NEW BUSINESS
MATTERS Your local business to business journal
Reaching 16,000 business people bi-monthly in print & online
Points of Interest in this Issue: • What is Call Tracking (p5) • Should you have business car insurance? (p12) • Landlord insurance small print! (p15) • How many hats do you wear in one day? (p16) • PUPs: they are not new... So why all the fuss? (p17) • Are you using LinkedIn to its full potential? (p21)
BUSINESS TIPS & ADVICE! Issue 37/2015
February/March
BANKING MATTERS
February/March
Best Bank Accounts for Small Businesses By Martin Lewis
Once you're registered, you'll need to find a business bank account. Unlike personal bank accounts, which are usually fees-free if you're in-credit, the opposite's true for their business brothers. Charges of £25 per transaction are possible on top of monthly account fees, and this can be a nightmare. There are four steps towards beating these. • Step 1: Use a personal account if you can If you are a sole trader (not a limited company), then you may be able to use your normal bank account for your business, with all the better terms that involves (though check your terms & conditions - some banks won't allow this). However, using a separate, dedicated account could make your record-keeping a lot easier. It could also be a huge help if HMRC selects your tax return for an in-depth inquiry. For all the best buys, see the Top Bank Accounts guide. If you make a large number of transactions, deal with big sums, or need to regularly bank cash, then your bank may suggest getting a business account. If that's likely, start with the right one straight away. • Step 2: Lowest charge business bank accounts Three accounts stand out, based on charges: The Santander Start Up Business Account offers unlimited free day-to-day transactions for a year - or 18 months if you're already a Santander customer. It also pays 0.25% in-credit interest. After the end of the free period, you can choose from four different fees between £7.50 and £40/mth depending on monthly cash deposit withdrawal limits (you can choose from £1,000 to £10,000). NatWest's Start-ups package has two years of free unlimited transaction banking. After that, you revert to their standard tariff, at which point you pay per transaction. You can open the account if you started trading within the last 12 months, and the company's turnover is less than £1 million. Apply online, or call 03333 558237. New bank TSB also offers 18 months free banking if you're a start up. The free banking
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includes paying in & taking out cash, paying in or issuing cheques, plus paying standing orders & direct debits. Services like CHAPS transfers will be charged for. These are effectively just like consumer bank accounts and have limited features. So if you need complex facilities, such as an account that automatically works with accounting software or need business assistance, you can get these from banks, but at a price. Even if you can't find one with the services you like at a low charge, don't give up with business bank accounts. It's often possible to negotiate with your bank to waive the charges, so long as you stay within set transaction constraints, for example, a maximum of 10 requests to process business cheques each month. • Step 3: Minimise the charges you pay Whatever the account, make your first job listing the fees that apply to it. Ensure you (and any staff) are aware of them. Think about how you operate to minimise charges. Make sure you're paid by BACS rather than cheque, stick to online banking, cut down on the cash you pay into the account, use automated transactions where possible and avoid using unauthorised overdrafts. Make sure you check the charges in your statement, it may also help you spot problems. For example, if you accept a cheque that's been returned unpaid by the debtor's bank, your bank will charge you an administration cost, and you won't get the money due. So then you can chase the payment up, and ask them to pay the incurred charges too. • Step 4: Sweep cash into savings If you're in the fortunate position to build cash up in your account, be sure to have a business savings account linked to it. Then you can sweep the money into it to maximise interest. For more information, see Martin's other top small business finance tips at: moneysavingexpert.com/banking/small-business
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NEW BUSINESS MATTERS
Editor’s Note
Plan for success... As we continue forward into another year, it is often at this time that we look back over the last year and plan forward. It is good to set goals as this gives us something to strive towards and plans are those things that will make those dreams a reality! The articles in this issue of New Business Matters could potentially help you, either in terms of what or how to plan, or with ideas that could put those plans into practice. For example, have you ever wanted to write a book? There are articles on how to write great copy and how to get it printed. Do take time to have a coffee and browse through the articles. If something strikes a chord and you think it could benefit you or your business then please do give the contributors a call. Their knowledge and expertise could be the thing that makes the big difference to your success this year. If there are any topics that you feel would be of particular benefit or would like more information on, do let me know so that I can help add value to our readership. Our next networking party will be on February 18th at The Suncliff Hotel in Bournemouth, with the following one on April 22nd at The Cliffeside Hotel. Just give us a call or send an email to confirm your attendance - we look forward to seeing you there! Best wishes,
February/March
