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Robertson Milroy
Tells you how to avoid falling victim to the late payment culture
Expect Fireworks
1
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From the
Editor
I was invited to sit on the panel of judges for the regional final of Jack Petchys Speakout Challenge, which took place in Coopers school earlier on in the month. Standing up on stage and giving a speech in front of an audience on their chosen topic for two to three minutes, it was hard to believe that these performers were just fourteen and fifteen years of age. I was really impressed at the calibre of finalists and was very honoured to be a part of the judging panel. We will be at The Start Up Show on 5th June. Come and say hello. Ive included one of my favourite books in this issue, Think and Grow Rich. I first read this book when I was twenty, which seems like a lifetime ago. I was doing a lot of personal development at this time and this book happened to present itself to me (law of attraction? But thats another story). I then re-read it a few years ago and have since got it out to read it again. On both occasions, I have learnt something different and relevant to what Ive been doing at the time. The very first lesson that I learnt, is that nothing worth having comes easy. Overnight success is a complete myth and luck is a word used by people that have no idea what it takes to truly make it. Success might be realised overnight, but the success happened because of the blood, sweat and tears that were invested in reaching a specific goal over a length of time. One of my favourite motivational stories of all time has to be Three Feet from Gold, which is narrated by the author, Napoleon Hill in the book. Most people choose to give up right at the very moment that theyre about to succeed. They decide that theyve reached their limits and that enough is enough. This is the moment to strap in and push even harder, youre so close to reaching your goal; dont give up. Its a great life lesson that the truly wealthy and successful have all experienced, and is also one of the first lessons that I learnt, which really changed my life and entire way of thinking. The essence of that lesson is that the absolute key to success is Persistence. It will overshadow talent any day of the week. Just ask Thomas Edison. Oh no wait, you cant. Google it.
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Andy ODonoghue @RedCert 20 May Yahoo! buys Tumblr. Why? Social content. http://buff.ly/10HNJRL Yahoo! will be de facto search engine for Tumblr content: draw the crowd.
6 rmbusiness.co.uk
Tax Evasion
One year after the media put celebrities such as Jimmy Carr and Gary Barlow under the spotlight for evading tax under the K2 tax shelter scheme, the headlines have been hit again with Google and Apple coming under fire for similar reasons. Google came under fire this month after a former executive, Barney Jones, said that he has 100,000 emails that expose a system that has cheated British taxpayers out of hundreds of millions of pounds over the past decade. Google have been accused of using its European headquarters in Dublin to all but eliminate its tax bill in Britain. To put this into perspective, Googles sales in the UK are believed to be worth 3.2 billion, mostly routed through Dublin to the Bermuda tax haven, where corporation tax is levied at 12.5% compared with 23% in Britain. So in terms of figures, the internet giant paid just 7.2 million in corporation tax last year. Despite this, a Google spokesman has said, As we have always said, we fully comply with all of the tax rules in the UK. However during a two hour heated interrogation at the Commons, Googles vice chairman Matt Brittin, eventually admitted that a lot of the aspects of selling do take place in the UK. Similar to last year, the loopholes used in this case are not illegal, but is believed by many to be immoral, as made vocal by Margaret Hodge in the Commons, where she was heard to condemn the companys behaviour and say: I think you do evil. That is, you use smoke and mirrors to avoid paying tax. Financial expert Martin Lewis agrees with Ms Hodge, saying that it was time we had a little more fairness from American firms such as Amazon, Starbucks and Google over their tax affairs in the UK. Whereby business secretary Vince Cable has added, If you are a small company which cant relocate overseas and has to pay a lot of tax, I can understand why people are absolutely furious. Despite heavy criticism, Googles Executive chairman Eric Schmidt has defended the companys tax affairs, stating that it is called capitalism and I am very proud of the structure that we have set up. We did it based on the incentives that the governments offered us to operate. He later said international tax law could almost certainly benefit from reform. Will the UK see any changes implemented, or will the loopholes in the Taxing system continue to be used to the larger corporations advantage?
you may be
interested in...
Think and Grow Rich
An amazing classic that will affect the course of your life. One of the greatest motivational books of all time. Written by Napoleon Hill, Think and Grow Rich and the lessons that are written within the pages will undoubtedly stay with you for the rest of your life. Reading the thirteen step programme shared by Napoleon, offers a straightforward blueprint and a clearly defined path to achieving wealth and success for those that are willing to put in the effort. The very first copy of Think and Grow Rich! was sold in 1937, and eleven years later still ranked fourth in a poll taken from 300 successful young men and women who were asked, What book or books most influenced your life and contributed to your success? Taking 25 years to complete, and as a result of following and applying the thoughts and processes that he observed from some of the most powerful people at the time, Napoleon Hill became an extremely wealthy and successful man in his own right; simply by listening to his own advice. Thirty eight years on, USA Today published a list of the 10 top-selling paperback books about investments in America for that month, even though the only investment advice given, is how to invest in yourself and others, Think and Grow Rich! ranked No. 1 on the list. Sixty six years down the line and Think and Grow Rich remains one of the greatest personal development books of all time, its lessons still valid and true. Read this book and it will change your life.
8 rmbusiness.co.uk
Q&A
Q&A
Daniel Chase
I think ultimately this is a difficult question on a whole. In order for the government to crack down on tax avoidance there needs to be an international enforceable agreement drawn up Which seems unlikely when certain tax havens effectively use reduced tax to boost their own economy. The UK is a significant player in the international market and is worth billions to major international organisations, maybe the answer is to be firm with the corporates and refuse their trade unless they clean up their act. Economic considerations would need to be taken into account such as job loss and infrastructure investment although I do think it is unlikely larger corporates will abandon the UK market over Tax enforcement. I believe the biggest shame with the whole scenario is that currently HMRC appears to be extremely effective in enforcing tax payments from SMEs yet almost powerless when it comes to super groups which is more than frustrating to all of us honest taxpayers. If the economy is going to see the continued boost it needs the government needs to nurture SMEs and introduce a more structured Tax system We have Tax brackets within personal tax based on how much you earn, The structure within business should be the same and any business conducted in the UK should be liable for it regardless of where your head office is based.
magazine
The RM brand began in 2011 and started with just 4 members of staff. Now continuously growing and seeking new business adventures, their two very successful publications, RM Magazine and RM Business, as well as money saving service RM Rewards, the RM brand continues to reach new audiences and grow its readership on a monthly basis. The estimated readership for RM Magazine is 100,000 people, all over Essex. The magazine is distributed throughout Essex in a diverse range of locations, from nationally known gyms, shopping centres and event venues to everyones favourite local boutiques. The main distributors for the magazine are The Liberty Shopping Centre Romford, The Exchange Centre Ilford and Romford Shopping Hall. Also, deliveries RM Magazine are made to 5000 ABC1 registered homes. RM Magazine first launched in September Distributing across Essex, Areas of distribution 2011 printing just 5000 copies, with only 40 include Chelmsford, Ingatestone, Shenfield, distributers and 4 members of staff. Fast forward Brentwood, Upminster, Hornchurch, Gidea Park, less than 2 years and there are now 25 thousand Romford and Ilford. Another 1600 magazines are sent out to existing customers, subscribers and local businesses. We like to get out there and mingle. The RM brand has a proven Were serial minglers. track record of working to get customers a fantastic copies being printed, with over 300 distributors, ROI and the ability to boast that 83% of their 9 core members of staff and an overall team advertisers have re-booked campaigns. of 30. RM Magazine are the proud sponsors of Essex Fashion Week 2013, Duke of Essex POLO Were pretty hot stuff. Our magazines arent 2013, Love Business Expo, South Essex Business hot though well they are, but they arent. Expo and Havering Business Awards 2013. You can read them without burning your Hugely successful in Essex, its packed with fingers; theyre Hawt. all of the latest fashion trends, beauty tips, exclusive interviews, local food reviews and RM Rewards basically everything there is to love about Essex, RM Rewards was officially launched in March established themselves as the leading Lifestyle 2013 and is a service that allows all RM readers publication in Essex, for readers and advertisers to receive discounts and freebies from the shops alike. There is an online issue of every monthly and business in Essex. This may be at their publication, as well as a fantastic website for favourite boutiques, beauty salons, Restaurants, those who just cant get enough of RM. The Bars and Clubs. RM want the people of Essex to social media presence is fantastic, with regular have the sparkly lifestyle without the price tag, retweets from cover stars such as Amy Childs. whether they are saving money when dining out, having a cut and colour, going clubbing, True. The exposure we can give our grabbing a snack on the go or having a cosy advertisers is as far reaching as the boarders night in they want to present their readers with of Essex, aka, the centre of the universe. the best rewards. So whats the facts?
