Issue6

NEW BUSINESS

MATTERS Yo u r l o c a l b u s i n e s s t o b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l

In this issue: • Corporate Opportunities

by Rob Mitchell (p9) • NBM Open Exhibition 17th March 2010 (p10) • How to Look & Feel Good

by Gary Hill (p15) • Employment Law updates

by Verne Lake (p19) • FREE Landlord Seminar 24th Feb 2010 (p20) • Consider Conferencing

by Anita Potten (p25) • The Knowledge Centre

by Tom Ross (p27) • Various NBM Reader Offers (p29,30,31&32)

Issue 06/2009

December/January

NEW BUSINESS MATTERS

Editor’s Note

F

or many retailers this time of year will be full of high expectation based on a hopeful upsurge in Christmas spend. For most other businesses Christmas can be a poor month due to the normal festive holiday, where companies close down before Christmas and do not open again until the New Year, which makes it a short month for order intake.

Depending on which category of business you are in this could have a positive or negative effect on your cash flow, but I trust you have all planned for this difficult period well in advance. This will then allow you to truly enjoy a great start to the New Year, which I honestly believe will be a great year for many forward thinking companies.

There are signs that the economy overall is improving and I am of the opinion that we should promote ourselves at every opportunity. To that end New Business Matters can help you with magazine and website advertising, as well as regular networking and mini-exhibition meetings and our open exhibitions, which you can read more about on page 11 of this issue.

I suppose the first rule of business is to stay in business and to that end I wish every single one of our readers ‘Seasons Greetings’ with all the very best of health and happiness to you all for the coming year. If we can add in a sprinkling of prosperity too then that would not go a miss, so whatever you are doing over Christmas, please enjoy!

Peter Westwood

December/January

Contents 03 05 06 07 09 11 12 13 14 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 25 27 28 30 29 30 31 31 32

ACCOUNTANCY BANKING CAR CARE E-NEWSLETTERS EVENT OFFER EXHIBITION FINANCE FREIGHT FITNESS OFFER FSB MATTERS MEDIA LEGAL LETTINGS LIGHTING RECOVERY STORAGE TELECOMS TRAINING ADVERT SECTION COOKERY OFFER PHOTOGRAPHY OFFER WINE OFFER SLIMMING OFFER HOTEL OFFER PRINTING OFFER

To enjoy exclusive rights within NEW BUSINESS MATTERS, by being the only company advertising in your trade or profession, please contact Peter Westwood on 01202 233580 or email sales@newbusinessmatters.com To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com

Page 1

ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

December/January

Page 3

BANKING MATTERS

December/January

Think of a card...

W

hat are you thinking?

Six of hearts? That big Christmas card you’ve just bought? An important business card you’ve lost recently but really need?

The card you were offered for a large purchase but which resulted in a missed sales opportunity because you don’t accept card payments for your goods and services?

Boost business by accepting card payments Today, people expect to be able to pay for almost everything using their debit and credit cards so let’s look at the benefits for you: • Increased turnover and profit - if your customers find it easy to pay, they could be more likely to buy. Accepting payment by cards could help increase your sales and profit • Security - reduce the need to handle and transport cash • Improved cashflow - payment goes straight into your account making procedures faster and much more simple for your business • Flexibility - card payment processing gives you the ability to handle multiple currencies • Peace of mind - chip and PIN gives you added protection against fraud Choice of robust payment solutions There’s a range of card payment solutions available to meet the needs of your business, whether you take payments in person, online or on-the-go.

There are countertop dial up terminals for businesses managing payments at a till as well as internet-enabled terminals that speed up transaction times and eliminate the costs of a dedicated phone line.

Simple portable terminals tend to be used in the hospitality market but there are also mobile wireless terminals available which are portable GPRS-enabled solutions suitable for businesses trading from various places and allowing you to take payment anytime, anywhere.

E-commerce software is also available as the perfect option for taking payments securely online or over the phone.

Have you thought of Electronic Gift Cards?

One great way of attracting new business is by way of Electronic Gift Cards.

Since any monetary value loaded on the cards isn’t realised unless it’s used, you have a cost-effective, targeted programme with the following benefits: • New customers - gift cards given by loyal customers entice friends and families to sample your business • Increase sales & profits - most card recipients spend more than the value of their card and there’s no cash back required. When used for merchandise returns, the value stays on the card and never leaves the store • Repeat business -stored value cards are great for regular customers, enabling them to conveniently use a prepaid balance for recurring services • Popular with customers - Gift cards are consistently one of the top gifts during the festive season. They also attract new customers and boost sales all year long For more information about accepting card payments or about Electronic Gift Cards, Santander is pleased to announce its recent alliance with Elavon Merchant Services, one of the largest providers of credit and debit card processing in the world.

Your local contact for Elavon is Patrick Dominey and he can be contacted via Tim Noakes at Abbey Business Banking.

So, looking at your business, now ask yourself: • What are your key challenges regarding banking and cards?

• Going forward 12 months, what could your business and banking look like?

Contact Tim Noakes and make an appointment to see how Abbey Business Banking may be able to help save or make your business money.

