Issue9

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

Points of interest in this issue: • Exhibition & Free Seminars Wed 15 Sept (I/F Cover) • Enjoy a 2 course Buffet Lunch for only £4.95 pp (p2) • FSB Boat Trip + Fish & Chip supper Thurs 22 July (p8) • New Legislation for Landlords from April 2010 (p14) • New Technology in Print and how it helps you? (p17) • Commercial Holiday Property Seminar Sat 3 July (p19)

Helping your business to develop and grow!

Issue 09/2010

June/July

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 15th Sept 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.

FREE Seminars (interesting and informative) Various FREE 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!

If you want to hold a seminar or book a stand space please telephone 01202 233580 or email sales@newbusinessmatters.com

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

NEW BUSINESS MATTERS

Editor’s Note Summertime and the living is easy!

Well that’s how the song goes, but what is the reality? I know I personally feel better when I have the sun on my back, but in England we cannot guarantee the sun will shine, so perhaps I can suggest other ways to help take away the strain and stress of running a business? Why not join a gym, go for a swim or even occasionally work from home, even if it is only one morning a week?

The man in our front cover photo appears to have it sussed?

He has just read the morning paper and now he is on his second cup of coffee as he switches on his laptop to catch up on those urgent emails. He looks the fit and active type, so he has most probably been to the gym before breakfast.

However, you can see what I mean about how, by starting your day like this, you would be able to tackle your day to day business pressures a lot better.

I know we do not live in an ideal world, but I urge you to take action on at least one day next week to see the benefits for yourself and then perhaps you can bring change to your life, to make you feel happy throughout the day. If you need help and advice to guide you on the right path then I trust that you will find it within the editorial pages of New Business Matters, which is packed full of professional assistance from various businesses.

Kind Regards

Peter Westwood

June/July

Contents 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 23 25 26 26 27 28

ACCOMMODATION COMMUNITY EVENTS FITNESS FREIGHT FSB MATTERS INTERNET INVESTMENT IT MATTERS LEGAL LETTINGS LIGHTING PRINTING PHOTOGRAPHY PROPERTY SIGNS STORAGE TELECOMS TRAINING CLEANING WINE VIRTUAL PA RECOVERY

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

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ACCOMMODATION MATTERS

June/July

Quality and Service really does matter!

By Brendan Westwood, Ramada Encore Hotel

E

ven in a price driven market such as the hotel industry there is one major factor in customer retention and that is customer service. You can use advertisements, special offers and other marketing techniques to attract people to your business but its how you treat your customers that determine whether or not they come back to you or go elsewhere.

Being franchised under the Ramada Encore brand we are listed as a ‘limited service hotel’, but what is limited service? Effectively, limited service means, we don’t do a ‘table d’hôte’ evening meal, we don’t offer room service, our breakfast is a self-serve buffet, and we don’t have a seemingly endless supply of staff running all over the hotel.

But does all that mean we are a chain hotel who gives a limited service? Of course it doesn’t, we are still a privately-owned and family-run hotel, simply a different type of property to other hotels in the area, and for me quality and service really does matter!

For me service is things like a warm welcoming smile on

arrival, regular guests being greeted by name, the offer of free internet and a breakfast served from 6.30am for those early-starting business visitors, and staff members who are faces and names not just different people in the same uniform.

Guest satisfaction surveys are a really good way of understanding where we can improve and enable us to get a really good idea of what our customers expect from us. But of course it is not just about listening to our customers; it is also acting upon it and responding personally to their comments that shows truly excellent customer service.

Over the last couple of years, our ‘Medallia’ survey has been invaluable to us. The questionnaire has eight main sections, with individual questions in each area; 1) Hotel Satisfaction 2) Loyalty and Value

3) Reservation 4) Arrival Experience 5) Guest Room Experience 6) Service Experience 7) Food and Beverage Experience 8) Check-Out Experience Based on the responses of our customers we have updated and changed various systems.

Because of this we have been successful enough to win a couple of service awards. The first was in October 2009 when we were awarded the ‘Medallia 2009 Encore Hotel of the Year’ for Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

The second was only last week when I received an email from Expedia® explaining we had been awarded a place on the ‘The Expedia Insiders’ Select List Programme 2010’. The list includes only a small percentage of the top-ranked hotels worldwide and the award is judged annually by the experiences of Expedia’s customers.

By winning these awards I am sure our business will continue to grow and this is all down to our continual focus on customer service.

