http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/ Daily updates from the BT Blog en http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Why-take-a-break-might-be-the-best-advice-you-can-give/ <P>Although many people start their own business to get a better work/life balance, they usually quickly find out that it doesn’t mean working shorter hours. In fact, the phrase “working all the hours God sends” could almost have been written about the average small business person.</P> <P>However, just because it’s the norm doesn’t mean it’s good for you. As the Chartered Institute of Physiotherapists has highlighted in <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/10276677.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/10276677.stm">a new survey about working practices</A>, working too many hours too often can cause serious physical harm. </P> <P>As the owner of the company, you need to take care of yourself if the business is going to thrive. And ensuring you make the right decisions for your health sets the right example for the rest of your employees, too.</P> <P>So how can you grow your business without breaking your staff? One thing that could help is equipping yourself and your employees with the tools you need to <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/">work flexibly.</A></P> <P>Ensure they have broadband at home, so they can work and see their family at the same time. But also make sure that <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/How-to-set-up-a-home-office/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/How-to-set-up-a-home-office/">their home working environment is a healthy one</A> – swapping a decent office chair for a laptop on the sofa won’t do their backs any good. </P> <P>And whether they are working at home or in the office, encourage your staff to take regular breaks. Taking a five minute break where you stand up and stretch your legs every half hour will help avoid back problems, eye strain, and other workplace ailments. Sitting at a computer hammering at the keyboard for hours on end is a short-cut to sickness – so make sure you don’t encourage it.<BR></P><p>Topics</p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Why-take-a-break-might-be-the-best-advice-you-can-give/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Why “take a break” might be the best advice you can give Ian Betteridge 2010-06-18 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Race-Online/ <P>A PricewaterhouseCoopers report conducted at the end of last year found that more than <A href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/businessclub/7818708/Martha-Lane-Fox-calls-on-small-businesses-to-join-Race-Online.html">10 million adults</A> in the UK have never used the internet, a statistic which represents 25 per cent of the UK population. And as the digital age grows, more people without access to the internet are beginning to feel socially and economically excluded. </P> <P>To bring more of the UK up to speed with the net, LastMinute.com co-founder, Martha Lane Fox, has launched an initiative to get businesses to help educate colleagues and communities. So far, 250 partners, including BT, Google and McDonald’s have joined forces, but now it’s time for <A href="http://raceonline2012.org/resources">small businesses to join in too</A>. </P> <P>‘If you’re a technology company there may be resources you can donate. If you’re not IT focused, it might be about ensuring all your employees can use the internet to start with, or you could offer a volunteering day to members of staff to go and train members of their family who aren’t online,” she explains. </P> <P>“By building it out slowly we will crack this problem. It’s a social good but it’s also good for business. People who can’t use the internet are still consumers."</P> <P>For more advice about how your business can help visit: <A href="http://raceonline2012.org/" orgurl="http://raceonline2012.org/">http://raceonline2012.org/</A></P> <P>&nbsp;</P><p>Topics</p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Race-Online/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Race Online Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-18 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Are-you-ready-for-kick-off/ <P>No one could fail to notice that something has gripped this nation over the last week. You only have to switch on the TV, open a paper or log on, to find some kind of offer that will help you celebrate the World Cup season. So now, more than ever, your business needs to <A href="http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/channels/sales-and-marketing/news/1259803/retailers-score-from-world-cup-sales.thtml" orgurl="http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/channels/sales-and-marketing/news/1259803/retailers-score-from-world-cup-sales.thtml">pull out all of the stops</A>. </P> <P>Last month, thanks to the football and the weather, research from the <A href="http://www.brc.org.uk/" orgurl="http://www.brc.org.uk/">British Retail Consortium</A> (BRC) found that retail sales grew by 0.8 per cent on a like-for-like basis compared with May 2009, and total sales rose by 3 per cent. </P> <P>Stephen Robertson, director general at the BRC, says: 'The run-up to the World Cup helped sales of televisions, though this was largely discount-driven. With the tournament getting closer, there should be a further uplift to other football merchandise such as flags and replica kits.’ </P> <P>But don’t just focus on the football fanatics - after all it is a <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/8730099.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/8730099.stm">game of two halves</A>. Those who aren’t interested in the game will also need the same level of satisfaction. Many people will take the opportunity to enjoy the empty roads, shops and restaurants and go out and spend. Just make sure your business isn’t caught off-side. </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Sales-and-marketing/>Sales and marketing</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Are-you-ready-for-kick-off/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Are you ready for kick-off? Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-11 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Small-firms-welcome-attack-on-red-tape/ <P>There are around 4.8 million small businesses and freelancers in the UK with red tape being a major deciding factor when the time comes to expand. <A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6352" orgurl="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6352">Almost a third</A> of the ones that had hoped to expand were put off by excessive regulations.</P> <P>According to <A href="http://www.microsoft.com/uk/smallbusiness/sbnews/small-business-finance/FSB-calls-for-limits-to-business-regulation--19392719.mspx" orgurl="http://www.microsoft.com/uk/smallbusiness/sbnews/small-business-finance/FSB-calls-for-limits-to-business-regulation--19392719.mspx">research</A> conducted by the <A href="http://www.fpb.org/" orgurl="http://www.fpb.org/">Forum of Private Business</A>, red tape costs small firms in the south-east of England £1,403 million every year. Of this amount, an estimated £309 million is spent on health and safety legislation, while dealing with employment law paperwork costs £361 million.</P> <P>Mike Cherry, Policy Chairman at the <A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk/" orgurl="http://www.fsb.org.uk/">Federation of Small Businesses</A> believes that <A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6352" orgurl="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6352">slashing red tape</A> will encourage UK business to take the steps towards expansion. </P> <P>“Regulation has long been stifling business growth so these plans to put an end to the excessive legislation that choke small businesses is welcome news. It is a real victory that our calls to simplify the regulation system have finally been heard,” he explained. <BR>&nbsp;<BR>"Small firms have repeatedly said that the burden of regulation and the time it takes to comply with is just too much and could prevent them from taking on staff – and stunts economic growth.”