NEW BUSINESS
MATTERS Your local business to business journal
Points of Interest in this Issue: • Expense or Investment? (p5) • Fabulous events to fill those longer evenings... (p9) • Is Property still a Good Investment in Poole and Bournemouth? (p13) • How do you measure your business? (p14) • How Spending More Can Make You More! (p17) • Should you trust an unqualified adviser? (p21)
BUSINESS TIPS & ADVICE! Issue 35/2014
October/November
ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS
October/November
Cloud Based Accounting Systems
By James Hill, Director at Hill Osborne Over the past few years cloud based computing is becoming a larger part of everyday life. Examples range from smart phones, e-mail, online data storage, IT solutions, paperless offices and of course accounting systems. Whilst cloud based accounting packages have been around for years, there has recently been a large investment from the major book-keeping software providers in cloud technology. Even if you are happy with your current accounting system, it is worth looking at the main advantages and disadvantages to a cloud based solution:Advantages • You can access your accounting data anywhere you have an internet connection. • Your data is always backed up remotely. • Live access to up to date accounting information. • Your accountant can access your financial records via their own login. +LOO 2VERUQH Disadvantages • You will need a reliable internet connection to make sure your data is always available. /RJR 9DULDQW
• There are additional security issues storing data remotely. • Data entry can be slower than on conventional accounting software. Relevant data Many of the cloud based accounting systems have been designed with the directors and business owners in mind. Software providers recognise that traditional accountancy packages have not always been very user friendly to nonaccountants! Is it suitable for my business? Before making the decision to switch, it is always worth speaking to your accountant first. Your accountant will be able to advise you on whether they believe your business is suitable and how to go about transferring your existing data onto a cloud based solution. Whether or not you feel your business is ready right now, it is clear that cloud storage is becoming a larger part of everyday life and it is where the major software providers see the future of accounting systems. To find out more information please contact James Hill on 01202 678555 or send an e-mail to james@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. ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹
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Hill Osborne, Tower House, Parkstone Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 2JH Tel: 01202 678555 Fax: 01202 666071 Email: enquiries@hill-osborne.co.uk www.hill-osborne.co.uk
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NEW BUSINESS MATTERS
Editor’s Note
Feeling spooked? Well, after what has been one of the best summers for many years, we now approach the changing of the seasons. Halloween too is also nearly upon us. Both change and "things that go boomp in the night" are often quoted as things that people fear. However, with a large dose of confidence, both can be faced with greater certainty of the eventual outcome. How does one gain confidence? Well, one major factor can be knowledge. When more is known about a particular subject or place then a greater degree of control can be imparted on activities involved. Another could be said to be experience. If one practises or does a particular action, be it a physical skill or a business management "tool", one gets more proficient at its application. This leads to a confidence in being able to do it. Hopefully you will find the articles in this issue of New Business Matters both interesting and informative. They may indeed have tips that you can apply in your own business to gain greater confidence in their respective areas. Our next networking party will be on October 15th at The Cliffeside Hotel in Bournemouth and we would love to see you there. Just give us a call or send an email to confirm your attendance. Best wishes,
October/November
CONTENTS 02 CLOUD BASED ACCOUNTING 03 CONTENTS & EDITORS NOTES 04 OPEN FOR BUSINESS 05 EXPENSE OR INVESTMENT? 06 HOW DO PEOPLE FIND YOU? 07 RECORD AMOUNT OF CONFIDENCE 08 BUSINESS COACHING 09 EVENTS TO FILL LONGER EVENINGS 10 “GLADIATOR“ LEADERSHIP SKILLS 11 HOW IS GOOGLE HELPING? 12 BENEFITS OF MANAGED PRINT 13 PROPERTY STILL GOOD INVESTMENT? 14 MEASURING YOUR BUSINESS? 15 MIXED TRADES MATTERS 16 THE POWER OF POSITIVE PR 17 SPEND MORE TO MAKE MORE 18 DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES 19 HOW TO GET NEW CLIENTS 20 PUZZLE MATTERS 21 TRUST AN UNQUALIFIED ADVISER? 22 HAVING A STRATEGY SAVES TIME 23 PROCRASTINATION: ART FORM OR EXCUSE?
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 OFFICE TECHNOLOGY STRESS? The information contained within this publication is not intended to be complete. Whilst the publisher endeavours to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and the publisher accepts no liability for the use of, reliance on or the accuracy of such information. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and therefore the publisher accepts no responsibility for them. All artwork and editorial is copywrite and may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. © New Business Matters UK Limited January 2009 Designed by: Stephen Corney Printed by: Remous Limited, Sherborne Published by: New Business Matters UK Limited
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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BANKING MATTERS
October/November
N E OP up to business success talk to our local business experts Whether you are opening a business or are already up and running, talk to Barclays about how we can help make your business a success. Barclays, proud supporter of businesses in the Dorset region.
