OUR BLOGS

STAYING RELEVANT

- 2 minute read -

After the news that the Body Shop has gone into administration and closed half its shops, we look at a few things you could do to try to attract new, younger people into your shop so you don’t find your customer base ageing and dwindling.
Staying relevant - avoiding the Body Shop trap

CLOSING OVER CHRISTMAS

- 3 minute read -

In a very relevant blog for this time of year, we look at why you should probably close between Christmas and the new year, and we explain the benefits for you, your staff, and your bottom line!
Closing over Christmas - a well-deserved rest

AUTUMN STATEMENT 2023

- 4 minute read -

We break down the announcements in the Autumn Statement to what’s relevant and important for small business owners to know.
Autumn Statement 2023 - what's relevant to you

SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS

- 3 minute read -

We see so many florists who don’t post regularly on their Facebook or Instagram pages, but it really should be a no-brainer for people whose products are so photogenic! Here’s a nudge if you’re not good at posting regularly, with some tips to make it faster and easier too...
Social media posts - a free shop window

STAFF SICKNESS

- 3 minute read -

As we learn that the average number of staff sickness days annually has increased by over a third since 2019, we look at what can be done in small businesses. That way you’re ready for when you get that dreaded phone call five minutes before you’re expecting a staff member to arrive saying they’re too sick to come in to work…
Wage increases - tackling tough conversations.

Do You Have Wastage?

- 5 Minute Read -

Why you should have wastage! Yes, you read that correctly - you need wastage in your business!

Check out our blog to appreciate our reasoning and why it's not only necessary, but important!

POINT OF SALE SIGNAGE

- 3 minute read -

Poor point of sale signage can really affect how well products sell from a display, so here are some tips to make sure yours is working as it should to encourage more sales.
Wage increases - tackling tough conversations.

WAGE INCREASES

- 4 minute read -

With wage inflation announced yesterday at 7.3%, we look at the tough conversations you may find yourself having with staff asking for pay rises, and give you some suggestions for how to manage them.
Wage increases - tackling tough conversations.

CUTTING BACK ON STAFF COSTS THE RIGHT WAY.

- 3 minute read -

We explain how to reduce business overheads through reducing staff hours in a way that your team will get on board with.
We explain how to reduce business overheads through reducing staff hours in a way that your team will get on board with.

CALLING IT QUITS

- 2 minute read -

After the sad news that all Lloyds Pharmacy branches in Sainsbury’s shops closed their doors yesterday, we suggest you explore at what point you might have to close if your business was making a sustained loss.

Or, you could get in touch with us and see what we can suggest – we’ve been able to bring about improvements for all the clients we’ve worked with!
Trying something new - Martha Stewart's challenge. Image of a lady taking a photo across a valley at sunset.

HAVE YOU INCREASED YOUR PRICES RECENTLY

- 4 minute read -

We’ve seen inflation fall but interest rates rise. Where does that leave small business owners? We explain whether you should consider price rises.
We’ve seen inflation fall but interest rates rise. Where does that leave small business owners? We explain whether you should consider price rises.

TRYING SOMETHING NEW

- 3 minute read -

It may come from an unlikely source, but Martha Stewart has issued a challenge to try new things after becoming the oldest person to be featured on the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue cover.

We take a look at how that applies to small business owners, and how we can help you achieve that.
Trying something new - Martha Stewart's challenge. Image of a lady taking a photo across a valley at sunset.

SELF-EMPLOYED?

- 2 minute read -

If your self-employed we’re challenging you to make a commitment this month. Get this task done and feel extremely proud…
Self employed - consider doing this now

LOYALTY SCHEMES

- 2 minute read -

Loyalty schemes used to be all about earning points or filling up cards with stamps. We look at how they can be revamped to present a new and better offering to your customers.
Loyalty Schemes - beyond points

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS WILL SOON NEED UPDATING

- 3 minute read -

Did you know there are 16 proposed changes to UK employment law for 2023? We help navigate the minefield and share a few of the seven changes from last year.
Budget 2023 - what changed, what didn't

BUDGET 2023

- 4 minute read -

We recap all the important information from last week’s Budget announcement so you have everything you need to know in one place.
Budget 2023 - what changed, what didn't

VALENTINE'S DAY

- 3 minute read -

You may think you need to start looking forward to Mother’s Day, but take a little time before you do to look back at Valentine’s and prepare for next year. You’ll be glad you did!
Valentine's Day - Done? Not just yet!