10 rmbusiness.co.uk
business focus
The concept of RM Rewards means that local businesses will get promoted without spending a great deal of money. Supporting local businesses stands strong throughout the whole RM brand, with both magazines featuring and advertising all things Essex. Yep. Its all about shopping local and were uber passionate about supporting local business. RM Business From April 2013, RM Business has been published along with the lifestyle magazine; however, this is a business to business publication. There are approximately 10,000 printed each month, an estimated readership of 30,000 and the magazine is distributed at over 30 networking events across Essex, on a monthly basis. Considering the magazine has only been published for a few months, this is a fantastic starting point which can only get better as time goes on. The online presence is just as impressive- the site has already had over 18,000 Unique visits. RM Business are also the proud sponsors of Love Business Expo (13th June), South Essex Business Expo (14th June), Duke of Essex Polo (13th July) and Havering Business Awards 2013. Have you seen our shiny new website? They are a magazine for local businesses, containing tips and advice to help businesses grow, interviews with business owners, relevant stories, finance, sales, marketing, workforce and many more sections as well as regular features with Councillors from various boroughs across Essex. RM Business is focused on helping local businesses in a professional and straight forward way, and as theyre a business operating
in Havering, they can relate to the difficulties that local businesses face every day. Theyre committed to producing high quality content that assists with the growth and development of all businesses, from start-ups to well established companies, and they avoid the overused jargon that creeps into the business world. We have some fantastic contributors and advertisers, plus we dont use jargon. Delivering top quality news and articles is at the top of our agenda. With an estimated readership of over 30,000 people, their clients campaigns have direct links to offices, boardrooms and thousands of business owners. There is a range of advert and advertorial opportunities available for businesses to gain and maximise their exposure. They work closely with their clients to understand their advertising goals and objectives, as well as taking the companys budget into consideration. With this information they will create a package that will get the business noticed. The Team The RM team is pretty awesome. OK, were writing this, but were a great bunch of guys. Especially when were allowed to leave our desks and get a much needed glass of water; you should see us smile.
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nick hewer:
12 rmbusiness.co.uk
expect fireworks
business focus
After long anticipation the smash hit BBC show The Apprentice has returned. Nick Hewer says why this seasons candidates should be ready for a fight.
Viewers can expect fireworks, smiles Nick Hewer, an ever-present on the show since it first aired back in 2005. There are a host of punchy candidates who are going to make for a cracker. I always get sarcastic remarks when The Apprentice comes back around with people saying oh, a new series of The Apprentice (yawn). But each time the show comes back fresh and with new angles, and thats the magic of its format. Its appointment television. the candidates who have appeared on the show. When all is said and done, we love the candidates and we are immensely proud of them, he says. There have been a host of great contestants on The Apprentice over the years. Some names that spring to mind include Saira Khan, who has become a good friend of mine. And I am meeting a contestant from the 2012 show, Gabrielle Omar, who is a lovely, honest, open character and a fantastic architect. Could I have been an apprentice at the age of 25? Not a chance, continues Hewer. I would have been terrified. They are putting all their cards on the table, so to speak, early in their careers, and its a tough process to go through. succeed. My golden rule for anyone going on the show is tell the truth, he adds. There is nothing worse than being found out to be a liar. Aside from The Apprentice, Hewer is continuing to flourish in his role as presenter of Channel 4s Countdown, something he has done since January 2012. What I love is the fantastical following it has, and not just amongst old people as might be generalised, he says. There are all sorts of demographics who watch the show religiously, from school children to students and upwards. The fan base for the programme is quite incredible. Youd be surprised at the number of viewers who wont go away on holiday unless theyre assured that they can get to a TV set mid-afternoon! Its a British institution having been going for 30 years, and Im so honoured to be a part of it.
My golden rule for anyone going on the show is tell the truth There is nothing worse than being found out to be a liar
Born in Swindon in 1944, Hewer began working in public relations in the mid-1960s and headed up his own PR company until its sale in 1997. Amstrad, Lord Sugars best known corporate monster, hired Hewers firm, Michael Joyce Consultants, back in 1983 and the pair have worked together ever since, forming a solid friendship. Nick postponed early retirement to the south of France on the request of Lord Sugar, who asked for his help in negotiating with the producers of The Apprentice when the show was being discussed in 2004. Hewer landed one of the roles of Sugars aides on the show, alongside Margaret Mountford, who recently stepped aside for Karren Brady. He has been an ever-present, ever-watching tour de force, keeping a beady eye on the 123 candidates who have appeared across eight series. Loved and respected by the great British public, Hewer says he is full of admiration for
With series nine of The Apprentice underway, Hewer urges candidates to be prepared, determined and ready for a fight in order to
13
Daniel Chase will be featuring over the next five months, as the winner of our business start-up feature. We picked Daniel, and his company Warrington Chase, because we like the way that he does business. Customer focused and delivering on promises, Daniel heads a company that believes that business has to continue to evolve and change to suit, not only the times that we live in, but also the needs of the customer. This month, Daniel answers the question as to why he decided to take the leap, and start up for himself. From seeing a valuable gap in the market to delivering a service that he knew his customers deserved, Daniel stepped out into the market place for himself with an evolved and consumer focused business model, bravely breaking away from the safety of his accountancy recruitment job, and refusing to get left behind. Starting your own business can seem daunting at the best of times - so why exactly did I feel the time was right for me to sacrifice my security and go it alone? Ill start with my profession; Im a specialist accountancy recruiter with over 10 years experience. Recruitment Consultancy isnt something that you would normally associate with entrepreneurialism, nor is it something that you would aspire to become as a child. It tends to be a profession you fall into, and as an industry it is very good at weeding out the people who just wouldnt cut it on the floor. The hours are longer than you would expect consultants invariably work 7:30am to 8 or 9pm. The targets are set almost impossibly high and there is a constant focus on making sure that you are paying for your seat. In my most recent role, working for a household name agency, I found that there was a focus on revenue generation, which far exceeded the focus on delivering what we were being paid for. Unfortunately for me I have never seen myself as a cog in a machine. I have never felt that if I made a mistake, that I can slink away into the background and hide behind an impenetrable brand that has an untenable attitude towards their clients. This I feel is the dying side of recruitment, every business has to evolve at some point in its lifecycle, or get left behind. The financial crisis has fuelled the need for recruitment agencies to adapt. The market is different now; organisations can no longer simply
rely on overdrafts and factoring agents to survive. We have seen brands that we have known our entire lives crumble in the fallout of the banking disaster. Recruitment was once a case of getting a bum into a seat, and now it has become a meticulously planned process. Longevity of the role needs to be considered. Will this person come on as a temporary or a permanent member of staff? Will they add value? Should I advertise myself or use an agency? How much will this cost me? I valued the fact that my job title stated I was a consultant and I feel this is a key part of the role which has been forgotten in exchange for telesales. A consultant needs to consider that an organisation has a requirement, but also has concerns which need to be factored in. They want to be listened to and have a service tailored to them rather than fit into an agencies methodology. Not all companies can afford to pay thousands for recruitment, but that doesnt mean they deserve a lesser service. Im not the only person to realise this - James Caan of Dragons Den made his millions from running a recruitment agency with this attitude. Ricky Martin won a 250,000 start up fund from Lord Sugar for a recruitment agency as an apprentice winner; he also has similar consultant values. Ultimately these are the reasons why I decided to cut ties and go it alone. My clients had evolved, my market had evolved, my mentality had evolved My employer had not. If I was going to be able to deliver the service that I felt was right, the service that my clients felt they deserved; then it was time to break away. I saw that gap in the market; the gap I felt was valuable enough to keep me secure. I knew I had a viable business concept, I knew it was a concept the market was screaming out for, and I knew it was time to not get left behind. Starting your own business isnt necessarily about having a totally unique idea that will change the world. Its about seeing the gap in the market that you know you can fill. Its about giving people what they want and doing it right and at the right time. Thats why I started my business I believed in adding value, working for my fee, and being a consultant; not just another salesman.
Contact me for 2013-2014 salary guides covering public practice and industry accountancy figures for inner London vs the Home counties. Twitter: @WarringtonChase Email: daniel@warringtonchase.co.uk Website: www.warringtonchase.co.uk Work Phone Number: 01708 629721 Mobile Phone Number: 07824 559654
14 rmbusiness.co.uk
The top 10 mistakes people make when starting out, that can be avoided! Its a fact being a start-up is a risky business. In 2012, of the 424,161 start-ups, 20% will have folded within their first year, and 50% within three, but 20% of these businesses would still be in business after two and a half years if they had sought advice. Here we look at the most common mistakes we have found new business owners make. Suggestions as to how you can improve the chances of your business idea succeeding can be found by reading the full article at: www.thebiznessguru.com/news.
1.
Not enough money. The most common reason why new businesses close is that the owner runs out of money. Cash flow is critical to any start-up business. I was once told by a very successful business owner; turnover is vanity, profit is sanity. Ensure your margins and credit terms are robust. Not thinking strategically about your path to success. Starting a business is all about survival and the best place to start is with your business plan. This will enable you to develop your business from day one.
6.
Doing it just for the money. If you dont truly love your business then you wont be successful. Stories of famous entrepreneurs and how they built their organisations emphasise that it comes down to the root of loving what you do. Dont plan beyond Year One. You will have a hard time getting to the end of year one, therefore dont start the business on a whim. These entrepreneurs usually run out of money and steam and close down after a few months. Dont build around the customer. Most entrepreneurs have the mentality of if I build it, then customers will come but invariably they dont. Analyse your market and find a customer with a problem and solve it. Dont seek mentors. Research what other people have done to achieve success and implement those strategies into your own company. Find mentors who have business experience and will help you. Get some grey hair on board!
7. 2.