</P> <P>David Frost, director general of the <A href="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/" orgurl="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/">British Chambers of Commerce</A>, also <A href="http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/channels/small-business-finance/news/1258923/cable-declares-war-on-red-tape.thtml" orgurl="http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/channels/small-business-finance/news/1258923/cable-declares-war-on-red-tape.thtml">welcomed the review</A> and said that new legislation due to come into force over the next four years would have potentially cost businesses more than £11 billion.</P> <P>It should also ease the stress placed on small firms. Earlier this year when 500 small business owners were questioned about managing their firms, 81 per cent said red tape and legislation were the major factors <A href="http://www.startups.co.uk/6678842910741636625/red-tape-leaving-entrepreneurs-too-stressed-to-sleep.html" orgurl="http://www.startups.co.uk/6678842910741636625/red-tape-leaving-entrepreneurs-too-stressed-to-sleep.html">causing them day-to-day stress</A>. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Business-law/>Business law</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Small-firms-welcome-attack-on-red-tape/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Small firms welcome attack on red tape Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-09 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Website-own-goal-for-UKs-fastest-growing-companies/ <P>The websites of the UK’s fastest <A href="http://www.btplc.com/News/Articles/Showarticle.cfm?ArticleID=D19FB724-673E-4FB7-8472-2C2CC56F7D52" orgurl="http://www.btplc.com/News/Articles/Showarticle.cfm?ArticleID=D19FB724-673E-4FB7-8472-2C2CC56F7D52">growing companies are losing sales</A>, according to research from BT Business and Latitude. The analysis of the websites of the <A href="http://realbusiness.co.uk/hot_100_2010/" orgurl="http://realbusiness.co.uk/hot_100_2010/">Real Business Hot 100</A>, revealed that almost half are shutting out potential customers through missing web pages (404 error). </P> <P>“These companies are top of the class for sales performance but at the bottom when it comes to capturing potential customers online,” explains Ivan Croxford, general manager digital marketing services, BT Business. </P> <P>“By ignoring the opportunities that the Internet brings they’re disadvantaged in the current climate and are not equipped with all the tools available to market themselves and attract and retain customers. As more and more are looking online to conduct their daily lives both personally and professionally, these businesses are really missing a trick.”</P> <P>So what can you do to <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/How-to-improve-your-website/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/How-to-improve-your-website/">ensure your site is alive and kicking</A>? </P> <P>1.&nbsp;Design. Remember less is more. Don’t cram your site full of graphics and text. Ensure that your website reflects the professional image of your business.</P> <P>2.&nbsp;Navigate. Make it clear how customers can move around your site and provide calls to action so they can continue their journey with you. </P> <P>3.&nbsp;Double check for broken links. There’s nothing worse than clicking on an important link to a product only to find it doesn’t work. </P> <P>4.&nbsp;Update. Don’t just build a website and then expect it to maintain itself. Keep offers and promotions up to date to ensure your customers keep coming back. </P> <P>&nbsp;</P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Sales-and-marketing/>Sales and marketing</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Website-own-goal-for-UKs-fastest-growing-companies/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Website own goal for UK's fastest growing companies Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-08 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Dont-miss-out-on-your-email-orders/ <P>New research has found that nearly <A href="http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/channels/sales-and-marketing/news/1257563/smes-lax-on-email.thtml" orgurl="http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/channels/sales-and-marketing/news/1257563/smes-lax-on-email.thtml">one-third of companies</A> have lost email orders at least once during the last quarter. This is despite further research suggesting that 70 per cent of customers expect just as much attention to be given to an email as physical letter.</P> <P>Unfortunately, many businesses cannot afford to miss out on customer emails. So how can you get the most from your customers via email? </P> <P>1.&nbsp;<A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/How-to-start-email-marketing/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/How-to-start-email-marketing/">Email marketing</A>: It’s one of the simplest ways to advertise to your customers, but still so many businesses get it wrong. Target the right customers, with the right information at the right time and you could tap into a database full of potential orders. </P> <P>2.&nbsp;Respond: Don’t leave your customers hanging. If they email asking for a quote reply. Even if it’s a simple email to explain that their query is being dealt with, nobody likes to think they’re being ignored.&nbsp; </P> <P>3.&nbsp;Customer feedback: Ask your customers for their opinions about your service and take note of any responses. The only way to improve your business is to give your customers what they want so don’t be afraid to take the praise, or criticism, and work on it. </P> <P>4.&nbsp;<A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/Create-effective-communications/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/Create-effective-communications/">Avoid spam</A>: There’s nothing worse than receiving unsolicited emails from a company you don’t know so respect your customers wishes. If they’d rather receive news about offers by post then adhere to this. And beyond all else, ensure that you are sticking within the law. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Sales-and-marketing/>Sales and marketing</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Dont-miss-out-on-your-email-orders/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Don't miss out on your email orders Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-04 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Working-Time-Regulations-are-biggest-HR-hindrance/ <P>It’s no surprise that as the economy begins to pick up businesses are relying on smaller numbers of staff to keep up. The problem comes when you need to meet the orders to stay afloat, but <A href="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/working-time-regulations-are-biggest-hr-hindrance.html" orgurl="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/working-time-regulations-are-biggest-hr-hindrance.html">can’t afford to hire new full-time staff</A> to keep up with demand. </P> <P>The UK’s <A href="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/WorkingHoursAndTimeOff/DG_10029426" orgurl="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/WorkingHoursAndTimeOff/DG_10029426">Working Time Regulations</A> are put in place to ensure that employees are not forced to work more than a 48-hour week on average. However, with new Agency Worker regulations set to <A href="http://www.lge.gov.uk/lge/core/external-link.do?redirectUrl=http%3A//www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2010/pdf/uksi_20100093_en.pdf" orgurl="http://www.lge.gov.uk/lge/core/external-link.do?redirectUrl=http%3A//www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2010/pdf/uksi_20100093_en.pdf">come into force in October 2011</A>, this will mean that temporary agency workers will have to be provided the same basic working and employment conditions (including pay and holiday) as if they had been recruited directly by the hirer to do the same job. </P> <P>It is important for businesses that are going to&nbsp;employ temporary workers&nbsp;in the future&nbsp;that they can still maintain an efficient and&nbsp;cost effective without breaking the law. So how can small businesses plan for the future? The clue is by <A href="http://www.changeboard.com/resources/article/3231/the-agency-workers-directive-and-what-it-means-for-uk-businesses/#3" orgurl="http://www.changeboard.com/resources/article/3231/the-agency-workers-directive-and-what-it-means-for-uk-businesses/#3">monitoring what you’re already doing</A>. </P> <P>- Work out the types of workers you currently employ that will fall within the scope of the regulations.