Small business owners beat sales professionals

- 3 Minute Read -

We explore how, when, and why small business owners can beat sales professionals to make a 'non-sales-y' positive impression that will reap results.
There are still opportunities to increase Christmas custom. We share reasons for optimism and key points to remember.

Increasing Christmas sales

- 3 Minute Read -

There are still opportunities to increase Christmas custom. We share reasons for optimism and key points to remember.
There are still opportunities to increase Christmas custom. We share reasons for optimism and key points to remember.

GOING GOBLIN MODE

- 2 minute read -

What relevance does the word of the year, goblin mode, have to small business owners? We show you how vital it is to consider this question.
Reducing waste - the enemy of profit

ALL ATWITTER

- 2 minute read -

Elon Musk’s enthusiastic reduction in Twitter’s staff numbers has made the headlines, but what do you need to consider when making even one person redundant? We take a look.
Reducing waste - the enemy of profit

Do you misjudge your customers?

- 4 Minute Read -

The perfect read to understand how easy, it is to misjudge & why it's so important not to!

The real life example of Tin-Can-Curt is great food for thought.

REDUCING WASTE

- 2 minute read -

Reducing wastage should be a priority in your business: it’s bad for the environment and bad for your bottom line. Here we look at a couple of ideas to help!
Reducing waste - the enemy of profit

H.M. QUEEN ELIZABETH II

- 4 minute read -

As the country mourns the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, we have put this blog together so that you have all the information you need as a small business owner in one place.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - marking her passing. A photo of the smiling Queen taken at the Chelsea Flower Show wearing a light green coat and silver floral brooch. The background is various purple flowers and a black band is to the top right.

JUST SAY NO!

- 3 minute read -

We share three awesome, simple, professional ways of saying no!

A must read for every small business owner, or anyone that may find it tricky to say no.
Just say no, Learn some great techniques banner across a throughtful young female small business owner

The cost of customers

- 3 minute read -

How much does it cost you to get a customer? Ever heard of your Customer Acquisition Cost? It’s not just for big business, don’t make that mistake… here we explain how to calculate it and why it matters.
Happy lady with an workplace apron with text overlaid - Uniform advantages, inc. tax!  - Good for employers, employees, and customers

Customer Lifetime Value

- 3 minute read -

Working out the lifetime value of your customers is something you should do. It’s not only really interesting but can help you in many ways. This is a quick read that explains everything. What are you waiting for? Click through and give it a read.
Happy lady with an workplace apron with text overlaid - Uniform advantages, inc. tax!  - Good for employers, employees, and customers

National Insurance changes from July 2022

- 3 minute read -

National Insurance changes July 22 – Are you ready, including sharing the good news with your team? We give you all the details so you’re confident with any queries that might arise.
Happy lady with an workplace apron with text overlaid - Uniform advantages, inc. tax!  - Good for employers, employees, and customers

Uniform advantages, inc. tax!

- 4 minute read -

Who’d have thought a uniform had so many advantages, including a psychological effect on customers and enabling employees to claim tax back? They really are a bonus to the business, good for employees and a benefit to customers.
Happy lady with an workplace apron with text overlaid - Uniform advantages, inc. tax!  - Good for employers, employees, and customers

Selling is a skill

- 3 minute read -

Too many small businesses underestimate the importance of the skill of selling. Read this and give it more attention - it could make all the difference!
Happy lady with text overlaid - Selling is a skill - it's so important!

Get enthusiastic with your customers

- 3 minute read -

We give simple ways to get enthusiastic with your customers, along with why this is a good idea in the first place, and not just because it’s likely to make them and you happier.
Happy lady with text overlaid - Get enthusiastic with your customers - it's great for everyone!

Know what to offer your customers

- 3 minute read -

We share a top tip to enable you to easily know what to offer your customers. This allows you to give better customer service and upsell easily.
mixed flowers led on a marble top with text overlaid - know what to offer your customers - An easy way to find out.