Use our expertise to help make your business idea a success too. Andrew Tapsell Business Development Manager Tel: +44 (0)7775 545851 Email: andrew.d.tapsell@barclays.com
Mark Churcher Area Business Manager Tel: +44 (0)7775 541601 Email: mark.a.churcher@barclays.com
Barclays Business is a trading name of Barclays Bank PLC. Barclays Bank PLC is registered in England and authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered No.1026167. Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.
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CALL ANSWERING MATTERS
Expense or Investment? By Mark Scott of Technovox In this series of articles, we've covered many reasons why a small business might want to use a call answering service. Some are obvious, others not so, but in the end it boils down to the fact that whether you sell products or services, you need to meet your customers' expectations that you will be available when they need you. You can't always answer the phone yourself you may be with a client or travelling; possibly working in a noisy or hazardous environment, or maybe working part time on a fledgling business. But there is nothing that loses you opportunities or infuriates existing customer more than not being able to speak to you. Most people will need to know you quite well and be sure of your track record in returning calls before they will be comfortable leaving a message for you on voicemail or the answer phone. An answering service can help if you're short staffed due to sickness, holidays or maternity leave, but it doesn't have to be all or nothing - its possible to set up your call diverts so that the answering service only kicks in outside core hours or if you're busy. Your customers do appreciate being listened to and given time and attention. If you can't always do that yourself, get someone to help you. Answering services can be relatively inexpensive, so think about investing a little and you may find that it helps grow your business rather than just being an expense. For help and advice please send an email to info@technovox.co.uk or call Mark at:
Tel: 01202 901888 Web: www.technovox.co.uk Isis Business Centre, Willis Way, Poole, BH15 3TB
October/November
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THESE TIPS & ADVICE! Following the release of each new issue of New Business Matters, we hold an evening Networking Party for those who contribute to the articles in these pages and guests. This is just another way that we aim to help bring local businesses together and get new contacts made. Our next events will be held at the Suncliff Hotel on: Wednesday August 20th Wednesday October 15th For more information about these networking events or advertising contact: Stephen on 01202 233580 or send an email to sales@newbusinessmatters.com “I have to admit that I never look forward to networking, but your NBM Networking Parties always leave me on a high at the end of the meeting.� Jennie Deavin Days Hotel, Bournemouth
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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COMMUNITY MAG MATTERS
October/November
How do people find your business?
By Stephen Corney, Director at Dorset Publications Where can your business be found if people are looking for your product or service? Following on from my last article, I thought I would look at the basics of “how to be found”. Like in many areas of business, having a strategy is key to successful implementation. With so many different ways of reaching potential new clients it can be important to cover all the bases. Having a website and social media streams give an online presence, but many still refer to printed media. Two recent stories would appear to back this up. A client wrote an editorial article to go alongside their advert. This article introduced their new website and some of its features. They called our office the following month to check that we had run this article. We said that it had been included and asked "Why?". The client responded that they had seen an increase in their website traffic after
the magazines had been distributed. Here we see that a print article had potentially driven more traffic online. In another case, a new client started to advertise their business in our magazines. As we often do, we asked how they had come across our company and it turned out that local residents had been asking the client why they were not in the magazine. When the client queried the residents they had said that they used the magazine on a regular basis to find local trades and services. With the ability to have both an online and offline presence that local residents can refer to easily, a cost effective strategy can cover all bases! If you would like to find out more about how you can increase your local coverage by appearing in community magazines, then give Stephen or Debbie a call at Dorset Publications on 01202 894397.
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! » 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 Page 6
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.
