephen on

01202 894397 info@dorsetpublications.co.uk

West Moors • Ferndown & West Parley • Bournemouth • Poole • Southbourne • Christchurch To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

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CONSTRUCTION MATTERS

February/March

Modular Units reduce installation time by 50%

By Andre Van Heerden CEO of EWL International Ltd Modular construction is fast becoming the norm of construction as it means less disruption to customers and a considerable reduced construction period. The entire project is manufactured in a factory ensuring quality is of the highest standard and it also helps to eliminate time dealing with the elements during construction.

All modular products will obviously comply with the latest building and environmental legislation, but they can also offer additional environmental features such as catching rain water for garden use and low energy lights. A lot of the construction material is also recyclable material.

By manufacturing the Modular Unit in a factory it also ensures risks are reduced and H&S increases, making it more of an attractive option.

Shower Room Bedroom

Shower Seat

As an example the entire extension of a Doctor’s surgery can be completed in modular format in the factory and then you are only left with the foundations and fixing the units in place on site.

This reduces the site time by more than 50% and normally the extension is fully operational within 2 weeks of arriving on site One of the most popular products is a modular granny flat, which comes on site totally completed and is installed in 2 days ready for use. All that is required is clothing as it is fully fitted including TV, bed, kitchen units and lounge suite EWL Modular is a division of EWL International.

EWL Modular specialises in modular construction from small house extensions to offices, doctor’s surgeries and student accommodation.

Kitchen

Lounge/ Treatment

This is a typical layout of a Granny Flat with 1 Bedroom, Wet Room En-Suite, Kitchen, Lounge, Treatment Zone and Wheelchair access.

EWL International Ltd Discovery Court Business Centre, 551-553 Wallisdown Road, Poole, BH12 5AG Email: info@ewlinternational.com Website : www.ewlinternational.com Tel: 01202 853300 Page 10

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

BUSINESS LAW MATTERS CONSUMER LAW MATTERS

December/January February/March

Significant changes ShareholderS andto Consumer Legislation PartnerShiP agreementS

By Susie Sanusi, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors

By Susie Sanusi, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors

The Consumer Rights Directive is making significant changes to consumer legislation. It When operating a business as a company or must be fully implemented by June 2014 and partnership it is important to consider the the Government has now started this process rights and obligations of the people involved. by introducing the Consumer Rights (Payment It is easy to overlook such issues especially Surcharges) Regulations 2012. when the owners are getting on well.

These Regulations will apply to all new contracts However, if it is overlooked and problems from the 6th April 2013 (subject to an exception do arise it can be very difficult, stressful and for new or micro-businesses who will have until expensive to resolve.

12th June 2014).

A recent High Court decision highlighted the Some of the key changes which businesses need to difficulties that can arise if parties fail to consider be aware of are: in advance how to deal with their conflicting rights 1. The prohibition on businesses imposing and obligations. payment consumers where they The case surcharges concernedon a Shareholders Agreement exceedstated the cost the business using which thattocertain partiesofwere toabe particularofmeans of payment. directors the Company.

Later a majority of the directors decided to remove one ofwith the additional directors 2. The need to supply consumers named in thebefore Shareholders Agreement fromThis office information a contract is concluded. arguing were obliged so of in order includesthat full they information about to thedocost the to comply contract.with their fiduciary duties to the Company.

Probate, Wills & Powers of Attorney|Divorce/Family Law| Commercial Matters|Employment Advice| Court Representation|Accident Claims|Moving Home| Parking Available

3. The extension of the period in which consumers can cancel distance or off premises contracts The Court found against them, stating that fromDirector 7 working days not to 14have daysbeen and the new the should removed. requirement related refunds to be processed This decisionforreflected the wording of the within 14 days.Agreement which did not make Shareholders any allowance for the obligations.

4. The requirement for conflicting businesses which provide a telephone line owners for customers use after the Many business do nottofully appreciate contract is made to ensure that these only charge their rights and obligations or the many ways thewhich basic they rate. can conflict. If this is true of you, in we would strongly that you seek legalto Businesses who dealadvise with consumers are likely advice help their you avoid problems. need to to amend pricingsuch structures, terms and conditions, websites and order/returns processes.

At Dickinson Manser LLP we are experienced This will take time, planning and careful thought at advising business owners on their rights and so they should start considering what they and obligations and in drafting shareholders/ need to do now. partnership agreements.

