Social networks are by definition global. If you are hoping to expand your business into new international markets, social networks offer opportunities that didn’t exist before. The secret to success is regarding social networks as global channels.
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It is a requirement of the Companies Act 2006 that all companies keep up to date statutory registers. These must be kept at the registered office of the company (or other place notified to Companies House).
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There may be times when you need access to extra funds to help with your business cashflow, or simply to know that a short-term lending facility is in place should you need it.
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The internet is amazing; it has all the information that we would ever need at just a few clicks. But with easy access to information, there’s also the increased risk of breaching copyright – and we can be guilty of copyright infringement without even realising.
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One of the main components of any small business owner’s PR armoury is the trusty press release. If used successfully, they can generate lots of free publicity for your firm. Unfortunately, most press releases are consigned to the bin within seconds. So, how do you ensure that your releases are eye-catching?
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You might have seen workplace pensions in the news recently, including the recent ad campaign from the Department of Work and Pensions. Here we look at what all small business owners should know about the pensions auto enrolment rules.
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The Autumn Statement has become more of a ‘mini Budget’ in recent years, and this year’s event didn’t disappoint in terms of theatre. Here we look at the announcements which affect small businesses.
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Cloud computing has truly transformed information technology, and the way we store and access data. However, the jargon associated with this new era of computing can be confusing to many business owners.
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Limited companies can distribute profits they generate via dividends to company shareholders. However, you must ensure that all dividend distributions are legitimate, otherwise you could fall foul of HMRC.
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Behind every good start-up there is an ambitious entrepreneur driving the business forward. However, if these entrepreneurs are going to grow their businesses they’re inevitably going to have to hire a team of talented individuals. Building a great team is just one of the key steps of building a great business, but in today’s competitive employment market how can a new start-up attract the best talent?
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If your sales figures are down, and you want a quick-fix solution, offering your customers a discount may seem your only option. However, this may not be the best solution. Here we look at why discounting may be an ill-advised move.
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These days, you’d be hard-pushed to find a business which doesn’t rely on broadband to some degree – it’s a ubiquitous product which has changed the way many of us run our businesses. Here we consider the circumstances under which business broadband costs can be offset against your company’s tax bill.
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When your new business begins to flourish, there may come a time when you want to take on your first employee. After you’ve created a shortlist of possible candidates, how do you find out if they’re a ‘good fit’ for your growing enterprise? This is where the interview process comes in.
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Many business owners dread making presentations to would-be clients and customers. Here, Dorothea Stuart from Toastmasters International answers our questions about public speaking, and how to successfully engage with an audience.
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When you hire a new accountant for your business, you will typically agree an upfront fee to cover the wide array of tax and administrative tasks required to keep your books in order. Here we consider the typical tasks an accountant will provide.
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The United Kingdom is buzzing with digital clusters in cities right across the country. These tech-focused entrepreneurs are creating ‘disruptive innovation’ that is the driving force of digital growth in the UK.
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Social media is here to stay, and while its potential has been recognised by most businesses, unfortunately many companies quickly lose energy and enthusiasm when the results aren’t quite as big as their ambitions.
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In order to be appointed as a limited company director, you must be over 16 years old, and not be bankrupt, or disqualified from acting as a director by the courts – unless in certain circumstances.
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Using our experience of working with small companies over the past decade, we’ve compiled a no-nonsense list of 16 things you should consider before taking the bold decision to start up a new business.
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