CONTENTS 02 BEST BANK ACCOUNTS 03 CONTENTS & EDITORS NOTES 04 PLAN FOR THE LONG GAME 05 WHAT IS CALL TRACKING? 06 Let’s Kick Start A Positive 2015 07 BENEFITS OF MASSAGE AT WORK 08 BUSINESS QUESTIONS FOR MPs 09 BUSINESS COACHING 10 SHOWCASE VENUE FOR WEDDINGS 11 RECOGNISE RIGHT BEHAVIOUR 12 NEED BUSINESS CAR INSURANCE? 13 MEASURING YOUR WEBSITE 14 SUSTAINABILITY & REDUCE COSTS 15 LANDLORD INSURANCE SMALL PRINT 16 HOW MANY HATS DO YOU WEAR? 17 PUPs: WHY ALL THE FUSS? 18 DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES 19 HOW TO PRINT YOUR BOOK! 20 PUZZLE MATTERS 21 MAKING THE MOST OF LINKEDIN? 22 MAKE IT THE BEST YEAR YET 23 COPYWRITING TIPS
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 SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS SYSTEMS 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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COMMUNITY MAG MATTERS
February/March
Create a marketing plan for the long game
By Stephen Corney, Director at Dorset Publications Whilst one should not take their eyes off the short term opportunities that are there to be had, a plan that has long term goals for keeping your business in the market place (and in front of people) can be invaluable. Yes, I am sure that it is true that people will purchase a product or service immediately if the offer is right, but those that are more wary look past offers to other aspects, such as the reputation of the business, its after-sales service or even its history, i.e. has it been around for a while. It is in these cases that keeping your business in front of people is vital to be sure of being there at the right time, when the decision is made. For example, say a company takes out a full page advert in a daily publication. Depending on its circulation, this could run into thousands of pounds. A prospective customer may either not get a copy that particular day, or even get a copy,
but put it in the recycling (ready for the following day's issue) only to then find two or three days later that there now exists a need. Admittedly, if the advert copy was good enough, the prospective client would remember it and then perhaps take the effort to try and find the relevant contact details to get in touch. However, it has been our experience that if a company plans ahead and wants to be in front of prospective clients month in and month out, then they can grow or at the very least survive where others may not. Hence having a marketing plan that ensures coverage across as many platforms for the longest period is what will ensure that your business has the highest probability of being in the right place at the right time. For more information, give Stephen or Debbie a call at Dorset Publications on 01202 894397 or send an email to info@dorsetpublications.co.uk.
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 4
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COMMUNICATION MATTERS
February/March
What is Call Tracking? By Mark Scott of Technovox John Wanamaker is considered to be one the pioneers of marketing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was the first retailer to place half and full-page adverts in newspapers, but is famous for his remark “Half the money I spend on advertising is wasted. The trouble is I don’t know which half.” We still have the same concerns today. We want to be sure that the investment we make in advertising is effective. Of course, in the internet age, we have very sophisticated means of keeping tabs on views, clicks and conversions across our websites, email and social media. Some media, though, can still be problematic – if you get a phone enquiry, how you be sure where it came from? Did the customer see your number on your website, business directory, leaflet campaign (if so, which one) or may be its in response to a radio or TV advert. Some business owners are scrupulous about recording the source of their leads, but not everyone is so organised and sometimes it’s not practical to do it consistently if you have a larger sales team.
Tel: 01202 282426 Web: www.technovox.co.uk
So how can we make sure we’re spending our advertising budget wisely? This is where Tracking Numbers can help. The idea is you use a unique contact phone number for each advertising channel and monitor the number of calls that you receive on each. This allows you to focus your budget on where it’s working best and decrease spending where it’s not so effective. As part of an Ad Words campaign, Google will provide you with a 033 non-geographic number that is displayed in your Ads. Calls to this number can be tracked in terms of contacts and conversions. If you don’t want to be tied into Google Ads and want a local number, there are independent providers that can do that, with tracking that ranges from a simple call counter to full analytics integration. We all need to promote our businesses – make sure every advertising pound counts! For help and advice on the communications in your business please call Mark on 01202 282426 or send an email to info@technovox.co.uk.
Email: info@technovox.co.uk Isis Business Centre, Willis Way, Poole, BH15 3TB
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CUSTOMER SERVICE MATTERS
February/March
Let’s Kick Start A Positive 2015... By Frank Marsh of Positive
Let’s make 2015 a POSITIVE year… it’s going to be a year to get back to basics, zoom focus on the fundamentals, grow your business, gain market share and seize the opportunity. Yes, opportunity, if we are willing to stay positive, repel fear, and take the initiative then a great opportunity exists for you and your company to create lasting success. So consider the following to help kick start your year... 1. Continue to go about your business as usual regardless of the perceived market conditions, stay positive, work harder and focus on the actions that will give you quick wins to grow your business. 2. Increase Marketing and Advertising - It may seem counterintuitive to spend more money on advertising and marketing but customers will continue to buy goods and services and they will buy from those who they trust and see in the marketplace.
