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It appears that more confidence is being shown in the state of the economy. The last three months of the year have shown some encouraging signs of recovery.

On the Chamber front we have a new President, Simon Green, and a new Vice President, Lloyd Johnson. Both will bring new energy to the Chamber.

On the local authority front Rob Whiteman, CEO of the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham, has announced his resignation and leaves after the elections in March.

NewsletterPlus has a new sponsor. Charter Security is a long standing ‘local’ company and we are looking forward to working with them in the future.

We have a number of events on the horizon which are in the ‘must attend’ category. Our web site: www.bdchamber.co.uk will carry full details of all the events we have planned.

Look out for the articles badged ‘reprint’. Those of you who have joined the Chamber in the last couple of years will not have seen these articles. Those of you with a long memory will have the opportunity to reacquaint yourselves with some very worthwhile business advice.

John Tame

Editor, General Secretary BDCoC

In this issue:

Welcome

EDITOR:John Tame

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:[email protected]

DESIGNED BY: Hayley Simons

PUBLISHED BY:Authorised Publications Ltd119/121 Brent StreetLondon NW4 2DXTel: 0208 457 9100Fax: 0208 457 3090

Disclaimer:Every reasonable precaution has been taken to ensure the information contained in this publication is accurate at the time of going to press, but the publisher cannot accept any liability for errors or omissions, howsoever caused. Neither the inclusion of an article or an advertisement in this publication implies any warranty or recommendation of the goods or services mentioned in the article or advertisement.

Emerging on Target ........................................ 2 Android .......................................................... 5Reprint:1 ........................................................ 6Winter Ball 2009 ........................................... 8AGM 2009 ..................................................... 11Reprint:2 ...................................................... 12Work Placement Student .............................. 14Creekmouth ................................................... 15Tri-Chamber of Commerce ............................ 19Reprint:3 .......................................................22Google OS & Cloud Computing ......................23Kingston Smith ..............................................24Reprint:4 ......................................................26P2P ...............................................................29Dinner with John Cruddas MP ......................30Reprint:5 ...................................................... 31Stronger, Healthier & Safer Communities .....33Internet Explorer 9 ......................................36New Image Change .......................................37Network Breakfast Briefing ..........................39Reprint:6 ......................................................40Build your Profile to Win New Clients ...........43Caption Competition ......................................44Events 2010 ..................................................45Welcome to the Chamber .............................48Application Form

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We are in a recession. Many businesses are in ‘Survival Mode’; cuts need to be made, workers are being made redundant and some businesses have gone bust. Where survival might to some mean ‘stripping back’, it can also be viewed as an opportunity to re-evaluate and refocus on the goal, back to basics; ‘What did I originally go into business for?’

Wherever you are in the continuum, be it new start up business or one established for many, many years, a healthy mindset is required to not just survive the current economic down turn, but to thrive within it, and better still, emerge healthier and more energised.

Is this possible you say? Well, there is a saying that goes: ‘Whether you believe you can, or you believe you can’t; you’re probably right.’

So what do you believe about your business - now and for the foreseeable future?

What are your business goals? Imagine yourself at the point where you have achieved your goals. From this vantage point, explore what is around that has facilitated your achievement:

Who and what is there? And how is the environment organised and structured?

How are you behaving that has made this achievement possible? What are you doing, or no longer doing? What are you doing differently?

What are the resources that you are utilising that are contributing to your success?

What are you believing about yourself and about others? What is this giving you?

How is this affecting who you are, how you view yourself?

Who and what else is benefitting from the changes you have made? What relationships are being affected and how?

Act with the goal in mind; implement these changes now and it could help you emerge from this recession on target.

Awele Odeh,

Consultant, Personal and Professional Development.

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 0208 592 0703Mob: 07985 440014

EMERGING ON TARGET!! SURVIVAL MODE

What are the resources

that you are utilising

that are contributing

to your success?

5

On September 23rd last year the 2 billionth application, or app, was downloaded to an Apple iPhone, just over two years after it was first launched in June 2007 and one of over 100,000 apps now available – and counting.

2010 promises to be the year that the explosion in mobile application technology will move beyond the iPhone and be developed and supported across many more mobile platforms, including the likes of Blackberry and Symbian.

At the centre of this important shift is the development of Google’s Android, a new mobile operating system that will allow for the downloading of apps to any Android enabled phone or handheld.

One of the fundamental changes this will bring is that, unlike with the current generation of iPhones, people will be able to customise what is on their mobiles, both touch screens and keypads.

The market is now open to some of the biggest mobile manufacturers and network providers, who are now launching their own generation of Android phones.

By enabling customers to pick and choose the apps they download from third party publishers and developers, Android looks set to initiate a boom in the development of new and existing apps for a massively expanded market.

Even though not yet universally available here, all the indications are that Android enabled phones are beginning to capture the public imagination. Just this week 21% of would-be smartphone buyers polled in the US said they planned to buy an Android device in the next 90 days, and by November last year almost 800 million people worldwide had requested information from phone manufacturers.

At Optix we believe advances such as Android will offer huge opportunities for customers to source new markets and enhance their brand, by enabling them to produce their own tailor-made apps for mobiles.

Our team will work with you to develop apps for both the iPhone and the new expanding platforms that feature your products or services, or open a mobile-enabled version of your website at the touch of a button or key.

Optix Solutions 01392 667766

The market is now open to some of the

biggest mobile manufacturers and network

providers.

ANDROID – THE FUTURE OF MOBILE APPLICATIONS?

6

This edition of NewsletterPlus is the twelfth in the series. A lot has gone on since the first edition was published. Over the years a lot of excellent articles have made it into print so we have decided to reprint a small selection of the best of the best. Good advice, as long as it relates to the current situation, never loses its relevance. We hope that you find the information useful.

John Tame, Editor

This is our favourite unsolicited photo. Not sure who sent it in, but glad that they did.

REPRINT:1

Good Advice, as long as it relates to

the situation, never loses its

relevance.

T & S Automatic Springs Ltd have been trading for over 50 years in the metal fabrications industry and are established as a reputable and reliable company who work for many local councils.