FSB announces record amount of confidence among small businesses Latest survey results from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) reveal record confidence levels among UK small businesses. The Small Business Index – the FSB’s measure of confidence – reached +41 points in the third quarter. It is the first time the sentiment has reached this level with every sector recording a positive outlook for the upcoming three months. Three fifths of the small businesses surveyed (61%) are expecting to grow in the next 12 months. One in 10 (11%) expect to grow rapidly. These results make it the seventh consecutive quarter that small businesses have been positive about their outlook, again underlining the pivotal role small businesses have played in the economic recovery, with the South East remaining the most confident region overall. Small firms also report good news on turnover, profits and job creation. One third (33%) of businesses surveyed expect their turnover to grow in the next quarter and almost a fifth (17%) expect profits to rise. Job creation is robust too, with small firms’ hiring intentions at an all-time high. The FSB underlined that this buoyant confidence seen in small businesses depends
on pro-enterprise policies that will enable small businesses to grow, create jobs and pay their staff more. The latest results show that barriers to these growth aspirations do still exist. Weak consumer demand, the domestic economy and growing skills shortages especially in growth sectors such as IT are key issues that must be addressed. The FSB want political parties to spell out how they will continue to support the small business community in driving the economic recovery. Small firms want to see measures which will bring the costs of doing business down and enhance their ability to create jobs for the local economy: Neil Eames, Development Manager for the FSB Wessex Region, said: “We’re seeing record breaking confidence from our members which suggests small firms will continue to spearhead the UK’s recovery. We want policy makers to lock in this optimism and continue to back the self employed and small businesses. We are looking to all the political parties to spell out what they will do to encourage job creation, investment and reward entrepreneurs in the next Parliament.”
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
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GROWTH MATTERS
October/November
Business Coaching By Nick Powter, ActionCOACH Bournemouth How much would you pay to watch to the World’s number 1 Business Coach in action??? We are giving all New Business Matters readers the opportunity to see Brad Sugars live at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, SO30 3XH on evening of Monday 27th October. Here's your chance to spend an evening with the World’s number 1 business coach as he shares with you what he did to expand his main business, so you can go on to achieve more success than you currently dare to dream of. The evening offers entrepreneurs and business owners the opportunity to hear directly from Brad
on his innovative, ground breaking idea of ‘Buying Customers’, a breakthrough in customer acquisition, lead generation and customer service with proven strategies that consistently drive repeat business. His highly profitable methods of gaining new customers into any business have revolutionised the way marketing, customer service and business in general is done, and now it’s your chance to hear from the man in person. Have a look at this video to see Brad in action – http//goo.gl/SPxB9W For your FREE place at the Brad Sugars tour please go to www.buyingcustomers.com and use Promo Code SWNP050 to secure your seat now.
Your exclusive invitation to:
BUYING CUSTOMERS PROMO CODE: PROMO CODE: SWNP050 RRP £500 + VAT !
Presented by:
REVOLUTIONARY NEW RULES for you to turn your business into a ‘customer buying machine’... “Buying Customers” is an innovative breakthrough in customer acquisition, lead generation, and customer service with proven strategies to drive repeat business to you. If you’re just starting out in business, or are a seasoned entrepreneur or business owner, “Buying Customers” will give you new insights and strategies to turn all of your sales and marketing investments into guaranteed profit outcomes!
BOOK NOW: www.buyingcustomers.com Nick Powter, Business Growth Expert • Tel: 01202 048600 E: nickpowter@actioncoach.com • W: actioncoach.com/nickpowter Nick Powter Page 8 Growth Expert To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580 Business
HOSPITALITY MATTERS
October/November
Fabulous events to fill those longer evenings...
By Becci Moynihan, Event & Functions Co-ordinator Well, the autumn/winter season is fast approaching
on December 16th as Wednesday 17th show is
with darker, colder evenings creeping in, and the
already full! Check out our What’s On Guide at:
luxury of staying down the beach or having an afternoon BBQ is fading away for another year. So what better way to spend those chilly winter evenings than by joining us at the Cumberland Hotel for one of our fabulous evening events?! With mouth-watering menus and performances to entertain you for hours; from Showstoppers Beaujolais Night in November to a Murder Mystery at Fawlty Towers on Friday 14th November (Can you figure out who did it?!) … we are sure to have a show to suit everyone! Places are selling fast for all events, we have even added an extra night for our Michael Buble Tribute Night Event
Untitled-1 1
www.cumberlandbournemouth.co.uk/events for a full list of events. And if you are still searching for “the perfect” venue for your office Christmas party this year, then look no further! We have plenty of fantastic party nights planned throughout December across our 3 Oceana Hotels – The Cliffeside, The Suncliff and The Cumberland. Limited availability on certain dates now so contact Sales on 01202 298350 or Becci Moynihan on 01202 208623 / email bmoynihan@oceanahotels.co.uk soon if you would like to have your Christmas celebration with us!