Tim Noakes, Relationship Manager Abbey Business Banking E: tim.noakes@abbey.com M: 07903 849495

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

Page 5

CAR CARE MATTERS

December/January

Classic and vintage car restoration

By Paul Booker MD of ooops.net limited

A

t ooops! we have been having fun and obtaining real pleasure from restoring and re-juvenating classic and vintage cars, so much so, that we now have a Face book Page dedicated to this: www.facebook/ooopsnet/vintage Please sign up and become a member of our community.

We take great pleasure in this type of work and are proud to make manifest our skills; this is what we do with your classic and vintage car:

The ooops! process Stripping: Attention to detail, every nut, bolt, screw & clip is recorded so that they are all put back in exactly the same position.

Prepping: All surfaces to be painted are “sanded” back as far as necessary, like everything else in life “preparation” is 80% of the finished job.

Painting: Most vehicles today have a base coat, often a pearlescent or metallic, this is “water based” environmentally friendly and is air dried. We have the latest environmentally friendly special “water based” paints for classic and vintage cars that have been perfected this year, to keep to the true colours of the specific bygone era.

We have one of best spray booths in Dorset where the total volume of air changes 6 times per minute. After the base coat is “air dried” a top coat “lacquer” is applied and “baked off” this creates the protection that gives your paintwork resilience, longevity & clarity.

Detailing: After coming out of “intensive care” the spray booth, your car is “detailed” a quality check is carried out by the technician and then an extra one by the “shift manager”.

Priming:

To view all photographs of the above process please visit our website www.oops.net/restoration

All areas to be painted are primed, the car is then “baked” we then “flat” the primed areas ready to be painted.

Please also visit our compliment page for a selection of happy clients! www.ooops.net/testimonies The 1938 Jaguar SS

Page 6

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

E-NEWSLETTER MATTERS

December/January

The platform you arrive on could be your last!

By David Dean from greenmessage ith businesses recognising that enewsletters are the most effective and cost-effective method of marketing available, it is still amazing how wrong people get it. We all recognise that if we printed a brochure then screwed it up and drew all over it before posting, the response we would get would be nil, so why do people send out enewsletters without checking if it will be received by every platform available?

W

With the business market for mobile media being nearly 50% of the business community, it is imperative that any communication should be read by the various versions of Blackberry, iPhone and Microsoft Windows Mobile phones, because if you don’t check that it does then you might as well screw up the communication and put it in the waste paper bin and save yourself time.

But how can you avoid this? We at greenmessage electronically check each newsletter before it is sent on every platform available, including the various different e-mail clients, webmail browsers and computer Operating Systems, to ensure the message gets through, which is why we get such a high response rate.

Having overcome the various platforms the next process is to check for spam words; every word in the English language has a spam rating and if you create a document with too high a rating, your e-newsletter will be stopped at the internet service provider’s doors before it’s left your provider, so failure to check before hitting the button could involve you being blacklisted and your e-mail account being cut off.

If you need help with your e-newsletter campaign then give David a call on 01202 802205 or email david@greenmessage.co.uk

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

Page 7

Special Conference Offer For all bookings made before 31 January 2010 Day Delegate Package at ÂŁ20.00 + VAT per person (Offer valid subject to availability) Black Label Events is bringing you a Special Conference Offer for a Day Delegate Package at AFC Bournemouth, Dean Court, Bournemouth, BH7 7AF. This offer includes a main meeting room between 8.30am and 5.30pm, three servings of tea, coffee and biscuits, a soup and sandwich lunch, a flipchart and a screen.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS AND OTHER SERVICES AVAILABLE FROM BLACKLABEL EVENTS, PLEASE CONTACT: JO GIBBS, EVENT SALES CO-ORDINATOR ON 01202 726395 OR BY EMAIL jo.gibbs@afcb.co.uk

EVENT MATTERS

December/January

Corporate Opportunities?

By Rob Mitchell - Commercial Manager, Black Label Events

A

FC Bournemouth, also known as the Cherries, is a family and corporate friendly football club offering a range of exciting corporate opportunities. The catering is now run in house under the brand name of Black Label Events which enables far greater flexibility. Black Label Events at AFC Bournemouth can accommodate any event and all group sizes from a meeting for 2 to a party for 400 guests or complete venue hire The Cherries play at Dean Court Stadium at Kings Park in Bournemouth which is one of the most unique and versatile venues in Dorset, offering some of the best equipped conference facilities and hospitality suites at unbeatable rates.

The Stadium boasts seven main suites and 13 smaller rooms for exclusive hire that can be used for social occasions or corporate events, where guests can enjoy magnificent views of the pitch and stadium. Dean Court provides an ideal venue for breakfast meetings, exhibitions, product launches, banquets, conferences, weddings and Christmas parties.

AFC Bournemouth currently plays in Coca Cola Football League 2 and has had a

magnificent start to the new season and increasing attendances. Football is a powerful vehicle which engages with the community and reaches people of all ages and social backgrounds. Businesses benefit from a number of exciting matchday packages and the opportunity to use the Club to reach a captive audience both at the Stadium and across the wider community.