3. Innovate…Open your mind to new ideas, new products and new ways of doing business. 4. Customers wants to have an “exceptional experience” with their supplier, you need to know what this is and that you are you fully prepared to support it. Don’t get complacent, work with your customer, explore and develop ideas, prove your support to their business. 5. Chose one word for the year and revolve yourself around it. I will be using the word “Encouragement” you see no one creates success alone. So whatever I do, whoever I work with and whenever it’s needed I will be first in line to give encouragement. Still undecided on a route for 2015 then contact me, I will give five businesses one hour each of my time to answer any questions that you may have and its FREE!
BOOK YOUR SEAT ABOARD MY ENERGY BUS AND LET ME HELP DRIVE YOUR CUSTOMER SERVICE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION You are about to engage with a specialist in both internal and external customer relations. My knowledge base is both academic and seated in a successful career spent ‘walking the talk’. Speaking Frankly... my clients and partners have used the adjective word unflappable to describe myself and I am proud to say that in my own words ‘nothing much fazes me when it comes to customer service’. You may be saying yeah, I know, I’ve heard it a million times before, but now you will hear it from a successful business owner who remains “hands on” to improving business performance. Contact me NOW!!! For your FREE no obligation meeting.
T: 01425 839550 • M: 07967 132735 • E: frank@frankmarsh.co.uk Page 6
To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580
FITNESS MATTERS
February/March
The Benefits of Massage in the Workplace By Angela Barton at Body Fitness
When I worked at the NHS I found so many office workers suffering with the same problems. Such as neck ache, tight shoulders, low back pain and headaches. All of which can be relieved by massage. Louise came to see me suffering with a tension headache after a particularly stressful meeting and by the end of the 15 minutes session her headache had disappeared. Impressed? Read on... As I am sure you are aware, stress is the number one problem in the workplace and it is a contributing factor to aches and pains. This can cause you to take valuable time off work due to illness caused by stress. Why massage can help? It promotes a feeling of well being, helping you to tackle that awkward customer on the phone. Help you feel more refreshed making you less inclined to reach for
a sugary snack and overall make you feel less stressed reducing your levels of cortisol – the “stress hormone”. Cortisol can impair your cognitive performance, which affects how you work and you will be less productive, it can increase your blood pressure, disrupt your sleep and lower your immunity. Massage can help reduce your stress levels making you more productive, over time lower your blood pressure and you will sleep better – what can be better than that! Plus I make the experience as pleasurable as I can, scented oil, relaxing music and my magic hands to soothe those aching muscles. You will leave feeling more alert and ready to tackle the rest of your day! For more information about the services that she can offer, either from my studio or your place of work, contact Angela on 07813 805541 or send her an email to angela@bodytherapy.fitness
• Personal training • Holistic massage • Deep tissue massage “Angela is a tremendous force of nature. For me, she does the impossible, by making exercise fun. I always have a fantastic work out and a massive laugh. She is more of a friend than a trainer, I cannot recommend her highly enough!” Claudia Tuohy
Contact Angela now:
T: 07813 805541 E: angela@bodytherapy.fitness
www.bodytherapy.fitness
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FSB MATTERS
February/March
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.
Business Questions for future Dorset MPs Business issues will be the focus of a hustings meeting for prospective parliamentary candidates at Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne. The Federation of Small Businesses, who will be co-hosting the event with the School, have identified the most marginal seat, with the lowest majority in Dorset.
will be chaired by Peter Henley (BBC South News Political Editor), and there is a commitment from all confirmed PPCs to attend. The meeting will ensure a full house of cross party representation.
The Mid Dorset and North Poole seat is acknowledged as one of key battlegrounds for the election, and one of the regions where the race for Westminster is likely to be decided. It is a seat that has been identified as one of the top three key marginal's seats in the country, and BBC News Politics have suggested that this constituency seat could be one of the seats that could decide the election. This is a constituency that is certain to be a highly sought after seat, and likely to create much interest both locally and nationally.
“We have chosen to join forces with Queen Elizabeth School in order to work together and to ensure that the younger, or potential, voters can be exposed to local politics. One of our key priorities both locally and nationally is to improve engagement between businesses and schools, and to engage students in businesses and entrepreneurial options. Although obviously keen to primarily involve constituents of Mid Dorset and North Poole, it would be great to have a full business audience engaged with a key local election that may have a significant impact on the General Election outcome.”
