The Importance of Holidays

29/08/2010

This is a really difficult subject for small businesses, simply because we don't see how we can take holidays when we feel that making money is more important. In fact, it looks as though many small business owners will forego their holiday this year, according to the XLN Business Community website.

Marketing and Finance - most important in a recession?

14/08/2010

Having worked with SMEs for a long time (and been one myself) and having seen rather more of recessions than I would have liked, I long ago came to the conclusion that there are two important things in business that you ignore at your peril when things are tough. Marketing and Finance.

E- Service (how to treat your online customers)

06/08/2010

Recently we had a hiccup with our software, which failed to recognise that a customer had paid for their plan. We have always been very particular about our customer service process, because we know how we like to be treated ourselves when things go wrong (and with the best of intentions, they do).

Be Prepared!

16/07/2010

The recession won't last for ever, so are you prepared for the upturn?

Do you know who your customers are?

09/07/2010

I read an interesting article in the Daily Telegraph today that set me thinking - how much do we know about our customers?

Are you backed up?

05/07/2010

In a recession, I can understand it when some small companies go under, but what I can't get my head round is when it's because they've lost all their computer records.

Finding the right Finance for you.

22/06/2010

It is vital you choose the right financing options for your specific needs. And it might be that a combination of options could work best for you.

Are YOU insured?

16/06/2010

BP may be self-insured, but most small businesses can't afford not to take out cover.

Planning for tough times

08/06/2010

Yesterday saw Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor, announced €80bn (£66bn) of savings between now and 2014. At the same time, David Cameron announced a £156bn deficit. Things are going to get tough! The question is: if you are running a small business how are you going to deal with this and have you even thought about it?

The people you should talk to before starting a business

02/06/2010

YOU can never talk to enough people before starting a business. Research, questioning, exploring every option, listening, networking, learning and training may all be necessary elements, depending upon your level of experience, and all well worth pursuing way before launch day.

How to find a niche

31/05/2010

Finding a niche is crucial if you want your business to grow successfully. While there may be scores of similar products and services vying with each other for customer attention, it's this niche and the way you position your particular business that could make all the difference to your business plan.