So, if you want to experience accommodation or conference facilities with a hotel where quality and service has been rewarded then please contact me on 01202 291266 or send an email to Brendan@encorebournemouth.co.uk for further information.

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

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AFC Bournemouth has a huge commitment to the local community and is delivering a number of key projects across the area through its Community Sports Trust. The club’s community scheme reaches over 100,000 children and families across Dorset and Hampshire each year, offering football and educational linked projects. In recognition of this excellent standard of work, the Trust was awarded ‘Silver Status’ by The Football League.

Two of AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust’s current initiatives include a ‘Social Inclusion Project’ reaching children aged 7 to 14, plus a new scheme called ‘The Extra Time Club’ that targets men and women aged 55 and over, both of which are ‘free’ to attend.

Social Inclusion Project This project is supported by Beales Department Store and offers ‘free’ football activities on Saturday mornings at Iford Playing Fields. Nearly 60 youngsters have been attending theses sessions and recently they met Shwan Jalal, the Cherries keeper. This project is designed to encourage young people to be physically active in a fun and social environment and to have a positive impact to the local community. The sessions run weekly every Saturday up to and including Saturday 14th August.

For further information about this project please call 01202 726342 or email steve.cuss@afcb.co.uk

Extra Time Club Local specialist insurer RIAS and AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust are offering a ‘free’ 10 week programme of events for local people aged 55 and over. This ‘Extra Time Club’ enables men and women to take part in a range of sporting activities and meet other like minded individuals in the Bournemouth area. Over the 10-week programme participants are able to enjoy badminton, snooker, swimming and five-a-side football, as well as meet some of the AFC Bournemouth players and take part in a question and answer session with the club’s management team.

For further information about this club please call 01202 726342 or email steve.cuss@afcb.co.uk The success of AFC Bournemouth on the field this last season has seen a sharp rise in fortune. Match attendance was up 12% on last year and over 9,000 witnessed the club’s victory in the last home game of the season over Port Vale on May 1.

The club’s recent success has also had a knock on effect on sales with retail and catering both benefiting and commercial income is up 20 per cent on last year. As part of the revised business plan the catering side of the business has been brought in-house under the banner of Black Label Events, whose advert appears opposite.

AFC Bournemouth Chief Executive Neill Blake said: “They say success breeds success and that certainly seems to be the case. Getting promoted and having such a great season has had a strong impact on the bottom line and has generated more support for the club. Our preseason matches are selling well and we’ve already had a lot of interest for corporate bookings for next season. We would like to thank everyone for their support.”

AFC Bournemouth will entertain Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham, Derby and Portsmouth at Dean Court this pre-season. Please log on to www.afcb.co.uk for further information.

FITNESS MATTERS

June/July

How to get ‘Perfect Fit’ with an Olympic Double Gold Medallist!

E

ver wondered what it would be like to have a fitness programme developed for you by an Olympic Gold Medallist? Well now you can because Dame Kelly Holmes, who struck gold in both the 800m and 1,500m finals in Athens six years ago, has designed Perfect Fit. This great new programme combines unique, motivational exercise programmes with fun, social clubs.

It’s a refreshing new take on a traditional fitness programme for gym members, who will now be able to mix and match to create a programme that satisfies their own personal needs. The Perfect Fit programme allows them to choose from a selection of 1-2-1 personal training sessions, workshops and classes. And it’s not just about getting healthy or working out either.

Perfect Fit is designed to allow members to

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benefit from not only fitness activities but fun, lifestyle activities such as ballroom dancing, running and walking clubs, salsa, poker nights and even a wine club, alongside a great social and discount programme, but where can you get it from?

Perfect Fit is exclusively available at the Village Hotel’s Health and Fitness Club in Bournemouth and they are also adding new facilities and membership packages, aimed at families who want to exercise and socialize together. As part of these new packages children aged 4-15 will be catered for during the day and at weekends with ‘Perfect Kids’, a unique blend of children’s activities including splash times, swimming lessons, craft activities, computer/technology sessions and dance.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

FREIGHT MATTERS

June/July

The benefits of moving Freight by Rail?

By Andy Fletcher from Transworld GB

F

or those of us who can remember, way, way back, there was a time when parcels where transported by Rail and then distributed for delivery by one of a handful of organisations – probably the most famous of which was Carter Patterson! Yes it was a long time ago!

