issue14

NEW BUSINESSMATTERSY o u r l o c a l b u s i n e s s t o b u s i n e s s j o u r n a l

BUSINESS TIPS AND ADVICE!Issue 14/2011 April/May

Points of interest in this Issue:• Get £5 off by registering for Dry Cleaning Loyalty Card (p5)

• FREE Interactive Workshops for Owners & Directors (p20)

• Serviced Offices to rent NOW from £80 per week (p21)

• 10% Discount off HR Consultancy & Retainer Fees (p25)

• 10% Discount off Bookkeeping & Administration Fees (p26)

• CASH from your Pension NOW even if under 55 (p27)

Model shown Auris Hybrid T Spirit 1.8 VVT-i £21,491.88 and includes pearlescent paint. *Off er available on models shown when ordered, registered and fi nanced on a 3 year non-maintained Toyota Contract Hire agreement between 4 January and 30 June 2011 at participating Centres. Based on 10,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charges apply. Other fi nance off ers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this off er. Terms and conditions apply. Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s only. Toyota Financial Services. Subject to availability. The 5 year warranty is a 5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty. To maintain the warranty, customers must service their vehicle in accordance with the standard Toyota service schedule for the full 5 year period. For more information on the terms and conditions please contact Toyota (GB) plc on 0844 701 6200. Terms and conditions apply. Hybrid Synergy Drive 8 year battery warranty included. Prices correct at time of going to press.Auris Hybrid T Spirit 1.8 VVT-i Offi cial Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 70.6 (4.0), Combined 70.6 (4.0). CO2 Emissions 93g/km. ^Auris Hybrid T4 1.8 VVT-i Offi cial Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 74.3 (3.8), Extra Urban 74.3 (3.8), Combined 74.3 (3.8). CO2 Emissions 89g/km.

New Auris with Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Westover Toyota Business Centre516 Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth Tel: 0800 999 [email protected]

mpg^74.3 10%

Auris Hybrid T Spirit

* Off er based on Toyota Contract Hire, for business users only with pearlescent paint.

For £285.82+VAT per month*

Initial Rental £857.45+VATFollowed by 35 Rentals £285.82+VAT

CO2 Emissions 93g/km

BIK Banding 10%

P11d Value £21,436.88

Committed to quality

WO9416 Auris 105x144 Clr_WO9416 Auris 105x144 Clr 30/03/2011 10:39 Page 1

To Ferndown

Wallisdown RoadAlderney

CanfordHeath

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oole To Bournemouth Town CentreA3049

B3068

B3074

To Corfe Mullen

WestoverNissan

*BUSINESS USERS ONLY. All prices exclude VAT. Prices subject to change in manufacturer prices, residual values or interest rates. Finance Leasing is available subject to status and conditions on eligiblevehicles ordered before the 30th June 2011. Figures shown are subject to an initial and final rental. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Finance Leasing provided by RCI Financial ServicesLimited, PO Box 495, Watford WD17 1GL. E&OE.

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WO9509 Comm 105x144c_NBM_WO9509 Comm 105x144c_NBM 31/03/2011 14:08 Page 1

NEW BUSINESS MATTERS April/May

Subscription FREE at www.newbusinessmatters.com

Editor’s NoteIs your head in a spin as you struggle to keep on top of your paperwork? In today’s modern age we are told that we should strive towards a paperless office, but to me the paperwork appears to be more, especially as we battle to cope with all the regulations and red tape that businesses have to deal with. It is therefore

not surprising that at times we are having difficulty in keeping control of everything.

The most important activity in any business is the sales action you take, because without orders coming in the door then we do not have a business. However, if the administration side of the business is in turmoil then errors will be made, which will cost you time and money to sort out and therefore affect your profit.

The answer would appear to be that we should employ additional members of staff to help us in our quest, but this is a direct overhead and of course trying to find good quality employees is not easy. If they do not turn out right then all the additional regulations surrounding HR Matters come into force with even further time and money restraints put upon us.

Basically, what I am saying is that it is not easy running a business and at times we need some helpful Business Tips and Advice without it costing us a load of money, which we can ill afford. Primarily this is why New Business Matters was formed and I trust you will find some useful, interesting and informative articles in this issue to help your business to develop and grow!

Kind regards

Peter Westwood

Contents02 WEStOvER MOtORS

04 ACCOuNtANCy

05 CLEANING SPECIALISt

06 COMPANy LAW

07 FSB MAttERS

09 EvENtS/CONFERENCES

10 INtERNEt MARkEtING

11 INvEStMENt SERvICES

12 It PRODuCtS/SERvICES

13 LEttINGS & LANDLORDS

15 PRINt AND DESIGN

16 NEWS & PHOtOGRAPHy

17 NBM PROMOtION

18 RADIO ADvERtISING

19 CORPORAtE RECOvERy

20 SALES MAttERS

21 SERvICED OFFICES

23 vOICE & DAtA MAttERS

24 SIGNS & DISPLAyS

25 CHANGE PARtNER HR

25 PORtAL tAx CLAIMS

26 MILBuRN FINANCE

26 WAR ON WAStE

27 CASH FROM PENSIONS

You can be the only company of your trade or profession represented in this local

business to business journal.