The meeting, at Queen Elizabeth’s School on Thursday 12 March 2015,
Neil Eames, Development Manager, Federation of Small Businesses in Hampshire, said:
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 Page 8
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GROWTH MATTERS
February/March
Business Coaching By Nick Powter, ActionCOACH Bournemouth
Nick Powter Business Growth Expert E: nickpowter@actioncoach.com W: actioncoach.com/nickpowter Tel: 01202 048600
STEP4 TO A BETTER BUSINESS
It's that time of the year when we all make new year resolutions, so why not make them for your business.
you can survive in business without the help of a Coach, but it's almost impossible to thrive...
Did you achieve what you planned to this year in your business?
• A Coach will make you focus on the game.
• A Coach CAN see the forest for the trees.
Have you got a business plan for next year?
• A Coach will make you run more laps than you feel like.
If not then let’s put one together!
• A Coach will tell it like it is.
Every great performer, whether an elite athlete, business legend or performing superstar, is surrounded by coaches and advisors.
• A Coach will give you small pointers.
As the world of business moves faster and gets more competitive and difficult to keep up with both the changes in your industry and the innovations in sales, marketing and management strategies as well... Having a Business Coach is no longer a luxury, it's become a necessity. On top of all of this, it's difficult to get a truly objective answer from yourself. Don't get me wrong,
• A Coach will listen. • A Coach will be your marketing manager, your sales director, your training co-ordinator, your partner, your confidant, your mentor, your best friend... and an ActionCOACH will help you make your dreams come true. For a complimentary place on our next ‘6 Steps To A Better Business’ Seminar, please call us on 01202 048600, or drop us an email at nickpowter@actioncoach.com
To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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HOSPITALITY MATTERS
Page 10
February/March
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HR / LEADERSHIP MATTERS
February/March
Recognise, Reward & Reinforce the Right Behaviour By Gregory P. Smith of Chart Your Course
It was Mark Twain who once said; “I can live for two months on a good compliment.” Money may attract people to the front door, but something else has to keep them from going out the back. Many times employees say they are quitting because of a better paying job elsewhere. However, statistics show that the number one reason people quit their jobs is a lack of recognition and praise. Peer recognition is not just a nice thing to do, but a critical element in the management toolkit. People have a basic human need to feel appreciated and recognition programs help meet that need The second aspect of this science is management must create consequences for the behavior important for business success. A “behavior” could be showing up for work on time, having perfect attendance or going over and beyond the call of duty for customers or any other important behavior. A workplace is one that develops systems and processes to reward, recognize and sustain those important behaviors. Peer recognition is an example of a reward and recognition tool. It is one of the easiest and most effective programs to initiate. Peer recognition is where the employees have the power to reward each other for doing a good job. Peer recognition works because employees themselves know whom works hard and deserves recognition. Managers can’t be everywhere all the time; therefore, the employees are in the best position to catch people doing the right things. Also, workers usually value each other’s influence more than their supervisor’s—peer pressure. I was working with a client where we developed a peer recognition program called “My Shining
Star!” Workers have access to an unlimited supply of “My Shining Star!” forms to hand-write a little note about the good job their co-workers did. On the back of the form, the store lists the behaviors they want to recognize including: • Demonstrates friendly, caring service • Shows flexibility • Demonstrates teamwork • Helps to save money When the employee writes up their coworker, the forms go to the main office where they post these forms on a central bulletin board for all employees to see. For added recognition, the store formally recognizes the employee who received the highest number of forms at the end of each month. That person receives a special gift from the store manager. Then all the forms given out during the month are placed into a basket and names are randomly drawn for additional prizes. The forms are read aloud and recognition given to both the awardee, as well as the person submitting the form. To reinforce what I said earlier, reward and recognition is not just something “nice” to do. The goal is to create a work environment that attracts, keeps and motivates them to stay with you and not leave for your competition. This requires true leadership and a new management philosophy. 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 receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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INSURANCE MATTERS
February/March
Should you have business car insurance? By John Palmer of Coversure Insurance
We’re all used to normal car insurance policies that cover you for social, domestic, and pleasure use as well as to and from your usual place of work. However, if you have more than one place of work, you travel to see clients, or use your car for your job, then a normal policy will not always cover you, and you might need business car insurance. Local insurance broker, John Palmer from Coversure Insurance in Poole, answers some common questions about business car insurance: I plan to use my car as a pool car, can my staff drive it? Yes you can take out a business car policy that includes any driver and in some cases any age. Can I use a business car for personal use? Yes a business car policy includes social, domestic & pleasure as well as business use. If I buy another car, can I insure it on the same policy? No; however, if you have three or more vehicles, you can add them to a mini fleet insurance policy.