If you would like further information or clear, For advice and assistance call practical advice on how you can prepare your 01202 673071 or email business please contact Susie Sanusi at Dickinson s.sanusi@dickinsonmanser.co.uk Manser LLP on 01202 673071 or by email at sjs@dmsolicitors.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

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CUSTOMER MATTERS

February/March

Review your Inputs as well as your Outputs!

By Tony Rodgers, Director at Hambeldon Interims Over the last three articles we have looked at how customers perceive you, discussed common or uncommon practice as a key differentiator and looked at the tactics for customer contact at an emotional level. This could all appear as something that has come from the school of never done it before, but these though are real Strategies and Tactics that have been deployed over many years and are making significant improvements to companies who are prepared to embed changes.

The focus across a number of organisations is to review their inputs instead of only looking at the outputs. It has been recognised that Sales and Customer Experience targets will look after themselves if input improvements are made.

What do we mean by this? It could be that an organisation believes an internal Leadership Programme focusing on staff inspiration instead

of Management Development will drive the correct behaviours.

Some organisations have taken a different approach to staff recruitment and instead of recruiting the people with hard sales techniques have employed people who are friendly and care. An example here is Richer Sounds who have been awarded Which? Best High Street Retailer 2011.

Have you reviewed inputs to determine what makes your customers interaction a genuine, unique and quality experience? If you would like to increase customer engagement and increased performance across your sales and service teams Hambledon Interims would be delighted to help. You can call Tony direct on 07976 965250.

PROVIDING REAL PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE THAT DELIVERS MEASURABLE AND PROFITABLE CHANGE

Hambledon Interims is a Dorset based consultancy that’s been helping companies, large and small, to successfully improve their customer’s experience and business profits by delivering change - to their processes and their people – through the implementation of various development and training solutions. Hambledon Interims can provide: • Interim Managers and Project Managers • Training and Development Design and Delivery Solutions • Customer Experience Development programmes • Sales and Customer Service Assessors Experience the benefit of ‘profitable sales’ by improving customer satisfaction!

T: 01258 860249 E: tony@hambeldoninterims.com W: www.hambledoninterims.com

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Nestledown Duck Street Child Okeford Dorset DT11 8ET

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DINNER & SHOW MATTERS

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

February/March

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FINANCE MATTERS

February/March

Funding available to support cash-flow!

By James Erwin from Access Commercial As the economic climate remains tough, businesses continue to face challenges and cashflow pressures including widespread late payment, more pronounced fluctuations in demand and an apparent challenge in the availability of credit.

The role of the Finance Broker has become increasingly more important, not only to maintain a range of financial solutions available to assist with these challenges, but to help business understand the range of options available to them.

In the various industry surveys carried out at this time of year, the challenges experienced within the SME sector tend to run to a common theme of the need for funding to support cash-flow.

Common problems experienced include: 1. An increased demand from suppliers and creditors to pay invoices promptly.

2. An increased demand from customers for increased credit periods.

3. An increase in the cost created by late invoice payments.

The consequences being: 1. An inability to exploit business opportunities through lack of capital.

2. Potential concerns over “essential” expenditure, such as wages and rent/mortgage payments.

There are a number of different financing products available to assist with business cash-flow and, with the need of businesses to plan for cash-flow management within their strategies, there are many non-traditional types of finance plans that are available at a lower cost than many people would expect.

Access Commercial can source and provide advice on cash-flow finance as well as other commercial financial products. For immediate assistance please call us on 01202 375545 to discuss your requirements.

Experienced Commercial Mortgage and Business Finance Brokers We supply solutions for all types of commercial lending and due to our close working relationship with all major and specialist lenders, including our partnership with brokers UK wide, we are able to provide the best deal for all types of commercial finance.

• Commercial Mortgages

• All forms of Factoring

• Asset Finance

• Short term Finance

• Invoice Discounting – available on a confidential basis

• Development Finance

For advice on all areas of Commercial Credit and Finance Tel: 01202 375545 Fax: 01202 465297 jamese@accesscommercialmortgages.com www.accesscommercialmortgages.com Members of the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

FSB MATTERS MATTERS FSB

February/March December/January 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 engage with LoCaL government

In an attempt to ensure issues impacting our local small business community are addressed, the Federation of Small Businesses continues its regular engagement with both local Councils, and MPs.