How long must a business keep records?

- 3 minute read -

Just how long do you need to keep business records? We share everything you need to know.
Piles of old business paperwork and files with text overlaid - How long must a business keep records? - Time for a clear out!

Personal Branding

- 3 minute read -

It’s a simple concept but one that is essential to set you apart and could be a real game changer for your business.
A team of ladies with text overlaid - Personal Branding, it's essential to set you apart!

Covid-19 & Employers

- 3 minute read -

Since people no longer have to legally isolate, we share the decisions and considerations that employers need to make. It’s not as simple as it seems.
A lady where a face covering with text overlaid - Covid 19 and employers, what you need to consider

Share more info

- 3 minute read -

Does your business give all the info it could AND reap the rewards? We share what to consider to create FAQs that’ll bring many advantages.
Yellow tiles spell out

Ask for more info

- 3 minute read -

The easy way to get more info from clients upfront. It's a simple but fantastic way to give improved customer service, be more organised, and save time.
Image of a woman sat at her desk in front of her laptop with text Scheduling social media for FREE

Scheduling social media for FREE

- 3 minute read -

Do you schedule? Do you schedule Google business posts? We share the tips and tricks to make your life easier - don't you deserve that?
Image of a woman sat at her desk in front of her laptop with text Scheduling social media for FREE

Business Facebook Messages.

- 3 minute read -

FREE Chatbots for Facebook messages (and your website) can save your business a tonne of time, we share just how easy it can be! You don’t want to miss this quick read!
Image of a woman with her head on the desk in front of her laptop with text Business Facebook Messages – Set up FREE instant answers!

5 things every small business should automate

- 4 minute read -

Stop working around the clock and give exceptional customer service (yes, this applies to you!). We’ll share real FREE solutions for every small business!
Image of lady wearing a face covering with text, How to protect your business The Omicron Covid-19 Strain

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS

- 3 minute read -

With new rules and isolation changes, it's essential you safeguard your business so you can continue trading. Read our recommendations and take the steps to ensure you can continue trading if the worst should happen!
Image of lady wearing a face covering with text, How to protect your business The Omicron Covid-19 Strain

FREE PUBLICITY - Contact your MP!

- 3 minute read -

Free publicity can come from unlikely places! That's the case here – it’s a suggestion suitable for all businesses. Find out how you can use it!
Image of lady holding a clip board with text, Small Business spot checks by HSE - are you ready?

SMALL BUSINESS SPOT CHECKS BY HSE - ARE YOU READY?

- 3 minute read -

Since July and the Covid restrictions easing, the HSE are carrying out more spot checks incl. WR Stress risk! Are you ready? READ THIS to be!
Image of lady holding a clip board with text, Small Business spot checks by HSE - are you ready?

BTECS ARE UNDER THREAT!

- 4 minute read -

Several BTecs are soon to be replaced by an untested, and more academic, system. We need your help to prevent this from expanding and affecting floristry qualifications!
BTecs are under threat - we must all act now! Background is of a blurred florist working in her shop.

GOOGLE QUESTIONS - GET AHEAD OF YOUR COMPETITORS!

- 4 minute read -

We explain how you can simply get the most from Google My Business questions. These easy steps will provide useful info and utilise keyword searches.
Image of lady on the phone with text So, meeting face to face isn’t so important! Listening reveals more

SO, MEETING FACE TO FACE ISN’T SO IMPORTANT!

- 3 minute read -

Whether you are selling or having a tough chat with a team member, you can take more emotional cues from hearing alone – we explain more here.
Image of lady on the phone with text So, meeting face to face isn’t so important! Listening reveals more

Do your emails get misinterpreted?

- 3 minute read -

We explain why a shocking 60% of emails are misinterpreted, and share the tips and tricks to avoid unnecessary and potentially problematic communications.
Requiring masks after Freedom Day - is it legal? Superimposed over a couple wearing yellow disposable face coverings.

OVERTIME DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PAID!

- 3 minute read -

The fact is that there is no legal requirement for paying overtime! However, you must pay the National Minimum Wage. We show how easy it could be to fall foul of the law even if you do pay overtime!
Requiring masks after Freedom Day - is it legal? Superimposed over a couple wearing yellow disposable face coverings.