Companies can access a range of unique commercial rights with sponsorship at the Cherries that can raise an organisation’s profile and help to connect with the community and other business people. Packages range from individual Matchday Sponsorship to Stadium Naming Rights which give a business the chance to associate itself with one of the biggest and most recognised brands in Dorset AFC Bournemouth.

Advertising opportunities at the Club include direct marketing, print, online and broadcast via ‘Cherry TV’ which is shown on TV screens around the Stadium on Matchdays. The Club produces an official Matchday Programme which is sold to up to 3,000 supporters and a circulation of up to 9,000 each match. AFC Bournemouth’s

Official Club Website www.afcb.co.uk topped over 55,000 unique users in July this year and offers business partners a number of advertising and promotional activities.

Matchday Hospitality at AFC Bournemouth is very popular amongst supporters and businesses alike. The modern venue offers the perfect location to entertain clients, friends or family on Matchdays in either the Top Floor Restaurant or an Executive Box, which offer panoramic views of the Stadium.

One of the Club’s main objectives is to make a positive impact in the local community.

AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust reaches over 100,000 children and families across Dorset, offering football and educational linked projects.

Business partners have benefited and hit corporate social responsibility objectives from supporting projects focusing on social inclusion, healthy living campaigns and disability programmes.

For more information please contact one of the Black Label Events sales team on 01202 726395.

Black Label Events, AFC Bournemouth, Dean Court, Bournemouth, BH7 7AF.

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

Page 9

NEW BUSINESS

MATTERS Open Exhibition Yo u r l o c a l b u s i n e s s t o b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l

Wednesday 17th March 2010 (Starts at 9am and finishes at 5pm)

AFC Bournemouth Dean Court, Bournemouth, BH7 7AF

FREE to all Business Visitors Simply send an email to sales@newbusinessmatters.com or telephone 01202 233580 to register your details and gain FREE entry into this business to business exhibition.

Minute Networking Sessions £5 + Vat Two or three ‘Minute Networking’ sessions will be held throughout the day.

Seminars (Interesting and Informative) £5 + Vat Two or three Seminars giving tips and advice will be held throughout the day.

Standard or Premier Exhibitor Packages Standard (1500mm) = £125 plus Vat - Premier (3000mm) = £195 plus Vat. Includes one or two small tables, buffet lunch with refreshments & one parking space.

The idea of our Open Exhibition is to get as many local business people as possible in front of each other in just one day, so if you are looking for ‘new business’ then it’s well worth attending!

For further information please telephone 01202 233580 or send an email to sales@newbusinessmatters.com

New Business Matters UK Limited, Spacemaker House, 518 Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth BH11 8PT

EXHIBITION MATTERS

December/January

A Business Success!!!

By Peter Westwood, New Business Matters UK Limited ew Business Matters UK Limited, based

larger stand spaces, to supply small tables, start

in Spacemaker House at 518

later and finish earlier and to have Seminars as

Wallisdown Road in Bournemouth, held

well as the Minute Networking sessions, all of

N

their first ever business to business Open

which has been taken on board and will be

Exhibition at AFC Bournemouth on Wednesday

incorporated into their Open Exhibitions in the

14th October and with 158 people turning up it

future.

has been hailed as a business success!

Due to the success of their first ever Open Exhibition New Business Matters are now planning to hold two more during 2010, with one planned in the Spring on Wednesday 17th March and the other in the Autumn on Wednesday 15th September, starting at 9am and finishing at 5pm.

Peter Westwood, Director of New Business Matters, said “We are trying to build a unique local business club that offers tips and advice on various business issues including help with how to get new business! To this end we can help with our bi-monthly magazine, website advert,

Visitors had 57 exhibitor stands to explore

networking and mini-exhibition meetings and our

covering 36 different business sectors and in

open exhibitions.”

addition they had the option of joining in one of the hour long Minute Networking Sessions held

New Business Matters is a local business to business

throughout the day, all designed to bring as many

journal that offers its advertisers the unique

local business people together in just one day.

opportunity of being the only company of its trade or profession in the magazine. It is distributed to

Tim Noakes, Manager with Abbey Business

over 3000 businesses in the local conurbation and

Banking, said “The exhibition and networking

surrounding towns every other month. If you want

sessions were well positioned and professionally

your business to be a success you should consider

run and I'm delighted with the additional contacts

the marketing opportunity offered with their

and interest Abbey Business Banking gained,

Member, Associate and Partner Packages

which otherwise may not have materialised.” Tim added, “I'm sure other exhibitors and attendees to

If you are interested in exhibiting at the next Open

the networking sessions will have found the same

Exhibition on Wednesday 17th March 2010 or you

benefits in their marketplace.”

want to attend one of the Seminars or Minute Networking sessions, then please contact the New

Feedback forms were sent out and lots of positive comments were received. Such as requests for

Business Matters Sales Team on 01202 233580 or send an email to sales@newbusinessmatters.com

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

Page 11

FINANCE MATTERS

December/January

Why use an independent business finance broker?

By David Chalcraft, Henley Business Finance

I

n America 80% of all Business Finance is sourced through Independent Business Finance Brokers, but in Great Britain the figure is only 20%.