But what goes around comes around, as they say (whoever "they" are!). It did work well and it was unfortunate that expansion of that system didn't take place and Dr Beeching didn't help either!

However, we now have a network (or networks really!) in place that allow freight movements by Rail to more and more railheads in the UK. The system is already becoming a real alternative to long distance road movements, but then the

rest of Europe know about such matters as they have developed it into a fine art! If we have a large shipment for example for the South of Italy then it goes by Rail, gets there quicker than road, and the cost is more favourable.

To take that to it's logical conclusion there is now a complete rail link from France through to the East Coast of China and work is continuing to see that as a viable trade route for certain commodities . Probably imports would be the most logical movements to look at first, but whatever they do it will result in yet another plausible alternative to a very established transportation system.

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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

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FSB MATTERS

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June/July

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

INTERNET MATTERS

June/July

3 x MORE POWERFUL THAN THE INTERNET

By Murray Cowell, Belmont Internet Marketing Did you know there's a little-used marketing tool that can reach three times as many people as the Internet alone?

• Hairdressers and Beauty Salons – send automated appointment reminders, reducing the losses from missed appointments.

For every computer in the country there are three mobile phones, but few businesses understand how to exploit the potential of SMS text marketing. Your message won’t end up in a spam folder, and a text is instantaneous, so people often respond straight away.

• Estate Agents – put a short code on your signs so that buyers can instantly text for more information about a property.

Many people, especially younger people, are happy to receive information about things that interest them on their phones. You don't even need your own list of numbers. A reputable data company can provide you with the mobile numbers of people who have opted-in to receive such messages.

Here are some examples of what you can do using SMS texts.

• Restaurants – send a personalised offer of a free bottle of wine or two-for-one, great for bringing in custom at quieter times.

• Pubs and Clubs – spread the word about upcoming events.

• Schools and Workplaces – keep parents and staff informed about emergency closures or changing circumstances.

SMS Marketing is cheap and quick to set up and easy to use. What better way to put your message right in your customer's hand when you've got their full attention?

For more information about SMS text marketing, and to sign up for a FREE trial account, visit www.belmont.uk.com/SMS, or text the word INTERNET and your email address to 07786 200690.

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

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INVESTMENT MATTERS

June/July

Key to business success?

By Alan Balson from Alexander Price

F

or those with a good memory, in our last article we laid out a brief synopsis of what a good IFA does to help his/her clients; we’re now going to go a little further and, hopefully, give you some motivation to seriously consider the ramifications to your business should you not have adequately planned or put into place its ‘corporate will’.

Imagine this nightmare scenario: You get the call to say the unthinkable has happened and Bob, a part owner of the business and key to its ongoing success, will not be coming in again. Bob is the chap who is responsible for securing your most profitable business. He is also one of the key decision makers and a major shareholder. What do you do now?

For the sake of the business the first thing to do would be to try and replace him - but how?

Recruitment doesn’t come cheap. Worse, the delay and the training a new person will ultimately need.

There are no emergency funds of the size required and then another call, this time from Bob’s widow.

She needs money, and needs it fast. She also mentions that she has been approached by a major competitor to purchase Bob’s shares in the company. It’s all going horribly wrong isn’t it?

But then you remember the IFA that came to see you a few years back and after a few months persistence he finally convinced you of the importance of adding more expenditure to your precious cash flow. Calmly, you again refer to your IFA who reminds you of the policies you arranged with his advice; these are the policies where, in such unfortunate instances like this, your business will receive a sizable cash injection to help it cover the costs and contingencies of finding Bob’s replacement.

Not only that, but they also provide additional monies to enable Bob’s interest in the business to be bought from him by the other business owners.

So, from the depths of potential despair and disaster you can now see a future for your business post Bob. Perhaps even afford to poach Bob’s counterpart from your competitor? (You make a

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note to send your IFA a slightly larger Christmas card this year and are relieved to be able to tell your staff to book the Christmas party!)

We all know that the product or service has to be seen as adding value for a business to be successful.

But all too often what is overlooked is the importance of the human assets, the key individuals within. Premises, tools, and even intellectual property should all be insured to protect against the worst. So should you, your business co-owners, your key personnel and other staff.

Fortunately for you, you’re no longer looking at the potential of a collapsed company, bank foreclosure, inevitable redundancies etc. Telephone your therapist and cancel the appointment. Instead, call the travel agent (but don’t forget to check your travel insurance for adequate cover against strikes and ash fallout!). Sleep well.

