NEW BUSINESS
MATTERS Your local business to business journal
Points of Interest in this Issue: • Flat rate scheme for VAT Could you save money? (p4) • Reach out... and the customers will be there! (p7) • How strong is your vision? (p10) • One step to increase sales online? (p11) • Control costs by managing your documents! (p12) • Preserving your assets for the next generation (p19) • Making best use of your learning strengths (p22)
BUSINESS TIPS & ADVICE! Issue 29/2013
October/November
BEST4VALUE
Save Money or Make Money?
FOR BUSINESS - AND YOUR HOME SAVE MONEY Landline Telephone (Including ISDN) Broadband (Standard & Fibre Optic) Mobile (Handsets & SIM-only) UK’s Best Value Gas and Electricity Cashback on petrol and shopping UK’s cheapest online shopping All on one monthly bill
MAKE MONEY Gain financial freedom with a recession proof residual income, running your own business on a full-time or part-time basis with choice of hours to suit you, including FREE training and FREE marketing materials!
Free One Hour Consultation
Home Phone
Mobile
Internet
Gas
Electricity
4 Byron Court, Library Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9JX Office: 01202 974641 Mobile: 07837 113224 Email: peter@best4value.co.uk Web: www.best4value.co.uk Peter Westwood, Authorised Distributor - Working with Telecom Plus PLC, trading as the Utility Warehouse
NEW BUSINESS MATTERS
Editor’s Note
Reaching out! Having talked about success and the means to achieve it in previous issues, I thought I would take a look at some of the other changes that businesses have had to potentially develop over recent years. One that I hint of in the front cover photo this time round is the need to reach out to get new clients. In the "heyday" of a flourishing economy many a business may simply have had new clients calling or just walking in the door. Now things have changed somewhat and it has become vital for a business to survive that it reaches out for new custom. With new technology coming along all the time, this can take many forms, e.g. the internet, mobile websites, social media. Whilst some specific areas of business may focus their attention due to the nature of who they are looking for, the more general ones should consider maximising their coverage by using all available channels. We ourselves have recently experienced what can happen by putting yourself out there. As we moved from area to area, either promoting the business by handing out magazines or by being present at a local event, we received calls from new clients who wanted to promote their own businesses. We hope that you take time to read the tips & advice available in this issue and find them useful. Best wishes,
October/November
CONTENTS 02 BUSINESS ENERGY SAVING 03 CONTENTS & EDITORS NOTES 04 FLAT RATE SCHEME FOR VAT 05 A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS AWAITS 06 CLEANING IS OUR PASSION 07 REACH OUT... FOR CUSTOMERS 08 USE TECHNOLOGY TO SAVE 09 PRESENTING TO BANKS 10 HOW STRONG IS YOUR VISION? 10 SHAREHOLDER EMPLOYEE 11 ONE STEP TO INCREASE SALES? 12 CONTROL DOCUMENTS COSTS 13 THE CIRCLE OF LIFE! 14 TIPS FOR STRESS-FREE DELIVERY 15 GOOGLE ADVERTISING COSTS 16 DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES 17 DIGITAL PRINTING ANY GOOD? 18 TRUST UNQUALIFIED ADVISORS? 19 PRESERVING YOUR ASSETS 20 CAN'T SLEEP? LEARN A NEW WAY 21 BLOGGING NO-BRAINERS 22 USING YOUR LEARNING STRENGTHS 23 BARCLAYS BUSINESS BANKING
Stephen Corney
You can be the only company of your trade or profession represented in this local business to business journal. For details on the ‘marketing packages’ available, please contact: Stephen Corney on 01202 233580 or email sales@newbusinessmatters.com New Business Matters UK Ltd 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 0JR Tel: 01202 233580
24 MANAGED PRINT SERVICES The information contained within this publication is not intended to be complete. Whilst the publisher endeavours to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and the publisher accepts no liability for the use of, reliance on or the accuracy of such information. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and therefore the publisher accepts no responsibility for them. All artwork and editorial is copywrite and may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. © New Business Matters UK Limited January 2009 Designed by: Stephen Corney Printed by: Remous Limited, Sherborne Published by: New Business Matters UK Limited
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 3
ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS
October/November
Flat rate scheme for VAT Could this save you money? By Richard Osborne, Director at Hill Osborne
If your VAT taxable turnover, excluding VAT, is less than £150,000 you could simplify your VAT accounting by calculating your VAT payments as a percentage of your VAT inclusive turnover. Although you cannot reclaim VAT on your purchases, this is taken into account in calculating the flat rate percentage. You may however, be able to claim back the VAT on capital assets worth more than £2,000. You still have to show the VAT amount on each sales invoice in the normal way but you don’t have to record the VAT amount in your accounting records, neither do you record the VAT you pay on every purchase. The scheme will save you money where your +LOO 2VERUQH business does not incur or incurs very little input VAT. In addition if you are newly VAT registered /RJR 9DULDQW