SmaLL BuSineSSeS meet DorSet mPS in weStminSter As part of a series of regular meetings, representatives from the FSB met with a selection of MPs from across Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, to discuss a number of current issues impacting local business communities within the region. Discussions focussed on barriers to public procurement, the need for the new Police and Crime Commissioners to focus on crimes against business and the desperate need for alternative sources of finance for businesses, including the Small Business Bank.The meeting was a success in raising the profile of a number of issues affecting small firms, and there was a clear understanding and, very positive support, as to the importance of small firms to the local and national economy.

Photo of regional MPs and FSB representatives: Julian Lewis (MP for New Forest East), Caroline Nokes (MP for Romsey and Southampton North), Ken Moon (FSB), Damian Hinds (MP for East Hampshire), Tim Colman (FSB), Annette Brooke (MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole) and David Ramsden (FSB)

FSB anD north DorSet CounCiL DiSCuSS SuPPort For SmaLL BuSineSSeS Many issues affecting local small businesses were discussed at a recent meeting between FSB North Dorset Council representatives, including the future of our town centres, the way forward for Community Partnerships, local Broadband issues and the local transport network. At the meeting, Cllr Valerie Pothecary, North Dorset Councils Portfolio Holder for Community & Regeneration, also pledged her commitment to become an Entrepreneur Champion and supporter for the FSB’s Real-Life Entrepreneurs campaign. Small businesses are vital to our economy, and the FSB is delighted to work with North Dorset Council in supporting local entrepreneurs. With the Government needing the private sector to lead the recovery, local and national support to encourage more people to have the confidence to become a Real-Life Entrepreneurs is absolutely essential.

Photo of David Ramsden (FSB), David Trickett (FSB) – standing, and Cllr Val Pothecary and Hilary Ritchie from NDDC – seated

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

To receive

15 Page 10 a FREE copy go to Towww.newbusinessmatters.com advertise in this local journal telephone 01202Page 233580

GROWTH MATTERS

February/March

Fail to plan - plan to fail!

By Liz Wright from WSX Enterprise Grow or die is a phrase often quoted by business experts and most business owners want to grow their business. But what do they mean by growth and is all growth good?

Any business can grow sales through discounting and special offers but does this really add value to the business? The answer is; not unless it adds to the bottom line! Smart growth is about growing profits and smart growing is all about planned growth. Research shows that businesses that develop growth plans are more profitable and more stable in the long term as these companies base their growth plans on a good understanding of what their competitive strengths are and what their customers value now and will value in the future.

WSX_Dorset_Advert_3.pdf

16/01/2013

In other words, successful companies grow their business by really understanding what makes them better than the rest - their USP - and by really getting to know their customers’. They focus and prioritise, they change and improve their offer as customer needs and behaviour changes. And they manage their growth so that they continue to deliver on their promise to customers with excellent customer service.

So, if you haven’t looked at your strategic plan for a while, why not dust it off and take a really good look at whether you are still heading in the right direction? And if you think you haven’t got time just remember that other old adage; those who fail to plan – plan to fail!

14:35:50

“When you stop growing you start dying.” (William S Burroughs)

Our aim is simple - To help grow your business

WSX

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wsxenterprise.co.uk

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Call us: 08454 586480

Email us: connect@wsxenterprise.co.uk

Supporting... Informing... Enabling Helping new businesses start and grow

Developing rural enterprises

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Connecting businesses through our networks

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

HR MATTERS

February/March

How to have a difficult conversation...

By Clive Ozzard MCIPD, Lumine Development Ltd Sooner or later most businesses face the inevitable prospect of having a very difficult conversation with a member of staff. It could be to address poor performance, a bad attitude or any other number of issues. So, how is it best to deal with such things?

Plan ahead – make sure you have the right structures in place to begin with. Effective recruitment, a good induction for new staff, clear role of objectives, or a simple appraisal system all help to avoid later problems.

Timing – putting things off will often make matters worse. Your first step may well be an informal conversation; have it now and avoid further problems.

Good Communication – if you have to have these conversations then make sure you communicate clearly. Avoid any personal judgements at all costs and ALWAYS remember to focus on the facts.

Procedures – for conversations that could lead to disciplinary action, have you followed the right process? In disciplinary matters you should have clear procedures that follow the ACAS Code of Practice.

Keep a Record – make sure you have a clear record of conversations that take place, you may need it later.