PINGDEMIC!

- 3 minute read -

What should a small business do, say, pay and claim back after an employee says they've been pinged? We cover it all here!
Requiring masks after Freedom Day - is it legal? Superimposed over a couple wearing yellow disposable face coverings.

REQUIRING MASKS AFTER FREEDOM DAY

- 4 minute read -

We explain when you would legally be allowed to require all customers to wear a face covering, and when you’d be allowed to make someone leave your premises if they refuse.
Requiring masks after Freedom Day - is it legal? Superimposed over a couple wearing yellow disposable face coverings.

I’M SORRY OR I APOLOGISE?

- 3 minute read -

In business it’s important to know the difference between “I’m sorry” and “I apologise”! We explain all, so you don't take responsibility when you shouldn't.
I'm sorry or I apologise - what's the difference title over young girl covering her face

DO YOU SHARE YOUR SMALL BUSINESS’S UNIQUENESS?

- 3 minute read -

If you're a small independent business you're unique, sharing that message online brings great benefits.

Do you celebrate & maximise that fact? We explain easy ways to do that and boost business as a result!
Surprised lady with sunglasses with blog title overlay of MAKE STAFF TAKE HOLIDAY, do it now!

MAKE STAFF TAKE HOLIDAY

- 4 minute read -

You can request your staff to take annual entitlement.

In fact, you really should if they're currently on (flexible) furlough – we explain why it's a must.
Surprised lady with sunglasses with blog title overlay of MAKE STAFF TAKE HOLIDAY, do it now!

ARE YOU SCARED OF ASKING FOR MONEY?

- 3 minute read -

It may sound crazy but it's pretty common in small businesses, even when you’re having to sell all the time!

We share why and what to do about it, it can make a huge difference to your business.
single use plastic charge for small businesses

NOW ALL BUSINESSES WILL HAVE TO CHARGE!

- 3 minute read -

Have you heard about the new legislation that will effect every retailer and small business?

Get ahead of the curve, learn the essential points and some important excemptions!
single use plastic charge for small businesses

DESKTOP WEBSITES GONE FROM GOOGLE!

- 3 minute read -

Recent changes mean that all desktop-only sites have been removed from Google indexing. It’s a big change that you need to be aware of and can't ignore! We explain what it means to you and your business (without any techy jargon).
Image of an open sign being placed in a business with wording 'Had your restart Grant? - New support from April 2021' in a banner across it.

HAVE YOU HAD YOUR RESTART GRANT?

- 3 minute read -

Coronavirus restart grants have been able from 1st April 2021. Are you eligible? Have you applied for yours? We quickly and simply cover everything you need to know, so you don’t miss out on thousands of pounds!
Image of an open sign being placed in a business with wording 'Had your restart Grant? - New support from April 2021' in a banner across it.

WHY THE 6TH OF APRIL?

- 3 minute read -

Why have the tax year start part way through the fourth month of the year? We investigate the fascinating story behind the 6th of April?
Diary on top of a April calendar with letters spelling out tax time. Blog header of Why the 6th of April? superimposed in a turquoise bankd

DO MISSED CALLS HURT YOUR BUSINESS?

- 3 minute read -

We share simple solutions and procedures every small business should use. Do you follow these steps and not allow missed calls to hurt your company?
Find all the details HERE.
Aclassic red phone with the blog heading

SELF-EMPLOYMENT INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME ROUNDS 4 & 5

- 6 minute read -

Find out how the changes in the SEISS (Self-Employment Income Support Scheme) round 4 & 5 will affect your eligibility, record keeping and amount.
Find all the details HERE.
An old turquoise painted door opening to an inviting, yet blured outside with the blog heading

HOW EASING RESTRICTIONS AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS

- 6 minute read -

We share advice on what plans to make now so you can make the most of each phase for your business.
Including details on weddings and funerals at a glance!
An old turquoise painted door opening to an inviting, yet blured outside with the blog heading

SELLING FOOD FROM HOME

- 3 minute read -

So many people have started up food businesses from home in lockdown, but do you know what you must do to be properly registered? Here's all you need to know.
A baking tray of brownies with the blog title superimposed