For further information about this or other related business or personal issues please give me a call on 01202 840900 or send an email to enquiries@alexanderprice.co.uk Alexander Price Ltd, 20 West Borough, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1NF www.alexanderprice.co.uk

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

IT MATTERS

June/July

Help! I think I’ve lost it!!

By Katie Rogers, Copyrite Business Solutions

T

hese days it makes no difference what industry you work in, we are all governed by many rules and regulations that are sometimes changed on a weekly basis by many of the governing bodies. Most businesses have to keep paperwork for at least 7 years, some information for a lifetime, this information continues to grow and become less and less manageable. Some companies invest in off-site storage, but this can result in an on-going cost and also has a retrieval cost attached to YOUR information.

Other smaller businesses end up having to use a third bedroom or garage as a form of storing their client’s confidential files! One of the main objections that I receive from potential customer’s is the fact that they trust paper, they have been using paper all of their lives, they know where they left that piece of paper; they can physically touch that piece of paper. If this is how you feel, please answer the following questions: What if you experienced a disaster in your office, maybe a fire or flood, how would you deal with that loss of information?

What if a client contacted you and asked for a letter that they sent 4 years ago, it is not in their file and you have no way of finding it?

What if your regulatory body contacted you and wanted to perform an audit but the information you keep is not stored or structured in the legal manner?

What if a previous client was threatening to take you to court – would you really be able to lay your hands on the originals of all documents?

Many companies sit back and never expect a disaster to occur. If you look at the questions above and think, if any of these things happen to me I will look at investing in a solution, then the chances are that it would be too late. I have worked within this industry for many years and I have seen first hand the impact of losing client information. Many businesses will not recover.

we store documents. Businesses now have the ability to scan documents and store them electronically, but there are some simple criteria that need to be met when storing electronic documents. BSI BIP 0008 (Parts 1, 2 and 3) is the current British Standard Document relating to ‘Legal Admissibility and Evidential Weight of Information Stored Electronically’ and is a major source of information on these criteria.

Your solutions provider should help you select technology that can deliver to these guidelines, but if you are having difficulty then you should seek assistance from Copyrite who, as a leading solutions integrator, will ensure that it can be done in a compliant and effective way. 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

Technology has revolutionised the way in which

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LEGAL MATTERS

June/July

Were you affected by the volcano travel chaos?

By Andrew Carswell of Dickinson Manser Solicitors ocal private clients and consumers are busily looking at what they might recover financially for ruined holidays following the volcanic eruption in Iceland and the many displaced passengers whose holiday and work plans were spoiled. Some airlines have not properly followed the law in this area and if you are unsure of your legal rights then read on to find the legal remedies that may be open to you.

Those not looked after as they should have been, who have receipts (where the regulation applies), may have claims for breach of article 9 and as a PR exercise some airlines may choose as a concession to compensate for more than legally they need to, as indeed some insurers have announced, although to avoid setting a precedent they would be wise to choose their words carefully in any press release.

Under EU regulation 261/2004 article 9 airlines have an obligation to provide accommodation and food for those stranded, subject to jurisdictional limits. Article 9 is not negated by "exceptional circumstances". This is why Ryanair and others backed down over the issue. However, there is no mention of what standard of accommodation must be provided, nor what type of food, and nor does article 9 state any cash must be paid. If the airline did not provide you with accommodation and you asked then you may be able to recover the cost as they breached article 9, but take advice as this depends on where and when and this is an EU regulation only.

Airlines which did offer accommodation and food may have satisfied article 9 and be in a good position to refuse some applications. Article 4(3): "If boarding is denied to passengers against their will, the operating air carrier shall immediately compensate them in accordance with Article 7 [but not if exceptional circumstances, as here] and assist them in accordance with Articles 8 and 9.”

L

However, article 7 (cash compensation) is negated by such exceptional circumstances.

If you paid by credit card, it is also worth checking if you have any recourse via the card company. It is likely insurers and airlines/travel agents will pass the buck between them but ultimately will be pinned down as long as there is a breach of the regulation of course. If they offered 8 nights in a 2 star hotel and instead the holidaymaker spends £3k on taxis across Europe to get home within 48

hours, it is unlikely that the £3k will be claimable from the airline.

A second issue is employees. If they could not return to work from holiday then in most cases employers do not have to pay them, however, check employment contracts carefully.