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
16/07/2014 12:52
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HR / LEADERSHIP MATTERS
October/November
Today’s Businesses Need “Gladiator” Leaders By Gregory P. Smith of Chart Your Course
Remember the heart-pounding, soul-stirring message of the movie Gladiator? Remember how Maximus, the Russell Crowe character, rallied his men around him and led them to victory, even in the face of almost certain defeat? Remember his “envision the goal” technique for getting through the horrors of battle? Now, consider the leadership in your own company. Any gladiators in the ranks? Are you a gladiator? The time is right for a more heroic style of leadership. Desperate times lend themselves to the rise of gladiators. Instead of seeing today’s economy as a negative, executives should view it as an opportunity in disguise—a chance to position your organization for the inevitable economic upswing. Here are eight virtues of Gladiator Leadership. 1. Gladiators have a mission for which they feel real passion. Call it a purpose, an obsession, a calling: whatever the terminology, good leaders have a defining mission in their life. This mission, above all other traits, separates managers from leaders. In Gladiator, Maximus lived for the mission of killing the evil usurper Commodus and restoring Rome to the values that made her great. 2. Gladiators create a vision. Having and communicating a clear picture of a future goal will lead to its achievement. Dare to think great! Maximus helped his fellow gladiators see that they could overthrow their enemies and survive the horror of the battles they were forced to participate in. In business, a leader may create an “enemy”—the economy, the competition, inefficiency—to challenge the energies of his or her people and give them something to fight for. 3. Gladiators lead from the front—they don’t dictate from the back. In the movie, both when Maximus was a general and a gladiator, he fought up front where the firestorm was heaviest. So does a good business leader. Working “in the trenches” shows you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, it helps you fully understand the issues your “soldiers” are facing, and inspires loyalty in your troops. 4. Gladiators know there is strength in teams. Where would Maximus have been if he hadn’t trusted his men to fight with him and cover his back? Likewise, where would you be without your employees? While the gladiator leader has the skills to draw people together, he doesn’t hog the spotlight. He has care and compassion for his team and wants every member to be recognized for his or her efforts. This is especially important in a time
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when the old style “command and control” structure is waning. Younger workers (Generations X and Y) tend to be loyal to their coworkers rather than the traditional “organization.” 5. Gladiators encourage risk-taking. In the Roman Empire, gladiators were expected to die with honor. Refusing to lie down and let one’s opponents win was bucking the status quo. (And certainly, killing the reigning emperor—however corrupt—simply was not done!) If a company does not examine its way of doing things, if it does not push out its boundaries, if it never makes mistakes, it may become road kill. 6. Gladiators keep their heads in a crisis. Maximus had to think on his feet and refuse to give into terror and panic. He faced the most formidable foes calmly and with focus. Business leaders must do the same. They must take a position and defend it when things go awry. Being graceful and brave under fire is the surest way to build credibility—a necessity for sound leadership. Gladiators don’t retreat due to the slowing economy, but look for the opportunity under their feet. 7. Gladiators prepare for battle 24 hours a day. Essentially, a Roman gladiator was a fighting machine. To stay alive, his mind had to be constantly on the upcoming battle. Business leaders, likewise, must be obsessed with training and developing their people in good times and bad. People need and want to hone their individual skills and “sharpen their swords.” Furthermore, good leaders must constantly learn what’s necessary to survive and unlearn the “old rules.” Just because a management style worked a decade ago does not mean it will work in today’s economy—good leaders evolve with the times. 8. Gladiators are teachers and mentors. Maximus taught his men the lessons they would need to survive in their new role as gladiators. In today’s rapidly changing environment, leaders must also teach and train those who may soon replace them. We are not necessarily talking about formal classroom training. We need leaders talking to people in the hallway, in the restaurant . . . everywhere. Everyone should be mentoring someone. Greg Smith’s cutting-edge keynotes, consulting, and training programs have helped businesses reduce turnover, increase sales, hire better people and deliver better customer service. As President of Chart Your Course International he has implemented professional development programs for hundreds of organizations globally. He has authored nine informative books including Fired Up! Leading Your Organizational to Achieve Exceptional Results. For more information, visit ChartCourse.com.
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
INTERNET MATTERS
October/November
How Google is helping local businesses to get to page one By Gino Cirelli from Website Internet Marketing
You may have typed in a search on the internet like “insurance Wimborne” and noticed that the top of the searches gave a list of local businesses with a map. This Google search result shows these businesses on the first page at the top of the page with a link to a map. The number of searches with a location is increasing and is up by 144% and according to Pew Internet research the number of consumers that use Google every month to find a local business has increased to 59%. This used to be known as Google Places and has recently changed to Google My Business. It helps your business to get found easily by your customers by giving them useful information about how to get in touch with them, such as your location on the map, your opening hours as well as details about how to get in touch such as your phone number and a link to your website.
have made changes to include features to help organisations that don’t operate from a shop or office such as a service based business that visits their customers. They have even included help for brands or artists to get found.