you can reduce your flat rate by 1 percent until the day before the first anniversary of your VAT registration. However beware, the scheme may not be applicable if you make a lot of zero rated or exempt sales, as the flat rate scheme takes into account such sales. Once you join the scheme you can stay in it until your total business income is more than ÂŁ230,000. In order to join you must complete and submit an application form. If you would like advice or help as to whether joining the flat rate scheme could help you please contact Richard Osborne on 01202 678555 or send an email to: richard@hill-osborne.co.uk
C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N TA N T S & B U S I N E S S A D V I S E R S
Our aim is to provide you with the best possible service and we do this by giving you a direct access to the Director who is responsible for your affairs. This ensures that they will be able to develop a close relationship with you and establish a thorough understanding of your business. Clients can take advantage of a wide range of services as listed below. ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹
(\KP[PUN (JJV\U[Z WYLWHYH[PVU ;H_H[PVU JVTWSPHUJL PUJS\KPUN :LSM (ZZLZZTLU[ 7LYZVUHS HUK *VYWVYH[L ;H_ 7SHUUPUN 0UOLYP[HUJL ;H_ 7SHUUPUN '60 ² 'HVLJQ 6ROXWLRQV LQ 0HGLD
' $UHQD %XVLQHVV &HQWUHV +RO\URRG &ORVH 3RROH 'RUVHW %+ )3 8.
>7@ >(@ LQIR#GVP GHVLJQ FR XN
‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹
7H`YVSS )\YLH\ )\ZPULZZ :[HY[ \WZ HUK HK]PJL VU HJX\PZP[PVUZ HUK KPZWVZHSZ 9HPZPUN VM I\ZPULZZ Ă„UHUJL 4HUHNLTLU[ JVUZ\S[HUJ` *VTWHU` ZLJYL[HYPHS ZLY]PJLZ
Hill Osborne, Tower House, Parkstone Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 2JH Tel: 01202 678555 Fax: 01202 666071 Email: enquiries@hill-osborne.co.uk www.hill-osborne.co.uk
Page 4
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
October/November
Untitled-22 1
06/08/2013 18:15
CHRISTMAS MATTERS
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 5
CLEANING MATTERS
October/November
“Cleaning is not just our business. It's our passion!“
By Sebastian Popa, MD of TotalClean Solutions Our strapline says it all in terms of how we feel about offering excellent customer service and we our proud to follow this up with our extensive Digital Quality Control Program. The essence of my article this time is about the communication of this passion throughout the engagement program for all our current clients and prospecitve customers. Following on from the theme of reaching out, we felt that the development of a new website was in order to help explain clearly what makes us different and to educate local businesses on the specific services that we can offer for Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch. This enables us to also let our clients say in their own words how we meet that goal and take pride in working together with businesses to meet their individual needs and budget constraints.
Page 6
Communication plays such a large part in all our processes and, as described previously, the proactive approach is aimed at quickly resolving any potential issues before they arise. We do not just wait for the call from the client... We are sure that there may well be areas that, through our passion, we can help improve within the cleaning program of your facility. Find out more about the services and passion of TotalClean Solutions by visiting the new website at www.bournemouthofficecleaning.org.uk or by calling us today at 01202 50 90 91. We have a very special offer available to readers of New Business Matters - sign up for one of our monthly cleaning service packages and get your first week FREE. Simply quote NBM29 when making your booking.
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
COMMUNITY MAG MATTERS
October/November
Reach out... and the customers will be there!
By Stephen Corney, Director at Dorset Publications You can have a great product or service, but if you do not tell people they won't know about it! As mentioned in my Editor's Note, the days of just being there and expecting people to come and buy are long gone. More and more we need to reach out to get new business. Believe me, it is out there... you just need to reach. However, the other key think is to keep reaching! You would think that international brands such as Coca-cola and McDonalds are "household names" that everyone knows. Yes, that is true. They are phenomenally successful, but they still keep putting themselves out there... lest we forget! One other important factor when reaching to get your message across is making sure that the same message is communicated across all channels. If you try different messages in different areas, the chances are that potential new clients can get confused over exactly what it is you do or provide.