Our Company has 5 divisions:-METALWORK SECTION. We specialise in making all forms of metalworks,

including Railings, Staircases, Balustrades, Barrier Gates, Gates, Doors (security and fire resistant), Burglar Grilles, Grilles, Parking Posts, Weldmesh Fencing, etc., in fact, any metal fabrication.

WINDOW SECTION. We specialise in Steel, UPVC and Aluminium. We supply and fit new windows. We also repair and renovate on site.

FLOOR SPRING SECTION. We supply and fit new Floor Springs, Overhead Door Closers, Panic Bolts and Locks. We are able to carry out on site repairs to the above, and also undertake maintenance contracts.

AUTOMATIC DOOR SECTION. We supply and fit automatic doors and carry out repairs to any existing door sets.

ROLLER SHUTTER SECTION. We manufacture and install our own Galvanised Roller Shutters. We also undertake on site repairs and maintenance contracts. We are able to offer

24 hour breakdown servicing by means of our answer phone after office hours.

We are only too pleased to produce Estimates, Tenders and Maintenance Contracts for any of the above works.We are willing to discuss our customers’ ideas and will liaise with our clients,

providing a complete service from quotation to full site installation.

INCORPORATING T&S METAL FABRICATIONS398 RIPPLE ROAD, BARKING, ESSEX, IG11 9RS

TEL: 020 8591 4800 FAX: 020 8591 0377Email: [email protected] www.tandssprings.com

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It has been a long tradition in the Chamber that we hold at least one ‘Ball’ a year. We are now holding two such events a year, mainly in support of a local charity. The charity which has benefited from our fundraising efforts is ‘Living the Dream’, which supports budding athletes in the borough who have aspirations for the 2012 Olympics.

This year’s venue was somewhat different in that we were under canvas. Canvas being a very large heated marquee in the grounds of Eastbury Manor, which had been dressed out in an opulent style.

Given the economic climate we were astounded by the number of people who supported this event by buying tickets and supporting the raffle and charity auction in such a generous manner.

Both our existing President, Tim Sanders Hewett and our incoming President, Simon Green, were on hand to ensure that the party

goers had a great time and made the best of a great occasion.

As we were in the run up to the Christmas party season a number of companies took the opportunity to bring along their staff as a thank you for their efforts over the year. Organising and finding a suitable

venue for the office party can be a difficult task. This year why not bring your staff along to the next winter ball and let my colleague, Mary Clements, take the strain for you? Mary can be contacted at [email protected].

We have the Spring Ball in the final stages of planning and it looks to be an absolute winner. It has a James Bond theme with gaming tables, great food and drink and to make the evening go with a swing, dancing to a great live band.

WINTER BALL 2009

This year’s venue was somewhat

different in that we were under canvas.

Geremy Wt and Friends

Simon Green

Tim Sanders Hewett

9

Customers nowadays expect businesses to have a website. It’s considered a key method of communication, providing a global shop window for your goods and services. The absence of a website can negatively affect your customers’ perception of your business.A website can be updated any time at low cost, unlike print, where one is forced to order a high quantity to get the best unit cost. Once printed they cannot be changed, the only recourse is to scrap them. Apart from the waste of money there is the green side to be considered.Another great advantage, consider a business card or other stationery items where there is limited space. Just adding one line with your website domain leads your customers to an unlimited wealth of information, including full colour pictures, which to print traditionally is expensive. Everyone knows that emails like [email protected] are free, but normally have adverts attached which hardly create a good impression to your clients. Far more professional are emails like [email protected] - this gives you total control of your emails; you can have separate emails for each department or person and personalise them with a footer so that they are in keeping with your corporate image.If you already have a website, have you looked at your competition? Compare their sites in the eyes of your clients; which stand out the most? Which is the easiest to find the information you are looking for? Which company would you choose? How can you improve your own site?

Robert Crisp www.1stopwebs.co.ukTel: 01708 507857Email: [email protected]

10

Gregg’s Holland Style Council Robins Bread, Cakes, Sandwiches Hairdressing Design Pie & Mash

Mr Simms Meat Express M Y Nails Oldie Sweet Shop Family Butchers Complete Nail Care

Quadrant News Truffles Restaurant Primark News, Sweets, Drinks, etc Quality Food & Takeaway

Wrights Jewels Wives and Girl Friends Valet Photographics Quality Jewellery Beauty Emporium Film Processing / one hour

The Flower Shop Games Workshop Window’s Interiors Weddings, Funerals, Floral Designs Curtains, Nets, Blinds & Accessories

Shoebiz T. Bush Posh Pine Shoe Repairs, Key Cutting & Luggage Fishmongers, Fresh Fish Daily Reproduction Pine Furniture

Welcome to

QUADRANT ARCADERomford

Quadrant ArcadeMarket Place, Romford, Essex RM1 3ED

01708 741457

11

This year’s AGM took place at the Spotted Dog and was attended by a good cross section of our membership.

Traditionally the AGM is preceded by our monthly Executive meeting, where elected committee members gather to oversee the running of the Chamber. Tim Sanders Hewett, our President with one hour of his three year presidency left to run, a Chamber record, was given a standing ovation for his work and commitment to the Chamber during his time in office.

At the AGM the membership elected the Officers and Executive Committee members for the coming year. A number of our Co-opted committee members were confirmed as full members of the Chamber’s Executive committee.

Your Executive committee for 2009/2010 are as follows:

President: Simon Green, Vicarage Field Shopping Centre, Vice President: Lloyd Johnston, McDonalds, Treasurer: Jeffery Reynolds, Garrards, Past President: Tim Sanders Hewett, Fresh Wharf, Committee Members: Sid Bright, Kingston Smith, Jamie Banks, Anglia Business Resources, Paul Gwinn, Private Member, Jeff Jackson, The Mall, Dagenham, Mark Bass, Sanofi-Aventis, Cathy Walsh, Barking College, John Fagan, Nat West RBS and Paul Daniel, Dairy Crest.