Learn lessons – if problems keep coming back then what can you do differently? Review what you have done and think about changing your approach.

Of course, if you feel like you are struggling then professional input may be the right way to go.

However, following the simple tips above should really help you to deal effectively with those difficult conversations if they arise.

Are your staff putting you ahead of the competition?

We provide practical HR support when you need it most, giving you hands-on input, designed to make sure you get the very best out of your people and make your business more profitable.

Through a range of services, we can help you with: • • • • •

Performance Management Recruitment and Selection Disciplinary issues Staff Absence Dealing with difficult staff

• • • •

Employment law Management development Coaching for improvement Organisational change

For professional advice on how to get the best from your team please call Clive Ozzard, Chartered MCIPD, on 07841 068727 or email clive@lumine.co.uk or visit: www.lumine.co.uk

LUMINE DEVELOPMENT LTD, 2 THE VENN, SHAFTESBURY, DORSET, SP7 8EB To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 17

IDENTIFICATION MATTERS

February/March

People are a company’s most valuable asset!

By Tony Hart from Avonwood Developments When employees are seriously injured after being hit or struck by vehicles the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) can impose fines starting from £15,000 for minor injuries rising into the hundreds of thousands for more serious injuries.

Recent statistics from the HSE have shown a 4% increase in serious accidents involving fork lift trucks in the last year.

Adding complimentary systems for keeping employees in the workplace safe from moving vehicles; Forklift Trucks, Excavators and Reach Stackers, often include multiple solutions to assist better Health and Safety practice such as technology aids, better organisational training and vehicle and pedestrian segregation.

Identifying and detecting a person who is in close proximity to a vehicle operating in a working area

Page 18

is one of the applications where RFID systems are being utilised. These systems differ from other safety aids in that they will immediately warn the driver when a person breaches a proximity zone around the vehicle. An RFID proximity warning or detection system uses personal safety transponders.

The transponder is then detected, identified and the on board system logs the data which can be analysed to enhance the safety regime.

Since people are a company’s most valuable asset, it is therefore important we consider any aid that allows each and every one of us to return home safely from work, everyday!

For further information on how to keep employees safe in the workplace please call Tony on 01202 868000 or send an email to sales@avonwood.co.uk

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

INDUSTRIAL MATTERS

February/March

How to acquire Capital Equipment?

By Grégory Martin, Champion Materials Handling Ltd In difficult times most companies will assess outgoings and explore lower operational costs, especially when trying to acquire some form of capital equipment, such as a forklift, but are you aware of the alternatives available?

Outright Purchase: This is excellent for companies who like to own their equipment outright as there is no long-term agreement. The disadvantage is that equipment can often be retained far too long, losing value whilst repairs increase, but Full Maintenance Contracts are available from the provider.

Lease Purchase: This is a convenient way to buy as it has a more controlled effect on your cash flow, with payments in fixed instalments that enables easy budgeting.

It also allows for total ownership after the final payment, but the customer is entirely responsible for all breakdowns and maintenance.

Lease: This method of finance allows you to keep your options open, giving you a higher standard of

equipment, which might be too expensive to buy outright. The disadvantage is that it is not your asset, although you would still responsible for all repairs.

Rental: Simply put; Rental = Lease with a Full Maintenance Contract. The advantage is that this can be tailored to your budget and your application, thereby avoiding paying too much for a truck with a high or indeed a low specification.

The disadvantage is that it remains the hirer’s asset.

As licensed credit brokers Champion Forklifts are available to discuss and implement the best way for you to obtain your mechanical handling equipment, so please call us on 01202 430323 or visit www.champion-forklifts.co.uk.

Service is what life’s all about!

At Champion Forklifts we offer a full range of new and used equipment to suit ALL budgets New fork lift trucks:

Warehouse equipment ranging from:

• • • •

• • • • • • • •

From 1 ton to 16 tons capacity Electric LP Gas Diesel

RENTAL & LEASING AVAILABLE

Hand pallet trucks Powered pallet trucks Stackers Electric Reach Trucks Order pickers Very narrow aisle trucks Access Platforms & Cherry Pickers Racking and Mezzanine Floors

tails Call for de

Hand Pallet Trucks delivered from

Our preferred makes are Baoli, Toyota, Doosan, Mitsubishi, Linde, Combilift, Bendi and Jungheinrich but we can offer full support service that is second to none on any make of truck, picker or stacker.