Does business car insurance include breakdown cover? Breakdown cover is available as an option on most policies. Do business car insurance policies come with legal cover? Yes, but legal cover is often available as an optional extra. If I have to make a claim and my car is off road, can I have a courtesy car? Several business car insurance policies include this as standard; however, if your car is written off due to an accident, fire or theft, you will not always be entitled to a hire / courtesy car. It’s always best to check with a local insurance broker if you need particular levels of cover. If you have any further questions regarding your insurance, whether you have the right cover or could get a better deal, give John a call on 0800 223 0060 or email poole@coversure.co.uk.
Need Business Car Insurance? No claims discount protected Up to 33% introductory no claims discount Free courtesy car whilst your vehicle is being repaired Call us today on:
0800 223 0060 or 01202 929 141 Coversure Insurance Poole 96 Ashley Road, Poole, BH14 9BN Coversure.co.uk/poole
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INTERNET MATTERS
February/March
What top five things should you measure on your website? By Gino Cirelli from Website Internet Marketing
If you haven’t got Google Analytics installed on your website, please go and get it on as soon as possible because the information it gives us about our website is really useful. 1. Google Analytics can measure the number of unique visitors we get to the site and to each page. 2. We can also find out what location our audience is in, it may be great to have 10,000 visitors to our site, but if half are from Russia and Brazil and we sell a product or service in the UK then that is not useful traffic! 3. It can tell us how long is spent on each page, if they only spend 3 seconds on a page there is something wrong! 4. Where was the traffic from? Was it from a Google search, a social media link or a link from another website? Or maybe they came directly to the website as a result of having been there before or an offline referral such as
a magazine advert. We can track how effective our adverts / keywords are or how useful social media or other websites have been. 5. Then there is the most important thing of all: how many people took action as a result of coming to the site, for example did they pick up the phone or fill out a contact form. If the site sells products, did they buy? You may want to ask your callers where they got your number from or get a call tracking number. Make a note of these and how many people filled out the contact form. Armed with this information we can now work out a conversion by looking at how many visitors there were compared to how many took action. For a free google analytics review call Gino on 01425 200 678 or email gino@webiml.co.uk and quote NBM.
01425 200 678 To receive a FREE copy go to www.newbusinessmatters.com
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IT MATTERS
February/March
Achieving Environmental Sustainability with Reduced Costs By Ava Lambert from Copyrite Business Solutions
Copyrite solutions focus on the impact of paper and the efficiencies of digital workflows. Waste management is critical as all organisations generate paper, plastic and metal waste, which we strive to consume less and recycle more to reduce our environmental impact. While addressing environment issues, we also recognise our customers’ key business objectives: • Streamline service delivery • Deliver responsiveness, consistency & quality assurance • Achieve real value for money Recommendations for organisations to sustain the environment while reducing costs are included in our Green Office Tips and Benefits. Tips 1. Digitise paper & store in a Document Management System 2. Introduce electronic workflows 3. Virtualize server hardware 4. Consider Cloud Computing to move server hardware to datacentre 5. Redesign Print policy using Print Management Benefits
3. Reduced print costs 4. Efficiency and productivity gains 5. Use green credentials as a competitive differentiator We analyse an organisation’s print spend to determine the potential for reduced costs and efficiency gains. The analysis raises awareness of both the financial and environmental cost of printing and provides management with information that can be used for making intelligent decisions. If you would like a Free Print & Document Audit please visit our website at:
www.copyrite.co.uk/printaudit 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
1. Spend less on electricity as number of physical servers is reduced 2. Greater security of documents while reducing paper waste Page 14
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LETTINGS MATTERS
February/March
Landlord Insurance Small Print!
By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals A couple who had lived in their home for 30 odd years decided to go abroad to do voluntary work for a charity. They rented out their treasured home to a couple. All was well for the first 2 years and then one of tenants lost their job. Despite claiming housing benefit, the rent was not paid and the arrears got out of hand. The couple decided to come back and try and sort things out. To their dismay, they found their home had been transformed into a cannabis factory. The tenants not only refused them entry but refused to move out, so the landlords had evict them through the judicial system which took some five months at a cost of around £2,500. Unfortunately, there was no rent guarantee in place, however, the landlords did have buildings and contents insurance – or so they thought! This is where the nightmare began. The landlords had informed their insurance company they were going abroad and would be renting out the property, however, when they put the claim through; they were told they would not be paid out, because in the small print it stated part of the exclusions were ‘any loss or damage caused by persons lawfully in the home or malicious damage by tenants…’
The landlords were absolutely devastated. The costs were around £56,000 in total to put the property back to its original state. Although they sought compensation through the financial ombudsman for a miss-sold policy, the ombudsman upheld the decision as the small print was very clear that it would not cover malicious damage caused by a tenant. An additional and interesting twist to this case though, is that if they had taken out a policy that did cover them for any damage caused by a tenant, the probability of the insurer paying out would have been a nil again. This is because the landlords had not conducted a property visit in the 2½ years they were abroad. So… the moral in this story is to check your policy and read the small print, make sure you are covered for malicious damage (as the majority of policies does not include this) and make sure you are conducting regular property inspections with follow up emails of the visit for a paper trail proof. If you would like a friendly, no obligation chat regarding any property matter, then please email sharon@moveonrentals.com or telephone 01202 711169. For the weekly property show on Wednesdays 12-2pm presented by Sharon, tune into HopeFM 90.1 or visit the website and press the listen live button.