So what are the advantages?

leaving you free to do what you are best at, which is run your Business Hear are some areas that a Business Finance Broker specialises in:

• They provide tailored financing solutions with unmatched personal service

• Business Loans (Every Business needs money to grow!)

• They work with dozens of lenders for nearly any type of credit situation

• Asset Backed Loans

• They select the right financing solutions to suit your Business needs • They allow you to focus on running your Business, not talking to Banks and Lenders How do they operate?

• They give ‘free’ initial consultation to determine your financing needs • They prepare your application and package your loan request • They select the best funding source available for your transaction • They act as the liaison point between you and the lender to expedite funding and save you time –

• Working Capital Loans • Cash-flow solutions include Invoice Finance, such as Factoring and Confidential Invoice Discounting, which is the fastest way to inject cash into your Business.

• Commercial Property Loans • Business Expansion Loans • Equipment Financing – Leasing and regulated credit finance (HP) • Government backed Business Loans With all these features, advantages and benefits you can see why lots of people use an Independent Finance Broker such as Henley Business Finance. For further information contact David Chalcraft on 01929 422210 or email david@henleybusinessfinance.com

• Commercial Mortgages • Invoice Discount/Factoring • Vehicle Leasing • Business Loans • Hire Purchase • Working Capital • Property Development Finance Visit our website and use our flow chart to discover our extensive range of business finance solutions

Tel: 01929 422210 email: david@henleybusinessfinance.com

www.henleybusinessfinance.com Page 12

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

FREIGHT MATTERS

December/January

Sending Freight by Barge?

By Andy Fletcher from Transworld GB Do you have heavy, large, or multiple shipments to go into the heart of Europe? If so why not utilise their Barge System? It is extremely efficient and, more to the point, great value for money. We have several clients who love it!

The European mainland has developed the system over many decades into a fantastic way to move goods around, a wonderful infrastructure that just keeps on improving.

How different to us here in the UK who , many moons ago , had such a system in place but which was left to deteriorate and rot to the point where modern civilisation filled it in , or built on it, or simply left it as an eyesore.

Well what goes around comes around, as they

say, and now it is a very "green" thing to do – it always was! Take a typical UK cargo barge, which is capable of carrying say 300 tonnes – how many trucks would that replace?

Some small parts of our canal system are now busier than ever with freight traffic, let alone pleasure craft, and the move now is to reinstate and open as many derelict wharves as possible that lie dormant on our network.

The problem now is that developers have been allowed to site residential properties canalside and so the NIMBY attitude takes over and the wharves won't get the planning permission they require!

A far cry from the European network but we all live in hope! For professional advice and assistance give Andy a call on 07980 382049.

INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT FORWARDING, SHIPPING AND HAULAGE / COURIERS • • • • • • •

International Removals Pet Relocation Domestic and International Couriers Freight Forwarder Overseas Shipping Full Packing Service Department for Transport Approved Aviation Security Validation Assessment

T. Lewisham is a fiercely independent international freight forwarder and haulage courier company, offering an enormous range of International Air Freight, Shipping, Road Movement and Forward Services in the UK and around the world.

Our knowledge and experience gained over 35 years in international freight forwarding, has enabled us to stay at the forefront of the specialised haulage / courier and shipping industry.

“On time, On cost, and to your Total Satisfaction” Contact us Now – you’ll profit from the experience!

T. Lewisham Ltd PO Box 5391, Ebblake Industrial Estate, VERWOOD, UK, BH31 6ZX Tel: 01725 517066 • Mobile: 07980 382049 • Skype: transworldgb • Fax: 08717301941 Email: info@transworldgb.com • www.transworldgb.com

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

Page 13

FITNESS MATTERS

December/January

Do you want to look and feel good?

By Gary Hill, Exercise & Lifestyle Supervisor, Esporta Health & Racquets Club Dorset

E

ven though the UK market is reportedly on the up, we are still deep in a recession. Figures suggest that the public is prioritising their expenditure; people are restricting non-essential purchases and focusing on the essentials. Leading up to the festive period it is reported that 1 in 3 shoppers will hold back on Christmas shopping this year, with the biggest cuts coming from electrical and household goods. With the ever increasing image conscious nation, sales in health and beauty products are predicted to be the least effected, with the public wanting to look and feel good over the Christmas period.

The Leisure Database Company showed a 1% increase in gym membership on a like-for-like basis, from 2008 to 2009, with a market increase from ÂŁ108 million to ÂŁ3.7 Billion. The FIA (Fitness Industry Association) suggested that during a recession more people are concerned about keeping fit and

healthy. Exercise promotes a feel good factor, reducing stress and tension. Businesses are also starting to appreciate the importance of exercise. A healthy workforce improves morale, productivity and reduces absenteeism.

It is apparent that gym membership is an essential in the eyes of the British public, but what about Personal Training?

Personal Training plays a major role in any Health and Fitness Club, although it is a service that is often misinterpreted and misunderstood.

Personal Training at Esporta Dorset is an experience rather than a product. It takes you from where you are to where you want to be; safely and effectively. Members of the Dorset club don’t buy 1 hour exercise sessions; they invest their time, effort, money and trust in a member of our experienced and highly qualified team to achieve results. Members who invest in our Personal Training experience achieve their results quicker, prevent or rehabilitate injuries, enjoy their workouts, break through plateaus, and most importantly carry on

coming back. Our members achieve results and keep them!