8. 3. Losing momentum. You have ambitions to start a business so you create a website, try to make a few sales, go all out for a few months and then run out of steam. Building a business is all about momentum and long term commitment. 9. 4. Doing it all alone. A Jack of all trades master at none attitude to business just doesnt work. You soon realise that you do not possess the skills to do everything yourself. You need to understand what it is that you bring to the table and who you need to help you. Not hiring right away. There will be tasks in any business that you should not be focusing on. Why are you doing admin work when you should be finding customers and promoting your business? Identify who can help you from day one.
5.
10. Dont get involved in the community. Get involved in the small business community. Countless opportunities are generated by connecting with other entrepreneurs and finding out what they are up to and how you can help.
Simon Fordham is an MBA qualified entrepreneur and a registered GrowthAccelerator Coach and MentorsMe Mentor. He has managed, led and owned a number of businesses in a variety of sectors. For the last ten years Simon has successfully mentored and coached executives and entrepreneurs, developing them and helping grow successful businesses.
Simon welcomes approaches from businesses looking to develop and grow. He can be contacted direct by texting: help my business to 07758 237696. E: simon@thebiznessguru.com W: www.thebiznessguru.com 15
After being fired, your initial reaction may be to walk straight into the pub or dive face first into chocolate; this might help for a few hours, but what then? Youve spent precious money that you should have saved, consumed a thousand calories and now feel even worse. Whether you face redundancy or a dismissal, heres how to pick yourself up and get back in the game.
MOVING ON THE AFTERMATH Youve just been told and youre clearing your desk. One million thoughts are running through your mind, but the first question to ask yourself is, was it was deserved? If you feel you have been sacked unfairly, make a claim for unfair or constructive dismissal, but see an employment lawyer first. Another possible reason could be the rocky job climate. [Companies] need to cut jobs and reduce the cost of having full-time permanent employees. However, finding good new people is not easy, they take time to train up and they may not stay, says Simon Broomer, Senior Career Counsellor and Job Search Coach at CareerBalance Ltd. If you feel like it was fair, its time to face the consequences. No matter what the situation, youre in for an emotional rollercoaster. Elation, anger, guilt and fear are the common emotions that individuals can experience; some will even feel them all. It can vary from hour to hour and from day to day, says Broomer. The trick for dealing with such a mixture of emotions is to not make any rash decisions, dont burn any bridges, and remain professional. You can try asking for a 30-day probationary period to prove your worth, but offer to leave quietly after this time if they still wish. However, its rare when someone gets their job back, as it makes things difficult for people on both sides of the desk. A broken relationship is not easy to repair. There will be issues of distrust, loss of face, and gossip amongst colleagues. It is easier for the employee to move on and start afresh somewhere else. Just like a chocolate binge, visiting a recruitment consultant straight away wont help either as emotions will be too high. Do not call a recruitment consultant until you are calm and know what you want to do, says Broomer. Instead, speaking to someone who has been through something similar will help. Most of us have experienced job loss so there are plenty of people out there who understand, he says. The next step is altering your CV. In a career climate where experience and contacts are the key to success, Broomer says you should not leave your last job off your CV, even if you were fired for poor performance. If you were made redundant, this is easier to tackle. There is no shame in redundancy so explain whats happened in a positive way, for example: My company has had to cut staff and my job is one of those to go. Whereas saying: Ive been fired, can make it seem its your fault. In the interview stage, should you be asked about why you were fired, be honest and explain what you have learnt from it. Although it may not seem like it at the time, being fired can have its advantages. For some, its the wakeup call they need, whereas others decide to embark on a new career altogether. Despite todays unpredictable job climate, Broomer reminds us being fired isnt the end of the world. No job is for life any more. If you have valuable skills, knowledge and the right attitude you will find a new role.
16 rmbusiness.co.uk
work force
CALIFORNIA Fourteen lifeguards in California were fired after a video of them performing a parody of Gangnam Style surfaced online. Their crimes? They were wearing city-issued lifeguard swimsuits and put this video together at the pool where they worked. They said that everything was filmed during their off hours, and just for fun. The offences were soon sunk, as the city voted to reinstate them a month later.
CALIFORNIA Another lifeguard making waves was Tomas Lopez, who was fired for saving someones life. When the 21-year-old went to save the man, he left the section of the Florida beach that was his responsibility to patrol. Even though it wasnt technically his job, Lopez ran toward the man, but by the time he got there, others had pulled the drowning man from the water. Lopezs managers claimed he put people in danger by leaving his post.
FLORIDA Think saving a life would only cause the one firing? Think again! Also in Florida, a waiter saw a woman getting carjacked, so he abandoned his shift to save her. Waiter Juan Canales rugby tackled the criminal, but when he returned to his shift, his boss fired him. Apparently he wasnt that good of an employee. Indeed courage, dedication and loyalty are terrible traits to have when dealing with the public.
RUSSIA Tatiana Kozlenko, aw Russian air hostess, was sacked after she shared a picture of a hand giving a cabin full of passengers the finger. The image, which shows a hand flipping the bird to the backs of peoples heads, ended up on Twitter and went viral within hours. Aeroflot airline bosses soon found out and sacked Ms Kozlenko, but she claims it wasnt her in the image.
17
When the weather is good, you feel more open to work with your team.
We all know that our moods are improved by the summer weather, but how does this affect our performance at work? Will it make us lethargic and loath the fact that were stuck inside an office on such precious days? Far from it, says Professor Cary L Cooper from Lancaster University. People feel more positive and motivated when the weather is better, and this isnt just because your boss might treat you all to a 99. Sunlight is the key that will lock away your winter blues. Right now were like daffodils; were all beginning to come out as people. Weve had a long winter, so good weather does affect performance in a very positive way. People feel more sociable and interact better, says Professor Cooper. Better interaction means more teamwork and 18 rmbusiness.co.uk
work force
lifestyle
People that really enjoy their job, arent ashamed to admit it; they may even throw in a, I have the best job in the world! Most of the time, its an impulsive statement simply describing a good day, but if you have a job similar to those in our list, youre one very lucky individual indeed!
SLEEPING
We can only imagine getting paid to sleep, and if you are a sleep study participant, this is perfectly normal for you. Whoever said you snooze you lose couldnt be any further from the truth with this job. Even though you are having your physiological signs monitored every second, some studies go to the extreme and pamper their participants with scented beds and other sleep therapy items. There are also secret hotel sleep testers, who judge and review how good their sleep was that night, (and also get to sneak about James Bond style and use fake names. Well the fake name is optional, but who could resist?). A student from Birmingham City University gained the job of her dreams, quite literally! Twenty two year-old Roisin Madigan earned 1,000 for a months work sleeping. She was hired to test out luxury beds every day for a month. Brands included Saviour Beds, who originally launched to supply beds for the Savoy Hotel, and she was instructed to spend 10am6pm in bed and then blog about her experience.
Currently, more than 100,000 employers in England offer Apprenticeships in 200,000 locations, covering over 170 industries and 1500 different job roles meaning the range of opportunities open to both business and young job-seekers is immense. Last year in Essex, almost 5,700 applications were made for Apprenticeship vacancies, an increase of 10% on the previous year, demonstrating the rise in popularity of Apprenticeships in the area. Research among employers has also demonstrated that Apprenticeships can help businesses grow by developing a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce with 96% of apprentice employers reporting benefits to their business. These benefits range from improved productivity and competitiveness, to better staff retention and recruitment cost savings. Whats more, in recognition of the advantages of Apprenticeships for young people, adults, employers and the economy, the government is investing 1.5bn in the financial year 2012-13. Through the National Apprenticeship Service, employers receive help with recruitment and training costs, and tailored support at every stage of the Apprenticeship recruitment process. Any a business with fewer than 1000 employees and has not employed an apprentice in the last 12 months may be eligible for a grant 1,500 per apprentice. David Smale, Head of Employer Accounts, London and the South East, National Apprenticeship Service says, Recruiting apprentices has significant business benefits over other methods of recruitment; a fact identified by independent research. The process is fairly straightforward and financial support may be available. One Essex business to make the most of the benefits offered by Apprenticeships is Spicerhaart, an estate agency and financial services company based in Colchester. Spicerhaart began offering Apprenticeships four years ago, and currently provide Intermediate and Advanced Apprenticeships in Business and Administration, Sales and Telesales, Customer Service and Management.