Some employers can deal with this by requiring the employees to take the time as holiday (or possibly unpaid leave at the employer’s discretion).

Thirdly is the issue of commercial contracts. Icelandic ash clouds and their fallout are causing many supply chain issues and these may in some cases amount to “force majeure”. However, under many English law contracts there would be an obligation to try alternative routes to transport goods before a clause excusing non-performance would arise, but it is certainly a good idea on a regular basis to have standard contract clauses reexamined to protect you better against future disputes.

If you are battling against an airline or insurer please contact Andrew for more advice, by telephone on 01202 673071 or by email to a.carswell@dickinsonmanser.co.uk.

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

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LETTINGS MATTERS

June/July

NEW LEGISLATION FROM APRIL 2010

By Sharon Moore from Move on Rentals From 6 April 2010, changes implemented

by The Town and Country Planning Order 2010 will mean that in certain circumstances, a landlord wishing to let out a property may need planning permission before doing so.

There are now three classifications of a dwellinghouse which fall under Class C3 (a), (b) and (c), with a totally new Class C4. The main effect of the new use classes will be that in order for a property to be defined as a ‘dwelling-house’ it must be occupied by people who form a ‘single household’ as defined in the Housing Act 2004. A single household means the occupants must be related, such as mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, uncles etc

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A couple cohabitating will also form a single household under C3 (a) and these are okay, but where you have between 3 and 6 unrelated people living in a property and share one or more basic amenities (bathroom, kitchen or toilet) then the property will be classed under a New Use Class 4.

Presently that could be 3+ nurses sharing or 3+ friends sharing (students or professional) and this is where it is going to bite, as initial enquiries in to the costs have been over £1000.

Also, if you are granted a C4 use and then you choose to subsequently let to a family and then subsequently you revert back to sharers, again you will have to apply for planning consent.

It does not however apply to any existing HMO (House of Multiple Occupancy). If you are concerned or have any queries then please do not hesitate to contact us.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

LIGHTING MATTERS

June/July

Plan for a low energy future!

By John Bullock, Lighting Design Here’s a prophecy for you; within the next few

glass that’s too close to the table edge. What I’d like

years you’re going to see electricity prices rise –

to think is that everyone sees what’s coming and

and go on rising. And as the installation of smart

grasps this most uncomfortable nettle well in

meters rolls out through the country, the

advance and plan for a low energy future. To me, that

electricity companies will find ever more

means a lighting strategy that fully embraces low

ingenious ways of taking money from us in the

energy technology but holds onto the idea that

shape of new punitive tariff structures. So it

lighting is a vital element in defining our quality of life.

won’t matter how many 100W light bulbs you’ve

On the other hand, I fear that it may come to the

got stashed away under the stairs, you may

usual last-minute panic and we end up with bottom-

prefer not to turn them on. Whether it is a human-

of-the-table cheap rubbish that leaves our

induced climate change or the increasingly

aesthetics bleeding on the streets.

expensive cost of the extraction of fossil fuels, something of this sort will happen – and soon.

Here’s an exercise that you can do all for yourself.

Turn off all the lights in your office/shop/

As a lighting designer, it’s a scenario that fills me with

restaurant/hotel and then stand in the middle of

optimism and pessimism in fairly equal measure; not

the place. Now look around. Which future would

so much a glass that’s half-full or half-empty, but a

you prefer?

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

PRINTING MATTERS

June/July

New Technology and how it helps you!

By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited

D

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

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

The heart of any print company is the Press Room and due to the changing demand of deadline print you have to invest in the very latest of presses that will provide the following advantages:

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

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

Finally, the technology in the Finishing Room needs to be as equally efficient to ensure that the first class print quality is not destroyed by poor bindery

equipment, which needs to be as highly automated as the Press Room. Wherever possible it would also help if this machinery was available in-house under the watchful eye of your own experienced operators.

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

We are also very pleased to announce we have agreed terms to join forces with Peter Westwood through the merger of Authentic Colour Print with Remous. This gives you access to one of the best equipped printing companies in Dorset and when coupled with Peter’s comprehensive printing knowledge and customer care ability you will receive the best print service available.

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

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

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PHOTOGRAPHER MATTERS

June/July

The importance of ‘Engagement Objects’ on your website!

By Steve Cook, Seeker Photography

W

e all know that video, music and images make websites more enjoyable and engaging – but did you know that there are technical reasons for adding this content to your site. An “Engagement Object” is an element or multimedia component that you can add to your website that is engaging and causes users to interact with your website.