UPDATES TO THE BOUNCE BACK LOANS

- 3 minute read -

The Coronavirus Government led Bounce Back Loans have just been updated with some very helpful additions. See why we're so keen for you to know the latest updates!
an out stretched hand hovers above piles of coins and holds a growing plant with the blog title superimposed

EMPLOYING SOMEONE FOR THE FIRST TIME

- 3 minute read -

It can be scary to employ someone new, but how else is your business going to grow? We cover all you need to consider, but provide a simpler solution for you too!
A business owner teaches a new employee on a laptop in his cafe with the blog title superimposed

ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR FACEBOOK COVER IMAGES?

- 5 minute read -

It's all too easy to overlook these top tips. Discover how you could make improvements and get the best out of your Facebook covers. We think it'll give even the pros food for thought! See if you agree?
Corner of Iphone screen with facebook app icon with the blog title are you making the most of your facebook cover images? - Don't miss these top tricks. across the image.

BENEFIT FROM BREXIT!

- 3 minute read -

How do the new VAT rules hinder small EU businesses selling to the UK, and how can you take advantage of this? We take a look.
EU flag flapping against a blue sky withe the blog title

TOP TIPS FOR ANSWERING CALLS IN YOUR BUSINESS

- 3 minute read -

They're simple to do but simple to forget! Test yourself and your team. See if you apply these top tips in your business or do you need to make a few adjustments for customer service and sales to improve in 2021?
Old fashioned black telephone with the blog title top tips for answering calls in your business - do you apply them across the image.

ANOTHER LOCKDOWN ANOTHER GRANT

- 3 minute read -

Here’s a recap of all the assistance available to you as a small business, including the latest grant announced!
Open closed open sign with the blog title another lockdown, another grant - the latest assistance over the image

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

- 2 minute read -

We explain why they get broken and share the key to success, so in 2021 you can achieve your goals like never before!

Blog thumbnail image of person standing on a mountain top with overlayed writing of New year's resolutions, don't make them before reading this!

GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK

- 3 minute read -

It’s a hard life running a small business, you’re almost never ‘off’. That’s why, this year more than ever, we want to give you some homework: relax!
A bearded man wearing a white jumper and Christmas hat is relaxing on a wooden floor under a Christmas tree, with the blog title superimposed -

FURLOUGH FOR HOLIDAY DAYS

- 7 minute read -

Don’t miss out of claiming furlough for employees’ holiday days. We share all you need to see if your business is entitled to claim.

You may be able to claim money you didn't expect!
Flexible furlough holiday day claims, good news for employers thumbnail. A flowery holiday cocktail image.

MARKETING INNOVATION!

- 3 minute read -

Thinking outside of the marketing box is essential in our fast-paced world, but sometimes our attention can be grabbed in the most unlikely ways!
A photo of the famous 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign lit up at night, with the blog title superimposed -

MINIMUM WAGE & AGE ELIGIBILITY CHANGES

- 3 minute read -

Find out the changes and learn what impact this will have on your business. Also what to consider now to ensure it remains profitable.
Blog thumbnail image of a pile of British cash with the words Minimum wage and age eligibility changes, learn more to plan now superimposed.

TWENTY QUESTIONS

- 2 minute read -

As we approach the busiest time of the year, have you thought about what you can change in your business? Here are some things to consider.
A metal sign in the shape of a question mark with 8 light bulbs on it, with the blog title superimposed -

BLACK FRIDAY

- 4 minute read -

Every small business can and should use Black Friday to their advantage!
We explain how to make it your own with some example ideas to pinch.
A black shopping bag with a black friday tag, with the blog title superimposed - Black Friday, How small businesses can use it to their advantage

DON'T PAY BILLS EARLY!

- 1 minute read -

Read on to understand why it's often not a good idea, and could end up getting you in a spot of bother!
A silver pocket watch in a man's hand showing 2:55, with the blog title superimposed -

LATEST LOCKDOWN LIFELINES!

- 6 minute read -

The very latest info that every UK based small business needs to know in one place!