</P> <P>- Do your research. Find out what the temporary agency worker’s rights are to equal pay.</P> <P>- Keep an eye on the clock. Check your business’s qualifying period for equal rights and when the clock will be restarted.</P> <P>- Keep an eye out for what anti-avoidance measures the Government are planning. This may help you keep track of if and when your company will become liable. </P> <P>- Begin to calculate how you will measure the time period of a temporary agency worker.<BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Employing-people/>Employing people</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Business-law/>Business law</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Working-Time-Regulations-are-biggest-HR-hindrance/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Working Time Regulations are biggest HR hindrance Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-04 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Avoiding-the-red-card-during-the-World-Cup2/ <P>It only comes around once every four years, but unlike most other sporting events it’s an event that seems to grip the nation. This year it’s the <A href="http://www.fifa.com/index.html" orgurl="http://www.fifa.com/index.html">World Cup</A> and currently you can’t move for all the hype surrounding it. </P> <P>Great news if you’re a football fan, but possibly bad news if you’re an employer looking at four weeks of coverage and a group of employees desperate to tune in. </P> <P>While most of the matches in the early stages are <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/bbc_coverage/" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/bbc_coverage/">shown in the evenings</A> over here, there’s still the problem of absence based on the repercussions from the night before – mainly hangovers. </P> <P>So what, as a business, can you do to manage any advance requests for time off and any absences taken during this time? </P> <P>The <A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk/" orgurl="http://www.fsb.org.uk/">Federation of Small Businesses</A> recommends that businesses have a policy in place that offers guidance for employees over the month-long tournament. </P> <P><A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6344" orgurl="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6344">It suggests:</A> </P> <P>-&nbsp;Allowing employees to take the relevant days or half-days off as part of their annual leave entitlement in the usual way.</P> <P>-&nbsp;Where possible, putting in place a flexible working system on match days so that staff can watch the matches, either by granting a longer break, or allowing them to come into work later or leave earlier and make the time up.</P> <P>-&nbsp;Not discriminating when deciding which matches to grant time off for and not favouring your male employees over your female employees.</P> <P>-&nbsp;Putting in place a requirement that employees who are off sick during the 2010 FIFA World Cup period must notify their absence to a specified person. This will help make your employees aware that you are closely monitoring sickness absence during this period.</P> <P>-&nbsp;Allowing staff to listen to the radio or watch the television at work.&nbsp; You could allow short breaks at regular intervals or you could have the radio or television on in the background. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Employing-people/>Employing people</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Avoiding-the-red-card-during-the-World-Cup2/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Avoiding the red card during the World Cup Hannah Gilchrist 2010-06-02 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Move-into-mobile-advertising/ <P>With today’s launch of the <A href="http://www.apple.com/uk/ipad/" orgurl="http://www.apple.com/uk/ipad/">iPad</A>, the competition within the <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Why-2010-will-be-the-of-mobile-marketing/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Why-2010-will-be-the-of-mobile-marketing/">mobile marketing world</A> is getting even fiercer. Not only are we looking to smartphones to receive the latest information, but now we’re looking towards next generation notepads to keep us up to speed with the world around us. </P> <P>The summer launch of <A href="http://www.openforum.com/idea-hub/topics/technology/article/5-ways-apples-iad-will-change-the-way-you-advertise-samuel-axon" orgurl="http://www.openforum.com/idea-hub/topics/technology/article/5-ways-apples-iad-will-change-the-way-you-advertise-samuel-axon">Apple’s iAd platform</A> will allow many companies to embrace mobile marketing, and with 60 per cent of the ad revenue going back to developers this could mean big business for small firms. </P> <P>But with all this new technology and the potential to target customers on the move, what does it mean for small businesses looking to take marketing to the next level?</P> <P>Luckily <A href="http://www.bytestart.co.uk/content/15/mobile-marketing-guide.shtml" orgurl="http://www.bytestart.co.uk/content/15/mobile-marketing-guide.shtml">small firms have an advantage</A> over big brands because they already have a <A href="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/business-applications/sales-and-marketing-tools" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/business-applications/sales-and-marketing-tools">relationship with their customers</A>. Unlike larger companies, customer data is often better in smaller firms and because of this capturing their attention should be easier. </P> <P>Mobile marketing isn’t just about repeating information sent out in monthly emails, it’s about sending them <A href="http://www.businessinsider.com/5-keys-for-successful-mobile-marketing-2010-5" orgurl="http://www.businessinsider.com/5-keys-for-successful-mobile-marketing-2010-5">relevant content</A> that they can use. Whether it’s directions to a new branch, or a discount offer for that day, mobile marketing allows a flexibility that is rarely open to small businesses on a small budget. </P> <P>The <A href="http://smallbiztrends.com/2009/12/five-cant-miss-mobile-marketing-trends-for-2010.html" orgurl="http://smallbiztrends.com/2009/12/five-cant-miss-mobile-marketing-trends-for-2010.html">possibilities of mobile marketing</A> mean that customers are getting the right types of content, when they might want it, but remember to stay on the right side of the law. You need permission to contact customers and prospects by mobile phone. So before you go offering exclusive discounts, check that your customers are happy with your new way of marketing. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Sales-and-marketing/>Sales and marketing</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Move-into-mobile-advertising/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Move into mobile advertising Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-28 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-volcano-debate-rumbles-on/ <P>But aside from any of the <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8625690.