For details on the ‘marketing packages’ available, please contact: Peter Westwood on 01202 233580

or email [email protected]

New Business Matters uk LtdSpacemaker House, 518 Wallisdown Road

Bournemouth, Dorset BH11 8Pttel: 01202 233580

ACCOUNTANCY MATTERS April/May

To advertise in this local journal telephone 01202 233580

Hill Osborne is the new face of the long-established Poole based Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors, CGJ Partnership. the new branding of this company reflects some changes in their business and provides the ideal opportunity to position themselves in a positive way, for the future benefit of all their existing and prospective new clients.

Hill Osborne will continue to provide the same comprehensive accountancy services and business advice that has been available from CGJ Partnership over the last forty years, with qualified staff always available to offer an expert ‘hands-on’ service.

They specialise in providing expert advice, including a broad range of accountancy and taxation services to the Family Owned and

Controlled Business. Their client portfolio ranges from Sole Traders to Companies with turnovers in excess of £10M.

Additional advice is available for Business Start-Ups and assistance can be given to help clients computerise their accounting systems. Partners Andrew Hill and Richard Osborne are particularly proud of the firm’s reputations for being friendly and approachable, as well as knowledgeable and efficient.

If you are looking to change your Accountant, or indeed appoint one for the first time, then why not take advantage of an initial FREE one hour consultation. For further information please phone Andrew or Richard on 01202 678555 or send an email to either [email protected] or [email protected]

New look for a local accountancy firm!

Hill OsborneLogo Variant 1

C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N TA N T S & B U S I N E S S A D V I S E R S

DSM – Design Solutions in MediaD1, Arena Business Centres, Holyrood ClosePoole, Dorset, BH17 7FP, UK[T] 0845 500 4600 [E] [email protected]

Hill Osborne, Tower House, Parkstone Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 2JHTel: 01202 678555 Fax: 01202 666071

Email: [email protected] www.hill-osborne.co.uk

Our aim is to provide you with the best possible service and we do this by giving you a direct access to the Partner who is responsible for your affairs. This ensures that they will be able to develop a close relationship with you and establish a thorough understanding of your business. Clients can take advantage of a wide range of services as listed below.

• Auditing• Accountspreparation• Taxationcomplianceincluding

SelfAssessment• PersonalandCorporateTaxPlanning• InheritanceTaxPlanning

• PayrollBureau• BusinessStart-upsandadvice

onacquisitionsanddisposals• Raisingofbusinessfinance• Managementconsultancy• Companysecretarialservices

CLEANING MATTERS April/May


Keeping your carpets looking fresh!

By Paul Gowing, MD of Cleanforce Ltd

the appearance of carpets in your buildings can have a lasting effect for your company image, so why not give them a regular clean?

there are a variety of ways that you can clean your carpets and in today’s market your options are;

Dry Carpet Cleaning, which can be done during working hours, Bonnet Cleaning, which is effectively carpet cleaning maintenance and is dry within 15 minutes and the traditional Hot Water Extraction method which cleans down into the root fibres of the carpets.

Carpets act as a filter that catches and holds dust, bacteria, fungi, pollen and pollutants, including tobacco smoke. Like all filters it needs to be regularly cleaned or else all the “nasty stuff” will go back into the air and into your lungs. Regular cleaning with a proprietary system will help make your environment much safer.

By maintaining the health of carpets with effective daily vacuuming and regular carpet cleaning maintenance you will:

1. Give your building a much better look and feel.

2. Give your carpet a longer life.

3. Bring consistent low maintenance costs.

At Cleanforce Support Services we are able to offer you a tailored cleaning package, irrespective of the size of your organisation or your budget available and we are pleased to offer all customers a FREE initial consultation, without obligation and at short notice where possible.

Don’t delay, clean the Cleanforce way. For all enquiries contact Managing Director Paul Gowing on 01202 516655 or at [email protected]

Send email to [email protected] your address and contact details

to receive your FREE Loyalty Card!

COMPANY LAW MATTERS April/May


Probate, Wills & Powers of Attorney|Divorce/Family Law| Commercial Matters|Employment Advice| Court Representation|Accident Claims|Moving Home| Parking Available

Big business, small business, we’re the business.• commercial leases

• commercial property transactions

• property development

• business transfers

• commercial agreements

• shareholder/company matters

• partnership matters

• dispute resolution and mediation

• employment law matters

For a no obligation discussion, please contact Mark Daniels or James Love on 01202 673071

BROADSTONE – 221 The Broadway – 01202 692308

POOLE – 5 Parkstone Road – 01202 673071

www.dickinsonmanser.co.uk

Corporate Governance for Unlisted Companies!