Google are making it easier for a local business with such a listing to get found online. They
For a free website review call Gino on 01425 200 678 or email gino@webiml.co.uk and quote NBM.
The listing can be optimised so that your results appear at the top of these searches by getting your customers to leave positive reviews.
01425 200 678 To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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IT MATTERS
October/November
The Benefits of Managed Print Services!
By Katie Clark from Copyrite Business Solutions How great life would be if when you were ill your doctor knew straight away and turned up on your doorstep with a remedy! How great life would be if when your car breaks down your roadside rescue company is travelling behind you ready to fix the problem immediately. How great life would be if when your office printer broke down your designated emergency service provider walked through the door with his bag of tools. Unfortunately life is just not like that, but all of these things are important to our state of health and our state of mind. We know when we are ill we go to our trusted local doctor, when our car has broken down we call our roadside rescue company, but who do we turn to when our office printer breaks down? How often does a small problem with your office printer create a big problem in your business? Do you often end up with 3 or 4 members of staff moving round the machine, removing paper and opening and shutting parts of the equipment? A lot of head scratching and a few expletives later, that paper jam or small technical issue has put you a few hours behind and maybe even made you miss an important deadline! With Managed Print Services that small problem no longer becomes your problem. Whilst Copyrite Business Solutions is unable to help with your car or your health, we are able to become the emergency service solution for your fleet of printers and multi-functional devices, as we have the skills and experience to analyse your current print technology and work with you to find appropriate devices when replacement makes sense.
We are able to collect live data from your networked devices using @remote or Print Audit Software; this will then provide the data to enable us to make informed recommendations with regard to your document costs. This will allow comprehensive device management with no additional burden to your own IT staff. How can @remote help reduce your print costs? • Optimize equipment placement • Increase device uptime • Enables remote service • Collects meter reading automatically • Shows individual device costs • Provides environmental reports • Allows Firmware to be automatically updated Together, we can make the world a better place for Print Services. With our Managed Print Services, we hope to dramatically reduce the amount of devices and printers being hit and kicked, and also dramatically reduce the stress levels of your staff. To find out more information on how you can save money, save time, save space and maybe some day, SAVE YOUR BUSINESS, visit www.copyrite.co.uk or call me on 01202 848866. Copyrite Business Solutions is a provider of integrated IT, Print and Business Software Solutions. If you want to rate this article and/or place your vote for the next topic to be covered, then please go to www.copyrite.co.uk/itmatters
Copyrite use a product called @remote and this product is your devices very own doctor and recovery service. If your machine is unwell and refusing to work; we are notified straight away and are therefore able to fix the problem.
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LETTINGS MATTERS
October/November
Is Property still a Good Investment in Poole & B'mth? By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals
I recently presented a Power Point presentation to a group of property investors (which I have been doing for 3 years on a monthly basis). The group meet and listen to expert leaders within the Industry. I give an update on what is going on in the lettings world – and there are always lots to tell!! This month I delved a bit deeper and looked at property prices within the Poole and Bournemouth conurbation and the latest projections from other experts in the industry to house prices! Firstly looking at Savills five year forecast on house prices % (outside London): 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 5 year South east 12 5 4 4 3.5 31.6 South west 11 4.5 4 4 3.5 29.9 With an average of 30% increase in property prices over the next five years, this seemed good. Then a recent headline caught my attention from the Policy Think Tank.
Average house price (now at £244k) will be £780k in the year 2040! Really! Could it be! How can the next generation afford this? From Land Registry I took a sample of 3 bedroom average properties sold in the last six months and looked at the history of those properties back to 1995. These properties ranged from Lower Parkstone, Upper Parkstone, Winton & Bournemouth. This is what I found.
Average 3 bed house (no frills): Year 1995 2005 2015 Price £55k £180k £225k From the figures above we can clearly see properties have double historically every 10 years, now let’s go forward. Year 2025 2035 Price £450k £900k ……. Suddenly the prediction of a property in 2040 being £780k is not so unreasonable! More likely to be around a million! On the rental side, a similar 3 bed property was £425 pcm in 1995, £750 in 2005 and £995 in 2014. More than doubled over the last 20 years. Is property investment in Bournemouth and Poole still a good investment? I would say yes. If you would like to receive quarterly newsletters with the latest up to date information then please email sharon@moveonrentals.com. Sharon also produces and presents a weekly radio show on Hope Fm 90.1 every Wednesday between 12-2pm with all the latest news within the property industry. Alternatively give Sharon a call on 01202 711169.
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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MARKETING MATTERS
October/November
How do you measure your business? By Sean Kiani from Invictus Group
How does your business look against the competition?