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8625690.stm">other potential problems</A>, how can employers deal with travel delays and the subsequent absenteeism from work while ensuring that they are not left under-staffed over the summer period?</P> <P>Over 600,000 people are thought to have been <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8621407.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8621407.stm">effected by the volcanic ash disruptions</A> in April. But aside from the individual nightmares, many businesses were facing serious problems of their own. </P> <P>As the alert grounded many flights both in the UK and abroad, employees who were due to take only a week or two of annual leave were <A href="http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/Volcanic-ash-Stranded-staff-.6235894.jp" orgurl="http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/Volcanic-ash-Stranded-staff-.6235894.jp">forced to stay for longer</A>, and those who were expecting to take holidays had them cancelled at the last minute. Not great news for passengers or for businesses trying to plan holiday time into a busy schedule. </P> <P>So what should firms do about the situation? </P> <P>According to a survey commissioned by recruiters, <A href="http://www.badenochandclark.com/news/employees_penalised_for" orgurl="http://www.badenochandclark.com/news/employees_penalised_for">Badenoch &amp; Clark</A>, nearly 43 per cent of UK employees have seen their pay docked or annual leave diminish as a result of the disruptions. But penalising your staff isn’t the greatest welcome home gift. </P> <P>Despite only 24 per cent of employers admitting that remote working was an option, allowing your staff to <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/">work away from the office</A> is one of the best ways to ensure that they can continue to do their job even while stuck abroad. </P> <P>Crucially it is important for employers to <A href="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?itemId=1084957704&amp;type=ONEOFFPAGE" orgurl="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?itemId=1084957704&amp;type=ONEOFFPAGE">set a standard policy</A> on situations like this, so that everyone understands the consequences of any delays returning to work. <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/guides/business-continuity/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/guides/business-continuity/">Continuity planning</A> is one great way to avoid problems in future. Whether it means allowing the use of smart phones abroad, or the use of remote internet access, there should be no limit to where your staff can work. </P> <P>Now just make sure it’s up and running before you hit your peak period. </P> <P>&nbsp;</P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Where-you-work/>Where you work</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-volcano-debate-rumbles-on/">Comments</a> (0)</p> The volcano debate rumbles on Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-26 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-Coalition-plans-for-the-future-of-small-firms-/ <P>So what are the key points for small firms and what do they spell for real businesses? </P> <P>The circus surrounding <A href="http://www.number10.gov.uk/" orgurl="http://www.number10.gov.uk/">the new government</A> has worn off and now they mean business, but while we wait for the <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8686345.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8686345.stm">emergency Budget on 22 June</A>, there are signs that small businesses will greatly benefit from the new policies. </P> <P>Last week we covered the <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Businesses-welcome-the-coalition-agreement/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Businesses-welcome-the-coalition-agreement/">expert response</A> to the new government and how the changes could affect small businesses. Now, with the <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8693832.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8693832.stm">coalition deal signed</A>, the future of UK business is looking more promising. </P> <P>From the scrapping of the one percent increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to an increase in employer National Insurance thresholds, the <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/10130855.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/10130855.stm">proposals for small firms</A> are coming thick and fast. </P> <P>There will be cuts to regulations and a review all small business taxation to make it easier for people to start and maintain healthy businesses. In addition, the Government has ensured entrepreneurial business activities will be exempt from capital gains tax, with no additions to existing EU regulation. </P> <P>However this is not the only relief for firms. There will be an automatic small business rate relief for small companies in England and a reform of the corporate tax system to make rates simpler and lower. </P> <P>Flexible working initiatives will also benefit as employment and workplace laws are reviewed to boost flexibility. While the creation of Local Enterprise Partnerships to replace Regional Development Agencies aims to make it easier for people to set up new firms, and support those already in business. </P> <P>Great news for now, but <A href="http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/868b9de6-5f79-11df-978c-00144feab49a.html" orgurl="http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/868b9de6-5f79-11df-978c-00144feab49a.html">the emergency Budget</A> will show the true sign of things to come. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Business-law/>Business law</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-Coalition-plans-for-the-future-of-small-firms-/">Comments</a> (0)</p> The Coalition plans for the future of small firms Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-24 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Businesses-welcome-the-coalition-agreement/ <P>But the party leaders and MPs weren’t the only ones biting their fingernails, the impact of the result was also nervously awaited by small business owners. </P> <P>Now, with a new coalition government in place, small businesses might be able to breathe a sigh of relief. But what can we expect from the new government in charge? </P> <P>While the <A href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Federation-of-Small-Businesses/149666996584?ref=ts">increase in VAT seems inevitable</A>, employers should be pleased by the scrapped one per cent <A href="http://www.simplybusiness.co.uk/knowledge/articles/2010/05/2010-05-13-coalition-government-what-it-means-for-your-business/">increase in employers’ National Insurance Contributions</A> (NICs) and the income tax threshold increasing by £1,000 in April 2011. But with an <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8686345.stm">emergency Budget</A> on Tuesday 22nd June should we be counting chickens just yet? </P> <P>The <A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk">Federation of Small Businesses</A> chairman, John Walker, welcomes the certainty that the Coalition Government provides to businesses and the markets and looks forward to working with the new Government ministers.</P> <P>‘We are pleased that coalition negotiators have listened to the business community and plan to reverse the proposed one per cent increase in NICs for employers,’ he said. ‘A healthy increase in personal tax thresholds is something that FSB has been urging for some time. This will not only provide more disposable income for the lowest paid workers, but will also encourage businesses to take on more staff.’