Recruiting in this way has proved very successful for the business. The benefits are immense, says Bobina Dale, Centre Manager. We have a talent pool of incredible people and we have seen so many success stories. The apprentices trained by Spicerhaart have proved their worth to the company, as Bobina explains: They take accountability for their work and are vigilant in their roles, minimising risk to our company and clients. They take on additional responsibilities and want to progress, which brings continuous improvement to the company. Spicerhaarts apprentices can expect to achieve qualifications during their Apprenticeships, which include NVQ Levels 2 or 3 in their chosen area, alongside Key Skills and ERR (Employee Rights and Responsibilities) certificates. The companys Apprenticeships also emphasise personal development. Bobina says, one of our apprentices joined us three years ago with no qualifications and very low self esteem. To see her receiving a Negotiator of The Year Award at our Annual Conference is clear evidence of the success of Apprenticeships. When apprentices begin to deliver award-winning performances and want to commit to further qualifications, they demonstrate their long term commitment to remaining with our business. The companys investment in Apprenticeships has also brought more job satisfaction to more senior members of staff: Developing and nurturing new talent is one of the most rewarding elements of Apprenticeships, says Bobina. The Apprenticeships delivered so far by Spicerhaart are just the tip of the iceberg. Once they have finished their training, apprentices move up into more senior roles and become advocates for Apprenticeships themselves. Some also mentor the next generation. Bobina explains: We currently have 21 people on Apprenticeships, with more planned. We know from the commitment every apprentice gives that they will be with us long term, and will undoubtedly be our future stars. It is an
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incredible and committed partnership between employer and employee. In recognition of their commitment to Apprenticeships, the company was named South East Medium-sized Employer of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Awards 2012. One way that the National Apprenticeship Service directly supports employers is by providing the Apprenticeship vacancies online system, accessed through the apprenticeships.org.uk website, where employers can advertise their Apprenticeships free to a vast number of potential candidates who match their criteria. In 2012, over a million Apprenticeship applications were made via this system. This search tool is also available as an app, for Apple and Android phones which can also be downloaded from the website. Thanks in part to this access to vacancies, for both employers to advertise and young job-seekers to apply, Apprenticeships are becoming ever more popular, with people attracted to the excellent career prospects they provide. Half a million apprentices began their training in the academic year 201112 and nearly a quarter of these were aged 16 to 18. The number of Higher Apprenticeships is also increasing. Equivalent to degrees, more of these professional and highly skilled Apprenticeships are being offered each year. Vic Grimes, Divisional Area Director of the National Apprenticeship Service, London and the South East says: For a strong and growing economy we must have a high level of skills to meet employer demand, and Apprenticeships are a vital way of achieving this. The National Apprenticeship Service is not only committed to increasing the number and range of Apprenticeships on offer, but also to ensuring the quality of Apprenticeships, which is so key to this growth. We want Apprenticeships to become the new norm for ambitious young people and expanding businesses. Why should I take on an apprentice? Apprenticeships deliver for businesses of all sizes, with most employers citing a wish to improve their skills base as the main reason for taking on an apprentice, according to the British Chambers of Commerce. Companies offering Apprenticeships view them as advantageous to their long-term development, with 96% of apprentice employers reporting benefits to their business. Greater productivity is reported by around 72% of apprentice employers, with the average Apprenticeship completer increasing business productivity by 214 per week, a figure incorporating higher profits, lower prices and better products. Other benefits reported by around two-thirds of apprentice employers include improved products or services, the introduction of new ideas to the organisation, improved staff morale and better staff retention. Businesses can be confident that their apprentices will receive high quality training and qualifications from local training organisations. Employers also receive dedicated support from the National Apprenticeship Service during the process of
employing an apprentice. A team of experts, including small business specialists, will help employers: Decide on your requirements with an Apprenticeship Adviser, and drive recruitment through the free Apprenticeship vacancies service; Deliver the Apprenticeship, working with a training organisation to reduce the burden on your business; Develop your apprentice, for example entering them into awards and competitions to put your business on the map.
lifestyle
What funding is available? Employers are responsible for paying the wage of their apprentice (the current minimum is 2.65 per hour). The National Apprenticeship Service funds 100% of the Apprenticeship training costs if the apprentice is aged 16 to 18 years old. If they are 19 to 24 years old, the business will receive up to 50% of the training costs; if they are 25 years old or over, there may only be a contribution depending on the sector and area the business operates in. Is there any support for smaller businesses? Yes, if a business has fewer than 1000 employees and has not employed an apprentice in the last 12 months, they may be eligible for AGE 16 to 24 (the Apprenticeship Grant for Employers), a grant of 1,500 (per apprentice) intended to enable smaller companies to take on an apprentice aged between 16 and 24. Thanks to this grant more than 18,900 young people have been able to start an Apprenticeship. How can I recruit an apprentice? The first step for any employer new to recruiting apprentices should be to contact the National Apprenticeship Service, the organisation that supports, funds and co-ordinates the delivery of Apprenticeships throughout England.
The National Apprenticeship Service provides a dedicated service to employers, offering free, expert advice and support to those looking to recruit apprentices for the first time, or expand the Apprenticeships they offer.
Sue Welsh, Employer Accounts Manager, National Apprenticeship Service says, Recruiting an apprentice is not just about factors such as filling vacancies, reducing recruitment costs, and improving that all important bottom line in these challenging times it is also about shaping and developing people in the culture of your company and investing in the future of your company. The National Apprenticeship Service are here to explain what this means for you and your company and provide support to you at every step of the recruitment process and after. To find out more about Apprenticeships and the AGE 16 to 24 Grant, go to apprenticeships.org.uk or call NAS on 08000 150 600.
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On average, a person doesnt smile on a Monday morning until 11.16AM. Why? Because they are unhappy in their workplace. Running a business with a lot of pressure on your shoulders can be very demanding but if you cant smile, then no one else in your business will.
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7. 2.
5.
10. Thou shall not live in the past Rather like a house, a website needs constant up-keep and you may even have to move. So every year to 2 years, its recommended that you update/re-develop your website to keep ahead of the competition. 23
Sales Tips
Define your Audience: Whether you need to improve your sales or not, knowing all you can about your audience is always helpful. Defining your specific target audience allows you to refine your sales strategy and make it more efficient. Sometimes, the reason behind the failure of a business is that the target audience has not been defined. Without clear acknowledgement of who your products or services are aimed towards, it is unlikely that you will have a clear sales strategy. This is needed in order to develop consistency with sales, and gives structure to future plans, as well as knowing your place amongst the competition. Study customer habits: Once your audience have been defined, you can study their behaviour. This means analysing the way in which they buy things, for example, if a particular product is selling well and then you increase the price, if it stops selling so well, you now know that people arent prepared to pay more for it. Also, if you have a good quality product or service and you are undercharging, you might notice that customers take a while deciding whether to buy it, leading to the conclusion that consumers are questioning the quality of the product. Daily routine: If you do several jobs within your company, it is easy to overlook certain things, such as sales techniques. This is why its important to have a daily routine, even if you set just an hour aside to concentrate on sales. Your sales routine may include daily, weekly or monthly targets. For example, you may aim to call ten potential customers each week. This will give you some guidance and ensure that nothing is overlooked. Build relationships: Building relationships with customers is absolutely vital when sales are involved. One of the biggest impacts on sales, is your relationship with the customer. You are representing your company, so essentially you represent your products or service. If you fail to make a good impression on the potential customer, they are highly unlikely to buy anything from you, which is why it is important to create a good relationship, and maintain it.
Marketing Tips
Plan: It is important to have a plan for any aspect of your business, especially in marketing. If you have a written marketing plan, all members of staff can view it and will be informed of the companys targets and overall direction. A good plan will cover where the company is currently at, where you need or want to be, how long it should take, how you are going to get there and who is responsible for what. When all members of staff know what they are aiming for, everything becomes a lot clearer. Smooth and efficient: Word of mouth is a powerful selling tool, and there are ways to ensure that you are getting it. By surprising your customers and going above and beyond your call of duty for them, they can only say great things about you. Ensuring all problems, complaints, returns, etc are dealt with quickly and fairly, also helps. Pricing strategy: Rather than just pricing your products on production costs plus a margin, you need to understand that pricing says a lot about your products or services. If something is priced fairly high, it is likely that people will find a cheaper alternative. On the other hand, it could show that the product is of high quality, and consumers may be willing to pay a high price for it. If you sell something cheaply that is similar to a competitors price, you are likely to enter into the market at a similar level. Its all about how you want your brand to come across and where you think your products or service sits in the market. In depth planning and strategy will help you to achieve an accurate pricing level. Good customer service: If you have people talking about how great your company is, the last thing you want is for them to hear different. This is why its important to have great customer service. If someone has a problem or complaint, you need to respond to it quickly and politely. It has become highly popular for businesses to use their social networking pages such as Facebook and Twitter as a form of customer service. Receiving a complaint from a customer is never a great thing, however if you deal with it correctly, its likely that you will restore their faith in the business and they will be a returning customer. Long gone are the days of shying away from complaining customers; businesses that admit their mistakes are more respected than those that dont. 25
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Achieving a positive cash flow does not come by chance. You have to work at it. You need to analyse and manage your cash flow to more effectively control the inflow and outflow of cash. This analysis involves examining the components of your business that affect cash flow, such as accounts receivable, inventory, accounts payable, and credit terms. By performing an analysis on these separate components, youll be able to identify cash flow problems more easily and find ways to improve it.
It is also advisable to monitor your customers payment trends on an ongoing basis, as this may allow you to spot potential problems before they develop into something more damaging.
Publicise your terms and conditions: Clearly print your terms and conditions for payment on all relevant documentation that is sent to new and potential customers. Terms should clearly state the payment period for any invoice settlement is often expected within Deposit policy: Establishing a deposit policy for works 30 days, although this may vary depending on the type in progress. For example, if you deliver a service such as of business. home repair, landscaping, etc. you can adopt a policy that customers pay a certain percentage of the total Promote a positive payment culture: To encourage invoice up front before the job begins. customers to pay on time, you could consider offering small discounts for the early settlement of bills. If a Remember: customers who fail to pay their bills could customer is having problems with their payment, you jeopardise your business. Enforcing a fair but strict payment may want to negotiate a deal with them. However, be policy will protect your client relationships and your business wary of excuses if they tell you the cheque is in the in the long term. post, ask for further details, such as the cheque number and the date of posting. Invoice on time: Distribute invoices in a timely manner to ensure the payment process remains as efficient as possible, and prevent unnecessary delays by addressing the invoice to the correct contact and department. If a client has not paid on time, it is essential to pursue payment.