By Susie Smith, Dickinson Manser LLP Solicitors, PooleTheInstituteofDirectors(IOD)haspublishedaguidancedocumentcalled“CorporateGovernanceGuidanceandPrinciples

forUnlistedCompaniesintheUK”.Whilstitispurelyvoluntaryitdoesraisesomeusefulissueswhichmostunlistedcompanies(includingstartups,onemanandfamilybusinesses)wouldbenefitfromconsidering.

Corporate governance has been a key concept for listed companies for many years but it is often completely ignored by unlisted companies leaving them unclear as to the practices, procedures and values they should be operating in accordance with. The IOD guide sets out fourteen principles to assist unlisted companies in developing effective corporate governance frameworks which are appropriate to their size and complexity. These include things such as establishing appropriate constitutions and relationships, ensuring internal controls are

working to guarantee effective management and setting down clear corporate strategies.

The fourteen principles echo advice we regularly give to our client companies in order that they can add value to their businesses and ensure ongoing success. Unfortunately however we commonly see companies who have never considered these issues and problems often then arise at crucial times for instance when they are seeking investment/finance, when internal disputes arise or when key people are leaving.

By taking a proactive approach to corporate governance now you really could help avoid such problems and assist the continued growth and success of your business.

IfyouwouldlikemoreinformationoradviceonformulatinganappropriatecorporategovernanceframeworkforyourbusinesspleasecontactSusieSmithon01202673071ors.smith@dickinsonmanser.co.uk

FSB MATTERS April/May


NEW FSB FACE IN DORSEtThe Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) welcomes a new business champion to Dorset. Neil Eames has recently been appointed as the new Development Manager for the FSB for Wessex. Neil was previously the Regional Organiser covering Hampshire and the Isle of Wight but has now added Dorset to his many responsibilities. Within the remit of ‘Development Manager’, Neil will have the job of maintaining contact with Local Authorities, County Councils and Unitary Authorities, along with the 26 local Members of Parliament. He will also be a contact for all relevant business and economic groups whilst continuing to promote and profile the aims of the FSB. Neil is, of course, supported by FSB Branch and Regional Officers, and two Office Administrators based in our Christchurch Regional Office. The Wessex region covers Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and is acknowledged as the largest FSB region within the country with just under 10,700 members.

tHE FSB REMAIN vERy ACtIvE Independent small businesses have to deal with many frustrations on a day to day basis and the FSB remains as ever committed to ensure that the local small business community are fully supported, and where possible will attempt to influence positive local and national changes for SMEs. In continuing uncertain times for all business, small businesses have a vital part to play in the economic recovery of the UK. The FSB have been, and will continue to be, very active in putting forward small business

concerns to local and national government. The introduction of Local Enterprise Partnerships offers the FSB and its members, a unique opportunity to become more involved in driving the local economy forward. It is early stages for the implementation of LEPs but we will continue to ensure that small businesses are effectively represented in any decision making that may affect our local members. Currently, the FSB is represented on over 30 significant organisations and business partnerships across the region.

FSB Regional Office, Christchurch Tel: 01425 280080 E-mail: [email protected] Eames, Development Manager, Wessex Tel: 07920 846684 E-mail: [email protected]

FSB website [email protected]/wessex

FSB Local Contacts:

Call: 01202 416116Email: [email protected]

EVENT MATTERS April/May


If you have been set the task of booking a meeting or conference for your company it can be quite a daunting experience if you have

never done this before. You have to take into consideration many factors including Location, Venue, Delegates, Budget and much, much more.

After many years of experience working in the Hospitality industry I have picked up a few factors for you to bear in mind, before you make your final decision and sign a contract with a venue, and they are listed below.

One very important thing is to give yourself sufficient time to research and gain as much information as you can about your potential venues. This will make your choices so much easier and will give you more power when negotiating rates.

Initially create a brief of your requirements including location, dates, facilities required, catering, accommodation, what’s important, what’s not important, and then you can use this when enquiring with your chosen venues.

Location – this is usually of prime importance, the location should be well connected and central for your delegates/guests. If it is a stand alone venue, then there should be comfortable hotels in the vicinity. Check for connections to local airports and train stations and access for cars. Complimentary car parking is a must as this can really impact on the cost of the conference or can incur additional unwanted expenditure for your delegates.

Facilities – You will need a venue with a large enough room for all the delegates and perhaps smaller rooms for additional meetings/interviews. Choose a venue that is flexible with you.

If required, check that there are facilities for audio visual equipment, making a note whether these are included in the cost or whether you will be charged additionally for these. Complimentary Wi-Fi must not to be taken for granted – check with each venue. Make sure that there are toilets and washroom facilities close by to the meeting room – you do not want to lose delegates.

timings – Work with your speakers or course leaders to put together a programme which will work well and not leave delegates exhausted or switch off as they just cannot take onboard anymore information.

Food – Ensure that there is a plentiful supply of water and beverages throughout the event – check if this is unlimited or if you have to book specific serving times. Discuss your catering requirements with the venue ensuring that you have all dietary requirements covered.