</P> <P><A href="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk">The British Chambers of Commerce</A> (BCC) director general, David Frost said that it was looking forward to working with the new coalition government and that it would judge the new administration on what it did to promote business recovery.</P> <P>‘Fixing the public finances must be at the top of the agenda,’ <A href="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/business-welcomes-coalition.html">he said</A>. ‘The Conservative-led coalition must be absolutely clear about where spending cuts will fall, and about the need to curb relentless growth in the size and cost of the public sector.’</P> <P>So as research reveals that <A href="http://www.politics.co.uk/opinion-formers/press-releases/general-election-2010/fsb-budget-must-deliver-plans-on-deficit-reduction-$21377707$441919.htm">93 per cent of small firms</A> want the Govt to set out robust plans to deal with the deficit, we’ll just have to wait and see what effects further cuts could have. </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Business-law/>Business law</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Businesses-welcome-the-coalition-agreement/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Businesses welcome the coalition agreement Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-20 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/A-Virtual-Fit/ <P>Like many other leading global brands, worldwide working is tricky at the best of times, but bring in rising travel costs, carbon emissions and a volcanic ash cloud, and big names can swiftly become talked about for all the wrong reasons. </P> <P>Luckily, face-to-face meetings no longer mean long-distance flights. Telepresence, thanks to mobile cameras and secure networks, is making businesses much more agile and competitive. Now employees can have better and more regular communication between offices, the entire business can benefit: and <A href="http://companyinfo.tommy.com/#/home_page" orgurl="http://companyinfo.tommy.com/#/home_page">Tommy Hilfiger</A> has become one of the latest winners. </P> <P>After incorporating virtual fitting rooms, formed with the help of <A href="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/office-phones-and-systems/cisco-unified-communications" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/office-phones-and-systems/cisco-unified-communications">BT’s Unified Communications Video solution</A> coupled with Cisco’s TANDBERG technology, the company can now take a more innovative approach to collaboration. This not only means that its offices can communicate on a daily basis, but the possibilities of virtual design can be taken to the next level. </P> <P>Fredrik Halvorsen, senior vice president, <A href="http://www.tandberg.com/telepresence-products/ttg-info.jsp" orgurl="http://www.tandberg.com/telepresence-products/ttg-info.jsp">TelePresence Technology Group</A>, Cisco believes that videoconferencing can mark a turning point for any business, large or small. </P> <P>‘Like many other leading companies, Tommy Hilfiger has recognized that high quality telepresence can make their processes <A href="http://www.btplc.com/News/Articles/Showarticle.cfm?ArticleID=D6748A6F-4E6D-4A8F-8364-2C1ADB9EAF37" orgurl="http://www.btplc.com/News/Articles/Showarticle.cfm?ArticleID=D6748A6F-4E6D-4A8F-8364-2C1ADB9EAF37">faster and more effective</A>, delivering a distinct competitive advantage,’ he explained. </P> <P>But this form of technology isn’t just about large companies, small and medium-sized firms can benefit too. No matter how large or small your business, we no longer just pay the price for travel through fares and hotel bills, but critically, it is time that firms cannot afford to waste. </P> <P>It enables a wider range of people to work closer and more effectively than ever before and at little cost to your business. You never know it could be the perfect fit you’ve been waiting for. </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Where-you-work/>Where you work</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/A-Virtual-Fit/">Comments</a> (0)</p> A Virtual Fit Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-19 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Recognising-IT-excellence--/ <P>That’s why BT is launching its fourth UK Information Security Journalism Awards.</P> <P>Chaired by Ray Stanton, global head of BT’s business continuity, security and governance capability, <A href="http://www.btplc.com/news/articles/showarticle.cfm?articleid=%7B681654fe-9782-4127-bd9e-5587883425ce%7D">the 2010 awards</A> will recognise the vital role that security journalism plays in raising awareness amongst businesses. </P> <P>Awards will be presented in the following categories:</P> <P>Information Security Journalist of the Year - £2,000 prize<BR>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <BR>Best information security news story of the year - £500 prize<BR>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <BR>Best overall information security feature article of the year - £500 prize<BR>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <BR>Individual feature article awards for:<BR>- Best Privacy feature of the year - £500 prize<BR>- Best ID management feature of the year - £500 prize<BR>- Best business continuity feature of the year - £500 prize<BR>- Best generic security feature of the year - £500 prize (this includes online features and any articles on the topic of security that do not fit into the above categories)</P> <P>BT Enigma Award - £1,000 prize. </P> <P>‘BT is committed to improving information security in Britain, all the way from home users through to multi-national organisations,’ Ray Stanton explained. ‘These awards are designed to acknowledge the great work that the UK media does in this field.’</P> <P>The deadline for submissions is Friday 2nd July 2010. The awards are only open to UK based journalists.&nbsp; Short listed awards entries will be announced in September 2010 with the winners announced at an awards lunch in October 2010.</P> <P>Please email entries to <A href="mailto:BTSecurityAwards@fishburn-hedges.co.ukby" orgurl="mailto:BTSecurityAwards@fishburn-hedges.co.ukby">BTSecurityAwards@fishburn-hedges.co.ukby</A> Friday 2nd July 2010.</P> <P>For more information about how to enter the awards visit: <A href="http://www.btplc.com/news/articles/showarticle.cfm?articleid=%7B681654fe-9782-4127-bd9e-5587883425ce%7D">btplc.com</A><BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Recognising-IT-excellence--/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Recognising IT excellence Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-17 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Is-now-a-good-time-to-plan-for-the-future/ <P>According to <A href="http://www.newbusiness.co.uk/news/sme-bosses-concentrate-growth" orgurl="http://www.newbusiness.co.uk/news/sme-bosses-concentrate-growth">recent research</A>, small and medium-sized business bosses have doubled the amount of time they spend trying to grow their company. The data revealed that the average company owner now spends almost a third of their working week on <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/Journeys/Growing/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/Journeys/Growing/">planning and delivering growth</A>, whereas last year, bosses were concentrating far more on admin and non-essential tasks. </P> <P>Clearly then, a lot of companies believe that <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8614894.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8614894.stm">now is the right time</A> to start planning for growth. So what are the best steps to take now?