Know your rights: Under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 2002, businesses have a statutory right to charge interest for the late payment of commercial debt, at a rate of 8% above the Bank of Englands reference rate. You should make it clear that you will enforce these rights if an account becomes overdue. Should it come to the worst, seek legal advice about how best to pursue the debt.
Robertson Milroy
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Allowable expenses
What are Expenses? The word expense can be defined as the money that is spent on something. Expenses for employees is a tax relief for any business expenses that youve paid for. Tax relief summarises the idea that you either pay less tax to account for the money that you have paid out for being able to do your job, or if youre self employed for your business, or you get that money repaid in another way, such as into a personal pension. There are many acceptable expenses such as business travel, tools, and specialist clothing. Expenses only count if you have paid out for something that is vital for you to be able to do your job and there are of course some terms and conditions. For example, you cannot ask for tax relief if your employer has already reimbursed you for the expense and has agreed a dispensation with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Also, there are some special tax allowance and relief rules and arrangements for people working on board a ship, working or living abroad and coming to work in the UK. How to Claim Expenses If you have to fill in a Self Assessment tax return, youre a director or you have other income that you need to tell HMRC about, it is possible that you pay tax at a higher rate. You can claim for your allowable expenses in the employment page of the tax return. If you claim for your tax relief on your tax return, there is no need to fill out a form P .87. If you dont have to fill out a tax return, you can claim your tax relief by letter, phone, form P .810 or form P .87. The first time you claim for your 30 rmbusiness.co.uk
expenses you will need to contact HMRC via letter, and if they total over 1,000, you will need to fill out form P .87 for them to find out additional details. If you contact HMRC by phone to claim your tax relief, you will only be able to receive it if your expenses total less than 1,000, youve claimed them in a previous tax year for the same employment, HMRC have accepted your earlier claim, and if you havent already been sent a P .87 to be completed. What is Form P810? If you want HMRC to check your income to ensure that you dont pay too much or too little tax you can request a P810 Tax Review form to fill in. You can also use this form to ask for your allowable expenses, however, if they total over 1,000, HMRC will request that you also fill in form P .87 to give them more details about your expenses. What is Form P87? If you request it, want to claim expenses over 1,000, its the first that time youve ever claimed expenses, or youre claiming expenses for a year before the previous tax year, you will be sent form P .87. It requires you to fill out details about your expenses and how you got the final figure of the amount that you wish to claim. If you have more than one job or you change jobs during the tax year, you will need a separate form, P .87, for each. If you do not fill out form P .87 once HMRC sends you this, they will not be able to allow your expenses, meaning that you may be paying too much tax.
money matters
Acceptable Expenses Protective Clothing/Equipment: As a general rule, employees cannot claim for the clothes that they wear to work, however, if your job requires you to wear specific safety clothing/equipment, you can claim the price of these on your expenses, as it is a vital requirement for you to be able to carry out your job safely. For example, if you work in the building sector and you need overalls, gloves and goggles, you would be able to claim for these on your expenses as long as you have to pay for the repairing, cleaning and replacing of the items and your employer doesnt reimburse you you cannot claim for the initial buying of this clothing. Although, if you need specific equipment to do your work, for example hairdressing scissors, you will be able to claim for these on your expenses as well as maintaining and replacing the tools. Business Mileage or Fuel: Business mileage is the distance that it takes you to do your job. It can include travel to a temporary workplace but does not include normal travel between home, or anywhere that is not your work place, permanent workplace, or private travel. When travelling in a car, for tax purposes you can claim 45p for the first 10,000 business miles in a tax year then 25p for each subsequent mile, and for NICs purposes, 45p for all business miles. If you are travelling on a motorcycle, you can claim 24p for both tax and NICs purposes and for all business miles. Entertaining: Entertaining expenses are nearly always disallowed as these provide the most opportunity for abuse. There is a strict criteria for the forms of entertainment that are allowed. The rare exceptions must meet all of the following criteria. Customers or potential customers are present No member of the employee or office holders family are present Purpose of the event is not predominantly social The cost of entertaining staff and colleagues of the same organisation does not qualify to be included as an expense A full explanation of the entertainment expenses is usually required as well as any receipts Non Acceptable Expenses Every-Day Glasses: If your job does not require you to use a computer screen, or any other VDU, you cannot claim employee expenses on eye tests. Also, if you are required to wear glasses or contact lenses for VDU work as well as normal day-to-day life, you cannot claim these on employee expenses. However, if an eye test is required by health and safety legislation for employees who are required to use a computer screen or
any other VDU, it can be claimed. After an eye test has been requested by health and safety legislation, glasses and contact lenses that are required for VDU work, and only VDU work, can be claimed as expenses. Travel: When travelling to and from work, the money that you spend either on public transport or fuel will not qualify as refundable expenses. When travelling to or from your normal workplace either to or from home, or any other place you visit for non-work reasons, this is seen as ordinary commuting by HM Revenue. However, if an employer reimburses an employee for ordinary commuting, then both the employer and employee will have to pay more money to HM Revenue, either in tax or NIC. Money spent on travel to and from home, or any other non work related place to a temporary workplace, can be included in your expenses.
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...the scheme can help you too, as you too can help young minds grow and inspire their talent.
money matters
And the benefits are very much built around the individual with low cost unsecured loans, quality business mentoring and exclusive business products from their global partners. As James and Jamie said, all you need to get you started is passion; a hobby, idea or even the simple goal to want to be your own boss. If you are able to see a gap in the market, then a Start Up Loan could be perfect. The unique compulsory mentors have proved invaluable for the new businesses. James Eder, 29, said; without the mentor and that type of structure, I dont believe I would be where I am today - founder of The Beans Group and studentbeans.com, a lifestyle portal for university students including the latest deals and discounts, not to mention one of the youngest entrepreneurs in the UK, founding the business at the age of 22, just two weeks before graduating from university. However if you are in the fortunate position of already possessing a fair amount of business knowledge, then the scheme can help you too, as you too can help young minds grow and inspire their talent. The role of a mentor should not be underestimated, as James Caan has said, They are more important than the loan. The Start Up Loans Company are always looking for people who have been on the journey themselves, or worked with SMEs before to volunteer their time and their commitment to help the young entrepreneurs. To become a start-up loans mentor you will need to have excellent communication skills, including active listening and interpersonal skills. You will need to be able to manage your time as a mentor and make the time spent with your entrepreneur as effective and productive as possible. You should be able to build honest and trusting relations with your entrepreneur so they feel confident in discussing with you their concerns
and challenges, as well as their achievements. Your knowledge and experience of the SME market, the particular business environment that accompanies this type of enterprise and your ability to work with young people will be most helpful when being a mentor. It is immeasurable how important it is to reflect and recognise progress and celebrate success, as well as having the ability to learn from mistakes and to not see these as a failure or a negative. The scheme encourages knowledge to be shared and seeks the best and most eligible people to become mentors, by filling out an online form and encourage the success of future businesses. Theres no easy way to determine whether an idea will succeed but the case studies speak for themselves. Emily Bendell, now 32 is the brains behind BlueBella, a sensual products brand that can today boast a multimillion pound turnover. In 2010 it grew by 120%, and 140% by 2011 despite only starting in 2005. Thanks to help from the Start Up Loan Company, BlueBella has attracted a top class management team. Alan Bell, former MD at the Body Shop at home, joined in 2007, and Janet Mudge, former Party Plan Director at Ann Summers, joined the business in 2010. By 2011, it was recognised in a multitude of business awards including the Fast Growth Business Awards, Growing Business Young Guns Awards, and the Women of Worth Awards. Emily is just one of many, as for many young people living in England wanting to take control of their future this could be the kick start they need. Website: www.startuploans.co.uk 33
Without the mentor and that type of structure, I dont believe I would be where I am today James Eder
It is a competitive world out there, yet over 80% of Independent Businesses still process card transactions through their bank. Why? Im going to address that question today, along with several other important ones that Ive been sent this month. I hope that this will help when youre choosing whats right for your business.