Recently Google has added to it's algorithms used for Search Engine ranking to take account of these elements, which it recognises add to the surfers experience when visiting your website. By adding video or audio to your site you can actually improve your search engine results.

At Seeker Photography we have recently started video blogging, shooting short video clips for the web whilst out on still image shoots. This is a move that is

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increasingly common in news photography as the news media moves over to delivering more content online.

We use a variety of methods to create compelling video content for ourselves and our clients, using both video and still images, edited together, with or without audio.

Bruce Clay, one of the world's top SEO experts believes that it will develop to the extent that if you don’t have video, if you don’t have ‘Engagement Objects’ on your website, you are just not going to rank. “It will make you last among equals if you don’t have it.”

To find out more about ‘Engagement Objects’ and how Seeker Photography can produce video to help your web presence please check out our blog at www.seekerphoto.co.uk

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

PROPERTY MATTERS

June/July

Provide for your Financial Future!

By Alan Cracknell from Platinum Investment Property

D

id you know that, as a rule of thumb, Pension Annuity rates are currently in the region of 5%, which means if you have £100K in your "pension pot" when you retire, you might only expect (in today's money) an annual income stream (annuity) of around £5,000 per annum. However, if you've only got £50K or less in your “pot” and you're hoping to retire in 5 - 10 years, can you imagine what kind of lifestyle you'd have to live?

So, what alternatives are out there that could produce a better result? An ever-increasingly popular product that people are investing in, with their new or existing SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension), is commercial holiday property!

other benefits. If this is what you are looking for then do telephone us on 0845 632003. Alternatively send an email to info@platinumws.co.uk and arrange a personal appointment or book a place on one of our up and coming seminar events.

Alan Cracknell AMC New Forest Limited trades as an Associate Platinum Investment Property. Registered Office: 426/428 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth BH8 9AA Platinum Investment Property Ltd and its representatives are not authorised or regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Platinum Investment Property Ltd does not offer financial advice.

Commercial Holiday Property Seminar!

Computer Generated Image

If you decide to go down this route then you want to make sure you choose a leading UK based world class Hotel and Resorts developer, who can show you a business model that includes partnerships with high profile hotel and travel businesses and well known sporting organisations and personalities. For the property-wise it’s a return to the old favourites this year, as buyers cold-shoulder speculative purchases in less sound countries for the tried and tested markets.

At Platinum Investment Property we pride ourselves in helping people to carefully invest in freehold property on 5 Star Luxury Holiday Resort developments that offers excellent potential returns, with a unique funding scheme, as well as many

You are invited to a FREE presentation to discover the benefits of investing in freehold Commercial Holiday Property that is suitable for Pension Investment (via SIPP) or Private Ownership.

If you have a passion for Golf, Tennis or Football then find out how world class partners are involved in the Sports Academies on 5 Star Luxury Holiday Resort developments

Two presentations are being held on Saturday 3rd July 2010 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 16:.00 Village Hotel Wessex Fields, Deansleigh Road, Bournemouth BH7 7DZ To reserve your place at one of these FREE presentations please register at: www.platinumws.co.uk or email info@platinumws.co.uk

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

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SIGN MATTERS

June/July

The Advertising Mirror Sign

By Ken Lovell from messagecrazy very opportunity should be explored to show your product/ establishment to likely purchasers or visitors and many new innovative methods are becoming available to do this. The Advertising Mirror Sign is a new example of advertising to the public whilst visiting Cafe's, The Cinema, Hotel's, Club's & Health Club's etc.

of operation it can be displayed as a mirror and when approached it sequences the advertising.

These products have been found to be extremely effective within lifts, corridors, foyers etc., and are competitively priced.

Mirror Sign's can have up to six advertising spots made up of pictures & text which fade from one advert to another, but when approached automatically switch to a mirror. In another mode

For further information on this product and other messagecrazy products email sales@messagecrazy.com or give Ken a call on 05600 473400

E

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No programming is involved, each advertisement is based on a transparent polyester poster which is backlit through the mirror surface, so if the advertisement needs to be changed it's only a change of the poster, which is low cost, quick and easy to replace. This product apart from providing information can also become another regular income generator if the advertising spots are sold to other local attractions.