Budget – Money is of course an important consideration before selecting a venue. Find out what is included in the package and what additional charges you may have to pay for. Negotiate with the venue to get as much included in the package as you can.

You want to have a successful event/conference, which your delegates will enjoy and remember for all the right reasons and here at the De Vere Village Bournemouth Hotel we offer a complete meetings package to meet all your needs.

Please do feel free to contact me at our Event/ Conference Office on 01202 416106 or send an email to [email protected] to discuss your specific requirements.

What matters most to the success of your event?By Rachel Smith, Sales Manager, Village Hotel Bournemouth

INTERNET MATTERS April/May


A recent survey has revealed that 40% of business websites in the UK get absolutely no visitors at all!

Having a website and not promoting it is like printing brochures and locking them away. Customers won't find your site amongst the millions online unless you take action to attract visitors.So here are three vital tips to get more people to visit your site.

Invest in a Quality Website

Customers can tell the difference between a good site and a bad site, and so can search engines. Scrimping on the cost of a website is a false economy. Even if they look OK, poorly built websites don't do well in searches. Make sure your “key search phrases” are well

represented on your site so the search engines know what it's about.

keep your Website Fresh

People are more likely to come back to a website that changes often than one that stays the same. Some websites let you edit them yourself. If you haven't the time, ask your web designer about a maintenance plan.

Create an Internet Marketing Strategy

Decide how you plan to bring more people to your site, make a plan and implement it. It's easy to forget about marketing, but a few hours and a few quid spent on Google AdWords, social media, blogging, and well-written email marketing campaigns will pay off in more business.

top tips to Bring More visitors to your Website

By Murray Cowell, Belmont Internet Marketing

For more top tips on getting your site found online, please visit www.belmont.uk.com/morevisitors

INVESTMENT MATTERS April/May


Be CaUtioUs in the short termBy Craig Andrew Allison from Pritchard Stockbrokers

The recent tragic earthquake in Japan and continuing conflict in Libya and wider North African and Middle East region have once again brought home to Investors the power of the “unforeseen” to shock global equity markets. During such times and in the face of constant news flow it is important for investors to step back and take stock of where we are.

Over the recent days Investors have been deluged by a constant flow of negative news and statistics driven by a 24-hour news media that seemingly thrives on such tragic circumstances. In my experience Business news often devotes extensive coverage to sudden falls in equity markets yet often little coverage is given to the resulting bounce- back in the market. “Good news doesn’t sell newspapers” as one commentator wisely noted.

If we go back to late February the S&P 500 passed a major milestone when it crossed the 1344 level. This was important as it marked a doubling of the index from the “666” level it reached in March 2009. The FTSE 100 has seen a rise of some 75% during the same period.

Much of the recent rise in US markets can be attributed to the ongoing stimulus by the Federal Reserve (QE2), whereas the Bank of England has refrained from adding to its initial £200bn money printing exercise. The FTSE reached a new bull high of 6105 on 21st February, its highest level since May 2008. Recent events have however seen the index fall back substantially from that level. The Chinese authorities have been tightening as part of attempts to reign in its rampant economy and worrying inflation level have also given markets something of a chill.

Inflation has been on the rise again and is now double the Bank of England’s target. The Banks role is getting harder to fulfil. Minutes of the last meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee

highlighted that there were then three members calling for an interest rate rise with inflation the main worry. Negative GDP revisions and the weak GDP forecast in the Chancellors Budget may cause the committee to hold sway for longer. Many economists are calling for the first hike to come in May. Whenever it arrives it need not be a major negative for the stock market, given that we have already priced in the likelihood of a tightening cycle beginning in the not to distant future.

However the turmoil in the Middle East looks set to keep a lid on share prices for the time being and until we can gauge just how far the crisis will escalate in countries such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the Yemen we remain alert to events. The last five global recessions came in the wake of spikes in the price of crude oil and we are witnessing another such spike currently amid all the uprisings. Investors would do well to be cautious in the short term.

For any investment queries please call our Investment Desk on 01202 297035

IT MATTERS April/May


In the IT world, there has been much talk for many years about virtualisation. Whilst the concept is

very simple, explaining it for the first time often isn’t that straightforward.

Virtualisation in the server world allows a single physical machine to support or host several servers (guests) at the same time, but without interfering with what those servers do.

The author Luke Kanies explained it with an analogy based on eggs and egg cartons. The virtual host is the egg carton. It is really good at looking after eggs, from one to many, all at the same time. What it cannot do is get inside any of the eggs, they are all self-contained and carry on doing what they need to do regardless of the egg carton.

The benefits of the virtual server (and indeed the egg carton) is that based on a single investment and with just a single unit to locate and maintain, many applications (and eggs) can all be supported for a lower cost than in a traditional environment, and should there be a sudden increase in applications / workload (and eggs), that increase can be accommodated very quickly without additional investment.

Replacing single function servers with a virtual server environment will typically have a lower capital outlay than a like for like replacement. Support effort will reduce, flexibility will increase, and for those of us that are environmentally conscious, we will use less power and spend less cooling our equipment.