Im looking to accept cards for the first time; whats the best solution for me? Initially there are two simple choices to be made. Firstly you need to look at whether your trade is one that expects to process the occasional card transaction, such as a plumber, or whether processing card transactions will be fundamental to your business. Deciding this will set you in the right direction. If its the former, then a pay-as-you-go facility would work best for you. This is a Card Reader that links to your Smartphone and will cost you a small set up fee, typically 60 with transactions charges in the region of 2.75%, but you are not tied into any contract. If its the latter, and you expect to be processing hundreds of card payments in a day, then you would need a Chip & Pin terminal. There are a variety of options, contracts, and prices available here which we will cover a little later. Which Bank should I choose? Its a common misconception that you have to choose a bank to process your credit & debit card transactions, and in fact, they will encourage you to do this when opening your business account with them. In actual fact, there are a number of Independent companies out there who can probably provide you with a better value proposition and much better rates, such as Annecto. Annecto Tip: Dont just buy on price. Find out the service that they will offer. Will they have one point of contact for all your questions? Will there be someone local who is on hand to install your terminal and assist you with your business moving forward. 34 rmbusiness.co.uk
How do I choose the right terminal for my business? There is a large range of options out there, but lets break them down into three distinct types: Countertop, Portable, and Mobile. The vast majority of retail businesses will need a Countertop terminal that sits by the check-out and is plugged into the power supply and telephone line. If there is only one point of sale, the till, then this is your option. Hospitality businesses such as restaurants and hotels will need a portable terminal with a base that is plugged into a telephone socket, whilst the actual terminal can be carried to the table; it connects to the base unit via Bluetooth, just as a cordless phone at home would. Mobile terminals can used in any place where a mobile signal exists and are ideal for deliveries, market traders, or anyone who is truly mobile. This is becoming more and more prevalent as businesses change. Annecto Tip: Make sure that whichever terminal you chose can work on a standard telephone line and a Broadband line, plus it should also be able to process Contactless transactions, future proofing your terminal. What do I need to watch out for when choosing my supplier? My biggest frustrations in this industry are the hidden fees, the lack of transparency, and the poor advice given to Independent businesses; thats one of the main reasons for setting up my own business. I saw the flaws and I wanted to change things. Ive seen 2-3 companies claim that they can fix or
cap your prices for the duration of the contract; they cant! If you read the small print in their contracts or the detail on their web site then they also state that they cant, this is poor selling at best, miss-selling at worst. Another common complaint is to do with contract length. All banks and independent companies will ask you to sign into a contract for 24-48 months, which is perfectly OK so long as you know what you are signing into. With any standard lease or rental contract for any product you purchase, you would expect to pay up to the remainder of the contract if you cancelled early. E.g. Car Lease / PCP plans or Mobile Phone Contracts. Annecto Tip: Do not sign with any company that will charge you a cancellation fee on top of the remaining rentals. Ask what happens when the contract expires, are you tied into a secondary (or rollover) period? If so, be very wary. What is PCI DSS? These are the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards that Visa & MasterCard mandate that any business accepting card payments has to adhere to. Annecto Tip: Ask your current / future provider to assist you in becoming compliant, if they cant or wont then you may wish to consider a different supplier.
I feel as though Ive painted a picture of an industry lacking in professional advice and poor service, which is quite deliberate as sadly, that is the truth. At Annecto, we are going to be one of the founding members of the new Association of Card Payment Professionals, plus we are backing the campaign to provide support for Independent Retail (www.independentretail.co.uk). Next month Ill be answering questions on Ecommerce and how Independent businesses can complete with national chains, so please send me any questions that you want answered.
save
30% by switching to Annecto
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All Annecto terminals will be set up and tested before they are delivered to you, therefore we know they already work. They will have your merchant number and details already loaded so all you have to do is to plug it in and you are ready to go.
A safe workplace is also an absolute must. Health and Safety if properly embraced should be a business benefit and not a burden. And as anyone who has ever submitted a bid for a contact will know, having sound Health and Safety policies and procedures in place is an absolute essential if you want to win contracts. If you are embedding the CSR principles of ethical and responsible business behaviour, looking after your staff is quite clearly a key starting point. In summary, a good workplace has a solid foundation based on the rules (legislation and the companys rules and code of conduct) and the implementation of best practice to ensure engaged, motivated and happy staff!
Jill Poet managing director of the Organisation for Responsible Businesses (ORB) www.orbuk.org.uk www.ResponsibleBusinessStandard.org.uk
2013
Financial education is a much overlooked essential in equipping young people with the skills they need to manage their money well, now and The competition will be a key part of My Money Week, which runs from Jun in the future. With personal finance now set to be taught in the National 3 to June 9, with the aim to improve the financial capabilities of 4 to 19 Curriculum from September 2014, there has never been a better time for year olds. This will range from developing their own A-Z of money through schools to get involved - and the My Money Week competition is a great creative writing or poetry. place to start. The notion of challenging young people to think creatively about money is not a new one. The My Money Week competition is now in its fifth year, although this year the initiative has been expanded beyond England to reach the other nations of the UK for the first time.
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inspirational quotes
Bill Gates
It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most
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legal
New PAYE Since April 6, a new scheme called the Real Time Information Scheme has taken over the PAYE system. Employers no longer need to fill out P14 and P45 forms at the end of each financial year; instead they have to provide HM Revenue and Customs with real-time information about each employees PAYE deductions. This means employers report PAYE from their first pay day, on or after April 6 each time they pay their employees, rather than yearly. It has been proclaimed as the biggest improvement to the tax system in 70 years. So it wont come as a surprise that this new system has got off to a flying start, with more than one million employer schemes using it in its first month. Redundancy Notice Period Most of us have experienced redundancy or know someone who has, and this common cause of job loss is about to get tougher. When employers used to make a collective redundancy consultation of 100 or more employees, they had to give a minimum period of 90 days between the beginning of the consultation and the date on which the first dismissals took place. However, in April this was reduced to just 45 days under the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act. This time is even less for a collective redundancy consultation of 20-99. A cut of people between these amounts have a mere 30-day period. Great for employers; bad for employees. Increased Pay You may not know it, but your statutory sick pay, and maternity/paternity/adoption pay has increased. If an employee has been off work for over four days in a row, they are entitled to weekly sick pay wage of 85.85 for up to 28 weeks. But when the calendar reached April 6, this soared to 386.70. Thats enough to give employers a headache. The following day, maternity/paternity/ adoption rates have also increased, just not as dramatically, going from 135.45 to 136.78. You can have maternity leave for 52 weeks, but statutory maternity pay is only paid for up to 39 of them, and is paid as 90% of weekly earnings for the first six weeks and 136.78 per week, or 90% of weekly wages if that amount is lower thereafter. Pay will rise for many others in October, as minimum wage increase with the main rate rising to 6.31 from 6.19 per hour. Unfair dismissal claims The new Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 removes the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal claims where the reason is the employees political opinions or affiliation. In an attempt to stamp out lightweight cases, changes will insist claimants pay a 250 fee to make a claim, and a further 950 if it goes to tribunal. But dont think this money can be easily given back. Payouts from successful cases will now be capped. Former employees will only be able to claim up to a years pay or 74,200 (whichever is lower), with scope that this limit will be reduced in future. The changes are scheduled for this summer, and as a result there has been a 44% increase in workers making claims. This surely shows that these changes are needed. Whistleblowing Legislation A whistleblower is someone who informs the public, or someone in authority, of alleged dishonesty or illegal activities happening within an organisation. There will be three key changes made to protect whistleblowers, the first being that employers will be liable for a workers conduct in victimising a whistleblower. Secondly, the need for disclosures to be made in good faith has been removed. Although this may concern some, employees will still be encouraged to raise issues, and where a disclosure is not made in good faith, employment tribunal will be able to reduce compensation by up to 25%. Finally, a qualifying disclosure should be made in the public interest. A public interest disclosure is an expos by an employee concerning the unlawful activity of their employer. These changes should be in action from 25th June. Well see if more employees hang up the whistle, or get louder.
LLP Solicitors
www.symons-gay.co.uk | office@symons-gay.co.uk
01708 744211
Symons & Gay LLP was founded in 1911 and has been in business in South Street Romford ever since. Symons & Gay have an experienced team of Solicitors and support staff offering different areas of legal expertise, including Domestic & Commercial Conveyancing, Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Deputyship, Litigation, Landlord & Tenant, Employment and Family Law. The firm provide Legal Aid where applicable. Symons & Gay feel their success is due to them being a friendly and approachable firm. We like to think that clients will receive professional advice but in a relaxed manner. The firm have Lexcel, the Law Societys quality accreditation along with CQS, the Law Societys conveyancing quality scheme. The firm offer a home or hospital visit for those unable to get to the office. We also provide a free 30 minute no obligation consultation.
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an apprenticeship training service that is second to none, helping you and your employees find the right course, at the right level. We can even create one just for you tailor made to your business.
* Conditions apply
For more information on our quality assured apprenticeship opportunities contact our Business Services Team
01708 462800
employerenquiry@havering-college.ac.uk www.havering-college.ac.uk
HaveringCollegeofFurtherand Higher Education ArdleighGreenCampus, ArdleighGreenRoad,Hornchurch, EssexRM112LL
50532BM 14/5/13
lifestyle
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in the borough
Havering Council has given Planning Permission for the construction of a new leisure centre comprising of an ice rink, 25 metre swimming pool, multi - purpose dance studio fitness suite and ancillary cafe with associated disabled parking and cycle parking. The new centre will be built on the junction of Grimshaw Way and Western Road, just a stones throw from Mercury Gardens. The swimming pool will be suitable for leisure and competitive swimming, together with a teaching pool and poolside sauna and steam rooms. The pool will have 206 spectator seats and 4 wheelchair spaces. The upper floors of the building will house a new ice rink together with 855 spectator seats and 8 wheelchair spaces on the ground floor. The Council hope that the new centre will create around 50 new jobs. Sadly, the Council envisage that there will be a gap of around two years from when the existing Ice Rink was closed, until the opening of the new leisure centre. At the same planning committee meeting, planning permission was given to Morrisons to build a food store, petrol filling station, associated parking, and landscaping on the former Ice Rink site off Rom Valley Way and to also build up to 71 residential units comprising a mix of 3 bedroom town houses and two blocks of 1 and 2 bed flats. The proposed new food store is effectively built on a podium, with the frontage of the building elevated above street level in Rom Valley Way, therefore the ground floor of the development is primarily given over to car parking, servicing and access. Morrisons believe that the new superstore, which will be built on a podium, will create around 300 new jobs.