"Keep it simple" - this may be a worn-out phrase, but particularly in promotion and marketing it is more vital than ever. Consider the amount of times you are contacted daily, even just walking down the street - let alone if you turn on the radio or TV. With the "pressure" of time and finance on most peoples minds, the key to being able to get your message across fast is make it simple. Keep putting that simple message out there and it will hit home. When we talk with our clients about how things are going, the busiest ones are those that keep making sure that their name, product or service is reaching people. One interesting case in point recently was a client who updated their website. They flanked this with an editorial piece in the magazine on the same subject and noted a sharp rise in visitors that month. At Dorset Publications, we can help reach local residents in the comfort of their own homes!
Would you like your business to reach 1000s of potential residential clients on a monthly basis? Full colour A5 glossy magazines distributed by our own team of distributors - you can rely on us! » Free artwork design » A free article, the same size as the advert booked in one of the months, with a 3 months booking » Free advertising on our magazine Facebook pages » A free listing on our Website Directory pages » Each magazine is fully uploaded every month on the internet via our website
Call Debbie or Stephen on
01202 894397 info@dorsetpublications.co.uk
West Moors • Ferndown & West Parley • Bournemouth • Poole • Southbourne • Christchurch To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 7
ELECTRICAL MATTERS
October/November
Using technology to help reduce energy usage
By Kelvyn Green of Green Light Electrical Installations With energy prices ever increasing business owners are becoming more and more aware or energy efficiency in the workplace. The marketplace for energy efficient products is growing every day with many products available to reduce energy usage. Lighting is the main area of focus, with LED technology leading the way. Recently installed by us in a catering establishment LED panels not only offer a saving on energy bills they provide a far improved lighting solution as well as being wipe clean. These panels can be retro-fitted to most ceiling grids and are also very popular in office spaces; they are an excellent replacement for old Louvre fittings that some say cause eye-strain and headaches. At Green Light electrical we also advise our customers on automation products that may also help with a reduction in energy bills. Products
to monitor energy usage are also available and we would be more than happy to discuss these matters with Business and Home owners alike. Green Light Electrical also offer a full range of installation work to Domestic, Commercial and Industrial properties, anything from an additional socket to a full electrical re-wire or installation, small alterations or wiring to extensions and refurbishments. All of their work is warranty backed and carried out to the high standards of the NICEIC. For more information on any of the services on offer do not hesitate to contact Kelvyn at Green Light Electrical Installations on 01425 477943 or email him at kelvyn.green@gle-uk.co.uk. Call today for free, no obligation quotations and mention ‘NEW BUSINESS MATTERS’. We are always willing to offer free advice.
Green Light Electrical Installations Limited have 25 years of experience in the Electrical Industry. We offer a full range of commercial and industrial electrical services and are dedicated to providing a first class electrical service to all our customers.
• Inspection and Testing Services • Planned Maintenance • Office and car park lighting • Security and Emergency lighting • 400 volt / 3-phase supplies • Skirting and dado trunking
• Data and Voice Cabling • Distribution boards • CCTV Systems
e!
now 1 Stag Business Park, Christchurch Road k u yo Ringwood, Hampshire se, u f BH24 3AS wa
Tel: 01425 477943 Page 8
ou If y
us o to
wh
blo
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
FSB MATTERS
October/November
The Federation of Small Businesses The FSB is Britain's leading business organisation with over 200,000 members. It exists to protect and promote the interests of the self-employed, and all those who run small businesses. The FSB in Dorset has 4,000 small businesses as members.
How to make the bank say ‘Yes’ The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and the British Bankers’ Association (BBA) joined forces during Small Business Advice Week to give small firms clear advice on what they need to do to get a loan. With independent research showing that around three in 10 small firms are refused finance each quarter, the two organisations have joined forces for the first time to give top tips on what businesses need to do to give them a better chance of the bank saying yes to their application. Neil Eames, Development Manager for the FSB Wessex Region, said: ‘The bank will base their decision on the information supplied to them, so making sure that it is robust is vital. We know that banks turn an application down because they don’t think the business will be able to repay it or because the business hasn’t properly demonstrated how they can repay it. These tips should give small firms the best possible chance to get finance so they can grow and help sustain the economic recovery.’ The top five tips are: 1. Develop a robust business plan: A clear business plan is key, not just to
getting finance but for growing the business too. 2. Build financial understanding: To have a successful credit application the business must be able to show they understand key numbers such as turnover, profits and existing debts as well as being able to show how the debt will be repaid. 3. Check your track record: When making a lending decision the banks will look at how previous lending has been managed in the past so knowing the credit ratings of the business owner as well as the business itself is vital as is having an understanding of what affects it. 4. Be honest: Be upfront about how much money the business needs as well as what it is needed for. Underestimating how much is needed may affect the lenders confidence in the owner’s ability to manage company finances and overestimating profits and revenue could affect the ability to repay. 5. Keep talking: Communication with the lender and getting feedback is important as a ‘no’ now might not mean ‘no’ in the future.