The general consensus is that Personal Training is only for rich fit people. At Esporta Dorset, Personal Training is for everyone! Our clients range from 16 year olds to 76 year olds, GP referrals to international athletes, company directors training 6 days per week to students having a PT boost once per month. We pride ourselves on having no barriers when it comes to our members experiencing Personal Training.

Whether you are a keen gym goer or a couch potato thinking about signing up, and you consider Personal Training a luxury or a necessity; the evidence is there to support that Personal Training is an experience that you cannot afford to miss.

If you want more information about Esporta and Personal Training in Dorset, please contact us on 01202 642614 or feel free to drop us an email on marie.graham@esporta.com.

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

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FSB MATTERS

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December/January

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

MEDIA MATTERS

December/January

What Makes A Good Advert?

By Felicity Mead from Bournemouth Town

A

dvertising can be a costly exercise, yet it is a necessity to most businesses in one form or another. Therefore, following on from last issue where we discussed the reasons why companies advertise, we now move on to the reasons why it is also really important to make sure that your advert is going to have the desired impact and that it is going to reach the right target audience.

We use a simple analogy here at Bournemouthtown which we apply to all of our adverts. We use BALLS!

• B is for Benefit Headline – what’s in it for you, the consumer.

• A is for Appropriate Words – make sure your advert matches the product to a need.

• L is for Look At This – whether it’s a product image or a radio advert, all adverts need to draw in attention whether it be with a stunning image or a catchy jingle.

• L is also for Let It Breathe – don’t over crowd your advert; give it white space and make sure that people can actually see your message clearly.

• S is for Spend With Us – all advertising must have a call to action. What is the price?

How to get in touch, be it by phone number, website or contact forms. Whatever your aim, advertising is only effective if your message is clear and you have the appropriate contact information clearly visible in your advertising.

On top of everything a good advert should also achieve Interest, Desire, Enthusiasm and Action.

For more information on how to achieve great adverts, contact us on 01202 431300.

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

Page 17

LEGAL MATTERS

December/January

Employment Law Update

By Verne Lake, Dickinson Manser re you aware of the

both redundancy payments and Tribunal awards.

recent changes in the law that may please employees but leave some employers feeling under pressure in the current economic climate?

The Data Protection (Notification and Notification Fees (Amendment) Regulations 2009/1677 ushered in a new fee structure for data controllers (i.e. processors of personal data) effective from 1st October 2009. The new fee order is twotiered as follows and replaces the previous flat fee of £35.00:-

A

The main areas of change are:The National Minimum Wage On 1st October 2009, the National Minimum Wage Amendment Regulations came into force and had the following effect on the National Minimum Wage:• Adult rate (workers aged 22 and over) increased from £5.73 to £5.80 per hour; • Development rate (workers aged 18 – 21) increased from £4.77 to £4.83 per hour; • Youth rate (workers aged 16 - 17) increased from £3.53 to £3.57 per hour.

The legislation has also barred employers from arriving at the National Minimum Wage by recognising any tips, gratuities, service charges and cover charges paid through the payroll.

A Maximum ‘Week’s Pay’ From 1st October 2009, the statutory ‘week’s pay’ increased from £350.00 to £380.00 by virtue of The Work and Families (Increase of Maximum Amount) Order 2009/1903. This will be of particular importance to employers, as a ‘week’s pay’ is relevant to the calculation of

The Data Protection Act

Tier 1 (for all those not falling within Tier 2) - £35.00 Tier 2 - £500.00 Tier 2 is defined as a. a business with an annual turnover of £25.9 million or more and with over 250 or more members of staff, but excluding a charity or small occupational pension scheme; or b. a public authority with 250 or more members of staff In addition to paying the fees, all data controllers must be registered with the Information Commissioner.

The ACAS Code of Practice 7 Months On Since the introduction of the Acas Code of Practice in April this year, few cases have been decided which consider the application of the code. The code provides very helpful guidance in dealing with disputes, but there are areas which could surprise

the unwary. Both employers and employees are waiting until more decisions emerge, shedding light on the application of some of its principal provisions.

Of particular concern will be how “unreasonable failure to follow the Acas code” would be interpreted and what factors would be relevant. A Tribunal will be able to increase or decrease an award by 25% if it decides that either party has unreasonably failed to follow the code.

There are some helpful guides available to assist the parties in dealing with disciplinary or grievance issues. For example, the Acas Guide (Discipline and grievances at work: The Acas guide), available on the Acas website - www.acas.org.uk.

However, employers should review their procedures not only to check that they are up to date, but also to help them deal with these issues in a fair and effective way.

Employment Law is constantly changing and many employers find it difficult to keep up to speed with new regulations. For further information on the latest changes, please contact the Employment Law Department at Dickinson Manser on 01202 673071.