I pointed out back in April that Havering Council had entered into a deal with Supermarket chain Morrisons, to sell them the Romford Ice Rink site in Rom Valley near the Queens Hospital, and use the cash to build a new Leisure Centre in the centre of Romford.
NETWORKING
This months featured event was my visit to The Essex Business Forum (EBF) breakfast meeting, held at Warley Park Golf Club, Brentwood. They meet every Thursday at 6.30am to 8.30am. My host, Scott Griffiths of Eseyo Ltd, allowed me go along to promote the magazine as well as introduce myself to members under my own company name. I arrived at 6.30am and was surprised to see most of the members were already there which gave me an impression that this was a really committed group. I was greeted and made welcome by several members while helping myself to coffee. The Chairman and Scott gave me a quick overview of the meeting so I didnt feel uncomfortable and knew the format of the morning. Breakfast was served and everyone was seated by 7.00am. The meeting was chaired by Aidan Squire, and although the meeting was structured, it was informal as well as being business like and professional. There were 27 people in attendance, and after the normal introductions, the meeting began with an educational talk by David Plumley to aid and improve the members presentations. After this new member Alan Pegg of B Bright Cleaning Associates was inducted to the EBF and given the members pack.
Sixty second business introductions from each member followed, and among these were some really original presentations. These included items such as a photograph of a dog, a LED light bulb, a top hat, and a tool that looked like a dog bone, all of which I found most interesting. This was followed by a 10 minute showcase from Terry Maylin of TM Law solicitors, which covered all aspects of his business, then together with his business associate Aidan Squire, answered questions from the floor. The answers that they gave were very informative, especially on Probate and Powers of Attorney. Business referrals were then passed between members and reviewed with a summary of the amount of business done. (Web Site Quotes: On average every member receives 30,000 new business each year). Lastly it was announced that a new EBF Business Networking group is being launched on the 14th May at The Ivory Rooms, Billericay. I really enjoyable the morning and I am sure that the EBF Brentwood and the new EBF Billericay will attract many new members.
Meet Old Brentwood Ashwells Road - 8am Contact, Colin Kirby 07717855435
5th june
Select Network
Every Wednesday at 7.00am Chelmsford Golf Club www.select-network.co.uk
7th June
Chelmsford Golf Club - 7am
www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
14th June
Essex Business Network
Chelmsford Golf Club - 7am Witham White Hart Hotel - 8am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
17th June
EBANG - 3.45pm
Meet Dragon Enterprise Centre, Rayleigh www.businessadvisoressex.co.uk
6th June
Nexus Network Group
Meet De Rougemont Manor - 6:30am www.nexusnetworking.co.uk/index.php
Biscotti Brentwood
18th June
Essex Business Network
Southend, Park Inn Palace Hotel - 7am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
11th June
Essex Business Network
Southend, Park Inn Palace Hotel - 7am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
12th June
Essex Business Network
Redbridge College - 7am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
19th June
Essex Business Network
Redbridge College - 7am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
Meet The Bell Epping - 7:15am www.eppnet.co.uk Contact. Tom Arnold 07971962617
Meet The Bell Epping - 7.15am www.eppnet.co.uk Contact. Tom Arnold 07971962617 47
25th June
Essex Business Network
Southend, Park Inn Palace Hotel - 7am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
27th June
Meet De Rougemont Manor - 6.30am www.nexusnetworking.co.uk/index.php
26th June
Olympia Grand, London www.marketingweeklive.co.uk
MarketingWeek Live
Meet Old Brentwood Ashwells Road - 8am Contact, Colin Kirby 07717855435
28th June
Chelmsford Golf Club - 7am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
Meet Old Brentwood Ashwells Road - 8am Contact, Colin Kirby 07717855435
21st June
Essex Business Network
Chelmsford Golf Club - 7am Witham White Hart Hotel - 8am www.essexbusinessnetwork.co.uk
Meet The Bell Epping 7.15am www.eppnet.co.uk Contact. Tom Arnold 07971962617
Network with other businesses and build relationships Find others to collaborate with Build on the meet, like, know and trust ethos Meet new suppliers who could save you both time and money
48 rmbusiness.co.uk
13 June 2013
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business
Known around the world as the Sport of Kings, polo never fails to attract the great and good, and for 2013 the Duke of Essex Grand Prix Polo is set to do just that. However this year, the event is set to be very different as it looks to become bigger, bolder and better. For starters the ownership of the event has changed. The King and Grand Prix Events recently acquired the Duke of Essex Polo from the previous owners and wasted no time in looking at how they could improve this much loved event. As their name suggests, the new team bring with them a wealth of experience in hospitality from the world of motor racing. They have set themselves a goal of making the Duke of Essex Grand Prix Polo the finest polo event in the UK today. The Gaynes Park venue in Epping has been replaced by a purpose built polo arena at Hylands Park Estate in Chelmsford (home to V Festival). The grounds of this beautiful Grade II listed building seem somehow more in keeping with the Sport of Kings. Gone is the single date and replaced by two: Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July. The weekend is set to be the best VIP and Family outing in Essex. The organizers are more than aware that the modern day spectacle of polo is as much 50 rmbusiness.co.uk
about the social occasion as it is the sport itself, however it does not stop them looking to deliver a credible event that will attract some of the worlds greatest players. Were looking at striking a genuine balance between sporting event and social occasion which is one of the reasons for moving to Hylands House. They offered to accommodate an arena and of course it does help that the venue is a truly stunning setting. Hylands House is part of the Hylands Park Estate which covers an impressive 574 acres of Essex Countryside. Like many stately homes across the country the main house stood empty for a number of years and slowly slipped in to a state of disrepair until the current owners restored the Grade II listed Villa to its former glory. The popularity of the polo, which is now in its eighth year, has already seen it firmly established as part of the British Social Season and the move to Hylands Park is expected to attract over 10,000 VIPs and members of the public. For this year the main sporting arena will be surrounded by a wealth of entertainment including various VIP marquees, headline music acts, family fun activity and of course the sort of food and drink that would befit a royal guest or two who knows who might attend! Once the polos finished for the day and the ponies are nicely tucked up on the hay, then
lifestyle
the party really starts. The VIP enclosures will be transformed into one off night spots with top club DJs and performances from current acts and legends alike, the perfect way to round off a true, top class sporting come social extravaganza. Its well known that polo has never been known as an affordable pastime. However this year The Duke of Essex Polo Grand Prix will be doing its bit to open the sport up to the masses by offering reasonably priced family tickets alongside the stunning VIP packages that offer that extra something special. This year the VIP package tickets are split into three types, Silver, Gold and Black. Each of these tickets will give the holder entrance to the exclusive Paddock Club Enclosure from where the polo can be viewed from private decked areas during the day and from where the international music acts will perform in the evening. VIP ticket holders will have private buggy transportation to and from the main house, valet parking, access to the sun deck, private washroom and a complimentary barbecue that will run throughout the evening. For those wishing to go along for just the evening event there is of course a special dusk ticket which as the name suggests is from 5.00pm onwards and strictly for over 21s only. It will include access to the Paddock Club Enclosure and access to the outside stage to see
the live bands and international artists with DJs starting at 9.00pm and going through to the early hours. Opening polo up to the masses is an important part of the event for us this year which is why the organizers have decided to offer a reasonably priced 20 adult ticket, along with a 15 child ticket with under 12s accessing for free. These tickets allow access to the Grand Prix Polo Village with its show jumping arena, Shetland pony dinky derby, the Essex Dog Shoe Display Team, Formula 1 simulator, shopping village and access to the fairground. A Gourmet Food Village will be partnered by a Champagne and The Grand Arena Bar so no one is expected to go hungry or thirsty on the day. With Hylands Park positioned neatly in the very heart of Essex, getting there couldnt be easier. As a country park, Hylands is unquestionably Set for a King but for two days this Summer Hylands will undoubtedly be Set for the sport of Kings. The Duke of Essex Grand Prix Polo will be one the hottest tickets in town, and advance bookings are now available from:
POWER
The power suit, but not as you know it
When I say power suit, push that throwback wardrobe disaster out of your mind; 2013 has it revamped and more stylish than ever. Ever since women broke free from the corset, clothes have reflected their emancipation. Fashion is doing its job. Its mirroring exactly our times, says street style photographer Bill Cunningham in his documentary, Bill Cunningham New York. The power suit first emerged in the 1980s, and exaggerates a womans shoulders to give her a more masculine silhouette. However, now that women have almost become equal to men in business, the two-piece is back, but without the frumpy jackets and shapeless trousers. This season, the power suit has been nipped in and sexed up. On the SS13 catwalks at Balmain, Roland Mouret and Lanvin, provocative power suits were big business. The designers teamed a strong shouldered jacket with a bare chest for a masculine, yet seductive look. Yes, the broad shoulders are there, but so is the feminine waist, pulled in elegantly with a thick belt. We also cant ignore the legs, which are either bare in a mini skirt or skinny in cropped trousers; but revealed or not, they are always elongated with simple heels. Now, we dont recommend you march into the office with nothing under your blazer than a bouncing bust, but this years power suit should emphasise your feminine silhouette, while maintaining that authority. To get your hands on your own slice of power, look to Selfridges and Net-a-Porter, but for a high street alternative, Zara is the best place to go. A commanding female with an alluring figure; who could resist?