The AGM was followed by a Networking event which attracted a diverse group of businesses who took the opportunity to meet others of a like persuasion. Over drinks and nibbles a number of people managed to forge links, which should have a positive effect on their respective businesses.

The Chamber stages a large number of events each year, most have networking opportunities structured into the schedule. A list of some of the events that are planned for 2010 can be found elsewhere in the magazine under the heading of ‘Events’.

If you would like to attend any of these events you can contact Mary Clements at [email protected] or book on-line at www.bdchamber.co.uk for an up to date list of coming events.

AGM 2009 (WITH A DOSE OF NETWORKING ON THE SIDE)

The Chamber stages a large

number of events each

year, most have networking

opportunities structured into the schedule.

ILFORD SPORTS CLUB

Available for Functions, Social Events,

Meetings & SeminarsFuneral Parties & Gatherings

Weekday hire from 9am until 11pmAlso

Weekend Function Halls for hire2 Licensed bars

• Easy Parking

• Disabled and wheelchair access

• Can accommodate up to 200 people

• Social area, separate dance hall, boardroom, kitchen area & pool table in a family environment.

Recently Refurbished

Please contact Terry Austen for further booking information on 020 8514 8352 or 07908 070174

www.ilfordsportsclub.co.uk

Cricklefield Stadium486 High Road, Ilford IG1 1UE

EVENT DESIGNA STRUCTURED APPROACHAt some point in your career you may be asked to present something to an audience. The presentation may be informal, a small group or something larger such as a full blown seminar audience.

It often follows that if you are perceived as being a good presenter, then at some point you may be asked to design and present a seminar of your own. Designing an event from scratch is extremely rewarding. The sense of achievement, when things go according to plan is reward enough for the effort involved. As with any successful campaign it starts with the planning stage:

A good starting point is to be very clear about what your objectives are, impart information, and offer solutions, change perceptions, open up channels of communication, the list goes on and on. So that you do not wander off the track, write the objective down and every thing that you do test it against that statement. If it does not pass the ‘test’, don’t do it.

Have a clear understanding of what your audience needs are, apply the test method as above and take the appropriate action.

Select the best delivery method geared to the subject and the audience. You do not have a captive audience. Their bodies may be present, but their minds could be else-

where if you are machine gunning them with information from the word ‘go’.

Audience participation can be a great way to stimulate ideas and ensure that lessons are learned and carried forward. Building in activities will break up the day and provide stimulation and interest. Again, bear in mind what is appropriate. Using an ice breaker or problem solving exercise may work very well in a team building scenario, but may fall flat with a number of other audiences.

The key factor is to allow the audience to have a stake in the process. Arriving at solutions apparently independently, will always have more value than simply taking things on trust. Of course you are in control of the process and ultimately responsible for where you and the audience end up at the end of the session.

The first few minutes of interaction with the group can set the scene for the rest of the seminar. It is good policy to clearly flag up the following:

What the seminar is about. The ground that will be covered. What they will take away with them. How the information can be applied and the expected benefits.

In addition, break out points, refreshment and lunch breaks should be flagged up. As well as placement of Fire Exits and evacuation procedures, rest rooms and the policy on mobile phones. A dunce’s hat and a suitable corner to stand in should be available. What you are trying to achieve is that everybody understands why they are there, what they can expect to learn and how they will benefit from the experience.

How the seminar progresses from that point depends on another set of experiences, which we cover in the article, “The Event - Make or Break” (See p22).

REPRINT:2

A good starting point is to be very clear about what your

objectives are.

12

13

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Are you breaking this law?

16 December 2008

A property manager has been ordered

to pay nearly £13,000 in fines and costs

after being found guilty of breaches of

fire safety legislation.

21 October 2008A landlord has been sent to prison in the first custodial sentence to be given in London under the new fire safety regulations.

18 June 2008A property management company have been ordered to pay over £5,000 in fines and costs after pleading guilty to serious breaches of fire safety legislation following a prosecution brought by a fire brigade.

Q. What if I have no-one suitable or available within my business – or I just don’t have the time to deal with this?

A. The new law recognises the fact many small and medium sized businesses do not have the resources in time or money to have an employee committed to this work and therefore allows for the use of professional, external assistance to complete the Fire Risk Assessment.

“Fire costs money. The costs of a serious fire

can be high and afterwards many businesses do not

reopen. In 2004, the costs as a consequence of fire,

including property damage, human casualties and lost business, were estimated

at £2.5 billion”

Did you know that on the 1st October 2006 the ‘Fire Safety Order (FSO) 2005’ became law? The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO replaced over 70 pieces of fire safety law. The FSO applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, including the common parts of residential blocks of flats, houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and the common parts of multi-tenanted commercial buildings. The law applies to you if you are:

• Responsible for business premises• An employer or self-employed with business premises• Responsible for a part of a dwelling where that part is solely used for business purposes • A charity or voluntary organisation• A contractor with a degree of control over premises• Providing accommodation for paying guests

20 May 2009

A restaurant owner and a company

which she was the director of have

been ordered to pay nearly £17,000

in fines and costs after pleading

guilty to serious breaches of fire

safety legislation following

a prosecution.

Petronne House, 31 Church Street, Dagenham, Essex, RM10 9URTel: 0845 880 2356 Email: [email protected] Web: www.extonfiresafetyuk.co.uk

“Fire kills. In 2004 (England and Wales)

fire and rescue services attended over 33,400 fires in non-domestic buildings. These fires killed 38 people and injured over 1,300”

14

The Chamber was fortunate to work with three students, Laura Hayward, Rhea Gunesh and Dipika Patel, who are in their final degree year studying event management at Chamber member, the University of East London.

During their 3 week voluntary work placement the students worked on a diverse range of products from designing promotional material for events to manning the reception desk at a number of events and assisting the Chamber’s own event manager.

Practical experience is an important part in the learning cycle. Early starts and late finishes have to be experienced and placed in context. Seeing the theory put into practice is a rewarding experience. Event management is not an easy option.

Effective Event Management is one of those disciplines, that as a delegate, we tend to take for granted.