There are some important changes that you may have overlooked!
single use plastic charge for small businesses

MORE JOB SUPPORT SCHEME HELP

- 4 minute read -

As the end of furlough approaches, there are new improvements announced to the JSS for all and better grants on offer to businesses affected by Tier 2 (High) restrictions.
An almost deserted cafe, with the blog title superimposed -

WEDDING CONTRACTS AND COVID-19

- 16 minute read -

If your business is involved in the wedding industry you really need to know all the facts and read this.

What your company decides to do in handling contracts and cancellations is out of your control! Yep, we'll explain it all here.
A bride and groom, with the blog title superimposed -

THE NEXT ROUND OF GOVERNMENT HELP

- 4 minute read -

No sooner than a new scheme is announced than it is amended before even coming into effect!

Here are the latest details for the Job Support Scheme "expansion" and improved grants announced by the Chancellor on Friday the 9th October.
A sign saying

SELF-EMPLOYED HELP TO APRIL 2021

- 4 minute read -

Learn about latesting funding available along with essential considerations.

Don't make any decisions until you read this!
A pile of british cash, with the blog title Covid-19 self-employed help to April 2021 - what to expect!

COMMERCIAL EVICTIONS ARE SUSPENDED AGAIN

- 3 minute read -

This is the second time an extension on the ban has been granted, so what are the newest details?
A hand reaching for a light in the distance, with the blog title superimposed -

HOW DOES THE RULE OF SIX AFFECT MY BUSINESS?

- 4 minute read -

We cover all the ways the rule of six could impact upon your business, including the tricky dilemma of running workshops!

HOW MANY BANK ACCOUNTS DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE?

- 5 minute read -

It might be a rather odd question to ask, but let us explain why we’re asking it and you’ll soon realise that the answer should probably be ‘more than one’!
The second self-emplyoyed

FURLOUGH JUST GOT MORE EXPENSIVE

- 2 minute read -

Do you know what level your business's sales need to be at to break even when the furlough scheme comes to a close at the end of October? The next step just happened, but are you ready for the end?
The second self-emplyoyed

NEVER SELL AGAIN!

- 4 minute read -

A scarily simple concept that could see you change how you interact with your clients forever!
Never sell again - we share a far better way (title) with the image of the handles of a brown paper shopping bag on a grey background.

THE SECOND SELF-EMPLOYED GRANT IS NOW AVAILABLE

- 4 minute read -

You've got a while to claim, but have you considered how to get your business back up to where it was pre-Covid-19 after you've received this final grant? We look at some options.
The second self-emplyoyed

WEBSITES AND STOCK TAKES

- 3 minute read -

A garden products website has learned the hard way that not keeping stock figures correct on their website is a big no-no for keeping customers happy.

Do you ahve a good stock take procedure in place? Time to think about it!
Just say no, Learn some great techniques banner across a throughtful young female small business owner

WHAT EVERY EMPLOYER NEEDS TO CONSIDER!

- 5 minute read -

Do you know what you'd pay them if a member of your team needs to isolate? Do they know?

It might not be a holiday but simply meeting up with friends that could see this happen (although the rules may be different).

We explain the options so you can be prepared - well worth five minutes of your time!
WHAT EVERY EMPLOYER NEEDS TO CONSIDER!

M&S CASE STUDY

- 5 minute read -

They've been around since 1894, but they've had a tough couple of decades recently. What can we learn from them?

No matter how small or big the business, there's always something to be gained from taking a look at another shop!
Just say no, Learn some great techniques banner across a throughtful young female small business owner

SELL LESS AND ACHIEVE GREATER PROFITS!

- 5 minute read -

We explain the reality, that you really can sell and work less, whilst acheiving greater profits!

It's easy to appreciate once you read this!
Flexible Furlough facts

FREDDIE'S NUMBERS

- 3 minute read -

Wonder why his bunches are smaller than yours? There could be an important difference that's well worth knowing!

A must read for every small business owner, or anyone that may find it tricky to say no.
Just say no, Learn some great techniques banner across a throughtful young female small business owner

INDEPENDENTS' DAY UK

- 2 minute read -

Many people know about the celebrations in the US for the 4th of July, but we have something much more useful happening here in the UK on the same day!
Union flag flying behind a banner which reads:

SELF EMPLOYED - YOU KNOW YOU SHOULD!?