FSB Local Contacts: FSB Regional Office, Christchurch - Tel: 01425 280080 - Email: wessex@fsb.org.uk Neil Eames, Development Manager, Wessex Tel: 07920 846684 - Email: neil.eames@fsb.org.uk FSB website: www.fsb.org.uk/wessex - Twitter: @FSBWessex To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 9
GROWTH MATTERS
HR MATTERS
Shareholder employee
How strong is your vision?
By Chris Wilkinson from The HR Dept
By Tony Field from The Growth Sage Consultancy This is often the first place I start when beginning with a new client. A strong vision for a business can create energy and drive needed to push and pull teams and organisations forward. A strong and effectively communicated vision will be infectious, stimulating, and attractive to others and it will motivate them to achieve business goals and aspirations. People rally around leaders with a compelling vision and a clear sense of purpose. Creating a strong vision is one of the most important functions a business leader can perform. A vision statement compels people to do something, change something, and become something. It is this drive that can transform a business into a strong, vibrant, rewarding opportunity for everyone who comes into contact with it. You can reap the benefits of a strong vision by defining the core values of your company. defining your purpose, describing what you see for the business in the future, and then clearly articulating, communicating, and living the vision at every opportunity. Not just internally but to ALL of your stake holders. Creating and communicating a vision is one of the most important activities a business leader can perform and all business leaders should understand the processes for crafting and communicating a clear vision. Once you have created a sense of shared vision within you organisation, you will be able to lead your organisation more effectively. For help and advice please send an email to tonyfield@growthsage.co.uk or call Tony at:
A fourth employment status is coming into practice on 1st September joining the already established employee, worker and self-employed titles and not surprisingly it hasn’t made many headlines since it was announced in the spring. Broadly speaking employers will be able to offer employment on the basis that the employee waives certain employment rights. In return these rights are exchanged for shares in the business worth at least £2000 with a capital gains tax exemption on £50,000 if the shares rise in value. It’s bonkers. What if they leave during probation? This has the potential to be a real hassle, you would need to create or amend your shareholder agreement, value the shares, do the paper work necessary for this and amend company articles so that there is a provision to buy back the shares from an employee. There are also issues to consider around dividends or voting rights. Now there may be businesses that wish to use this structure, as it is aimed at microbusinesses, but if this goes wrong it could cost far more in legal fees and time to the business owner, as opposed to just dismissing an employee fairly. All we know is that there aren’t too many people excited by this new 4th dimension; we will wait to see how many businesses do actually dip their toe into the water. We’re always happy to be proved wrong, but (if you will excuse the pun) we don’t “share” the enthusiasm. If you need help to manage all your contracts of employment or any other employee issues then please call Chris on 0845 194 9294 or send an email to: chris.wilkinson@hrdept.co.uk
HR Dept (Bournemouth) 7 Summer Fields Verwood Dorset, BH31 6LG Tel: 0330 220 2802 Web: www.growth-sage.co.uk Page 10
Tel: 0845 194 9294 Web: www.hrdept.co.uk
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
INTERNET MATTERS
October/November
One step to increase sales online?
By Samuel Adams from Direct2Digital We are regularly asked this question by our existing and prospective clients and unless we have good historic statistics, it’s a challenging question to answer as there are three main areas that need to be considered to deliver the best results, not just the one: 1. The level and quality of incoming traffic to your website How many of you have received an email claiming that “We can get your site to position 1 in Google”? However, how do you know that the key phrase chosen is relevant, competitive and therefore the most effective? Search engine optimisation, pay-per-click and social media can all work very well to generate incoming traffic, but they can also have a negative effect if the strategy is based on fiction rather than fact. 2. The effectiveness of your website to deliver the information A user on average spends a maximum of four seconds on a website before deciding whether to click or leave.
Does your website homepage provide a logical starting point to take a user from a cold lead through to a warm/hot lead (enquiry or sale)? 3. The methods in place to encourage users to return to your website Once a user leaves your website (whether or not they have made an enquiry or order) what systems have you got in place to upsell, crosssell and/or bring that user back? • Static email is great to keep your brand alive for customers who have purchased or enquired – and its economical. • Dynamic emails deliver customised product specific offers for customers who registered to purchase, but have not checked out. • Retargeting generates graphical and text banners for users who have visited your site and left again without taking any action. Next time you’re sat in front of a dwindling order book, review these three options to make a difference or call Direct2Digital on 01202 372037 for their advice and assistance.