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

SPACE MAKER SELF STORAGE Now part of Safestore, the UK’s No.1 for Storage Three local branches covering Bournemouth, Poole and the surrounding areas providing safe, secure storage rooms with your own key. Each centre has full CCTV and individually alarmed units.

Other benefits include:• Extensive opening hours • Large packaging range including boxes and bubblewrap • Forklift services • Discounted van hire • Business office space to rent • Lowest price guarantee

SPECIAL OFFERS TO NBM READERS FREE Removal from any BH postcode into storage by our professional removal company or 50% off all storage rental for three months (Terms and Conditions apply)

FREE forklift services for the whole duration of your rental if you take a unit by end of July 2010 For further information contact your local branch and remember to quote New Business Matters LOCAL BRANCHES: 518 Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth, BH11 8PT – Tel: 01202 524242 Heatherbank Road Road,Westbourne, BH4 8EA – Tel: 01202 751800 Wharfdale Service Road, Bournemouth, BH4 9BT – Tel: 01202 757757

We will not be beaten on price, value or service In partnership with:

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

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TELECOM MATTERS

June/July

Take one step at a time!

By Anita Potten, Director, TX Installations

Some customers prefer a Hosted solution where they can save office space, reduce their carbon footprint and don’t have to think about the management of the equipment.

Switching to VoIP is not a decision a business should take lightly. Handsets that work and provide good quality calls are so vital to businesses that a good phone system is, quite rightly, taken for granted within most companies.

So, changing a system that has usually worked without many problems to take advantage of the potential cost savings and

lot of time with customers you find that they are very interested in VoIP but want to try it out before they move their entire business to IP telephony.

When taking the step by step approach service providers need to be flexible.

many features offered by VoIP can seem daunting for most companies.

For this reason the best practice can often be to take one step at a time.

Anita Potten Sales Director of TXI says that when you spend a

While an individual telecommunications consultant may be aware of the quality and reliability of VoIP, business concerns need to be listened to, and a roll out one step at a time is usually what most, larger clients will require.

So, while the cost savings and features which VoIP brings are very attractive to businesses, many will understandably want to proceed with an element of caution, preferring to migrate in stages rather than take one big leap.

TXI know a lot about VoIP so you don’t have to.

TXI has over 10 years experience in providing Business Telecommunications Solutions.

“At TXI we believe in long-term relationships… …just ask our customers” Call 01202 233550

Customers have usually invested a lot in their existing PBX system so it helps if you can offer a solution that will allow it to work with VoIP.

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

Page 23

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

June/July

Your long-term competitive advantage!

By Tom Ross from Dale Carnegie Training Many of us understandably have been so focused on reducing costs, limiting the numbers of redundancies and surviving the recession that we have been unable to focus on staff development.

improved business performance,

It’s inevitable that many organisations look to save costs by slashing their learning & development budget, but it’s dangerous to view the continued development of your people as a cost. The truth is that training is more imperative in a recession than when things are stable. Your employees are your long-term competitive advantage, especially in tough economic times, and organisations that fail to continue to invest in their people and processes will jeopardise their very own survival.

investing in staff development

As we recover from recession, training and development can help re-focus and re-energise your staff at a time when their commitment and engagement are critical. There have been studies carried out which identify a clear link between good management and

• What experience and

in spite of the economic

evidence does the provider

challenges that businesses face.

have in my industry?

A survey of over 400 employers, which combined case studies

• Does the teaching style suit my team?

and analysis of financial performance information, found increases profitability by enhancing managerial skills, knowledge and experience, improving the effectiveness of practices and increasing the performance of employees.

One customer said to me “we had five times the return on investment from training during

• Will the training provider give you a money back guarantee?

• How can we measure the performance before and after?

• How well does the training provider know my business?

• Do the trainers have the relevant experience?

What happens after the training?

the recession.” Now that has to

At Dale Carnegie we are seeing

be a safe place for your money

an increasing growth from the

- with your people!

businesses that we deal with,

When making an investment in

who are investing from CEO

your people ask yourself these

level to front line people.

questions.

To find out how we can we

• What if I don’t invest in my

can help you with the funding

team and nothing changes?

• What’s the cost of replacing this person?

• Are there training grants available?