For example, a company in the services industry was faced with server replacement costs (due to ageing equipment) of around £25,000. This was reduced down to under £12,000 through use of virtualisation. That environment has been running now for over 2 years without issue and the client is naturally extremely happy.

This is one example of many that demonstrate how Copyrite can provide expert help and advice. We are just one of many that implement this technology, of which the capabilities and benefits are both proven.

So what is the catch? This one is simple; be careful and ensure the person or business responsible for the work has the necessary skills and experience to implement this changeover, as it needs to be to a secure, reliable environment that performs to the required levels.

If you operate on several servers and have not yet considered virtualisation, there are a number of compelling reasons to do so. If you do not have experience of this in your business and would like to know more, there are many places to go for advice and support, including Copyrite.

If you are looking to increase your efficiency and save money then contact Mike Burden on 01202 848866 or send an email to [email protected]

EGGS AND EGG CARtONS!By Mike Burden, Head of IT at Copyrite

LETTINGS MATTERS April/May


you are more likely to suffer from Identity Fraud if you are a tenant or Landlord of a rented property. tenants and Landlords are being

warned to make sure they forward their mail when moving. the uk’s fraud prevention service CIFAS reported an increase of 32 per cent in the number of identity thefts committed during the recession.

One of the most common types of fraud is criminals taking over the running of a victim’s bank account. Tenants and Landlords are at a greater risk of this type of crime as they are more likely to share communal spaces, such as hallways where mail can be easily intercepted, or they move more frequently making it harder to keep track of confidential post. According to the findings, credit card statements, tax credit information, and pension details are just some of the important

papers left to the mercy of strangers. Over 85% of tenants claim to have received post for former residents.

Some of the steps you can take to protect yourself would be to register your title to the property at the Land Registry with a current address for service and register a restriction on your property title if you feel at risk. Ensure all financial information and other personal documentation is addressed to your current home, rather than your rental property and check bank statements and credit card bills regularly.

If you suspect your mail is being stolen, contact the Royal Mail customer enquiry Line and check whether a ‘mail redirection order’ has been made in your name without your knowledge.

IDENtIty FRAuD IN RENtED SECtOR!

By Sharon Canning from Move on Rentals

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Remous is bringing Design, Print, Finishing & Mailing to Bournemouth

And bringing you an amazing new list of services

We are certain, we can offer you:-

•Amazing vibrant colour on your print.

•Fast turnaround times and we always work to your deadline.

•Complete project control in house.

•Friendly helpful and pro-active service.

•Experienced staff with a real understanding of print.

•Hassle free print service – Order and Expect.

Formed 30 years ago Remous has become one of the most versatile print

companies in Dorset.

We have constantly re-invested in the latest technology to ensure the highest

quality available with quality control maintained through our ‘In House’

Production ethic.

Family owned and run, we are able to bring the benefits of corporate print

management and production coupled with ‘hands on’ personal customer

relationships.

www.remous.com 01963 250920

PRINTING MATTERS April/May


Remous is bringing Design, Print, Finishing & Mailing to Bournemouth

And bringing you an amazing new list of services

We are certain, we can offer you:-

•Amazing vibrant colour on your print.

•Fast turnaround times and we always work to your deadline.

•Complete project control in house.

•Friendly helpful and pro-active service.

•Experienced staff with a real understanding of print.

•Hassle free print service – Order and Expect.

Formed 30 years ago Remous has become one of the most versatile print

companies in Dorset.

We have constantly re-invested in the latest technology to ensure the highest

quality available with quality control maintained through our ‘In House’

Production ethic.

Family owned and run, we are able to bring the benefits of corporate print

management and production coupled with ‘hands on’ personal customer

relationships.

www.remous.com 01963 250920

It is sometimes more difficult to find a good Printer than it is to find a good Solicitor or an Accountant. Find the right one and

they will save you money, find the wrong one and they will cost you money. therefore, it is important that you spend some time choosing your print partner wisely,

However, what separates a good printer from a bad one? I have put together a simple 10 Point Plan that will help you choose the best company to meet your needs.

1. First of all look carefully at the services and products you require and make a list. This list could contain things like; Do they have a design studio? What finishing equipment do they have? Do they offer mailing facilities? The more in-house services available the better the quality and the price will be.

2. Once you have your list you should initially select at least four print companies to talk to that are local to you, or who have a local representative, as then you will get the personal service you desire.

3. After selection I would then recommend you give them a call and discuss your needs. If you feel happy with their responses then ask them to send you their quotes via email.

4. I agree that price is important, especially if you are spending a lot of money, so if you end up with two printers who are similar on price then you will need to visit their factories to see them in action, as I am sure you do not want to buy on price alone?

5. You need to see how professional they are and what quality they produce, so ask to see samples of their work. Do not be afraid to ask for some names of their customers so that you can obtain a personal reference

6. Ask them how long they have been in business. The longer this is the better the reliability and quality of service is likely to be.