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PA MATTERS
February/March
How many hats do you wear in one day?
By Barbara Marsh of Barbara's Office Services Are you wasting valuable time in trying to figure out which hat to wear? Instead of taking care of the part of the business you feel passionate about you end up spending lots of time taking care of mundane tasks. A VA (virtual assistant) can be your hat box as you hire them to don any number of virtual hats for you. THE SOCIAL MEDIA HAT By giving your VA access to your Social Media accounts they can build your professional network, make posts on your behalf and respond to comments helping to build loyalty from your clients. THE RESEARCH HAT A VA can spend time researching for you saving you and your business valuable time and energy. THE DATABASE HAT A VA can build a database for you or keep your existing database up to date. A VA will also be able to send out mail shots on your behalf and co-ordinate the results. THE BOOKKEEPING HAT A VA can take care of your bookkeeping needs when you are probably spending hours every month
managing accounts. Lots of account packages are now cloud based which means your VA can manage your income and expenses, track client billing and make sure you are being paid on time. THE APPOINTMENT KEEPING HAT Set up a joint calendar with your VA so she can manage your appointments, ensuring there are no conflicts and send you text or email alerts so you don’t miss an important deadline. THE LETTER WRITING HAT A VA can take care of your letter writing by using digital dictation methods. THE REPORT WRITING / PROOF READING HAT A VA will ensure your reports are presented in a professional manner and also proofread. Why not put all your hats in one box and contact me either by telephone (01425 839550/07813 318466) or email barbara@barbarasofficeservices.co.uk so we can have a coffee and a chat about how I can help your business by freeing up your time so that you can put your Growing My Business hat on.
BARBARA'S OFFICE SERVICES Would you like 30+ years of experience to help run your business more efficiently & save you time and money? If you are looking or thinking about help and you want someone to work flexible hours at a cost you can afford, then call Barbara for an initial free chat or email over your business needs.
T: 07813 318466 E: barbara@barbarasofficeservices.co.uk www.barbarasofficeservices.co.uk Page 16
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PC REPAIR MATTERS
February/March
PUPs: they are not new... So why all the fuss? By Clifford Johnson from PCs Made Simple
PUPs is a phrase that is being thrown around a lot recently. We all seem to have them and we all seem to unwittingly use them too. But what are they, where do they come from and what can they do to my IT systems? – This is a massive subject but I will try to cover it in the space we have. PUPs stands for Potentially Unwanted Programs, this includes a large array of programs that are often bundled with other more popular FREE programs. These programs are normally, toolbars, search engines, trial software etc… Why are they unwanted? From our point of view, they are possibly the most common source for becoming infected, hijacked or worse. The PUPs install into your browsers and essentially break down the security of that browser. As an example, the most common PUP appears to be the ‘Ask’ toolbar and search engine which is bundled with almost all Java updates. It’s in our nature that when we are doing something, we want to get it done, so when a pop up appears telling you to update something, our nature dictates that we will click Next>Next>Next>Finish without really reading what we have agreed too. We are not talking about
the long T’s and C’s and the finer print, but the pages during that update with tick boxes that state ‘by clicking next you also agree to install...’ So why all the sudden fuss? Most if not all the large FREE software providers, AVG, Avast and Ccleaner (we are very disappointed with this!), to name only a few, now try to make some quick cash by bundling these PUPs with the free versions of their products. What does this mean? Free no longer means FREE! That simple. There is a large article on this up on our Facebook page which provides a recommended Antivirus company who will never distribute PUPs with their software. Its goes in to detail on what will happen if we never start to pay attention. Lesson to learn here is taking a few more minutes to see what you are agreeing to install when using Open Sourced or Free software as saving a few pennies on the free version may cost a lot more in the long run. If you have or had toolbars or search engines you do not recognise please just give us a call 01202 830121, speak with one of us and we can help you.