• What is my desired outcome and can the provider deliver?

and planning of your future training needs, to ensure your long-term competitive advantage, please contact one of the sales team at Dale Carnegie on 01202 892891 or send an email to Tom.Ross@dalecarnegie.com

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

Page 25

Bibadee Bobadee Boo

By Leah-Danielle Davis, Nova Contract Cleaners

W

hat gets you through the long dreary winter days? Is it the thought of snuggling under your duvet with a hot chocolate? Maybe it’s the possibility of snow? However, I am sure that for most of you, it is the preparation for your summer holiday, where do I go, when, how hot will it be, does it have a pool?

I must be one of a kind because the one thing that dominates my wintry daydreams is the prospect of a good spring clean. A few hours set aside for me to become one with the shredder and dustbin, to remove all the clutter that makes itself at home on my desk, I’ve even been known to ‘whistle whilst I work.’

There is no greater satisfaction than being able to actually use my in and out tray for that purpose and although this is a yearly occurrence in my

Email: info@templarwines.com

office and one that I find incredibly therapeutic, others may find it a daunting and challenging task. If only you could wave a magic wand and your office would be cleared of clutter and cleaned from top to bottom, but we all know that fairy tales don’t exist, right?

Well at this time all you have to do is think of Nova Contract Cleaners as your fairy godmother and let us use our magic in your office. Please give us a call on 01202 536770 or simply visit www.nova-cleaners.co.uk for your free happy ever after!

Nova Contract Cleaners, Nova House, 12 Smithfield Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 2QJ www.nova-cleaners.co.uk

Phone: 01202 300331

How to Taste Wine by Jeff Bowden of Templar Wines This issue brings you the 2nd “S” of wine tasting… Swirl A wine may have been laid dormant in its bottle for many years, so following pouring we must wake it up. Swirl the wine in the glass in order that most of the interior surface is coated in liquid. This helps to release the wine's aromas, but be careful not to spill it, as it is too good to waste!

A properly designed glass can help capture the wine's aromas and funnel them in the right direction. While glasses intended for use with reds tend to have a larger bowl than those made for whites, both types should taper towards the top, 'steering' the bouquet towards your nose, rather than allowing it to dissipate from a large surface area.

Templar Wines next event is a Wine Tasting and BBQ evening at Sorridi Restaurant, Compton Acres, Poole, on Friday 25th June at 7.30pm with live entertainment from Diane James & Lea Martin. Tickets are £29.50 each and include a top quality 3 course BBQ, Wine & Soft Drinks. Please telephone 01202 700901 to reserve your place.

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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

VIRTUAL PA MATTERS

June/July

Throw out the old ideas!

By Linda Nicol, Managing Director, PA Central

T

he first 6 month of the year has now gone and my question for you is what have you done to promote or grow your business? It’s been a tough six months and from what the politicians are saying it will remain a difficult business environment for a while, but the business world doesn’t stop and we still need to develop our businesses and create wealth. So what do you need to support your business without the extra cost of employing staff?

Perhaps you need assistance to run your office, especially with those all important invoices, which includes chasing up overdue payments, so that your cash flow doesn’t dry up.

Alternatively you may want someone to telephone your existing clients, as this is a sure way of increasing your sales and keeping your clients happy.

They also act as good references and this will of course help attract new clients.

Nurturing clients takes time, but is well worth the effort in the long run.

Summer is a time for throwing off the winter blues in anticipation of the sun shining. Well business can be just as liberating! Throw out the old ideas; look at new innovations and how technology can help streamline your business, increasing your productivity and importantly your profitability without forgetting why you started up in business in the first place.

PA Central can help by giving you access to a fully trained PA/ Secretary function without the cost and bureaucracy of directly employing staff.

A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS MUST PROJECT A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE Behind every successful business person is a highly efficient, professional PA. What image do you present to your clients?

Is it not about time you had a personal assistant?

Just review these questions: Are you spending too much time on administration or office operations?

Do you spend too much time on organising meetings, booking hotels, making travel arrangements and other time consuming activities?

Do you want to devote more time to your key business strengths?

Does voicemail greet your clients or prospects when you are in meetings, at lunch or on leave?

Do you have difficulty with making return calls to your clients or prospects?

If the answer is yes to any of these questions then you need a personal assistant.

At PA Central we offer professional CEO level PA support to all our clients providing a coordinated approach to your multiple business activities and streamline your life.

At PA Central we offer professional CEO level PA support to all our clients providing a co-ordinated approach to your multiple business activities and streamline your business

Call Us on 0800 008 7336 Visit our website at www.pacentral.co.uk or contact us at enquiries@pacentral.co.uk

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

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RECOVERY MATTERS

Page 28

June/July

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580