by James Mason
13 August 2011
A successful business is about sales, productivity and focus. So far we have looked at what we need to be thinking about before we start our business, the importance of getting the Marketing right, the importance of Planning and Operations and how important the sales process is. In this final of 3 parts we look at Finance and Development and examine how both underpin the success of a business. Finance Cash is K...
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by James Mason
6 August 2011
If you don’t drive your business, you will be driven out of business. Outside of family and friends, there is little more satisfying than having your own successful business, choosing the hours you wish to work and being rewarded directly for the work you put into each task. In this second of 3 parts we look at Planning and Operations which lie at the heart of trading and which drive the business. Planning Be Strategic Firstly, work ...
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by James Mason
10 July 2011
There are a lot of things to think about, even before you start. Running a business isn’t always easy, especially these days. There will be a lot to think about and even more to do. In this 3 part series we provide a useful guide to anyone who wants to start and operate a successful business. In this first of 3 parts we look at what you need to be thinking about when Starting your business, and then we look at Marketing. Starting Cl...
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by James Mason
28 June 2011
We’ve all heard of the Exit Strategy, but why is it important? It might come as a surprise that how you intend to finish is one of the most important things to think about when you start a business. Who you intend to sell it to, may have a large bearing on some of the decisions early on. Here’s why the exit strategy at the time of start-up should be given the gravitas it deserves. Think abouts The Buyer Consider carefully who you will...
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by James Mason
27 June 2011
A Business Plan takes time to write, so is it really worth it?
The short answer is yes, however there are business plans and there are business plans. Looking at the national statistics, 80% of all start-ups fail within the first year (!) but the good news is that 80% of all businesses that get good advice and plan effectively are still trading and doing well after five.
Types of plans
Before you start to write your business plan, first decide wh...
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by James Mason
27 June 2011
The debate over Sole-trader or Company status continues. One of the first questions sole-traders (and partnerships) often ask us is whether or not they should be trading as a company. To help answer this topical question, I thought it would be useful to give you our five-point checklist which we use when evaluating each case. The Checklist Saving Money Company profits up to £300k are taxed at 20% and there is no National Insurance to ...
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