Focus on all matters of business survival and business building.
Where do you see your business in 2020?
Be honest about where you are and what you need and make a wish list.
In business we have a duty and an obligation to continue to grow our businesses and retain the maximum amount of Tax Free profit as possible. But this isn’t always straight forward. Anything can happen as a result of a set of circumstances that are hard to overcome.
If there are things you need help with then get it and don’t let pride stand in your way of getting what you need.
As a business owner there are often hidden profits in parts of a business that just go unseen for a number of reasons.
Start prioritising an action list. And just do it! For more information about getting your business “health check”, call Sean Kiani on 01425 600129 or send an email to enquiries@invictusgroup.eu
Does your business have a pulse? Business Health checks Marketing Campaigns Lead Generation
T: 01425 600129 E: sean@invictusgroup.eu Page 14
GROUP
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
MIXED TRADE MATTERS
BENEFITS FOR OUR CLIENTS! • Get your message across to over 15,000 local businesses • Printed distribution via Royal Mail to our subscription list • Email marketing campaigns to back up print copy • Networking Party with full buffet and business speaker opportunity to present your business to all attendees • Be the expert in your field as only one business per trade or profession - lock out your competitors! • Advert on our website giving contact details and logo with a direct link back to your own website For more details on all our marketing packages please contact:
Stephen on 01202 233580 or send an email to sales@newbusinessmatters.com
October/November
Do you have Quality in your business?
Are you looking to improve the Quality procedures in your business? Have you thought about implementing ISO 9001 (Quality) in your company but been put off by the work required? We provide guidance/consultancy for start ups and small businesses that want to obtain ISO 9001, and can also provide assistance for ISO 14001 (Environment). We can help you achieve these standards in the way that is best suited for your company. For further information about ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 and how we can help you, please see our web site or contact us. Red Onion Business Solutions Limited T: 01202 798789 E: info@RedOnionBusinessSolutions.com www.RedOnionBusinessSolutions.com
Lizzy’s Design Graphic Designer
lizzysdesign
Websites Logos Rebrand Signage Banners
Brochures Flyers Leaflets Posters and more...
Do you want a website or flyer but don’t know how to go about it and worried it will be too expensive? The good news.... We only charge for the time it takes Do you want a logo, business cards, signage? Or maybe a freelance designer to help you in your offices? Have a look at our website www.lizzysdesign.co.uk
Call 07572 288616
or mail@lizzysdesign.co.uk
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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PR MATTERS
October/November
The Power of Positive PR By Dee Blick One of the many benefits of securing positive PR coverage of your business is that potential customers become aware of you and what you offer. “Gosh you’re doing well… I keep reading about you everywhere” is the comment that will greet you on many occasions, not least when business networking. This perception of success has a beneficial impact on your business. It takes less time to close a sale because people trust you having read about you. It becomes easier to open the door to a sale because you’re a familiar face. So don’t dismiss the compelling power of PR in growing your business. However, whilst I know how challenging it can be to get worthwhile media coverage, I empathise with journalists that are often on the receiving end of pitches from business people, so keen to get their name in print they forget that news or expertise is required and not advertising spin. If you’re intent on approaching journalists and editors, don’t sabotage your chances of success with a clumsy and unprofessional approach. A journalist is looking for relevance - something you can bring to the table that is timely and concise, that will inspire and inform their readers. Spend time contemplating newsworthy stories and how you could offer your expertise to a publication. What’s the hook for readers? When a journalist asks you to contribute an article or feature or to give a precious nugget of your wisdom, you must clarify Page 16
your understanding of exactly what they are looking for before putting pen to paper. Then, briefly understood, it’s time for you to deliver. • Don’t haggle on the copy deadline even if it means burning the midnight oil or cancelling a night out because the deadline is the next day or within a few hours. • Always submit the exact word count but only after you’ve checked and rechecked your piece ensuring it’s free of spelling mistakes and clumsy grammar. • Try and include quotes with memorable facts or figures. If the journalist likes them they will be highlighted within the article. • Add a few lines about what you do, your website address and social media profiles. This may well be included too. • Don’t overlook the importance of being charming and nice! Journalists appreciate being thanked (and some still like being taken to lunch!). Because they have many businesses clamouring for coverage you need to stand apart with a charming and professional approach. In the last 20 years I’ve managed to secure many full-page articles, special features and columns simply by building a relationship with the commissioning editor or journalist, often when the odds were stacked against me. Don’t skimp on this.