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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PRINTING MATTERS
February/March
How to print your book! By Alan Bunter, MD of Remous Limited It has been said that everyone has one book in them... Is your New Year resolution to write one? Over recent years this market place has seen a considerable increase in the number of people looking to publish their own book and if this is something you are considering doing then here are a few guidelines for you to follow. There are some key decisions you will need to make, which will have a big influence on the cost of the project, and you will need to take professional advice to get the best value for money. Books can be instruction manuals, fiction, user guides or memoirs, but in terms of production they are all held as a valuable piece of literature that requires due care and attention! So where do you start? • Size – The actual size of your book and the number of pages you are considering will play a big part in the value for money element of your project. If you can make your book fit a more available paper size and you are flexible on the number of pages you are writing you will be able to save money. • Colour – This is the big one! The more colour you have the more expensive it becomes, but you can be clever with colour and get more value for money by letting colour fall on the right pages; then it will come at minimal cost. • Paper – Different types of paper can lift and brighten up images or it can dull the text, so
you need to choose your paper carefully. Also different papers work better for different print processes, therefore careful consideration on how it will be printed is essential. • Printing – This could depend on your content, but basically if the quantity you require is small then from a cost point of view you would look at digital printing, but for larger quantities and the best quality then litho printing is best. • Binding – Most people choose Perfect Bound, which is like a paperback book and the fastest and most cost effective method. PUR Bound, which appears the same but is more durable, will have the pages sewn into one block and they can never come loose. This is the most durable method, but also the most expensive. Finally there is Case Bound, which involves making a hard case, sewing the pages together and then ‘casing in’ the book blocks similar to Encyclopedias and Dictionaries. These are some of the more important decisions you need to ponder before choosing a printer and if you are looking to ‘print your book’ then perhaps you should consider Remous as your print partner? We have been printing books for over 30 years and we have set up a production line to complete the whole process in-house, making us perfectly placed to help at the planning stage. Check our website at www.shortrunbooks.co.uk or even better our YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/remousprint
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PUZZLE MATTERS
February/March
Put your feet up over coffee or lunch and have a go at these!
Pop the kettle on... 1
6
3
9
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5
1
3
4 1
5
6
3 9 3 4
5
7
1
6
1
Across
2 8
4 3
9
7
Crossword
8 Travel in a wind-driven boat (4) 9 Tied (5) 10 Flesh from animals (4) 11 Signal with a flag (6) 12 Plentiful (8) 13 Tame (8) 15 The circle of color around a nipple (6) 17 Like a phantom (7) 19 Engraving (7) 22 An obvious truth (6) 24 Planning (8) 26 A large arboreal boa (8) 28 An affront (6) 30 Weight-loss program (4) 31 Submarine (5) 32 A language of Pakistan and India (4)
Down
1 City in Italy (4) 2 Without fault or blemish (8) 3 Plague (6) 4 Rub (7) 5 A military assistant (8) 6 A tiny amount (6) 7 Sound an alarm (4)
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14 Different (5) 16 Cloth made from flax (5) 18 Radiant (8) 20 Characteristic of country life (8) 21 Swordfish (7)
23 Motivate or prod (6) 25 Machines for lifting heavy objects (6) 27 French for "Black" (4) 29 Ore deposit (4)
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SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS
February/March
Are you using LinkedIn to its full potential?
By Mike Sharp from Mike's Online Academy LinkedIn was launched back in 2003 as a business oriented social networking service. It now has more than 332 million registered users with over 17 million in the UK. A lot of people just create a LinkedIn account, write a bit about themselves,get some connections and leave it at that. LinkedIn has some great little known features that enable you to get the most out of it. Here are 6 little known LinkedIn features. 1) Create a business page to showcase your company Business pages are similar to Facebook pages in that they are more suited to companies rather than individuals. You can use LinkedIn pages to showcase your business and/or products and keep users updated. More than 4 million companies such as Microsoft have business pages so you are in very good company! 2) Add Relationship Notes Underneath a persons profile photo click “relationship�, here you can add and save notes about the person that the person can't see. 3) Add Other Media To Your Profile You can embed media documents such as slides photos and videos in your LinkedIn profile to make it look more interesting. For example if your company has a YouTube video why not put this in your profile.They do say a pictures paints a thousand words!
LinkedIn now has an in-built blogging platform that can help you reach potentially thousands of people. 6) You Can Link your Twitter and Linkedin Account to gain maximum exposure for your post with minimum effort. There is a drop down menu at the bottom of your post for this. It is recommended that you post fairly regularly on Linkedin. You will find that you will soon start to get noticed if you do. Plus there are other exciting features on Linkedin too! I hope this article has inspired you to use LinkedIn more often in your business. If you need help with your LinkedIn presence then contact me! I know sometimes when running a business it is difficult to find the time to learn about how to use Social Media, regularly post updates and monitor your accounts for messages from customers and prospects. I provide 1 to 1 training on how to use Social Media in your business at a time that is convenient for you. I can also manage your social media accounts for you at very competitive rates. Contact me for details of my Social Media Training and Social Media Management services
4) Save Job Searches If you are using Linkedin to look for jobs you can save your job searches and go back to them when you have more time! Very convenient! 5) Blog Don't have a blog? Want to share your expertise with the world?