</P> <P>First, it’s worth taking a long, hard look at the current state of your business, and in particular reviewing the staff you have and the roles they are filling. Inevitably during a recession, most firms will have had to make redundancies, and that may mean that you now have some employees effectively doing more than one person’s job. While good employees can do this for a while, it’s worth thinking about how long you can reasonably ask them to sustain the workload, and how you could effectively split their role in the future. </P> <P>For example, if your order books have now started to fill up, could you use some part-time administrative support to lighten the load on key employees and let them get on with what they do best? Starting to plan now for this will help if you need to do it in the future.</P> <P>Second, now is a great time to work out whether your technology is allowing your staff to work in the most effective way possible. If you have an IT manager, ask them to look closely at whether there are any ways to either reduce costs (for example, by adopting <A href="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/business-applications/cloud-computing" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/business-applications/cloud-computing">cloud computing</A>) or areas where smart investment could yield quick returns. </P> <P>Finally, and most importantly, now is a great time to look again at what you do best, and ensure your business is focused on this. Recessions have a habit of making it very clear why your customers value you as a business – and if you can understand this, you’re well on your way to growth. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Where-you-work/>Where you work</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Is-now-a-good-time-to-plan-for-the-future/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Is now a good time to plan for the future? Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-05 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Hanging-onto-your-talent/ <P>Although retaining the right staff is a problem for every business, if you’re a small business owner losing some of your best talent because <A href="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/hobbies-spark-business-aspirations.html" orgurl="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/hobbies-spark-business-aspirations.html">they want or need to spend more time at home</A> can be critical. When you only have ten employees, losing one of your most valuable members of staff is the kind of thing that can lead to sleepless nights.</P> <P>While some employees are guaranteed the <A href="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/Flexibleworking/DG_10029491" orgurl="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/Flexibleworking/DG_10029491">right to request flexible working hours</A> because of children or dependents, wise businesses can use flexible working as a method of ensuring that their staff stay happy in their roles, which, in turn, helps make them more productive. Research by <A href="http://www.bitc.org.uk/" orgurl="http://www.bitc.org.uk/">Business in the Community</A> found that <A href="http://www.managementtoday.co.uk/channel/TechnologyInnovation/news/982256/mt-experts-ten-top-tips-remote-working-reality/" orgurl="http://www.managementtoday.co.uk/channel/TechnologyInnovation/news/982256/mt-experts-ten-top-tips-remote-working-reality/">three-quarters of managers</A> think <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/">flexible working</A> has made their teams more productive, while helping to retain key staff and improving responsiveness.</P> <P>The question is; <A href="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/layer?r.s=tl&amp;r.l1=1073858787&amp;r.lc=en&amp;r.l3=1084822805&amp;r.l2=1084822788&amp;topicId=1074468912" orgurl="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/layer?r.s=tl&amp;r.l1=1073858787&amp;r.lc=en&amp;r.l3=1084822805&amp;r.l2=1084822788&amp;topicId=1074468912">how far are you prepared to go</A> to hang onto your talent? For more help and advice on using flexible working to increase efficiency and retain talented staff, visit our topic page on <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Flexible-working/">implementing flexible working</A>. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Where-you-work/>Where you work</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Employing-people/>Employing people</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Hanging-onto-your-talent/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Hanging onto your talent Hannah Gilchrist 2010-05-04 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Blogger-independence/ <P>It’s not uncommon for businesses to send out samples of new products to magazine editors or even loyal customers, but usually these aren’t 16-year old video bloggers with a penchant for shoes and an army of teenage fans. </P> <P>Last week, thanks to teenager <A href="http://juicystar07-blair.blogspot.com/" orgurl="http://juicystar07-blair.blogspot.com/">Blair Flowers</A>, one small e-commerce site struck lucky. Blair <A href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ-FrW0KraM" orgurl="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ-FrW0KraM">uploaded a video to YouTube</A> explaining how the site, <A href="http://www.shoesofprey.com/" orgurl="http://www.shoesofprey.com/">Shoes of Prey</A>, allows women to design their own custom shoes online. By encouraging users to design their own creations for the chance to win free shoes, Blair received over 450,000 views and drove 200,000 hits to the site. </P> <P>What she didn’t tell her viewers was that <A href="http://www.22michaels.com/2010/03/juicystar07-and-world-of-new-media.html" orgurl="http://www.22michaels.com/2010/03/juicystar07-and-world-of-new-media.html">the video was a promo</A> and that she had received a free pair of shoes from the site’s manager. But would it have made any difference to her response if she’d revealed her true intentions? </P> <P>The increasing use of social media has encouraged more businesses to seek out imaginative ways to generate sales, but without boundaries does this mean anyone can claim to have an authoritative voice? And who should you trust?</P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Sales-and-marketing/>Sales and marketing</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Blogger-independence/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Blogger independence Hannah Gilchrist 2010-04-01 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/How-business-rate-changes-will-affect-you/ <P><A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/news/What-the-2010-Budget-means-for-your-business/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/news/What-the-2010-Budget-means-for-your-business/">According to the government</A>, around 345,000 small businesses will benefit from the business rate freeze, including 100,000 shops, 90,000 industrial businesses and around 60,000 offices. But while it’s good news for some, how do you know if your small company will benefit in October 2010?</P> <P>The new initiative will mean that businesses with a <A href="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?r.l1=1073858808&amp;r.l3=1074019801&amp;r.t=RESOURCES&amp;type=RESOURCES&amp;itemId=1073792394&amp;r.i=1073792393&amp;r.l2=1073859221&amp;r.s=m" orgurl="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?r.l1=1073858808&amp;r.l3=1074019801&amp;r.t=RESOURCES&amp;type=RESOURCES&amp;itemId=1073792394&amp;r.i=1073792393&amp;r.l2=1073859221&amp;r.s=m">rateable value</A> of up to £6,000 per annum will not have to pay any rates for 12 months. Those with premises with rateable values up to £12,000 will also qualify for partial rates relief. </P> <P>This means that <A href="http://www.bytestart.co.uk/content/taxlegal/9_6/business-rate-changes-fro.shtml" orgurl="http://www.bytestart.co.uk/content/taxlegal/9_6/business-rate-changes-fro.shtml">business rates will fall</A> from 48.5p in the pound, to 41.4p for the year starting October 2010.