We Think We Plan We Deliver Websites Design & Development
Mobile App Development & Strategy
Social Strategy, Creation & Management PR SEO and PPC
01202 372037
direct2digital.co.uk
@direct2digital
We are trusted marketing experts We work with our clients to deliver measurable results To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 11
IT MATTERS
October/November
Control Costs by Managing your Documents! By Phil Ford, Copyrite Business Solutions
In today’s challenging business climate, reducing and controlling costs is more important than ever. When management are preparing strategies to increase revenues by improving business processes these should always include the integration of document management costs. Companies that embrace a Managed Print Services (MPS) approach and implement a comprehensive output management strategy can realise substantial benefits such as:
Through on-site and off-site services, our team can learn about your needs and how we can incorporate change management always considering the most critical component of continued success – your employees. As a consequence Copyrite are able to help manage your entire document environment and you benefit from just one point of contact and continue to achieve you goals.
• Decreased document related expenses • Controlled expenditures • Increased employment productivity • Eliminated or significantly reduced waste • Continuous improvement with document lifecycles • Greener corporate citizen status.
FREE Print Audit – Quote NBM 29
However, Copyrite’s Managed Document Services (MDS) is able to reach far beyond the realm of just print. Our focus is centred on end users and how we can engage employees to make long term improvements to your document processing and business efficiency.
Page 12
Copyrite are offering a no-obligation FREE Print Audit and if you would like to organise one for your company then you will need to quote: NBM 29 when you call 01202 848866 or send an email to info@copyrite.co.uk.
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
LETTINGS MATTERS
October/November
The Circle of Life! By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals The rental sector is strong and the future for landlords is looking good. Talk of ‘the bubble’ effect in the housing market is hot topic at the moment! With the help to buy scheme, interest free deposits and the mortgage guarantee scheme coming into play from January 2014 there certainly seems to be a feel good factor and a flurry of activity happening in the property market, both for home ownership and buy to lets. The rental sector has been buoyant due to the younger generation renting into their thirties and then often moving back home to mum and dad to save for a deposit, but we also have the older generation. Retirement age is not as bountiful as it should be, perhaps the thought of selling your home to pay for your care later in life doesn’t have the same importance as perhaps enjoying the fruits of your
labour whilst still able. Whatever the reason, the retired generation are selling their homes to release the equity to enjoy/support them through those years. Some buy smaller properties, some go into rented and some are moving in with their children, to help with grandparent duties and share of the living costs. My children are at a stage where they have flown the nest and I sometimes wonder, in my mischievous spells, if we were to move in with them in our retirement years how we could get our own back… not turn the lights off, don’t tell anyone if we have used the last toilet roll, put empty cereal boxes back in the cupboards, spill coffee over their new white carpet (it is only a carpet)… Oh and if we were to be pulled up on it we could show the hand and say ‘whatever, chill’. Mmmm, the circle of life… My recommendation... Whatever your situation, always use a good reputable Letting Agent.
420 Poole Road, Branksome, Poole BH12 1DF
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 13
MAIL BOXES MATTERS
October/November
More hints and tips for stress-free package delivery By Howard Woodward, Mail Boxes Etc.
Following on from previous articles in this series, here are some more hints and tips for successful packing and shipping: • Just to be clear, customs have the right to open any package to check what’s inside. So bear this in mind when packing your goods, and be as specific as is reasonably possible when describing the contents in the paperwork. Unfortunately you have to hope that they re-seal the package properly after inspection. • When sending packages outside the EU you need to allow for the fact that customs may charge import or other types of duty. • Couriers usually deliver door to door. But in some countries the consignee may need to collect from the local depot. Ask for details! • Whilst couriers can’t promise a specific delivery time, you can specify ‘before 0900hrs’,
‘before 1030hrs’, etc depending on the country. • It can often be cheaper to send your excess baggage by courier rather than with a low cost airline. Ask us for details! • If you’re sending an item more than 150cm long, you won’t be able to send it by post or Parcelforce. So get Mail Boxes Etc. to send it for you! • Most of the damage caused to packages sent by courier occurs to the bottom surface, corners and edges. So pack accordingly! • Shipping a bike overseas? Get a used bike box from a bike shop. You’ll need to remove the wheels, pedals, saddle & handlebars. For more information on our packing and courier delivery services visit www.mbebh1.co.uk, email info@mbebh1.co.uk or ring 01202 299151.
WHILE YOU’RE THINKING BIG, WE’LL HANDLE THE SMALL STUFF.