£199

Freephone: 0800 021 4516 Telephone: 01202 430323 Email: sales@champion-forklifts.co.uk

www.champion-forklifts.co.uk

‘Your local Fork Lift Truck company’

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

Page 19

IT MATTERS

February/March

THE Benefits of MANAGED PRINT SERVICES!

By Katie Clark from Copyrite Business Solutions How great life would be if when you were ill your doctor knew straight away and turned up on your doorstep with a remedy!

How great life would be if when your car breaks down your roadside rescue company is travelling behind you ready to fix the problem immediately.

How great life would be if when your office printer broke down your designated emergency service provider walked through the door with his bag of tools.

Unfortunately life is just not like that, but all of these things are important to our state of health and our state of mind. We know when we are ill we go to our trusted local doctor, when our car has broken down we call our roadside rescue company, but who do we turn to when our office printer breaks down?

How often does a small problem with your office printer create a big problem in your business?

Do you often end up with 3 or 4 members of staff moving round the machine, removing paper and opening and shutting parts of the equipment? A lot of head scratching and a few expletives later, that paper jam or small technical issue has put you a few hours behind and maybe even made you miss an important deadline!

With Managed Print Services that small problem no longer becomes your problem.

Whilst Copyrite Business Solutions is unable to help with your car or your health, we are able to become the emergency service solution for your fleet of printers and multi-functional devices, as we have the skills and experience to analyse your current print technology and work with you to find appropriate devices when replacement makes sense.

We are able to collect live data from your networked devices using @remote or Print Audit Software; this will then provide the data to enable us to make informed recommendations with regard to your document costs. This will allow comprehensive device management with no additional burden to your own IT staff.

How can @remote help reduce your print costs?

• Optimize equipment placement • Increase device uptime • Enables remote service • Collects meter reading automatically • Shows individual device costs • Provides environmental reports • Allows Firmware to be automatically updated Together, we can make the world a better place for Print Services. With our Managed Print Services, we hope to dramatically reduce the amount of devices and printers being hit and kicked, and also dramatically reduce the stress levels of your staff.

To find out more information on how you can save money, save time, save space and maybe some day, SAVE YOUR BUSINESS, visit www.copyrite.co.uk or call me on 01202 848866.

Copyrite Business Solutions is a provider of integrated IT, Print and Business Software Solutions.

If you want to rate this article and/or place your vote for the next topic to be covered, then please go to www.copyrite.co.uk/itmatters

Copyrite use a product called @remote and this product is your devices very own doctor and recovery service. If your machine is unwell and refusing to work; we are notified straight away and are therefore able to fix the problem.

Page 20

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

INSURANCE MATTERS

February/March

HOW TO CHOOSE AN INSURANCE BROKER!

By Spencer Coughlin from Coleman Insurance Brokers By what criteria would you select an Insurance Broker? Should they be long established, much respected in the local community and independent or perhaps you feel that if they have achieved growth in a challenging economic environment then this would be more of a benchmark.

In my opinion there are ’10 Straightforward Reasons’ for choosing an Insurance Broker and these are shown below.

Commitment: This is based on trust, integrity and mutual respect.

Service: Look for the highest possible professional standards.

People: People are the difference, so they need to be warm, welcoming and approachable.

Expertise: Ensure they provide a good understanding of specialist insurance markets.

Bespoke Solutions: Do they give recommendations that are tailored to their Clients individual needs?

Claims: Ask them if they handle the entire claim process through to final settlement?

Partnerships: Are they just a supplier or do they offer an ‘in house’ insurance department.

True Independence: Ask them if any insurer has shares in their business or are they truly independent, which will ensure the clients interests always come first.

Culture: Are they ethical in all areas? Do they value their people and their clients? If so a local community culture will develop!

Market Access: Do they have a service driven approach and development plans for the future to enhance their reputation, which means that insurers listen to what they say.

Coleman Insurance Brokers adhere by these principles and as such continues to be a highly respected local business, providing straightforward and expert insurance advice to the Wessex Business Community via our offices in Poole, Exeter and Southampton.

Straightforward Expertise Established in 1928 Coleman Insurance Brokers is one of the UK’s longest established, truly independent insurance brokers; based in Poole, Southampton & Exeter.

With access to a large number of leading insurers and an excellent understanding of specialist markets our aim is to provide businesses with competitive and comprehensive insurance solutions whilst maintaining high levels of service.