7. Ask if they are a family owned company as this will ensure that they have a caring attitude to their staff and their customers.

8. You will also want to know if they regularly maintain and renew their printing presses and finishing equipment, thereby keeping pace with technology, as this will also ensure that you obtain the best quality at the best price.

9. Look at what systems they have in place to ensure you will receive your job on time when you want it. The more computerized they are the more efficient they will be.

10. Finally, some of the more advanced print companies will also be able to offer you a full on-line print management system that will save you considerable time and money on repeat orders.

This may seem a daunting task, but if you follow this simple 10 point plan I am confident you will end up with a print partner of repute, which could be essential for the future development of your company?

to receive a FREE no obligation Print Survey please contact Peter Westwood on 07875 676 667 or send an email to [email protected]

How to find a good Printer?

By Peter Westwood from Remous Design and Print

NEWS & PhOTO MATTERS APRIL/MAY


What’s a good way to make your website look more inviting to potential customers?Add news content and update it regularly - that will inject more excitement and relevance. There’s nothing worse than a website with a news page with little or no news, even worse is a page with outdated news stories that haven’t been updated.

It’s vitally important to update your website with relevant news content so your site looks fresh and attractive. Visitors like to see not just a static brochure but something that is interactive and exciting, video clips, news stories and top-quality photography can make all the difference in winning business.

First impressions do count and surveys confirm that a person’s response to a

website is strongly influenced by their first glimpse of it. News stories draw visitors in by offering important, even entertaining, information. They hold a visitor’s interest and encourage them to find out more about what the company has to offer.

Every company has news that the public is interested in. The trick is to find that story and get it on your website so that people know what you are doing and what you are offering them. By updating it regularly you can keep your website fresh and inviting.

For more information on how to use news, video and photos to your advantage please call us on 01202 779604 or visit www.seekernewsandphoto.co.uk

Hold the front page – Websites look better with updated news content!

By Steve Cook of Seeker News & Photo

PROMOTION MATTERS April/May


New Business Matters is pleased to announce that we are now an Official Event Partner of Business Scene for their South Coast Connection Events. As such

we are not holding our Open Exhibitions anymore and instead we will be supporting their events, which we anticipate will amount to five during 2011.

We would love your support at these exhibitions, which promise to be a great opportunity for all involved, with an expected capacity audience of around 150 local business people each time. They cost between £12 and £18 to attend, but this includes a welcome drink and a finger food buffet, along with a guest speaker.

We will of course be holding six of our own FREE Networking Parties on Wednesday evenings throughout the year at the Village Hotel, Wessex Fields, Deansleigh Road, Bournemouth, BH7 7DZ, starting as normal at 6.30pm and finishing by 9pm.

New Advertising and Marketing Packages for 2011

If you are looking for a platform to PROMOtE your service or product to business people within the local conurbation of Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and surrounding towns, then you should look no further than New Business Matters who can give you…

• exclusive rights allowing you to be the only company of your trade or profession in the magazine.

• great coverage with over 3000 local companies receiving this bi-monthly journal.

• further exposure to over 6000 companies is gained through our email marketing campaign.

• six FREE and exclusive Networking Parties, helping you to build useful contacts.

• an advert on our website, with a direct link to your website, including 50 words & your logo.

• Advertising Packages from £44.00 and Marketing Packages from £85.75 per month plus VAT.

New Exhibition and Networking Events for 2011

Please contact New Business Matters if you would like to:

• Obtain prices on one of our Advertising & Marketing Packages

• Visit/Exhibit at a Business Scene Exhibition/Networking Event

• Obtain a Personal Invitation to our FREE Networking Parties

Send email to: [email protected] or call 01202 233580

RADIO MATTERS April/May


The first thing to know is that radio works differently to almost any other advertising medium. Unlike TV for example it’s consumed

passively. It’s not like seeing an advert while reading a newspaper or watching the commercials between a TV Drama, in fact, most people listening to the radio do something else at the same time, coupling tasks at work, in the car or on the computer for example.

Advertisers exploit radio’s uniqueness. Imagine targeting an audience when they are most likely to act. It’s no coincidence that the local garage encourages you to get the car serviced just as you glance down at the oil warning light flashing at you. How about learning simple relaxation exercises to help you de-stress at work? And, what about hearing of activities for all the family just in time for the weekend? Radio brings time and people together in a very unique way.

When Do People Listen?

Radio is of course a 24x7 medium. During a typical week 91% of all people will listen to the radio. Take a moment to check and I’ll bet you, your family and your colleagues have listened to the radio, if not today, certainly in the last few days.

The peak time for listening is just after 8:00AM on a weekday morning. At this time most people are up and about either listening while getting ready to go out or while driving to work. On a typical weekday a radio audience will gradually reduce until the afternoon rush hour, usually around 5PM, when people leaving work tune in for the latest travel and news updates. Most radio stations have package deals which guarantee advertising during the breakfast show and afternoon drive time, while making sure you won’t miss out on other parts of the day.

Who Listens?