A pleasant experience should start when we are advised of the event, in good time, for us to make the necessary arrangements to attend. Travel information is precise, with a postcode for those of us who have a ‘sat nav’ in the car. If a pay to attend event, popular payment options are offered.

Arriving at the venue, which should be accessible and suitable for the number of people attending, you would expect to receive the following. A programme showing the format of

the day. An attendance list showing contact information, any material that would be required to take part in any planned activities and a name badge.

The event should deliver the content as advertised. If food is being served it should be up to a high standard and served with a minimal distribution to other things that are going on. A person should be available to take care of any sudden hitches and able to answer any questions or resolve issues that delegates may have.

Organisation and attention to detail are key factors in delivering an event that ticks all the boxes. Especially so when you consider the range and breadth of the disciplines involved. A good example, often used, is the Swan. Serenity and grace

above the service with a huge amount of activity going on below.

Our thanks to Laura, Rhea and Dipika for their most valuable contributions during their placement.

WORK PLACEMENT STUDENTS FROM UEL

During their 3 week

voluntary work

placement the students worked on a diverse range of products.

15

The London Borough of Barking and Dagenham has recently completed the first phases of environmental improvements at Creekmouth industrial area following public consultation and the involvement of the new Creekmouth Business Forum. The forum works with officers to find common solutions to problems faced on the estate and is open to all businesses located on the estate.

The works carried out addressed concerns raised by businesses:

• The poor appearance of the area deterred clients and investors and potential staff.

• Poor conditions for pedestrians.

• Need for better lighting.

• Pavement parking.

• Lack of greenery.

The works have included the creation of new parking bays, new robust, but attractive paving, co-ordinated street furniture, new lighting, new boundary treatments and trees – all of which have made the area more attractive and better placed to attract inward investment and retain business.

Funding for the project, which cost approximately £1million was given by the London Development Agency and the European Regional Development Fund. The Leader of the Council, Councillor Liam Smith,

recently visited the site and met the Chair of the Creekmouth Business Forum, Steve Smith, to discuss issues of concern to businesses and to view the completed works.

The council has committed further funding to continue the environmental improvement works further along River Road. Some traffic enforcement will be included as part

of this phase, in order to help ease the congestion caused by HGV and cars parking in dangerous locations. It is envisaged that the new phase of works will be completed by March 2010.

To join the Creekmouth Business Forum contact Stephen Smith [email protected]

For further information about the Creekmouth Environmental Improvements contact Marcia Kirlew on 020 8227 5346 - [email protected]

CREEKMOUTHIMPROVING THE ENVIRONMENT FOR BUSINESSES

The council has committed further funding to continue the environmental improvement works further along River

Road.

18

Manufacturers of:

Kitchen Furniture

PVCu Windows

Timber Windows

Front Entrance Doors

Bridge Road DepotAbbey Road

StratfordE15 3LX

Tel: 020 8534 1497 Fax: 020 8555 3927

email: [email protected]

19

The lifeblood of any networking event are new faces. There is very little point in going to events and meeting the same people you met at the last one. We cast our net far and wide to attract new people to the networking events we hold. New people, new opportunities and better prospects of doing business.

Last year we teamed up with Havering and Redbridge Chambers in the first Tri-Chamber event. The event was very successful and on the back of that success we repeated the winning formulae in January of 2010.

Havering Chamber were the organisers for this event and chose the City Pavilion as the venue. City Pavilion has had an extensive refit and has been re-launched with a corporate events venue feel to it. It still retains the family entertainment amenities, but now boasts a very impressive capability to host the really large events.

The evening started with a welcome and introduction from Jill Martin, Chairman, HCCI who introduced the Guest speaker, Kimberly Davies. Kimberly is a New Yorker who is probably best known for appearing in the TV show ‘The Apprentice’. Her take on the process of networking was well received. Somebody made the comment that she was a lot nicer in real life than she appeared to be on the TV show. Well that’s show business for you!

Jill introduced the concept of ‘the 30 second elevator speech’ and managed to get some examples from the audience. If you weren’t at the event and would like to know more about this strategy a quick search on ‘Google’ should provide the information you are looking for, or contact any of the three chambers for advice.

After some wise words from Alex Armstrong on surviving the recession, the group got down to some organised networking.

Special thanks to the sponsors Lloyds TSB & Nick Athorne with The City Pavilion sponsors of the sit down meal.

19

The lifeblood of any

networking event are new faces. There is very little

point in going to events and meeting the same people

you met at the last one.

TRI-CHAMBERS OF COMMERCENETWORKING EVENING, JANUARY 2010

232222

It can be intimidating to face an audience eagerly anticipating the journey that you are about to lead them on. Or not, as the case may be.

Hopefully, if you have done your homework you will be brimming with confidence and looking forward to leading the group on a voyage of discovery. Unfortunately, a seminar audience in some respects copy our canine cousins and can smell fear at a hundred paces. It doesn’t matter what you feel like inside, your legs may be like jelly, but the outward appearance of calm, measured confidence, not arrogance, personified in a big smile will give you a fighting chance. There is a danger that you may appear too ‘easy going’ and fall foul of the some time present, awkward character whose mission in life is to appear clever, often at your expense.

The last time I was saddled with one of these characters I received some help from the other delegates, specifically the one sitting behind the disrupter. The advice given was along the lines that “if you don’t stop butting in with your idea of reality you could be eating lunch through a straw” A trifle harsh, but it appeared to do the job.

A safe start to the proceedings is to go around the group and ask for some basic information: name, organisation, position and what they hope to get from the training experience.It is a good idea to make notes at this point. Occupation and company will give a fund of knowledge on which to base examples. Having an overview of what the delegates are looking to take away with them is at best a check list, hopefully confirming the content research you will have done or prompting some extra material that you can include in the session.

You could of course find out that the session you planned, using the word loosely, has very little relevance to your audience. A good skill to draw on at this point is, the ‘fast thinking on the feet routine’. Failing that, well I leave you to fill in the blanks. My own preference, when it happened to me, on one occasion, was to take an emergency call which gave me ten minutes of thinking time which I put to very good use.