Colemans are your local, professional and trusted experts in:

Business Insurance Charity & Care Insurance Property Owners Insurance

Marine Insurance Private Client Insurance Risk Management

01202 647400 www.colemaninsurance.co.uk Coleman Insurance Brokers is a trading style of E Coleman & Co Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

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

Page 21

INTERNET MATTERS

February/March

REDUCE YOUR BOUNCE!

By Tim Birch from radikls.com No doubt many webmasters study Google Analytics or similar with great intensity to find out how successful their search engine optimisation is working, but how many work hard to reduce their Bounce Rate? What I mean by this is; how do you really make sure potential customers are finding what they expect on your website?

Users click off sites for a variety of reasons such as being confronted with pop-ups, bad/dated design, weak navigation, poor usability, over use of multimedia, slow response time or non mobile design.

A simple “Search Box” on a website helps those users willing to work with the site uncover the information they seek despite poor navigation or terminology. Savvy websites that store those “Search Box” phrases give webmasters a wealth of information as to how their site content mismatches their customer’s expectations.

Take your shop to the next level and start selling online.

Generate sales from our shopping basket system: Accept payments from all major gateways Manage your own stock and orders Various delivery charge methods Logins with accounts and order history Promotions and discount coupon codes

from £1200 or £99 per month CALL FREE NOW ON 0800 068 058 9 Or email: nbm@radikls.com

Page 22

For example a Mobility Aids client discovered that despite categorising their wheelchairs in 3 sub-categories on second level menus, potential customers were searching for “folding wheelchairs” rather than “transit wheelchairs”.

As this was a frequent search the client decided to instigate a “Tag Cloud” and include other repeated phrases…and ‘hey presto’ they hit gold, selling several folding wheelchairs within weeks without having sold one online previously! This extra valuable information can now be fed back into extending their optimised phrases in search engines.

So look at that humble “Search Box” on your website as one of the most valuable tools you could have and then you will also reduce your Bounce Rate and hopefully get more orders as well.

Fully-Managed E-Mail and SMS Marketing Packages from just £100 per month.

If you want to raise the awareness and profile of your businesses then call greenmessage on 01202 802205 or email info@greenmessage.co.uk.

We have a range of services and packages to suit all organisations, with powerful professionally-designed ad campaigns, getting your message across to a targeted audience and a wealth of statistics available for you to track progress and tailor your responses.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

LETTINGS MATTERS

February/March

Gain Legal Access to your property!

By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals Question: I need to carry out a Gas Safety Certificate on my rented property, but the tenant keeps saying it is inconvenient. As a Landlord it is my duty to ensure a current certificate is always in place, so can I go in with my keys, with the Gas Engineer, as long as I give the minimum 24 hours notice? This is a very common question I get asked, whether it is for the Gas Safety Certificate, as in this situation, or just general repairs or viewings.

Answer: Most tenancies have written in to permit access after 24 hours notice, however this is for emergencies only and that means something serious, such as a fire! A tenancy gives exclusive possession of a property to the tenant and they have the right to ‘quiet enjoyment’ during their tenancy, which is a term or concept that is

implied in all Tenancy Agreements.

This means the Landlord should leave tenants to live in the property in peace as the tenants’ right to keep everyone out of his property will always override and access can only be gained by invitation or acceptance from the tenant.

You can apply to the courts for an injunction to gain access, but the general rules are if after three attempts (and you can prove this by copies of letters) you have still not gained entry, and you have reported it to health and safety, you will not be prosecuted.

Under no circumstances try to access the property with your own keys without agreement from the tenant.

420 Poole Road, Branksome, Poole BH12 1DF

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

Page 23

MAIL BOX MATTERS

February/March

The benefits of renting a mailbox!

By Howard Woodward, Mail Boxes Etc. Here are a few suggestions as to why a mailbox could be the answer to your requirements.

5. If you are in a temporary office you can use a mailbox as your short term postal address.

1. You’re running a small business from home and you don’t want to use your home address on your business stationery or in your marketing. A mailbox address that looks like a street address in central Bournemouth is the answer.

6. You are moving abroad, but you still need a UK address for bank correspondence and other official papers.

2. You’re a director of a limited company. You don’t want your home address on the public record, so you use a mailbox address instead.