As international packing and shipping specialists, Mail Boxes Etc. has the expertise to make it happen. Shipping across the UK or around the globe is easy when you trust your packages to MBE. Anything from important documents and samples to a new product line – MBE can pack it and ship it anywhere in the world via a choice of major couriers such as UPS, FedEx, DHL & TNT. Choose from a range of services which allow you to balance speed with economy, helping you to reach new customers and suppliers wherever they are based. Worried about confusing paperwork or regulations? We’ve got the knowledge and technology to cut through all the red tape.
Bournemouth Lansdowne t: 01202 299151 e: info@mbebh1.co.uk Bournemouth Triangle t: 01202 292831 e: info@mbedorset.co.uk
Page 14
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
PAY PER CLICK MATTERS
October/November
How Much Does It Cost To Advertise on Google? By Adrian Stephenson from Done for You PPC
I’ve been asked this question many times, but in truth, what I am really being asked is ‘what is the minimum I can get away with spending on Google Adwords?’ The answer to which is: as little as you like. Google doesn’t impose any minimum monthly spend. However, just like having the smallest advert in the Yellow Pages meant that the chances of getting business from it were remote, so it is with Adwords. Although the similarity ends there because Yellow Pages advertising was, and still is, almost impossible to measure. By contrast the ROI from Adwords isn’t difficult to calculate. Okay, if you don’t know what you are doing it is easy to waste a lot of money on Adwords, but that argument surely applies to all forms of marketing! The trick to achieving an escalating return from Adwords is to consistently refine keywords, ads and bids until you find the sweet spot. Then you
change your thinking from ‘how little can I spend’ to ‘how much I can invest’, in the knowledge that every pound spent will pay you back manyfold. The other vital ingredients in the Adwords mix are your web site and its content. The old adage of ‘leading a horse to water’ is highly appropriate here! Think of your web site as if it were a high street shop – imagine one with dirty windows, dim lighting, poor signage and a totally uninspiring display of stock. You wouldn’t bother going in would you? Adwords can certainly bring prospects to your ‘door’, but don’t expect them to stay if they can’t see what they want! For a FREE review of your web site’s potential to make money for you, or to find out whether Adwords would work for your business, call Adrian on 07956 908888 or send an email to adrian@doneforyouppc.co.uk.
Special Google Adwords Offer for NBM Readers FREE £75 Adwords voucher included with all new accounts set up before 30th November 2013
It’s Almost Instant It’s Targeted It’s Cost Effective It’s Scientific
Ü Ü Ü Ü
Ü Ü Ü Ü
Ü Ü Ü Ü
Hot Leads In A Flash Specific To Your Market Only Pay For Relevant Clicks Everything Is Measurable
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 15
Remous Limited, Wyvern Buildings, North Street, Milborne Port, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5EP
Page 16
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
PRINTING MATTERS
October/November
What about digital colour printing? Is it any good? By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited
Until recently most people would have positioned digital colour print as a cheap alternative to lithographic printing, but over the last 18 months there has been a lot of development in the digital technology world and you can now enjoy faster turn around times, near litho quality and lower pricing. Having said that you need to be careful of some similar statements by digital printers who do not have the right equipment to back up their claims, therefore, my aim here is to point you in the right direction to ensure you receive the best option for your short run digital print requirements. The Ricoh 901 digital press is the Rolls Royce of digital printing and it has been recommended by Heidelberg, who is the manufacturing giant of lithographic printing presses, so you know straight away that the quality of reproduction, which simulates litho quality, will meet your discerning needs. The main reason for this is that this machine uses a special type of toner that can run at lower temperature; this means you don’t get the rippled pages and poor alignment through paper stretch! Another benefit of this toner is the satin finish, which is almost indistinguishable from litho ink, as it doesn’t have the old fashioned glossy finish on everything. If its on silk paper it looks silky, if its on gloss paper it looks glossy,
if it’s on uncoated it looks…. well you get the idea! In addition, the Ricoh 901 has the most reliable registration of any press in the digital print market! Each sheet is printed in exactly the same position through a unique system of head and side lay’s, which basically means when you print on the reverse of the sheet it will be in a register to within 1mm, which is something that cannot be matched by nearly every other type of digital press. Finally, you can have the brightest colours available - thanks to the clever colour management software installed within the press. This marriage of software and technology will give VIVID colour that can be profiled to match litho print. If you would like to experience the best digital printing available then come to Remous Design and Print. We can bring you a complete digital printing service with our Ricoh 901, along with all the specialist finishing requirements you will need, including folding, die cutting, stitched booklets and paperback books. Our digital process has been tailored to suit our customers for quick turnaround and premium quality all at a competitive price, so please give Alan a call on 01963 250920 or send an email to: alan@remous.com
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 17
RECOVERY MATTERS
October/November
BY GRAHAM DOWN | www.bscorprecovery.com
Insolvency advice – should you trust an unqualified adviser? Recent years have seen a growth in the number of unqualified, unregulated so-called “insolvency advisers”. Frequently the advice given is, to say the least, decidedly dodgy, and the Insolvency Service is conducting an ongoing operation looking at such businesses. The Insolvency Service recently obtained Court orders against three companies operating as insolvency advisers. The three firms contacted financially distressed businesses with mailshots which, together with their website, contained inaccurate, misleading and incomplete information, particularly about prepack administrations. They gave the impression that pre-packs were a closed process, designed to benefit directors rather than creditors and that asset values would be kept low. They suggested that disqualification could be avoided simply giving “right” answers to questions put to them. They also risked bringing the
insolvency regime into disrepute by, to quote the Insolvency Service, “making generalised, unsubstantiated and disparaging comments about insolvency practitioners”.