- 3 minute read -

Hopefully you're making good use of excess time if you have it available. But have you done this yet?
Self Employed - You Know you should

TAP INTO LOCALISM

- 3 minute read (2 min video) -

Why do retailers need to tap into localism?

As we see lockdown eased, we explain how consumers have a new love for local and share why it is essential to tap into community supporting community.
Tap into localism, learn why it's so important.

SUNDAY TRADING

- 4 minute read -

There's a suggestion that Sunday trading laws may be suspended for a year to boost the economy.

Is this a good thing? We believe so.

FLEXIBLE FURLOUGH, THE FACTS!

- 6 minute read -

Get all the facts as we share the details of how flexible furlough could work in practice & how it will be tapered out including the share employers need to pay until then!

Read this before you make any final decisions for your business.
Flexible Furlough facts

SEVEN THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU REOPEN

- 4 minute read -

It's been confirmed that all shops will be allowed to reopen in mid-June.

That's 19 days to be ready, so what do you need to have thought about?

SMALL PRICE RISE, BIG DIFFERENCE!

- 5 minute read -

Is NOW the perfect time for you to tweak your prices and boost your profits? Read our blog - Small price rise, big difference to consider all the facts, you'll be shocked to see how much difference the slightest increase will make!
Small price rise, big difference blog.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT!

- 3 minute read -

Have you ticked everything off your business to-do list? It may only be a couple of weeks before you're allowed to reopen, so you have to make the most of it now!

WHEN TO REOPEN?

- 3 minute read -

Thinking ahead, when you reopen isn't only down to when the restrictions are eased. Find out why not by reading our blog.

CORONAVIRUS CHECKLIST

- 8 minute read -

Can you confidently tick off  the tasks on our Coronavirus checklist.
Be sure you can, they're important for you and your business!
CORONAVIRUS CHECKLIST have you done all these things?

COVID-19 HELP & SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

- 8 minute read -

Get the very latest information on what company owners can claim as self-employed or company directors and unpick the fine print to discover the work you can undertake.
Along with some noteworthy considerations you may not have considered.
COVID-19 HELP & SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS OWNERS, The work you can do and what you'll get paid

COVID-19 SUPPORT

- 7 minute read -

With more information coming out all the time, this blog is regularly updated with all the information that affects your business, including some budget items!
We spell out everything you need to know clearly and simply.

CUSTOMS AND IMPORTS

- 4 minute read -

The government has confirmed that there WILL be border checks on goods from the EU from the start of 2021. What does that mean for you?

Check now what you need to do so you don't have any interruptions to trading next year.

SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT

- 2 minute read -

Don't you hate it when you put up a great post and get zero likes? Here are some top tips to help prevent that sinking feeling...
Iphone with social media app buttons visible

TOP TIPS FOR CUSTOMER CLARITY

- 3 minute read -

We explain why it’s key to show complete clarity with your business information, even when it may seem low priority or obvious in the current situation.
Take the 3 minutes to read it and see for yourself.
Top tips for Customer Clarity During Covid-19

MASTERING YOUR MINDSET

- 3 minute read -

Learning a little bit about your brain and how your mind works can influence you in so many positive ways.

Overcome the challenge of change and make a fantastic impact on your life! WOW! All that from reading this? Try it and see what happens!
Mastering your mindset and overcoming the challenge of change

MASTERING YOUR TIME

- 5 minute read -

We're all super busy! Here are a couple of suggestions to streamline parts of your business which can probably be dealt with more efficiently.

BECOME AN EXPERT DELEGATOR

- 4 minute read -

Do you ever have miscommunication when you ask others to undertake tasks?

Read this quick blog and use the simple steps we share to become a delegation pro!
Become a delegator Blog

PINTEREST IMPRESSIONS

- 2 minute read -

We bet that Pinterest impressions are the highest of all your social media stats, but are they really benefiting your business?

Read on to find out why they aren't the be all and end all.

THE NEW JACK'S LAW

- 5 minute read -

Are you familiar with 'Jack's Law'? If you have employee you need to know the facts.

The legislation comes into force 6th April 2020. We share all the key info here.
Jack's Law - New employee legislation from April 6th 2020. SmallBizAssist image.