3. You’re a plumber, electrician, service engineer or similar and you are fed up with having to wait in all day for parts deliveries. Have them sent to a mailbox instead and collect them at your convenience.

4. If you are in property management you could benefit from a mailbox as a central drop-off point for keys, etc.

7. You live in shared accommodation. The mail for the whole building goes into a big pile and important post goes missing.

8. You are living on a boat or in a mobile home, but you need a fixed a fixed address, For further information about a Mailbox to fit your needs and your budget please do give Howard a call on 01202 299151 or send an email to: info@mbebh1.co.uk or visit: www.mbebh1.co.uk

A Central Bournemouth Street Address for your Business - without the Overheads

To rent a secure mailbox with 24 hr access contact us now

Bournemouth Triangle t: 01202 292831 Bournemouth Lansdowne t: 01202 299151 Page 24

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

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

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

Page 25

PRINTING MATTERS

February/March

How to move your business forward?

By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Many industries are facing tough times in the current financial climate, with E-forms, E-books and E-news, none more so than the Print Sector, but I am sure a lot of company’s are asking where do they fit in and how do they move their business forward? In reality, we all have to embrace technology and due to the internet we will inevitably see several types of print cease to exist in the (relatively) near future, but fortunately for us some people will always want to read a book or a company brochure that has pages and retail items will always need packaging.

The difficulty in the print industry, as well as many others that are seeing change, is how to ensure in the future you are offering the right products and services? I would suggest that recording your sales and knowing your numbers really helps, especially if you can look at your most popular offerings currently and cross reference them with the products and services you know your business excels in, then you are half way to securing your future!

Many companies have been terrified of the big bad internet and I have actually heard one print company owner say; “It will be the end of us all!”

Well to be honest it will if you do not change your goals and plan a way forward to embrace it! I therefore recommend that you look at how you can use the great qualities of this apparent enemy to help you to not only survive, but to also grow and posper. The best thing about the internet is convenience - you can use it at any time of night or day to purchase, browse and find out information about your interests.

At Remous we have searched, found and invested in an online portal that lets customers work with

Page 26

us 24/7, which has helped our niche markets see considerable growth and we have coupled that with our web portal, to be found at www.remousonline.com, where we can offer live quotes, re-quotes, order history, order placement and even live artwork proofing and approval. Even delivery notes, order confirmations and invoices are there when ever you need to see them.

A further trend is this area is video streaming!

Why would you ring and ask for information if you can click and watch a video immediately? When researching what other print companies were up to we found there was a distinct lack of 'new style' information. We therefore took the decision to create video guides, explaining paper types, how to publish your book and where to start in product packaging. This gives our clients, and potential clients, quick and easily digestible information - free. Giving your expertise free of charge may seem crazy, but you will find it nearly always pays you back two fold. Check out our videos at www.youtube.com/remousprint So, using the positive elements of what at first seemed a threat means our clients get a better service and we are able to secure our long term future in turbulent times. If you want to discuss how we can help with your print requirements please do not hesitate to get in touch by telephone, email or of course on-line.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

RECOVERY MATTERS

February/March

BY GRAHAM DOWN | www.bscorprecovery.com

UNPACKING PRE-PACKS My biggest customer’s gone bust owing me a lot of money. Now my business can’t meet its own debts and the taxman’s threatening to wind the company up. The business is sound but can’t carry on with its existing liabilities. It needs a clean break and a fresh start. I’ve heard about “pre-packs”. What are they all about?

Businesses are about creating prosperity and jobs, but insolvencies are a fact of life in a modern economy.

A pre-packaged sale (hence “pre-pack”) is a pre-arranged sale of an insolvent company’s assets at market value to a new company (“newco”), and may often involve the existing management. The newco re-employs the existing staff, probably produces the same products from the same premises, uses the same equipment, and with a similar name!

The process involved is not, perhaps surprisingly to some, illegal and pre-packs have been sanctioned by the government, the Courts and regulatory bodies. The majority of pre-packs are perfectly legitimate (although some look decidedly dodgy!) and actually provide a better outcome for creditors.

The justification for pre-packs is that, by the time a company becomes formally insolvent, it’s probably exhausted its cash reserves and suppliers’ credit. Once an administration or liquidation starts, invariably customers stop paying, suppliers stop supplying and key, highly skilled employees

may leave, perhaps going to competitors. What’s more, it may be difficult to raise the cash needed to carry on trading even for a short period.