Almost all radio stations focus on a subsection of the population. This is why we all have our favourite 3 or 4 stations. For the most part, age forms the key segmentation. Another less thought of is special interests. Does your typical customer prefer sport, a style of music or maybe going out? Some radio stations have huge latitude in the music they play and the range of programmes on their schedule. These stations can be very adept at ensuring adverting or sponsorship messages reach a specific cross section of the public.

How do you get on to the radio?

I often get asked; how does one go about getting on the radio? It’s very simple - just ask. Some radio stations such as The Bay 102.8 have regular slots for local people to come and talk about their business. Advertising on the radio is equally as simple. We work with all our clients to ensure they have the correct package and we take care of all the commercial production too. It’s very straightforward and cost effective.

to talk to someone about how ‘radio’ can work for you please call Lisa on 01202 580200

Radio – the Inside trackBy Lisa Rudge from The Bay Radio

30%

25%

20%

15%

10%

5%

0%15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

The Bay 102.8 Audience Profile

RECOVERY MATTERS April/May


When times are tough, sales are more difficult, debtors take longer to pay, and banks are more reluctant to lend. In other words, cash is harder to come by.

So, make sure that you know what your cash requirements are likely to be both in the short and longer terms. Try to negotiate terms with your suppliers that are as long as possible, and terms with your customers that are as short as possible. Consider the impact on your cash flow of that big, juicy contract that you’ve been chasing.

Most importantly manage your cash position regularly – preferably daily.

Make sure that you sell to people who can and will pay you. Good credit control starts before you make the first sale. Know who your customer is – is it a sole trader, a partnership, limited company? Carry out credit checks

as far as you can, even for existing, longstanding customers; set credit limits – and stick to them.

Understand which are your “good” customers – those who regularly pay on time with few, if any, queries – and which are your “bad” customers – invariably late payers, who query everything and regularly break promises. Ask yourself whether you actually want to do business with them. Be suspicious of round sum payments, or payments which don’t easily reconcile with sales ledger entries. And keep your ears open for rumours on the grapevine.

It’s may be an old cliché, but it’s still true – turnover is vanity, profit is sanity but cash is reality.

Cash is King!BY GRAHAM DOWN | www.bscorprecovery.com

2nd Floor, Bristol & West House, Post Office Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1BL

contact us for free initial consultationcall: 01202 313624 | www.bscorprecovery.com

cash flow problems ...or worse?

clear, professional advice for you and your business when you need it most.

For a free copy of our Top 10 Tips for Surviving When the Going’s Tough just e-mail [email protected] or call 01202 313624

SALES MATTERS April/May


Have you ever wondered what prevents you from asking questions? the answer I hear most is fear; fear of the unknown,

fear of the prospect’s reaction and fear that they could jeopardise the sale. People get frustrated with themselves because they feel they lost a sale as they lacked the guts to ask questions.

What is the worst thing that could happen?

•Ifyou’reonthephone,theycouldchoose to hang up.

•Yestheycouldgetupset,frustratedorangryhowever it has nothing to do with the question.

•Youmightgetapleasantsurprisewhentheyanswer and tell you that no other salesperson has ever asked ‘that question’ and you get the sale.

What happens if you don’t ask the question?

•You’llneverknowtheanswer.•Youmaynotgetthesale.

•Youmaynotgetinvitedbackforasecondmeeting.•You’llspendtimewaitingforaresponse

even though your gut tells you the sale is lost.

Here are a few tips to help overcome your stigma:

1. Practice asking questions with a colleague, your significant other or a friend.

2. Let the prospect know that you have a question to ask them that might make them uncomfortable. Ask for their permission to ask it.

3. Relax and take a deep breath before asking the question and if you feel it, say it gently.

4. The fear of asking is in your mind only – so go on, try it for yourself, and be pleasantly surprised!

5. Remember – asking a question will not hurt the prospect's feelings.

the fear of asking questions!By Alistair Powell, MD of Sandler Training

180° Different to Traditional Sales Training

If you want to win more business then attend one of our Workshops:

Thursday 28th April 9:30 to 11:30amBasepoint, Bournemouth

Thursday 19th May 9:30 to 11:30amBasepoint, Bournemouth

For further details email: [email protected]: 01202 651329 Web: www.wessex.sandler.com

Break the rules and sell more!

Free interactive workshop for business owners, senior directors and partnersIn two hours you'll learn what it takes to:• Avoid preparing quotes and proposals that never seem to close• Take control of the sales process• Generate more propects• Steer away from decisions based on price• Differentiate your company

If you want to know more about ‘asking questions in the right manner’, or if you want to discuss any other sales issues you are currently struggling with then call Alistair on 01202 651329 or send an email to [email protected]

SERVICED OFFICE MATTERS April/May


In these troubled times many smaller businesses are, or are contemplating, working from home to save money, but is this a wise decision? Perhaps before

making what could be a disastrous mistake, they should consider that the distractions they incur at home could, in fact, have a detrimental effect on their business.