DIFFICULT CUSTOMERS VS STAFF

- 4 minute read -

When there's a dispute between customer and staff, whose side are you on?

There should only be one answer.

EXTRA HOLIDAY FOR NON-SMOKERS

- 5 minute read -

Could this work for your business? We answer the many questions this topic poses.

We also review employment laws so you have the facts on your exact legal requirements!

WAGE RISES ARE COMING

- 3 minute read -

The Government has announced plans to increase the NLW to £10.50 by 2024.

What will this mean for your business and what plans do you need to put in place to cope?

DELIVERY CHARGES - THE TRUE COSTS?

- 5 minute read -

Do you charge for delivery? Perhaps the more important question is: how much is providing a delivery service costing you?

Don't run and hide! It's all too easy not to face up to the hard facts, but come on - read our free blog and learn all the factors to consider!

JANUARY SALES

- 3 minute read -

Now's the time to get back the money locked up in leftover stock and seasonal items, and make space in your store-room.
Ignore your profit margin for a fortnight and concentrate on decluttering and turnover!

DO YOU SWEEP THE FLOOR?

- 3 minute read -

This blog explains why you should think about Russian dolls when you're assigning tasks (even to yourself).
The result is a more efficient use of everyone's time, and therefore more money for the business!

BECOME A NATURAL SELLING NINJA

- 10 minute read -

This will have you realise that you have been naturally 'upsold' without even realising it!

Now it's your turn!

Become a natural sales Ninja with our simple steps the whole team can embrace.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

- 3 minute read -

If you're not sure whether to get involved with Small Business Saturday, or even what it is, this is the article for you!

No nonsense, straight-talking, independent free business blog, happy reading!

Is your team afraid of upselling?

- 5 Minute Read -

Does your business suffer from this common problem?

We explain why it's good for EVERYONE & why you may be making your clients suffer if you don't!

Training New Staff

- 3 Minute Read -

Training new staff shouldn't be a nightmare - make it as easy as 'watch and learn'.

If they're the right fit, they'll pick it up in no time!

Contract Changes - the Asda Dispute

- 10 Minute Read -

Asda are trying to push through a new contract with all their staff, and naturally there are people who are unhappy with it.

Let’s have a look at a couple of individual points from the dispute to see what we can learn from it.

Absence Monitoring

- 7 Minute Read -

Dealing fairly with staff absences means treating everyone the same (except in very specific circumstances), so having a policy regarding staff absences is vital.

We look at the Bradford Factor as a tool for measuring staff absence.

The Right Discount Angle

- 3 Minute Read -

What's the best way to present your discounts to your customers?

We explore the options and what to consider and when you'll want to use the different types to get the best result for your business.

CHARM AND PRESTIGE PRICING

- 3 Minute Read -

When pricing up items for your business, how do you end the prices - with .95, .99 or .00?

We'll have a look at the psychology behind these pricing systems and tell you which ones you should use in what circumstances.

FIFO LIFO AVCO

- 4 minute read -

It sounds like a foreign language, doesn't it?

Let us explain what it's all about, and why it's vital for anyone selling goods to understand the difference.

TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY?

- 5 minute read -

When it comes to getting a new delivery vehicle, we all have the same dilemma - should we buy or hire it?

We look at the pros and cons of both options, including depreciation, VAT and tax implications.

THE GREAT JAFFA CAKE WAR

- 5 minute read -

Learn how McVities won a court case against Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs! The serious business of biscuits, or is that cake?

The classification of VAT - how well do you know it? See if you know all our examples in this interesting, yet light-hearted read.

MARK-UP vs. MARGIN

- 6 minute read -

Find out exactly what the all important difference is, if you're in business you'll be pleased you did!

Not only will it save confusion, but potentially a stack of cash! Our free easy-to-understand blog will make it all crystal clear!

STAFFING BACK UP PLANS!

- 4 minute read -

Have you considered your staff contingency plans? It's well worth taking the time to be prepared rather than facing the consequences.

Take a look at our free blog and learn the simple steps so your business doesn't get caught out.

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If you have any queries please don't hesitate to get in touch, we'd be happy to help.

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