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
PC REPAIR MATTERS
October/November
How Spending More Can Make You More! By Clifford Johnson from PCs Made Simple
In business productivity is king! Being able to cram as much work in to your day makes you more money! It is a simple fact but often over looked. In our experience it is the general consensus that getting the right hardware first time round comes second to the cost of the system. However, with a slow moving economy, tight budgets and the banks being even tighter on lending trying to save money is completely understandable but… if that extra few hundred pounds spent on your IT, reduces the time spent waiting for programs, emails, web pages or even starting the system up, you gain more time to do more business! Some simple maths, if by upgrading your PC or spending a little more on that laptop reduces wasted time by just ten minutes a day, based on a 5 day week, that is 50 minutes a week and at
a guess that you have 4 weeks holiday a year leaving 48 working weeks we get: (10 min x 5 days) x 48 weeks = 2400 mins a year That’s 40 hours of potential work time regained! Imagine how much more money your business can make with that time and that is just one person. Applying the maths makes that extra few hundred pounds seem a little less trivial now. We can help with productivity, increasing system performance and functionality and help you and your business make more money. Why not call and arrange a coffee and a chat, the first hour is on us. If you would like to know more, please feel free to email us at info@simple-pcs.co.uk. Alternatively drop us a line on 01202 830121~ or pop in for a chat.
We make computing easy... It's as SIMPLE as that! PC & Laptop Repairs & Sales
PCs Made Simple can usually fix any sick computer. We can also supply a new one, off the shelf or tailor made just for you.
We Come To You!
If your computer can’t come to us, PCs Made Simple can come to your computer! We cover all of Dorset and most of West Hampshire.
Tel: 01202 830121 E: info@simple-pcs.co.uk W: www.simple-pcs.co.uk
312 Ashley Road • Poole • Dorset • BH14 9DF
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Remous Limited, Wyvern Buildings, North Street, Milborne Port, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5EP
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To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
PRINTING MATTERS
October/November
How to get more clients! By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited Marketing has become a complex beast, with many different sectors suggesting their industry and business in particular can give you more enquiries. This of course isn't reality, reality is a combined effort using relevant tools will generate more clients. We are a print provider, but print is only one part of the marketing mix and we have embraced the internet and all of its marketing tools for our business. The fact is the most effective way to gain more clients through your marketing is to select and combine elements to create the ‘best bang for your buck’ I can guarantee it will combine some form of web marketing with printed collateral. Perhaps you have bought some data for your target market in Bournemouth. How could you approach them? One option is to begin with some social media work, followed by brochure mailer, follow up personalised letter, email offer then phone call.
- this shows the extra effort you are willing to put in, an email alone no longer has any value. This easy little system utilises email marketing, social media, website videos, variable data printing, brochure print, face to face meetings, phone plus any other small touches you want to include. The point is you need to utilise more than one service to create those various touches to keep your business in the prospect’s mind and develop that feeling of trust, position yourself as the expert in your field (Which I hope you are!). I can help you get the most value for money regarding your print, providing all forms of print in-house, ensuring we can say yes to any ideas you have, if they involve ink on paper, we can help and our inhere production facility near Sherborne ensures all services are at your fingertips when you want to get more clients! So do give me a call on 01963 250920 or email alan@remous.com to get in touch.
How could this work? 1. Research the companies on Twitter, follow, like Facebook pages, connect on LinkedIn. 2. Create a personalised mailpiece, likely to be an introductory brochure, “Dear John, we think you may be interested in our services as your business is in the ………. sector, which is our speciality in Bournemouth.” 3. Create an email inviting a visit to your website to learn more - watch an ‘about us’ video 4. Follow up with a personalised meeting request letter - including little else, but using that data and knowledge you now have from researching the companies and updating your database. 5. Phone call to confirm the meeting, again recording outcomes. 6. Email offer, proposal, deal that is only applicable to them, always send a hard copy
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PUZZLE MATTERS
October/November
Put your feet up over coffee or lunch and have a go at these!