Just as doctors would rather keep people well than treat them when they’re ill, or the police would rather prevent crime than detect it, so insolvency practitioners would rather save businesses than wind them up.
We have seen cases where insolvency advisers have given advice to the management of a business which, whilst superficially attractive, could lead to the managers becoming personally liable for the organisation’s debts and serious consequences for those with other business or outside interests. Some actions recommended were even potentially criminal offences.
Our Team of experienced, qualified insolvency professionals is committed to saving businesses wherever possible. Of course there are times when the point of no return has been reached and there is no alternative to company liquidation. But even then we will work with directors to see whether something can be salvaged from the wreckage. A first meeting will always be without charge or obligation.
Cash flow problems …or worse? Clear, professional advice for you and your business when you need it most. CONTACT US FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION CALL: 01202 313624 | www.bscorprecovery.com 2nd Floor, Bristol & West House, Post Office Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1BL
Page 18
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
RETIREMENT MATTERS
October/November
Preserving your assets for the next generation!
By Martha Swann, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors A house or business is likely to be your most valuable asset. It is not merely bricks, mortar and turnover but a whole lifetime of memories, the value of which is immeasurable. It is understandable to want to preserve your assets for the next generation and not so that they can be used as a funding source for care fees or Inheritance Tax. Many people think that transferring their home to their children is the solution, and it could well be, but there are all sorts of implications which must be considered before this drastic step is taken, such as the unknown future financial status of the younger generation which could affect your security within your own home. Equally there are technical tax planning schemes and issues, including means of making a gift of your home and continuing to live in it but not falling foul of the revenue’s “gift with a reservation of benefit” rule, Project5_Layout 01/05/2013 15:10 Page which might1help or hinder your4 plans.
The good news is that there are some circumstances whereby your home will not be considered under a financial assessment for care funding and with the rules changing all the time it is worth speaking to an expert for the up to date position. Thinking about your business there are significant tax breaks which can greatly benefit your Estate if the business is structured correctly. The best way of achieving this is for your solicitor and accountant to work together so that the tax planning can run firmly alongside your personal needs and situation. There is much to consider and here at Dickinson Manser LLP we have a team of experts that are experienced in all aspects of the Benefits regime and Inheritance Tax Planning - ready to give you balanced advice on your own particular situation and wishes. So call us today on 01202 673071 or email mzs@dmsolicitors.co.uk and relax!
Let us help you relax and enjoy your retirement. Our team of exper ts is ready to help you with all aspects of: • Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney • Protecting your assets for your family’s future benefit • Maximising your wealth (including equity release schemes) • Making all necessary arrangements for your future residence • Looking after your tax affairs from the completion of your Tax Return to Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax advice • Cour t of Protection Call us for an initial discussion and allow us to put your mind at ease. Dickinson Manser. Ready when you need us.
Poole. 5 Parkstone Road. T. 01202 673071 Broadstone. 221 The Broadway T. 01202 692308 www.dickinsonmanser.co.uk
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 19
SLEEP MATTERS
October/November
Can't sleep? Learn a new way to put your brain to rest! By Gary Hales from Optimal Brain Technologies
Do you have young children of your own, grandchildren, or friends with youngsters? If so you are no doubt familiar with how a frazzled parent breathes a sigh of relief when they at last get that child off to sleep. No matter whether it’s for an afternoon nap or for the night, the parent’s sense of relief comes from knowing there’s a pretty good chance they can get on with their own agenda without being disturbed. That’s because children tend to sleep deeply, soundly, and long. Conventional wisdom has it that as we age, we can expect to experience disturbed sleep that’s shorter, leaving us feeling tired when the alarm finally goes off - and, by afternoon, longing for a nap!