If you are running a one day seminar it makes sense to build in an ‘activity’. An activity is usually a group task designed to explore certain aspects of the information given at the seminar. You can buy activity packs which are often paper based or you can plumb for the all singing and dancing kit variety which will enable you to build a model car large enough for two people or construct a bridge.

Be careful with the `activity` you choose, some groups refuse to have fun and miss the point of the activity completely.

Towards the end of the seminar it is good practice to have a short session on ‘what happens next’, possible sources of further study can be signposted. A question and answer slot is often very useful in clearing up any points that have not fully been absorbed by the group or individual.

Evaluation forms, love them or hate them, are a great source of information and can provide some useful information on how the seminar was perceived and received by the group. Depending on the nature of the event, taking into consideration funding requirements, make the form as short and to the point as possible. A person on the door collecting them as people leave is a good way to ensure that you get a large enough sample on which to base an opinion.

You may wish to debrief the team after the event. It is good practice to try and improve every session that you deliver for the next group. Surfers who are looking for the perfect wave are in many respects like a presenter on a mission. Hopefully you will at some stage in your career experience the perfect wave’.

That ends the series on presentations. I hope you have as much fun and satisfaction as I have had over the years.

THE EVENTMAKE OR BREAK

Unfortunately, a seminar audience in some

respects copy our canine cousins and

can smell fear at a hundred

paces.

REPRINT:3

23

Two new operating system developments could signal a fundamental shift in the way in which we work and browse online, especially while on the move.

Most of us spend the vast majority of our computer time actually online, so Google Chrome OS is essentially a browser that also works as an operating system. You can create documents and view video, be on social network sites and catch up on email all at the same time from a single page.

Because your computer doesn’t need to load all the various elements of your operating system you are taken straight into Google Chrome OS within seconds of booting up.

It will support Android applications, and while initially it’s principle appeal with be among those who need to access and share information speedily on

the move, it will also be available on desktops.

As every function is performed online, all files are stored on the internet, much like information such as webmail you access via your phone or desktop. This is known as ‘Cloud Computing’, with your browser replacing your hard drive and becoming, to all intents and purposes, your computer.

At Optix we monitor these developments as they progress from research projects into reality, and can help customers design solutions and identify new opportunities generated by these shifts in the way we all work and behave online.


GOOGLE OS &CLOUD COMPUTING

As every function is performed online, all files are

stored on the internet.

2524

KINGSTON SMITH 2010 VAT CHANGESA series of changes in VAT law start with effect from 1st January 2010, although some are not due to be fully implemented until 2015. This brief highlights the major changes that come into force in 2010.

1. Change of VAT rate

2. Changes to the place of supply of services rules

3. The requirement to submit EU sales lists (ESL) for services

4. Electronic submission from April 2010

5. VAT and foreign entertaining

6. What you need to do now

7. Change of VAT rate: VAT reverting to 17.5%

The standard VAT rate reverts to 17.5% from 1 January 2010. This follows the temporary reduction to 15% from 1 December 2008 to 31 December 2009.

Supplies after 1st January 2010

The VAT rate that businesses charge depends on the date that goods physically change hands; that a service is completed; that payment is received; or that an invoice is issued – whichever is the earliest. The rules are modified in certain situations, including when there is a change in the standard VAT rate, businesses should charge VAT at 17.5%. This means that businesses currently calculating their VAT using the VAT inclusive fraction of 3/23 should use the new fraction of 7/47 from 1 January 2010.

Supplies prior to 19th December 2009, or paid for before 1st January 2010

A business should use the 15% rate if: it provides goods or services more than 14 days before issuing a VAT invoice (e.g. issuing a VAT invoice on 1 January 2010 for goods or services provided before 19 December 2009); or it receives payment before 1 January 2010. HMRC provide guidance on rate change, and supplies straddling 1st January 2010. They will allow 45 days for the issuing of credit notes. They give the following example:

You deliver a computer to a customer on 22 December 2009 when the VAT rate is 15%. On 2 January 2010 you issue a VAT invoice in respect of the sale. What rate of VAT do you charge?

Under the normal tax point rules, 17.5% VAT is due as the invoice was issued after the increase and within 14 days of the supply of the computer. However, under the special rules you may decide to charge the 15% rate which was in effect when the computer was delivered. This will reduce the VAT you are liable to account for on the sale. If your customer is VAT registered and can recover the VAT in full your use of the special rules will not save them any tax.

Continuous Supplies of Services

Where a business makes continuous supplies of services, such as leasing of equipment, it can normally choose to issue regular invoices during the year, or to issue one invoice covering up to a year ahead, setting out the amounts due (including VAT) and payment dates. Any invoices issued or payments received on or after 1 January 2010 should be subject to 17.5% VAT. This means a business must replace any annual invoices with a new invoice, detailing the revised payments due after 1 January 2010 at the new 17.5% rate. It should specifically refer to and cancel that part of the old invoice which has been superceded.

The VAT rate that businesses charge depends

on the date that goods physically

changed hands.

25

Anti AvoidanceSpecific new legislation prevents artificial arrangements seeking to benefit from the reduced 15% standard rate, in respect of supplies made after the standard rate returns to 17.5%. This measure imposes an extra 2.5% charge on certain transactions payable on the date the standard VAT rate reverts to 17.5%, where the supply spans that date. It will affect arrangements entered into after 31 March 2009. The charge will apply to the amount on an invoice, the amount paid, or the consideration for the grant of a right if:

1) the supply, grant of a right or series of supplies which spans the date of the VAT change attracts the standard rate of VAT; and2) the customer cannot fully recover the VAT charged on the supply; and3) either: a. the supply is between connected persons; orb. the consideration for the supply exceeds £100,000; orc. a prepayment in respect of the supply is funded by the supplier (or a connected person); ord. full payment for the supply is not due within six months of the date of the VAT invoice.