Pop the kettle on... 6
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Across
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6 Harmful (7) 7 Deplume (5) 9 A coffin stand (4) 10 Write out a speech (10) 11 False teeth (8) 13 Rubble (6) 15 Pocketbook (4) 17 Caper (5) 18 Indolent (4) 19 Purchased (6) 20 Nagging (8) 23 Hostility (10) 26 Journey (4) 27 It travels on rails (5) 28 Laboratory flasks (7)
Down
1 All (10) 2 Speech-giver (6) 3 A three-tone Chadic language (4) 4 Weekly TV series are this (8) 5 Sound from a contented cat (4) 6 Liquorice-flavoured seeds (5)
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8 A light-hearted joke (American slang) (7) 12 Locations (5) 14 The leading sheep in a flock (10) 16 Notion (7) 17 Craftsmen (8)
21 Leased property (6) 22 Slides uncontrollably (5) 24 Not fake (4) 25 Missile (4)
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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
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SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS
October/November
Is A Lack Of A Social Media Strategy Costing You Time And Money? By Mike Sharp from Mike's Online Academy
I believe one reason that social media marketing isn’t always taken seriously by business is because social media isn’t seen as part of an overall strategy. I know strategy isn’t a sexy word but whatever we do should be part of a strategy and social media is no different. Let’s start with the definition of “Strategy”. According to the Concise English Dictionary the definition of Strategy is “A plan designed to achieve a particular long term aim.” So per the definition we need a long term aim or goal. So before embarking on a social media campaign you need to work out what the long term goal is. If you are posting without a long term strategy or goal you are wasting time and will not reap the economic rewards that a good strategy will give you. Your strategy could be driving traffic to a sales page on a website selling a product, It could be driving traffic to a opt-in form to collect names for your own database or mailing list. It could be driving traffic to a website that has advertising on it so you can make money from the commission. Or it could be getting people to come into your shop or visit your seminar. The Goal would have to be something that you can exchange with someone else for money eg an email address for a mailing list or a visit to your website. Having worked out your long term aim or goal then it should be easier to work out a strategy for yourself or your client. When using social media platforms such as Facebook or Twitter what you write in your personal bio and what you put in your posts should contribute towards the long term goal. Page 22
Posting without a strategy will not get any great result on social media. Even if your post does not directly mention your product or newsletter it still has a purpose. The purpose of your post could just be to make people think well of you as a brand. This doesn’t mean promoting your website in every post or photo but it does mean that you should started building relationships with people first so they look forward to getting your posts. Your posts should be interesting such as a personal story, interesting news or an eye catching image. Your posts need to attract eyeballs, let’s face it you wouldn’t read a magazine if it was all wall to wall adverts unless it was Exchange And Mart! If you want to just put out ads then social media isn’t the place to do it. This is SOCIAL media after all! In life relationships and friendships are built steadily not all in one go. With social media it is the same. Do remember to have a Strategy with Social Media or you will just be “fiddling around on Facebook!” Next time you post something on Social Media ask yourself does it contribute to my overall goal or strategy?
T: 07445 033826 E: mike@mikesonlineacademy.com W: www.MikesOnlineAcademy.com
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TIME MATTERS
October/November
Procrastination an art form? An Excuse? By Yvette Lamiday
How many of us tell ourselves that we perform better under pressure so there’s no problem with doing things at the last minute? We put it off not to the 11th hour but the 11th hour and 59 minutes! “Successful people are great procrastinators but know when to procrastinate. Unsuccessful people are great procrastinators but don’t know what to do, how to do it and are waiting for the right moment,” says Peter Thomson. There’s a balance we don’t often recognise – we’ve usually spent time thinking about a task before we start doing it and that thinking time is an important part of the process. But we can spend so much time thinking that we run out of time to take the action or something else that’s urgent/ important is brought to our intention and we don’t do anything towards it. And sometimes we purposefully let those urgent and important things take precedent because we simply don’t know where’s the best place to start. If you’re like me hours can be spent on research, continuous refinement, getting new skills because we think that we don’t have the tools, skills, exact version, knowledge that we need. Everything has to be perfect when in fact what’s only just good enough for us is probably perfect and all that’s needed for everyone else. We create stories in our head about why we can’t do it now, running all those usual scripts in our head and get attached to the outcome and in doing so get ‘action paralysis’ and everything is on a
‘procrastination loop’. When actually all we need to do is just get on and do it. So here are a few tips: In his book ‘Get Everything Done and Still Have Time to Play’ Mark Forster suggests that before you take a break of any sort at least start the task. Even if its just writing a heading and the first line. If it’s a difficult conversation then just call the person and ask them when it would be a good time to call to have a longer chat and book the call. Write a focused question, which takes your mind beyond the point of deciding to do something. “What do I/we need to do to….?” Brainstorm what’s needed to do. When you’ve captured everything then analyse, prioritise and reorder into the plan. Chunk up and down as necessary. Write a double priority action list of the actions to take and then schedule times in your diary for the actions. If you chunk them up into sections you can then schedule each section. If it’s in your diary then it’s more likely to be done. Prioritise each component parts, just the first three to start with, do the first action then reprioritise the new next three actions; do the next action number one and so on. You’ll move through the tasks more easily only doing the ones with a high priority and, therefore, more meaningful. Why not have a go yourself?
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