All those are reasons to avoid a protracted, publically advertised sale procedure. You might argue that a “secret sale” is better than no sale at all. And since the directors know the business and its assets better than anyone, they may well be prepared to pay more than an arm’s length purchaser.

However, a word of caution. Selling an insolvent company’s business and assets is a complex and highly specialist process with many potential pitfalls, and pre-packs are not appropriate in all cases. Doing the job properly calls for detailed knowledge and experience, and should never be attempted without the input of a qualified insolvency practitioner.

The team of insolvency practitioners at Burton Sweet Corporate Recovery has vast experience of advising directors of distressed companies. Call us today for a free, no obligation discussion of the options available.

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

Page 27

SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS

February/March

WHAT IS LINK BAITING?

By Katherine Hanson – Soci@lite

Link Baiting is the use of content or features within a website to specifically draw attention to or encourage others to link to that website. Given that the quantity and quality of inbound links are two key metrics that search engines use to rank websites, Link Baiting is an extremely powerful form of online marketing.

Elements of a Link Bait • A strong headline capable of capturing the readers’ attention is the first vital aspect of highly linkable content • A list of contacts who will be interested in sharing the Link Bait before actually launching it enhances the viral effect of the Link Bait once it goes live • Information – the research and conceptualisation phase of the content, the quality of the information as well as the method of approach • Unexpected hook – something that triggers readers to share or link to the content

because of its unexpected approach, e.g. comprehensiveness, uniqueness or informative nature • Page design which entices readers to delve more into the content via images, layout, infographic, etc.

Citing other websites as a resource will naturally attract linkers and increases virality as they will then share via their own site. Social Media traffic can generate a substantial number of links to a single web page making it another powerful medium through which to put Link Baiting into practice.

Contact me today (01202 798270 or 07771 303932) to discuss how Soci@lite can assist you with building links to and from your website to help increase your online presence.

Soci@lite The Only Thing Worse Than Being Talked About Is Not Being Talked About (Oscar Wilde) Social Media Training & Consultancy, Content Writing, Website Design

Social Media Training Roll up, Roll up! Join me at my next training session 121 Training at your premises or Remote Training using software which enables me to dial-in and see what you see

katherine@social-ite.info | www.social-ite.info | 01202 798270 Page 28

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

SPORTS BETTING MATTERS LEGAL MATTERS

February/March April/May

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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.

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ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE?

Fine Seafront Dining at Ocean Bay Restaurant

Block out the competition and be the only company of your trade or profession represented in this local business to business journal.

A short trip over the Sandbanks Chain Ferry by car, bus or bike leads you to the town ofpackages’ Swanage and its premier seaside For details on our ‘advertising packages’ andpicturesque the ‘marketing available Restaurant, "Oceansales@newbusinessmatters.com Bay". There is plenty of window seating to admire please contact: Peter on 01202 233580 or email the views and the relaxed atmosphere gives a sense of holiday, day or night.

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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.

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Page 25 29 Page

STRATEGY MATTERS

February/March

WHOOPS WHERE DID THEY GO?

By Paul Haley from Sterling Business What have Clintons Cards, Comet, Jessops, HMV and Blockbuster all got in common?

These were shops with their plans firmly fixed in 1983 not 2013!

Some commentators have said that they didn’t embrace the internet and failed to gauge shopping trends correctly, especially now that there is an increase in on-line spending on a range of goods from big ticket electrical items, to the usual stuffed through the post like clothes, books, cds and dvds and more specialist delivery items such as food and certain white goods.

Once upon a time the only home delivery item was flowers from the interflora florist who came round

in a little van on special occasions. Unfortunately that is not the whole picture. Even when companies have a substantial web presence they can still disappear only it can take a while for anyone to notice. Losing a big high street store can be a bit like losing a front tooth – it really notices!

I see the real problem as more of a management one as most of those who go out of business do so because the planning is either nonexistent or painfully short term. A good business plan is a flexible and living document that adapts to the changing times, but always has an eye on the future. It should support and advise the decision making process and be there on those cold dark nights when things are going so badly wrong that all you want to do is get a proper job

WE’LL HELP YOU SEE THE POTENTIAL IN YOUR BUSINESS For clear, affordable business advice, call 07887 553242 or email paul@sterlingbusiness.co.uk www.sterlingbusiness.co.uk Page 30

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

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