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

Page 19

LETTINGS MATTERS

December/January

ÂŁ4,250 extra income TAX FREE

By Sharon Moore from Move on Rentals Are you thinking of having a

not to be confused with an Assured Shorthold

lodger or are you thinking

Tenancy Agreement. The tenants cannot claim

about letting a furnished

the same rights, as they are sharing the

room in your home, then

landlord's own home.

this is known as the Rent a

An inventory should still be prepared of the

Room scheme and the

furnishings or equipment included in the let.

Inland Revenue supports such arrangements by allowing a certain amount of rental income to be tax free which is currently ÂŁ4,250 a year tax-free.

So, if you are looking for extra income or have a spare room going dusty then at MOVE ON RENTALS we can help you with finding a

A lodger can occupy a single room or an entire

suitable professional lodger/s with full referencing

floor of your home as you long as you the

including a credit check. If you require any further

Landlord reside in the property. However, the

information please contact us 01202 711169.

scheme does not apply if your home is

Please note MOVE ON will be hosting

converted into separate flats that you rent out.

another free Seminar 24th February 2010.

A special separate agreement is needed and

See below for details.

Page 20

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

LIGHTING MATTERS

December/January

It’s a SAD Business?

By John Bullock, Lighting Design We’re well and truly into the SAD time of year.

when it’s Light and Sleep when it’s Dark, but

But while Seasonal Affective Disorder may be

that’s just about it. Talk to your boss.

accepted more than it used to be, there’s still

Winter is also notorious for the low levels of

uncertainty about how to deal with it.

natural light during the day, as we stumble

Tiredness and depression during the winter can

through the gloom of grey dismal days. Give

come from not getting enough, or the right kind

yourself a boost with one of those therapeutic

of, sleep. We need the hormone melatonin to get

light-boxes, and spend as much time outside as

us to sleep. But melatonin is only created in

you can. It’s important that we take in as much

conditions of almost zero illumination. So if you

light as we can, so gather ye light beams where

get up in the middle of the night for a pee and

ye may. However, if you feel that something’s not

turn on the loo light – then bang goes your

right – speak to a medical professional. Cos it

melatonin production. Even sleeping with a night-

might be something else doing the dirty on you!

light can be enough to stop it. So: number one –

For help and advice on lighting for your home or

turn all your lights off and learn to pee in the dark.

business contact John on 01305 889256 or email

Of course, it would be too simple to say Work

jb@jb-ld.co.uk.

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

Page 21

RECOVERY MATTERS

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December/January

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

STORAGE MATTERS

December/January

Is it time for that office clear out?

By Karl Fuller, Space Maker Self Storage

I

t has been a difficult year for lots of companies in many ways and one obvious consideration to make more profit is to cut your overheads. With office space at a premium you need to utilise your space wisely and perhaps it is time for that office clear out?

Not all records can be saved on disk and sometimes hard copies must be kept in some sectors for up to six years. The cost of transferring data onto disk may be prohibitive and an alternative may be to free up valuable space in your office by storing off site in a secure storage facility.

Units are alarmed and accessible seven days a week.

Units can be racked out for ease of use and certain members of staff can be included on the rental contract for security.

Another option to consider could be to put unwanted records and excess furniture in storage until such time as the economic situation improves and in the interim period down size your office space by renting a smaller unit.

Whether you require access to your files every day or rarely, self storage is perfect for this and is a cost effective way of managing your paperwork.

For further information on the benefits of self storage and the latest offers, you can contact the Space Maker team on 01202 524242.

on self storage units

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

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TELECOM MATTERS

December/January

Why you should consider Conferencing?

By Anita Potten, Director, TX Installations

The Green Issue

Convenience and Speed

With governments worldwide making ever further reaching pledges of commitment to environmental issues, legislation will have an increasing part to play in how your business operates

Business moves fast and priorities have to change!

Don't wait till it’s too late, take the initiative today to steer your organisation down the green path.

Use ‘In Communications’ carbon saving calculator to gain an insight into the environmental impact of holding a meeting and see for yourself the benefits of letting the technology ease the strain on the planet

When communication is critical and your speed of response is vital, conferencing allows you to bring people together far more quickly, simply and effectively than traditional forms of meetings.

Conferencing is a business lifeline

Reduced Capital Expenditure In today's climate, preserving cash is paramount!

Why tie up your valuable cash in assets, when you can use it better elsewhere? Use a hosted service and keep the cash where it counts

Reducing the Impact of Travel

Reliability

Whether its corporate policy or personal preference, avoiding travel is high on everyone's agenda, especially in today's congested world!

Forget the stresses of travel, meet virtually and no one gets stuck in traffic!

The benefit of holding your meetings remotely has been obvious since long distance communications first became a reality.

While we're on the subject, it's amazing how people's diaries free up when it doesn't take them a whole day to have a 2 hour meeting.

The gap between holding a virtual meeting or getting together in person is getting smaller. Start working smart today!

In summary whether they’re in the next room or half way around the world, you can meet INSTANTLY without leaving your desk.

Participants simply dial in using their regular landline or mobile phones.

Time Saving

Meetings held on the phone are cheaper, more convenient & greener than traditional meetings.

Project meeting finishes at 12:30am, due with customer at 2:00pm!

You know the project meetings going to over run and the customer is an hour away. You can't be late for the customer, but this is a key milestone review! Conferencing can't put you in two places at once, but it can make you more efficient.