</P> <P>For more advice on business rates and to see if you qualify for rates relief visit <A href="http://www.2010.voa.gov.uk" orgurl="http://www.2010.voa.gov.uk">http://www.2010.voa.gov.uk</A><BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Where-you-work/>Where you work</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/How-business-rate-changes-will-affect-you/">Comments</a> (1)</p> How business rate changes will affect you Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-29 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Want-to-know-the-news-Itll-cost-you/ <P>Today <A href="http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article7076987.ece">the Times and Sunday Times</A> announced it will start charging its readers for use of its website. Users will be offered a day’s use for £1, or £2 for a week’s subscription. But is this a wise business move at a time when the majority of us are watching our pennies? </P> <P>On Tuesday, the <A href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/mediatechnologyandtelecoms/media/7500527/Times-Newspapers-loses-88m-as-advertising-drops.html">Telegraph reported</A> that the publisher of the The Times and The Sunday Times lost £87.9m in the year to June 28, 2009, so it appears there is a method to the perceived madness. </P> <P>James Harding, Editor of The Times, said: ‘Our new website – with a strong, clean design – will have all the values of the printed paper and all the versatility of digital media. We want people to do more than just read it – to be part of it.’</P> <P>The Times is clearly hoping that the news it provides will be as valuable to a consumer audience as the <A href="http://www.ft.com">Financial Times</A> has proved to be for business readers. But will consumers be as prepared to pay as companies? </P> <P>Unfortunately for The Times, consumers (and businesses) are now on the lookout for a bargain. While The Times may be working to a good business model in theory, embracing the digital medium could mean they miss out on readers who will focus their roaming eyes elsewhere. </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Want-to-know-the-news-Itll-cost-you/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Want to know the news? It’ll cost you Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-26 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-reaction-to-the-Chancellors-2010-Budget/ <P><STRONG>The Forum of Private Business</STRONG> <STRONG>(FPB)</STRONG></P> <P>While the <A href="http://www.fpb.org.uk">Forum of Private Business</A> was critical over the Chancellor’s lack of long-term planning for small businesses, it believes there are some measures that are sure to benefit these firms directly. </P> <P><A href="http://www.fpb.org/news/2315">The Forum's Chief Executive, Phil Orford</A> explains why the FPB is reserving judgement on the potential impact the Budget will have on small firms. </P> <P>‘While we're sceptical of the motives behind some of the measures announced in the Budget, coming so soon before a general election, there are some reasons to celebrate.</P> <P>‘We had asked the Chancellor to clarify and extend the Time to Pay scheme as it can be a lifeline for many small firms struggling with cash flow difficulties, so its extension for another four or five years will be welcomed,’ he said. </P> <P>‘Similarly, the Chancellor's intention to increase the amount of Government work being awarded to small firms by 15 per cent should help some small businesses, as long as it is implemented properly and fairly.’</P> <P><STRONG>The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)</STRONG></P> <P><A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk">The Federation of Small Businesses</A> had a similar reaction to the 2010 Budget, but had greater hopes for the reduced rates system and the extension on tax payments. However, while the Federation welcomed help for small businesses, it is disappointed that the Chancellor is proceeding with the proposed hike in National Insurance Contributions (NICs).</P> <P>‘This Budget has provided welcome news on helping to improve small businesses cash-flow but the increase in the NICs will be bad for job creation,’ explained John Walker, <A href="http://www.fsb.org.uk/News.aspx?loc=pressroom&amp;rec=6069">National Chairman of the Federation</A>.</P> <P>‘Proposals to increase the Small Business Rate Relief threshold will be welcome news for those small firms in England whose cash-flow in hindered by big tax bills. A third of FSB members have said that business rates are the biggest taxation obstacle to growth and today's announcement will go far to help firms, especially local shops and businesses.</P> <P>‘The FSB welcomes the Government's commitment to get the bank's lending to small businesses but feels the targets will have little impact if the banks do not begin to offer more affordable finance,’ he added. </P> <P>‘The Government must now put pressure on the banks to lend affordable finance to small businesses so they can get on with the job in hand. The role of the new credit adjudicator will be key in this regard and the FSB looks forward to working with this new institution.’<BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-reaction-to-the-Chancellors-2010-Budget/">Comments</a> (0)</p> The reaction to the Chancellor’s 2010 Budget Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-25 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Are-petrol-prices-bringing-your-business-to-a-standstill-/ <P>While the <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8569525.stm" orgurl="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8569525.stm">3p rise in duty</A> is the last thing small businesses need to worry about, now could be the best time to ditch the car and try out conference calling. Cutting out unnecessary travel can help reduce those future petrol bills, plus <A href="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/Save-time-and-money-BT-conferencing-can-help/" orgurl="http://www.insight.bt.com/articles/Save-time-and-money-BT-conferencing-can-help/">help with productivity</A> and improve employees’ work-life balance. </P> <P>Over the <A href="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/conference-calls/meetme" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/conference-calls/meetme">phone</A>, internet or via <A href="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/conference-calls/video" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/conference-calls/video">video</A>, <A href="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/conference-calls" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/phone-services/conference-calls">conference calling</A> no longer means participants need to huddle around one loudspeaker. Up to 40 people can join one call direct from their desks no matter if they’re in the same city, county or country. </P> <P>Still not enough? Why not try out <A href="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/internet-communication/web-conferencing" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/internet-communication/web-conferencing">w<A href="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/internet-communication/web-conferencing" orgurl="http://business.bt.com/broadband-and-internet/internet-communication/web-conferencing">eb conferencing</A></A>, which lets participants share, view and discuss documents and presentations in real time.</P> <P>Timely, efficient and more productive than hours in the car, conferencing could be just what your business needs to save money. </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Where-you-work/>Where you work</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Are-petrol-prices-bringing-your-business-to-a-standstill-/">Comments</a> (5)</p> Are petrol prices bringing your business to a standstill? Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-17 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Sustainability-is-back-on-the-agenda-/ <P>Those who believed that by marketing products as green or environmentally friendly meant they could dodge the recession haven’t lived to tell the tale. But even though we’re not back on the straight and narrow just yet, experts believe businesses need to return to environmental sustainability issues. </P> <P>In an event hosted by the <A href="http://www.carbontrust.co.uk/Pages/Default.aspx" orgurl="http://www.carbontrust.co.uk/Pages/Default.aspx">Carbon Trust</A> Standard, <A href="http://www.businessgreen.com/business-green/news/2259552/green-procurement-set-become" orgurl="http://www.businessgreen.com/business-green/news/2259552/green-procurement-set-become">experts warned that businesses will see their competitiveness diminish</A> over the next few years if they fail to provide customers with information on their carbon footprint and environmental responsibilities. </P> <P>Unfortunately, ignoring sustainability is no longer a luxury business can afford. Sustainability not only <A href="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?r.s=sc&amp;r.l1=1079068363&amp;r.lc=en&amp;r.l3=1079404746&amp;r.l2=1079363670&amp;type=RESOURCES&amp;itemId=1079404840" orgurl="http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?r.s=sc&amp;r.l1=1079068363&amp;r.lc=en&amp;r.l3=1079404746&amp;r.l2=1079363670&amp;type=RESOURCES&amp;itemId=1079404840">cuts costs through using energy and water efficiently</A>, but toughening up on your plans can also improve your reputation. Most customers would prefer to buy from a responsible source and the upturn in fortunes could be reason for change. </P> <P>Adapting to the circumstances is what small and medium-sized business is all about and to win over new customers, could this be the answer? To encourage and maintain customer loyalty, businesses must put start to put it back on the agenda. </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Suppliers-and-partners/>Suppliers and partners</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Sales-and-marketing/>Sales and marketing</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Dealing-with-finance/>Dealing with finance</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Sustainability-is-back-on-the-agenda-/">Comments</a> (1)</p> Sustainability is back on the agenda Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-16 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Buy-Microsoft-Office-now-get-the-next-version-for-free/ <P>Despite the ongoing growth of <A href="/templates/PageTypes/ContentPages/SubTopicHub.aspx?id=6945">cloud computing</A>-based solutions for office documents, Microsoft Office remains the most-used package for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations.</P> <P>With a new version of Office coming down the pipeline, you might be wondering if it’s worth buying a copy at present. But the good news is that you can safely buy a copy of Office 2007 and <A href="http://blogs.technet.com/smallbusiness/archive/2010/03/12/buy-office-2007-and-download-office-2010-when-available.aspx">receive a free upgrade when Office 2010 comes out</A>.</P> <P>Simply go to <A href="http://office2010.microsoft.com/en-gb/tech-guarantee/microsoft-office-2010-technology-guaranteeunited-kingdom-FX101829423.aspx">Microsoft’s Tech Guarantee</A> page and find out all the details, check that you meet the <A href="http://office2010.microsoft.com/en-gb/tech-guarantee/redir/HA101830513.aspx">eligibility requirements</A>, and you can buy with the confidence that you can upgrade for free when Office 2010 is released.&nbsp; </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Technology/>Technology</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Buy-Microsoft-Office-now-get-the-next-version-for-free/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Buy Microsoft Office now, get the next version for free Ian Betteridge 2010-03-15 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Is-enterprise-education-the-key-to-building-better-business-in-Britain-/ <P>According to <A href="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/enterprise-education-key-to-more-start-ups.html" orgurl="http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/business-news/enterprise-education-key-to-more-start-ups.html">a report</A> published by the <A href="http://www.gemconsortium.org/" orgurl="http://www.gemconsortium.org/">Global Entrepreneurship Monitor</A> entrepreneurship education is a key factor in influencing people to start their own businesses. However the creation of such schemes is seen as inadequate. </P> <P>Only 18 per cent of adults have received any type of enterprise education in the UK, and this number only rises to 21 per cent across the 38 countries when quizzed as part of the research. So what’s going wrong? </P> <P>While traditional subjects are dying out, there is a case for introducing more vocational courses built around an individual’s future potential. Will physics play a significant part in the life of a businessman, or should you let young adults decide this for themselves? </P> <P>A course in entrepreneurialism is a great way to get set for the real world but surely old-fashioned subjects are the foundations on which to build a business mind?</P> <P>Report co-author and Babson Professor Donna Kelley definitely believes that training at a young age cultivates an entrepreneurial spirit early on. Do you agree? </P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Employing-people/>Employing people</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/Is-enterprise-education-the-key-to-building-better-business-in-Britain-/">Comments</a> (0)</p> Is enterprise education the key to building better business in Britain? Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-12 http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-Perfect-CEO-Do-you-fit-the-formula-/ <P>According to new research by the financial website, <A href="http://www.fool.co.uk/" orgurl="http://www.fool.co.uk/">The Motley Fool</A>, even FTSE 100 companies struggle with the winning formula. Like investing, finding the perfect fit for your company matters more in the long-term. Businesses want someone who’s share prices increase with experience and take a company’s stock up with it. </P> <P><A href="http://www.fool.co.uk/press-releases/2010/03/03/fifty-seven-minus-fourteen-britains-top-bosses.aspx" orgurl="http://www.fool.co.uk/press-releases/2010/03/03/fifty-seven-minus-fourteen-britains-top-bosses.aspx">The statistics show</A> that the perfect age for someone to join as a CEO is 43, while only after five years do they start to make a difference, with optimum results visible after 14 years. </P> <P>Yes, this does sound like finding a needle in a haystack, but as David Kuo, Director at The Motley Fool comments, it’s the combination of age and experience that is the key. </P> <P>‘Finding a good CEO can be as difficult as digging for gold,’ he said. ‘As our analysis shows, CEOs needs time to grow into their role and showing them the door before they have even got their feet under the table could prove detrimental.<BR>&nbsp;<BR>‘Understandably, many boards demand instant gratification from their CEOs. But our study shows that age is great, experience in the job is very important, but a combination of the two is vital if bosses are to deliver the best returns for shareholders.’</P> <P>Based on The Motley Fool’s winning formula, <A href="http://www.itvmedia.co.uk/inside-itv/itv-news/itv-appoints-adam-crozier-as-chief-executive" orgurl="http://www.itvmedia.co.uk/inside-itv/itv-news/itv-appoints-adam-crozier-as-chief-executive">newly appointed ITV boss Adam Crozier</A>, could be the perfect fit for the future of ITV. <BR></P><p>Topics: <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Employing-people/>Employing people</a>, <a href=http://www.insight.bt.com/Topics/Planning-your-business/>Planning your business</a></p><p><a href="http://www.insight.bt.com/blog/The-Perfect-CEO-Do-you-fit-the-formula-/">Comments</a> (0)</p> The Perfect CEO: Do you fit the formula? Hannah Gilchrist 2010-03-03