to researchers, because it shows that poor sleep isn’t simply to be expected with age. Quite the opposite, its people in their peak years - especially the 40s - who are having the most struggle with sleeping, while those in their 70s and 80s are in many cases snoozing away quite contentedly. At Optimal Brain Technologies we’ve got the explanation for this, and we know how to correct it. The brain is responsible for disrupted sleep patterns - and chemicals such as sedatives can’t really fix the problem, whereas Brainwave Optimization™ can. For more information please call us on 01425 471947 or send an email to Gary at info@optimalbraintech.com.
There’s a new study out that has come as a shock
Page 20
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS
October/November
Blogging No-Brainers: How Your Followers Stay Your Biggest Fans By Katherine Hanson – Soci@lite
Why do you blog? To produce content which will drive traffic back to you website? To be seen as an industry authority? To build connections or solidify existing relationships? Whatever your motivation, here are some goals you should be adhering to for blogging success:
your posts and they will demonstrate this by commenting on and sharing your content to their own Social Media channels. This is also how search engines measure your social proof and ultimately rank you higher in online searches. • Content is King! The better quality your blog post or webpage(s), the higher your brand or business will appear in search engine results.
• Don’t hide your light under a bushel! Instead of competing with others, don’t be afraid to be yourself. An original and authentic voice is ultimately what will make your voice heard. By being somebody who people feel they want to get to know, your business or services will become of interest to them.
Whatever your motivation for blogging, keep the end-user in mind. It’s all about valuable exchanges and reciprocity – they’ll make the effort if you do.
• Reader engagement is a litmus test for how valuable readers rate your content. Followers of your blog need to feel enthused, interested by and more knowledgeable as a result of reading
Visit our blog for more Top Tips or contact hello@social-ite.info / 0333 321 4991 to find out how Soci@lite can help increase your business’ industry authority and online presence through blogging.
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 21
TRAINING MATTERS
October/November
Making best use of your learning strengths By Audrey Davies from The Way Ahead
Learning is about improving our knowledge, developing our skills, improving our performance. Sometimes, we don’t always choose the best means to go about it. That’s because we ignore our own preferred style of learning. You could missing out, by not identifying and building on those areas in which you’re not strong. Our learning cycle involves -- Doing something: EXPERIENCING -- Thinking about what has happened: REVIEWING -- Drawing some conclusions: CONCLUDING -- Deciding what to do in a similar situation: PLANNING
Some of us are happier with the more ‘active’ elements of our jobs, and some are greater ‘thinkers’. There’s no right or wrong way to learn – just recognise the differences. For instance, a ‘doer’ gets frustrated when having to plough through a thick set of instructions, whereas a ‘thinker’ might much prefer to lock themselves in a corner to read through from cover to cover. Some individuals need lots of opportunities to ask questions, or want to be ‘stretched’, whilst others want more chance to practise and experiment. So, is an online, self-study course in ICT the most effective way for a ‘doer’ to learn – or will they rush through it? Would role plays scare the pants off the ‘thinkers’? I can tell you a few funny stories from my experiences as a trainer! If you feel you could benefit from finding out more about your preferred learning style, then I’ll be pleased to help. Please call Audrey at The Way Ahead, Tel: 01202 788277.
Training today’s people for tomorrow’s world Does your business have the resources and skills needed to capitalise on any economic upturn? Have you reviewed your workforce and feel you need to inject new ideas, enthusiasm and energy? Maybe you do have the skills - lurking, or hidden somewhere…?
WE can help! • 1-2-1 coaching & mentoring • 1-day group-led workshops • Tailored programmes for your own specific business needs • Leadership & management qualifications
Call us to talk about how we can help you develop your people – whatever their age and need.
We’ll guide your business to The Way Ahead and success! Tel: 0845 803 7768 www.thewayahead.org.uk Page 22
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
N E P O up to business success talk to our local business experts Whether you are opening a business or are already up and running, talk to Barclays about how we can help make your business a success. Barclays, proud supporter of businesses in the Dorset region.
Use our expertise to help make your business idea a success too. Andrew Tapsell Business Development Manager Tel: +44 (0)7775 545851 Email: andrew.d.tapsell@barclays.com
Mark Churcher Area Business Manager Tel: +44 (0)7775 541601 Email: mark.a.churcher@barclays.com
Barclays Business is a trading name of Barclays Bank PLC. Barclays Bank PLC is registered in England and authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered No.1026167. Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
Page 23