lifestyle
up
Alexander McQueen Contrast Lapel Jacket, 1,785.00 (image from fashionbombdaily.com) Balmain - courtesy of catwalking.com
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Fox Tailoring, 187 Station Lane, Hornchurch, Essex, RM12 6LL 01708 563 995 | E-mail john@foxtailoring.com Twitter: @Foxtailoring | LinkedIn: John Parrett | Facebook: Fox Tailoring
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car review
MERCEDES e 63 AMG
The new E 63 AMG has been given a major high performance boost in the shape of the top-of-the-range E 63 AMG S Model. With 585 hp and 800 Nm of torque, the E 63 AMG S Model is the most powerful vehicle in the E-Class range and the fastest E-Class ever offered in the UK. With an AMG rear axle limited-slip differential lock as standard, the new E 63 AMG S Model benefits from a 28 hp and 80 Nm increase over the standard E 63 AMG and is 0.1 seconds faster, reaching 62 mph from a standing start in just 4.1 seconds for the Saloon and 4.2 seconds for the Estate. The combined fuel consumption for the E 63 AMG S Model Saloon is 28.5 mpg, with 54 rmbusiness.co.uk emissions of 232 g/km of CO2, and the Estate achieves 28.3 combined mpg, with CO2 emissions of 234 g/km the same as the standard E 63 AMG Estate. The enhanced exterior of the S Model features exclusive design elements, including a highgloss black front apron with silver-shadow splitter, side sill panels and rear trim strip with silver-shadow inserts, an AMG spoiler in body colour, 19 inch AMG alloy wheels painted in Titanium matt grey, red brake calipers, and S labelling on the boot lid. Inside, the unique interior includes black nappa leather upholstery with grey contrast stitching, silver seat belts, an AMG emblem in the headrests, an electric rear roller blind for the Saloon, AMG door sills with white LED illumination, and an AMG instrument cluster with red applications and S Model badging. A choice of seven standard metallic paints and one non-metallic paint in Polar White for the S Model are complimented by two additional metallic paints, Diamond White and Hyacinth Red (480), two designo metallic paints, Mocha Black and Graphite (1,125) and two designo Magno matt paints, Allanite Grey and Cashmere White (2,775). The E 63 AMG S Model Saloon is priced from 83,740 OTR and the Estate from 85,530 OTR, with both now readily available to order.
comes to Rainham
AN EXCITING new trade show, the first of its kind in Rainham, will be refreshingly fun and relaxed according to organisers, who has already signed up two key Government agencies for the event.
Rather than putting on yet another starchy business fair, Kathryn Painter, the owner of KEM Event Management, who lives in Shenfield, Essex, plans to inject some fun into the CEME Conference Centre, on June 14, when the doors open for the inaugural South Essex Business Exhibition. The event, which is being organised in partnership with RM Magazine, could attract up to 50 exhibitors and will be the place to go for proactive business people, revealed Miss Painter, who counts Aprils Brentwood Fun Dog Show among her more recent successes. So far, the list of exhibitors includes key Government bodies Companies House and the Intellectual Property Office, who will be meeting and greeting visitors alongside businesses from a broad range of professions and industries. Miss Painter, 30, said: The South Essex Business Exhibition will be the first of its kind for the area. Yes, there will be lots of opportunities to meet new people and talk shop, and listen to some fascinating guest speakers, but there will also be plenty of fun to be had. Were lining up a whole host of entertainment and a raffle in aid of the Brentwood charity SNAP . Our vision is to keep the atmosphere relaxed, as well as offering a fantastic opportunity for people to make some quality new contacts. Key event sponsor John Palmer, from Nova Digital Media, revealed why he chose to get involved. He said: This show is a must for businesses from across the area, who are serious about broadening their network and building up good contacts. Already, a number of progressive companies are on-board, and with all the extra value that SEBE is offering, such as the impressive guest speakers, there is so much to take away from the day. We at Nova Digital Media cant wait to meet many new people to find out exactly how we can help each other. If they havent already, I strongly recommend business owners grabbing the last few spaces before they go, and if they miss out this time, then its definitely going to be worth investing the time to visit.
Prices for an exhibition space for the day start at 285. Exhibitors will be able to gain access to the site from 9am on the day. The event is free to attend for visitors and will be open from 11am until 5pm. For more information, e-mail: admin@kem-event.co.uk or call 01245 790768. SNAP supports parents of young children with learning disabilities.
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technology
Google Glass
The most talked about gadget currently has to be Google Glass. This headset places data literally right before your eyes. Take photos, record videos, and get directions, all by using the touchpad on the arm of headset. But if raising your finger is far too much effort when it comes to technology, the voice control function will be your saviour. You can search, translate phrases, and send and record messages all by using just your voice box. You may think they dont look as cool as they sound, but fashion designer Diane Von Furstenberg gave them the nod of approval by perching them on her models noses in her SS13 catwalk show. To get your hands on a headset, you can apply to be a Glass Explorer via google.com/ glass, until they go on sale. We say give it a couple of years, and theyll be as common as sunglasses thats if they havent been reduced to a lens by then.
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sponsored by
rewards
rm
If you are looking for top class entertainment at your corporate event then look no further. Hes the master of mix and mingle, and does ticks quicker than you can say abracadabra. The man with the tricks Barry Hicks is a fantastic addition to any event, contact him today to see how he can add a bit of magic to your presentation. T: 01708 551 530 W: www.magicenigma.co.uk E: admin@magicenigma.co.uk
Symons & Gay provides a broad range of legal services to private individuals and small to medium sized commercial organisations and non profit-making bodies of all types. It undertakes work funded privately and work funded by the Legal Services Commission and other third parties. T: 01708 744211 W: www.symons-gay.co.uk E: office@symons-gay.co.uk
The Business Start-Up Master Class. Book Now! Places strictly limited with over 1500 of free business tools included with every programme. Starts 24th June 2013 for five days. Fast forward your business growth, today! T: 07758 237696. W: www.thebiznessguru.com E: simon@thebiznessguru.com
Warrington Chase provides specialist accountancy recruitment solutions for the East London and Essex regions. We tailor our service and price to your business and ensure we get you get the right person to look after your finances with minimal disruption to your busy schedule.
We offer free, impartial and independent advice to businesses; identifying and delivering training to meet business needs. One of the key goals of the service is to make sure that both the training and the skills advice are impartial, flexible, responsive, and offered at a time and place to suit businesses.
Kosho now in its 2nd year as raised the standard for bars in Essex providing the best music, atmosphere & drinks deals in town. The stylish West End theme makes it the trendiest bar in Essex which is why we hit capacity every night. If you would like to hire Kosho exclusively for your company we can cater for all events from corporate meetings to pop video shoots, available from Sunday to Wednesday. T: 07501 314589 W: www.koshobar.co.uk
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Havering Chamber of Commerce and Industry represents over 200 Businesses who employ over 2,750 people. We have been around for 25 years and now we have a new business address and a new partnership, working for business with the London Borough of Havering. HCCI is the voice of business in Havering. T: 07913 477 631 W: www.haveringbusiness.co.uk E: office@haveringbusiness.org.uk
Positive Media believe that successful communication is at the core of every successful business. Piecing together the necessary components to create a winning marketing campaign entails creativity, passion and a successful understanding of the campaigns end goal.
The Deaf Agency helps to break down communication barriers between deaf and hearing people, providing flexible, competitive, stress-free communication support. Additionally, we also offer fun tailor-made Deaf Awareness workshops, British Sign Language workshops or a mixture of both, depending on your needs useful for continuing professional development. T: 07951 820341 W: www.deafagency.co.uk E: info@deafagency.co.uk
If you know that you cant run a company without IT, but it just seems to cause you headaches, you need help. Not just someone to sell you the latest gizmo, but someone to help you ensure your IT system does what YOU want it to do. Call us today to see how we can help.
Essex Chambers of Commerce is a fully independent body offering a comprehensive and continuously developing range of business services. For more information about Essex Chambers of Commerce and how we might assist you and your business aspirations please visit our website. Should you have any questions we will be pleased to assist you. T: 01206 765277 W: www.essexchambers.co.uk E: enquiries@essexchambers.co.uk
We have a passion for helping businesss go forward, by generating new business. This is quite simply really, lead generation. You supply the data, your target market, we make the calls and build a relationship with your prospects, sending emails and ultimately booking a meeting for you to present your company. T: 07796 441476 W: www.bellconsultancy.eu E: sue@bellconsultancy.eu
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Well focus on how to develop a social media strategy for your business, how to implement it, and how to keep it going.
01708 475767
hello@positivemedia.co.uk