Category: Advice

Here are four simple ways to ensure that every business conversation is productive.

At a time when the High Street is struggling, small businesses are looking for routes to market and the opportunity to meet customers face to face. This is why I believe small businesses have a vital role to play in bringing High Streets back to life, and customers onto the streets.

Trying to build a new relationship? You’ll never manage it by staring at a screen. Here’s what you need to do instead.

It is being said that bank lending to credible businesses is starting to return and one of the leading credit rating agencies Experian has been working with small businesses and found that less than two-thirds do not think it is important to check their own credit scores.

When you hear it, advice is just that, advice. You only know if it’s great after the fact. Wouldn’t it be great if you knew in advance?

SWOT analysis too dull? Try the fourth part of my alternative version – how to tighten up your Timing.

The role of CEO and business owner is highly demanding, and poses many management related challenges for a boss who is personally and professionally invested in the business. Some prefer to delegate as many duties as possible to middle management. However, this is not always the best tactic.

Location, location, location: If you are hosting a multi-day event then carefully consider your venue. Delegates staying in the same place will have more time for interaction and after hours socialising. By the end of an interesting day, all delegates will have one thing on their mind. Dinner. Keep the conversation flowing (and the wine) […]

Considering a career change to follow your dream and do great things? Five things to do before you take the plunge.

As the backbone of the British economy, Britain’s army of small and medium-sized businesses have been hit harder than most by the downturn. Even though the number of firms going to the wall fell at the end of last year, the triple-dip continues to pile pressure on businesses. Company owners can only do so much to boost demand, but by taking positive steps they can do much to protect themselves from being another victim. Here Michael Davis, Managing Partner, HW Fisher & Company tells us his top ten things to keep your eye on.

Treasury management is crucial for the success of any business. Yet many SMEs get things wrong by focusing solely on cashflows and accounts receivable, rather than taking a broader view of the whole financial dealings and requirements of the business – particularly important for companies involved in overseas trade.

It is important for all businesses to look at every aspect of the company, in order to maintain fiscal stability and promote growth. Allocating funds to workplace improvements may not be the obvious first choice for cash sensitive smaller businesses. However, the effect a pleasant environment can have on a workforce and on visitors can be good news for both the finances and business development.

The biggest challenge for most new brands is lack of awareness – which is why more than 80% of businesses recognise ‘finding new customers’ as one of their biggest challenges to growth. This need, combined with limited budgets, is what drives a number of savvy brands to explore Marketing Collaborations to fuel their business – but it remains by and large – the best kept secret of the entrepreneurial world.