2. Place of supply of services

From 1st January 2010, changes to the VAT rules will implement EU law to modernise and simplify cross-border supplies of services and recovery of input tax. For business-to-business (B2B) supplies, the new basic rule will be that services are supplied where the customer is established. This will affect many businesses that supply or receive cross-border B2B services. For example, you will not be charged VAT on visiting trade fairs in other EU states. For example, many UK businesses have outsourced call centre operations to non-EU locations. Currently, such services are treated as supplied where the supplier is established (e.g. India), so no VAT is charged. From 1st January 2010 the basic rule is that such services are supplied where the customer is established, so the UK recipient business will account for VAT under the reverse charge procedure. This will give rise to an increase in costs to exempt or partially exempt businesses such as banks.

3. EU sales lists (ESL)Any UK VAT-registered business supplying goods (and, from 1 January 2010 certain services) to a VAT-registered customer in another EU country, must report it to HMRC on an ESL. This must show details of each EU customer and the sterling value of the supplies made to each in the period. From 1 January 2010, if you supply services to EU businesses where the place of supply is your customer’s country, you must complete an ESL using either the ESL Online service (ECSL) or form VAT 101 EC Sales List (ESL). These show your customers’ VAT registration number; their country code; and the value of the goods and services that you have supplied. There is no threshold for ESLs - you must list every supply, no matter how small. ESLs are usually quarterly, but can be monthly or yearly.

4. Electronic submission fromApril 2010From 1st April 2010 all newly VAT registered businesses and those with turnover of £100,000 or more will have to file VAT returns online.

5. VAT and foreign entertainingAs a result of a case involving Denmark, at the time of printing this bulletin HMRC in the UK are reviewing whether VAT on foreign entertaining should be recoverable. Watch this space!

6. What you need to do nowReview your IT systems to ensure you have the VAT number of all your customers and clients in other EU states. You may also require IT changes to be able to prepare ESLs. You also need to register with HMRC to be able to file VAT returns online. Lastly, you will need to seek advice in connection with foreign entertaining.

KINGSTON SMITH 2010 VAT CHANGES Cont . . .

24

The recession is going to test many UK businesses. Glyn Mummery, a licensed insolvency practitioner and Client Partner at the Hornchurch office of Vantis Business Recovery Services (BRS), a division of Vantis, the UK accounting, tax and business advisory group, offers some advice to help managers cope with tough trading conditions.

“There is no doubt that UK plc is struggling in the current climate. However, there are still options available for businesses that find themselves in difficulty.

“The biggest headache for most managers and financial directors right now, is maintaining a healthy cash flow. Slow and non-paying creditors will offer a range of excuses as to why they cannot pay you in accordance with trading terms. These creditors are paying someone, so make sure it is you; use the legal process at an early stage if payments are not forthcoming. Analyse the cash flow forecast and identify where savings can be made; can you accelerate cash receipts by offering early payment discounts? Could you talk to your key suppliers to seek pay when paid arrangements? Or renegotiate rent payment terms with the landlord? Can the business be restructured to reduce human capital costs? Bolstering working capital inevitably involves making tough decisions, but it is vital these decisions are made quickly to safeguard the business as a whole.

“Secondly, make sure the company’s balance sheet is working hard for the business. There remains a number of asset finance packages available that allow managers to free up capital previously tied

up in assets, whether property, machinery, tools, vehicles or debtors. In the aftermath of the banking crisis, these alternative methods of finance have become more common, as institutions prefer to lend according to the shape of a business’ balance sheet. However, the lending criteria are more stringent and there is certainly more re-finance activity as opposed to new lending, making the sale and leaseback model popular.

“What is important is that there are still institutions willing to lend, but directors must be prepared with robust forecasts and evidence of a strong management team to improve their chances of re-financing successfully. Critically review the business and its operations; are there any skill gaps in the management that could be filled by an interim manager? Has the portfolio of products or services been reviewed to make it

more recession proof? Are accounts up to date and audit proof?

“Businesses applying for re-finance today can expect tougher and more regular valuations, as well as needing to lay down a greater deposit. Some lenders are also looking for additional guarantees from proprietors, or gearing up on other assets and, in some cases, where the asset valuation has been reduced, but more funds are required, we are seeing the creative use of the small firms loan guarantee scheme to bridge this equity gap.

“However, with careful preparation and by getting the right advice early on, managers can increase the opportunity of finding solutions to difficulties that their business may be facing.

The key? Act now!”

Top 5 tips1. Seize control of cash flow

2. Make the most of the assets on the balance sheet

3. Seek advice from your accountant or a corporate recovery adviser early on

4. Strategically review the business’ operations; identify areas for sustainable growth

5. Identify and plug any skill gaps in the management team

If you consider that you and your business would benefit from a free consultation from an experienced advisor, please do not hesitate to contact Glyn Mummery on 01708 458 211, or email [email protected]

REPRINT:4 HOW TO SURVIVE – ADVICE FOR EVERY OWNER MANAGER

“The biggest headache for

most managers and financial

directors right now, is maintaining a healthy cash

flow.

26

Glyn Mummery

27

28

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29

28 29

The impact of social media and social networking has gone far beyond enabling individuals to share information quickly and easily with friends and colleagues.

Social Media is having a fundamental influence on the way new and forward-thinking companies actually find and conduct business. After Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Company (B2C), we now have a new business culture emerging, Person to Person or (P2P).

In a nutshell, a P2P business is one that embeds social media (social networking, blogs, etc.) at the heart of its internal and external activity. Using and participating in social media enables far closer engagement with clients and partners and can revolutionise the way a business promotes its brand in a rapidly-evolving online market place.

P2P business is not just another piece of corporate jargon. Its principles of using social media to promote greater communication and dialogue, and so understanding, across traditional boundaries are simple and make perfect sense.

Firstly, the new technology allows businesses to establish a far more dynamic and visible presence online. It enables them to engage in an ongoing conversation with customers or potential customers to find out what they actually want and what they are talking about.

The early stages of this business culture shift are already apparent. How much more dynamic, for instance, to learn about a new product or service by watching a video demonstration on YouTube (with a link to the company website, of course) than reading reams of text beside a static picture?

Google increasingly now includes links to the latest Tweets directly relating to its search results.