T: 07478 668138 E: mike@mikesonlineacademy.com W: www.MikesOnlineAcademy.com
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TIME MATTERS
February/March
What will you do that's different and make 2015 your best year? By Yvette Lamidey
It’s that time of year when many of us reflect on the past year, it’s likely that we’ll have written personal resolutions for 2015 but the thing is 85% will be broken by 19th January. And to be honest the same will be true for resolutions around business activities. So what would make the difference? Perhaps setting a goal and not making a resolution... Sháá Wasmund author of Stop Talking, Start Doing distinguishes between resolutions and goals ‘a resolution is a wish or desire to do something and invariably there’s no action plan to make it come to life. Whereas with a goal is something we commit to and have an action plan for.’ At the end of the day businesses cannot work without defined, focused and measurable goals that form part of the strategy and business plan. Here’s some of the most popular business tips I’ve shared over the last couple of years which if combined with the advice from Sháá can make a difference… Plan for all business conversations, especially difficult ones, writing down the issues to be addressed, the impact these have had, people’s likely response and how you address that. A great way to have more focused conversations with fewer surprises in people’s responses and reactions. Page 22
Manage your time, we all have the same 24 hours in a day – what makes the difference is how we organize that time. Use the clear desk principle so there’s nothing on your desk other than the task/ item you are working on now so its not interfering with your peripheral vision and therefore impacting on your focus. Use the pomodorro method for bursts of focused activity – 25 minutes on and 5 minutes break, 25 minutes on and 5 minutes break. End your week laying the foundations for the next week – planning activities, preparing for meetings, booking time in your diary for your double priority action list. Remember that no one buys in an elevator, its just one of the many touch points with potential clients but a honed and polished elevator speech is impactful Write a focused question when starting any task to take your mind to the point of deciding to do something e.g. What do I/we need to do to…? Always start with ‘why’, as Simon Sinek says in business its not what you do that matters but why you do it. And remember to use Meraki – i.e. put the essence of yourself into your work and all your communications no matter whom you are talking to. Happy 2015…
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WRITING MATTERS
February/March
8 Simple Copywriting Tips By Dee Blick from The Marketing Gym You don’t have to be the World’s greatest copywriter to get results from your copywriting but you must be prepared to learn new skills. Start with these simple tips:
relevant. If folk want to buy, you can bet your bottom dollar they’ll appreciate what you have to say beyond a few paragraphs.
1. Be prepared for when inspiration strikes because it will; at all hours of the day and night! Record ideas and thoughts as they arise and revisit when writing your copy.
6. Avoid technical detail and stuffy language unless your audience needs it. Adopt a conversational style that’s easy to read; that has rhythm and pace and is sufficiently jaunty to captivate and don’t overdo the self-congratulatory superlatives. “We’re so delighted that we have taken on a new employee and are now the number one estate agency in Horsham. Our unrivalled reputation stretches before us…” Yawn. Better instead: “You’ll always get a friendly, prompt response and an accurate upto-the-minute update on your property when you contact us.”
2. Invest time in copywriting. Rushing a sales letter, cutting and pasting text from your website for your advert is a recipe for pouring money down the drain. Invest quality time when crafting communications including time to let your mind wander; time to scribbles notes and time to bounce ideas off trusty folk. 3. Get under the skin of your target audience with some research. What are their deep underlying needs for your offering? Can you lead with the three most important ones? 4. Benefits sorted it’s time to address those barriers to a sale—niggles that can stop your reader in their tracks. If you don’t know what the barriers are why not pick up the phone and ask? Invite a few prospects for lunch; network where they network. Read their journals. Visit their websites. 5. Don’t tumble into the short copy only trap. If readers are genuinely interested in what you have to offer, you can write long copy and get spectacular results provided it’s well written and
7. Add a sparkle to your copy by experimenting with words. An appropriate but unusual word can add an element of intrigue. “You’ll love our seasonally inspired eclectic menu.” Instead of: “Try our seasonally, inspired dishes” has a little more panache. 8. Recognise too when crafting copy that people rarely make the decision to buy in isolation. What could have a positive or negative impact on their ability to do business with you? What’s happening in their marketplace, their home, their office, right now that could scupper a sale? If times are tough, you’ll need to demonstrate in your copy that you deliver exceptional value. www.themarketinggym.org
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