If you want to take advantage of conferencing and have an impact upon your carbon footprint, but you are not sure how to go about it, then please contact the sales team at TX Installations (TXI) on 01202 233550. complete communications solutions

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

Page 25

The Dale Carnegie Course®

High Impact Presentations

A training process that improves company profitability by improving employee performance. Interactive sessions elicit full participation in the learning process through practice and group discussion. As people experience breakthrough training in “real life” situations, self-confidence and productivity increase. Can be tailored for groups interested in becoming more productive teams.

Intensive training that concentrates on developing presentation skills.

Participants learn methods for planning and delivering effective presentations, as well as how to respond to questions from audiences, the media, and in impromptu situations. Presentations are video taped for review and personal coaching is provided during training.

Sales Advantage This cutting-edge programme trains sales professionals to build relationships that open more doors and close more sales. Participants learn concrete, practical selling techniques that help them establish rapport and create solutions. Sales Advantage focuses on consultative selling and examines the steps to sell customers based upon listening to what they need. Sales Advantage’s proven method can be customised and applied to any field.

Leadership Training for Managers This highly concentrated programme focuses on primary management functions and communication skills development. Enhances leadership ability, including motivating, fostering cooperation, and building teamwork.

Encourages short-term and long-term planning and goal setting.

Customised Corporate Solutions

Dale Carnegie Training ® 6 Whittle Road Ferndown Industrial Estate Dorset BH21 7RU

blg@dalecarnegie.com

Training customised for the specific requirements of an organisation. All programmes include a comprehensive assessment of company needs, interviews with personnel at all levels, and an analysis of corporate mission statements. Fast-paced training sessions hone communication skills, build teamwork, and encourage better time and stress management. Posttraining reviews and evaluations help ensure long-term effectiveness.

Executive Coaching Programme A programme for developing greater awareness of how executives and professionals are perceived, and ways to influence and improve that perception. Participants focus on key elements of creating, communicating and maintaining a leadership image.

World Class Customer Service This programme focuses on delivering superior service that not only satisfies customers but also transforms them into business partners. We equip your employees with the ability to perform their role of winning and retaining customers, to figure out customer priorities and apply tested strategies to foster enduring relationships.

High Performance Teams This programme turns talented individual players into high performing team members. We offer business people the techniques to implement critical team processes, such as defining shared goals and clarifying individual responsibilities.

TRAINING MATTERS

December/January

The Knowledge Centre!

By Tom Ross, Dale Carnegie Training Commitment this is a monthly newsletter that focuses on the people’s side of business.

I

t’s the end of a tough year and we wish everyone a good and well deserved break and a prosperous new year. We would also like to offer every reader some free knowledge and tips so we can all be more successful next year and put the barrage of economic bad news behind us.

We can do this by giving you access to an on-line resource library that provides tools of engagement, which will help align the hearts as well as the minds of employees with your organisational objectives.

Visit our website at: www.dalecarnegie.com/kc to gain access to our Knowledge Centre for information about: • Employee engagement.

• Leadership development.

• Sales effectiveness.

• Process improvement.

• Presentation effectiveness.

• Customer service.

• Access numerous tips to help you become more effective in the workplace, view online videos and Podcasts that have been developed to improve workplace performance.

• Find engaging Ideas – A Leaders Guide to Creating Employee & Customer

This year has certainly seen some changes, what affects do you think this has had on our teams? Is it not our responsibility to make sure our people have the tools to cope with and grow after tough times?

Employees who have had to watch their colleagues and friends being laid off, and those who fear they may be next, are looking for help as their world changes. We have found that the people left behind after layoffs typically experience the following four emotions that must be dealt with in order to move on: • The situation isn't fair.

• Anger at their company.

• Guilt.

• Fear that they will be next.

People need help in dealing with these emotions so they can contribute to the organisation, achieve peace of mind in their jobs, and hope for the future.

Here are some tips for reducing stress, staying focused, and standing out after surviving layoffs.

• Talk, talk, talk. Don't allow your emotions to fester.

Instead, tell your story to a trusted friend, colleague, or your HR department.

• Socialise with positive people and avoid the rumour mill. Do your part to keep morale up for those remaining employees.

• Cooperate with the inevitable - don't worry about the past; instead, focus on the future.

Take a proactive approach to your future. Take actions that will make you feel in control.

• Set realistic goals, break them into small steps, and start with those steps. Start small and you will be surprised by how easy it is to finish.

• Step up to the plate and create opportunities for yourself. Volunteer often and be willing to take on extra tasks.

• Know your business priorities and contribute to those goals and projects.

• Keep the lines of communication open and go after what you need. Seek information that will help you add value.

• Demonstrate excellent communication, leadership, and presentation skills.

• Exceed expectations. Think outside of the box, do more than you promise.

Contact one of the sales team at Dale Carnegie on 01202 892891 to find out how we can we can help you with the funding and planning of your future training needs!

• Call upon your strengths. Draw on the qualities or strategies that have helped you through times of stress in the past.