P2P is about being proactive rather than creating a brand and presence and then sitting back and waiting for things to happen. Social media dialogue can throw up new sales leads and opportunities for partnerships and collaborations that traditional business models and structures are often too cumbersome to identify.

Optix’s social media consultancy service is geared up to helping customers understand how they can best exploit the power of social networking and apply it to improve sales and marketing.

We can customise your website to support the likes of Twitter and Facebook and show you how to establish a presence beyond your own website and on other sites and browsers.


P2P – THE NEW WAY TO DO BUSINESS

Firstly, the new technology

allows businesses to establish a far more

dynamic and visible presence

online.

30

DINNER WITH JOHN CRUDDAS MP OPENS NEW DIALOGUE WITH THE BUSINESS COMMUNITYDinner with John Cruddas MP, at the House of Commons was always going to be a special occasion. With limited places, apologies to those people who we could not accommodate on this occasion.

It was for many the first time that they had visited this historic building. Given the hectic schedule that MP’s have, which can change at a drop of a hat, we were fortunate that everything ran according to plan.

The security surrounding this building and inside is very, very tight, as you would expect. The Chamber party gained entry without a hitch and only suffered minimal delay. Given the number of people accessing the building this spoke well for the professionalism of the security forces.

The service, dining room and food were all up to the standard you would expect. The company and general relaxed feeling in the room meant that people could communicate in a more proactive way. Business was on the agenda in many of the conversations I took part in, although a lot of time was spent in just getting to know each other.

Our host, John Cruddas, was his usual self. Down to earth, willing to listen and happy to suggest and consider solutions to the problems and issues raised by the membership. Our members are not fans of the soundbite approach that some politicians use to get out of answering difficult questions. I think that some people were surprised with the candor with which John responded to some of the more contentious issues which were raised.

John readily agreed to a series of regular meetings with the Chamber representing, as we do, the business community. One of these meetings has taken place and a lot of valuable information was exchanged.

At the time of writing I am not sure if we are planning a return visit to the House of Commons, but as always, details will be on our website:

www.bdchamber.co.uk

I think that some people

were surprised with the candor

with which John responded

to some of the more

contentious issues which were raised.

31

30 31

‘The cheque is in the post’; We have used a last cheque and the bank has not sent a new one. One of our two directors is away and we need both of them to sign, does this sound familiar? Whatever the excuse, it still means that you are not getting paid. Unfortunately, there is no magic formula to ensure that these situations do not arise. Good credit control is all about doing what it takes to get your customers’ cash into your bank account and quickly. What can you do?

Be clear about your credit termsShow the payment terms on all statements and invoices. Be specific about when payment is due. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for your money. You have given value, make sure your customer keeps their part of the bargain.

Don’t delay in issuing a proper invoiceIdeally, you should try and issue invoices within 24 hours. Nothing will happen until this bill gets into the payment system of your customer. Remember the earlier rules about being clear about how much is due and when. Ensure your invoices are correct. Inaccuracy is a sure-fire way of delaying payment!

Review your list of outstanding amounts and act upon themNot only will it allow you to prioritise your order of reminder, e.g. largest amounts

first, longest outstanding next, but also it will allow you to notice the settlement trends of your customer, i.e. are they prompt or are they slowing down? Is there a problem and will you have to reconsider their terms?

Once again, do not be embarrassed to ask for your money; visit, telephone, write, fax or send an e-mail. What do you say? Visit the website of the Better Payment Practice campaign for some templates, www.payontime.co.uk and take the free letter and forms link.

Using third parties

If reminders are ignored there may be no alternative but to go legal. Using solicitors specialising in debt collection, not just any firm. If you cannot source one through local directories, or your Chamber of Commerce, try the Law Society, www.lawsoc.org.uk and take the ‘choosing and using a solicitor’ link. Alternatively, consider using your accountant; some firms offer a debt collection service, most, if not all, will be able to advise on credit control. Collections agents can be effective and may work on a no collection, no fee basis.

The objectives of any business is profit, not sales volume. Don’t be scared to put pressure on that valued customer who is willing to buy your product or use your service, but not willing to pay. Is anyone that good that you are willing to both supply and bankroll at the same time. A growing debtor list and promises of payment don’t pay bills, cash does. Therefore, get that money in!

East London Small Business Centre

REPRINTS:5 THE CHEQUE IS IN THE POST

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33

The breakfast meeting held at the Power-House International Auditorium, Dagenham brought together an interesting and influential mix of people who shared an agenda for change.

The seminar was very structured with a definite agenda to produce action, not the usual ‘talking shop’ format where good ideas are brought forward and then never see the light of day. We have been promised a report of the meeting detailing the key points, and an insight into the round table discussions in the near future which we look forward to.

Rev Ade Adesina welcomed the delegates and outlined the programme for the morning and welcomed our first speaker.

Rt Hon Margaret Hodge, MP Barking was the first speaker who spoke about some of the ‘top issues’ that she encountered in her day to day work. Anti-social behaviour, change in the community and the role of family values. She stressed the need for setting children clear boundaries. She concluded by saying that young people should have a say in how amenities such as clubs are organised and the programme they offer.

Sir Paul Grant OBE, Head Robert Clack School. Spoke about how he turned around the fortunes of an ailing school by bringing the services, police, local authority and housing groups into the school. Taking a strong stance on supporting law and order in pursuit of a safe environment for students had played a key part in turning the school around. Having teachers policing the neighbourhood when the students left school at the end of the day had been a logical demonstration of that commitment to safety and inclusion.

Chief Superintendent Matt Bell, Borough Commander spoke about the increased scrutiny that the police force comes under as a learning opportunity. He went on to list the priorities as he saw them: Reduce crime, as Matt commented, the job we are paid to do. Increase satisfaction and increase confidence in the force. This year Matt will be setting targets which he promises will be tough, but he believes that they will achieve them.

In light of recent events it was inevitable that the subject of the public taking an active part in apprehending criminals would be raised. Matt spoke about the vital role of challenging criminal activity and the line between recklessness and citizenship. His thoughts on the effectiveness of communities inflecting constraints on criminal activity were food for thought.