If they have a young family will the baby crying in the background prevent them from creating a professional image when they are on the phone, and put off potential customers? Will their ability to focus be impaired and, as such, will it take them longer to complete various tasks? Will the lack of space at home prevent them working in an efficient manner?

These are all questions that should be asked before making that decision to work from home, because

in the long run it could cost them money. Maybe it would be better for them to consider working from Serviced Offices where the right professional image can be created. They will also have the right environment to focus, and have the space to be more efficient.

If you work from home or are contemplating doing so, then please consider Serviced Offices that give you the perfect working conditions for your staff, your customers, and your suppliers. In addition, it also provides an instant business networking group. Finally, the cost is all inclusive and with office sizes to suit all budgets it is worth investigating further!

to find out more please give Peter a call on 07970 498501 or send an email to [email protected]

Working from Home Saves Money?

By Peter Hastrop, Owner of Isis Business Centre

Serviced Officesavailable NOW at

Isis Business Centre1 Sovereign Business Park,

48 Willis Way, Poole, BH15 3TBTake a look at

www.officesinpoole.co.ukor send an email to:

[email protected] call 07970 498 501

Virtual office facility now available from £30 per month

24/7 access with keypad 2 way securitySharing with like minded peopleParking availableCanteen facilitiesSuperb environment in which to operate and growHeating, lighting and aircon includedRates and maintenance included

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VOICE & DATA MATTERS April/May


SIGN & DISPLAY MATTERS April/May


Promote your business with vehicle Wrapping!

By Jamie Thompson, Director at Hardy Signs

Are you utilising the advertising space on your company vehicles to promote your business? If not – why not? Vehicle Wrapping can

transform a plain functional business vehicle into an eye-catching dynamic advertisement for your company, its products and its services.

The Vehicle Wrapping product is a two-part system with a full colour printed cast vehicle wrap vinyl, which is then finished with a matching clear over-laminate. The laminate is imperative for longevity and durability. It must share identical properties with the printed vinyl to ensure the product behaves as a single unit.

Applying the wrap system is a skill in itself. Combining the right amount of heat and pressure the vinyl can be both stretched and shrunk into recesses

and also round corners resulting in a sprayed on look. Once properly applied the cast properties of the vinyl mean that it loses its ‘memory’ ensuring it does not pull out of recesses or away from the vehicle.

Understanding the process is imperative for the production of quality design – good design will attract attention, impart confidence and put your message across clearly, bad design can have the opposite effect, so please choose your Vehicle Wrapping provider with care.

using the latest technology Hardy Signs can produce stunning images that can be applied to your vehicle to promote your business. For further information please give a member of our team a call on 01305 848600 and they will gladly explain the process and provide an estimate.

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• Are you spending far too much time dealing with staff issues?• Are you sick & tired of the red-tape surrounding employment legislation?• Would you like get a better return out of your workforce?

Leave the stress and worry behind and let Change Partner HR be your Virtual HR Manager and get back to what you do best – running your business and looking after your customers.

Call now and take advantage of a FREE 2 hour consultation and see how we can help you save time, energy and money? You’ve got nothing to lose and that call could make all the difference.

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For a free chat about how Milburn Finance can make life easier for you, please contact Lesley on:

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If you needed a local specialist in Financial Management, Bookkeeping and Office Administration, what type of company would

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It is the little things that can ‘make it easy for you’ especially if you find a company that will:

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If you would like to know more about how Milburn Finance can support your business, please call Lesley Dixon now on 01202 517 482 or send an email to [email protected]

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representing up to 50% of the value of your pension funds?

If the answers to all of the above questions are yes then we have a solution for you!

If you have a … … Personal Pension Plan (PPP)

… Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)

… Small Self Administered Scheme (SSAS)

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… Pension that has been frozen

you can transfer any or all of these UK Pension Funds into a Master Pension Scheme and access NOW a cash lump sum representing up to 50% of the total value of your total pension funds, even if you are under 55 years of age.

NO CREDIT CHECKS REQUIRED! FULLY REGULATED UNDER UK LAW!

Cash From Pensions are now delighted to introduce to you new and exciting cash raising opportunities!

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Making it easy for you! Cash from Pensions!4 Do you have a UK pension?4 Is your pension value over £20,000?4 Are you aged between 21 and 65?4 Do you want to access a cash lump sum NOW

representing up to 50% of the value of your pension funds?

If the answers to all of the above questions are yes then we have a solution for you!

If you have a … … Personal Pension Plan (PPP)

… Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)

… Small Self Administered Scheme (SSAS)

… Company Pension Scheme

… Pension that has been frozen

you can transfer any or all of these UK Pension Funds into a Master Pension Scheme and access NOW a cash lump sum representing up to 50% of the total value of your total pension funds, even if you are under 55 years of age.

NO CREDIT CHECKS REQUIRED! FULLY REGULATED UNDER UK LAW!

Cash From Pensions are now delighted to introduce to you new and exciting cash raising opportunities!

Call Peter Westwood now on 01202 233582 or send an email to [email protected]

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