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

Page 27

Workplace Mediation

C Mediation Dorset Commercial and Workplace Mediation Conflict Resolution Training Mediation Skills Training Call Dave Beeston on

01305 257717 for a consultation Email: info@mediationdorset.co.uk

www.mediationdorset.co.uk Registered office: 22 High East Street, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1EZ Registered charity 1123239

Page 28

onflict can arise between individuals or groups in any organisation however well managed.

Mediation processes provide an informal, acceptable and effective means of complying with the ACAS Code of Practice (and associated guidelines) introduced in April 2009. The primary goal of mediation is to foster better working relationships through awareness and understanding.

The function of the mediator is to gather information, clarify issues and jointly explore possibilities for the future in a way that is fair to all concerned.

THE MEDIATION PROCESS • Initial summary details taken - including a synopsis of the issues to be resolved (for both parties) • Mediation guidance is sent to participants requesting their agreement to use the process • Allocation of qualified mediator(s) and decision made about appropriate venue • Mediation meeting takes place with the mediator(s); if initial discussions have not taken place, this will usually include side meetings (caucuses) with individuals whilst working towards a mutually acceptable solution • Outcomes are summarised and documented and a date is set for a follow-up monitoring of the outcome.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

Why you must send photos with your press release

By Steve Cook, Seeker Photography

I

f you don’t send pictures with your press release you’re not making the most of your PR campaign.

Releases with a photo have a much better chance of being published and the image helps increase the prominence from a brief mention in the business section to a possible feature article.

Try these tips: • Always have current headshots of everyone likely to be mentioned in your press releases.

• Have a selection of natural working shots of your main people with and without your company branding.

• If your press release tells a story reinforce this in your images with enough impact to grab the attention of both the Editor and the readers.

• Headshots are useful and great for adding to a simple release but a feature picture can make the story. We’ve had numerous occasions where our image has promoted a run of the mill story to prominence including two paragraph pieces taking up half a page!

• Have a library of stock images taken of your business, shots of your premises, staff, processes and products – handy for releases when you don’t have the time for a specific shoot.

Professional images are one of the most effective and economical ways of reinforcing your brand and communicating with current and potential clients – call us on 01202 779604 to see how we can help your business with your own library of images from as little as £250!

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

Page 29

FO COO ÂŁ1 R KE 0 NB RY O M C FF RE OU AD RS ER E S

Your local on-line Wine Company

T

emplar Wines are a Bournemouth based online company offering a vast range of wines and Champagne to customers across the UK. Orders can be placed online or over the phone with delivery direct to homes or workplaces. All purchases are covered by a full money back guarantee.

Their extensive range is personally selected with an eye on restaurant quality wines not usually available in the supermarkets. Prices start from as little as ÂŁ3.85 a bottle.

Over 45 Rioja’s are available along with a broad range of French and Italian wines. The Wine Detective search facility promises to track down any wine that is desired, even if it is not advertised on the site.

Templar Wines can run bespoke wine tasting sessions for businesses as an ideal method of improving internal and customer relationships in a relaxed, informal and fun atmosphere.

For more information on all of their services please visit www.templarwines.com alternatively please call 01202 300331 or send an email to info@templarwines.com

Page 30

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

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

Page 31

PRINTING MATTERS

December/January

Print it any colour as long as it’s green?

By Peter Westwood, Authentic Colour Print Ltd

T

he printing process and the way in which individual printed projects are designed both have an impact on the environment. However, there are many ways in which this impact can be reduced and the printing industry itself has come a long way over the past couple of decades in changing the way it works to reduce its effect on the environment, mainly through the use of new technologies that have become available.

As environmental concerns rightly impact on all our purchasing decisions, more and more companies are looking for printers with the right ‘green’ credentials! So, if you are concerned about the measures your printer has taken in support of their environmental impact then you should check them out to see if they recognise and adopt certain procedures in their production methods and in the materials they use to produce your printed matter.

For instance do they follow the guidelines laid down by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) in the selection of recommended papers and boards and do they use

Page 32

cheaper, but more harmful, solvents and inks? To help demonstrate you are cutting down on your carbon footprint, we feel it is your duty to do as much as you can to limit the damage to the environment. To this end we have listed a few key areas that you should concentrate on.

1. Paper: The paper used should be 100% Chlorine Free and the pulp, used in its production, is to be sourced from well managed wood and sustainable forests. (This means for every tree that is felled a new one is planted).

2. Waste: All paper waste and off-cuts are collected once a week to be recycled for future usage.

3. Ink: The ink used should mainly be vegetable based and not the more harmful oil based variety.

4. Plates: All of the aluminium scrap, which is the old and unusable printing plates, should be recycled at least four times a year. We are told that one of the biggest customers of buying this scrap metal is Volkswagen!

If your printer cannot demonstrate that he is following these basic guidelines then you should seriously consider changing to one that can, such as Authentic Colour Print, who as your print management provider guarantee to manage your green concerns and to help you get the best possible results whilst saving you time and money!

Your company can benefit directly from the active promotion of its environmental stance and Authentic Colour can help you by advising and implementing a green print management strategy!

To arrange a FREE green print survey please call Peter on 01202 532277 or send an email to peter@authenticcolour.co.uk

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

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