John Biggs, MA Assembly Member City and East London, made the point that we were a community and should focus on what sections of that community had in common rather than the differences. He went on to say that the borough was a low crime borough, and the way that the police, public agencies and faith organisations worked together, contributed to that state. He expressed concerns about the overall health of people living in the borough when compared with other London boroughs, and the role of alcohol needed some frank discussion in the near future. On a positive note the improved school meals were starting to bear fruit.

He touched on the collapse of the industrial base and the need to travel further to get to work. Children were doing well in school, but had concerns about crime and the prospect of getting involved in gang culture.

The seminar finished with a presentation from each table on the points that had been discussed in reply to the set questions given.

STRONGER, HEALTHIER & SAFER COMMUNITIES THE HALLMARKS OF PROGRESS

The seminar was very

structured with a definite

agenda to produce action, not the usual ‘talking shop’

format.

32

Train for Excellence at City School of London

We offer the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS) inclusive of Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) and Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) Duration: One year Requirements: 150 hours of teaching practice Entry Level: should hold ‘A’ Level

You will achieve Qualified Teaching Learning Skills Status (QTLS) and become a professional in the educational field within one year.

Awarding Body: City and GuildsYou will learn: Policies and procedures within Education, Government initiatives and policies:Every Child Matters; Disability Discrimination Act (1995)Special Education Needs Discrimination Act (2001); Initial AssessmentHow to analyse; How to assess; How to write assessmentsHow to differentiate through teaching using a range of techniquesPresentation skills; Enhance literacy, numeracy, language and ICT skillsYour roles, responsibilities and boundaries as a teacherPrinciples and theories in learning; CPDDesign a curriculum for inclusive practice; How to develop and manage resources

The new intake for PTLLS and DTLLS commences on 7th April 2010. College is currently enrolling students for these programmes.If you are looking to start a career in becoming a teaching assistant the College also offers an Edexcel BTEC accredited Special Education Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistance Course. (SEN - 3 day course) (Date TBD)

All the above courses have opportunities for work placements for the right candidates.

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company name with specified greeting. Order taking; appointments, etc. From £39.99 plus VAT per month.

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Other services are available, for example, general admin support; web site construction, etc. All services are supplied under one roof in Canary Wharf with a permanent staff team. Our aim is to provide total back room office support – allowing business owners to get on with what they do best!

The overall concept of this business centre approach is that business owners/entrepreneurs have all the benefits of a full office infrastructure – including staff and a building – without any of the commitments (or expense) usually associated with establishing a base. Clients are free to come and go in the office as often as they wish – costs are held to a minimum, because resources are shared.

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Flexy Office operates a ‘no extras’ policy – which means no extra charges for postage; handling or telephone calls. The price you see is the price you pay every month.

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36

INTERNET EXPLORER 9 WHAT’S THE HYPE?Microsoft’s latest version of its still dominant web browser, Internet Explorer, is eagerly anticipated, not least by professionals like us involved in website design and development.

As well as promising to be considerably quicker than its current version, Microsoft is promising that Internet Explorer 9 will boost compliance standards across all browsers.

Put simply, sites that are poorly constructed and don’t meet certain basic coding standards will simply not work on Explorer 9. Only properly built and coded websites will be supported in the browser, which is bad news for anyone tempted to use unqualified, so called ‘bedroom’ designers whose poor coding currently clogs up and slows down all browsers.

Optix already incorporate the highest compliance standards into every website we design and build, testing them against eight different browsers in the process.

Further tightening of standards has implications for businesses, as to maintain and develop their online presence it will become increasingly vital to have a professionally designed website that will be, and continue to be, supported across all the major browsers.

Further tightening of standards has implications

for businesses.

GENCH & COMPANYInternational Accountants,Tax & Business Advisers

3 Jarvis CloseBarking, Essex IG11 7PZ

Tel: 020 8220 6614Fax: 0871 560 4403

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FAIA, MCIL, MSI

[email protected]

37

NEW IMAGE CHANGEREPLACING THE LOGO

To welcome in 2010 we have decided to make a fresh start. The starting point was replacing the Chamber logo. It could have been a collective ‘New Year’s Resolution’ or perhaps the same idea occurred to everybody at the same time, who knows, but that is not important.

We approached our good friends at Barking College and asked them to design a new logo for the Chamber. Our current logo, well it can’t be current if the one shown is the new one, but hopefully you get my drift, had been around for years. Getting the hang of this, using the past tense. How quickly we forget old friends.

After some soul searching and exhaustive research and test marketing the one chosen by a democratic ballot was the quote, “It looks like stepping stones” version.

Over the months the new logo will appear on every aspect of the Chamber’s marketing material and corporate paperwork.

I have to say we tested it out on our new pull up banner alongside some others at a recent event and it stood out, for all the right reasons. I would go as far as saying that it knocked the others into a cocked hat, but perhaps that would be taking enthusiasm one step too far.

Seems as if we have lost one old friend and gained another.

The starting point was

changing the Chamber logo.

38

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The University of East London (Knowledge Dock) have for many years been working with the business community to connect students to business opportunities, enabling entrepreneurs to make the right connections to start their business, SME’s to the specific expertise to grow their business and connecting industry to the academic knowledge at the University of East London (UEL). In short, they are able to provide the latest business thinking, technology and skills to help grow a business and streamline the business process.

Martin Chan outlined a range of options that were available and introduced some current clients who are using Knowledge Dock Services.

Anthony Ward, Award Solutions gave an interesting insight into the process his company had gone through. Anthony cited three stages, starting with Clarity which helped him identify his aims, objectives and where he wanted the business to go. He felt this made the most of the mentoring time available to him. He followed on by talking about the creativity and energy he experienced as a result of the process.

Richard Grubb, Moving Curtains, explained that he had contacted Knowledge Dock after a disappointing experience with a company who he had commissioned to build a software solution for his company. Knowledge Dock put him in touch with some software developers based at UEL, who were able to meet all his requirements for immediate and future use. He has gone on to include Knowledge Dock in a number of businesses that he runs and is adamant that the experience has been totally positive and worthwhile in every respect.

This segment was rounded off with a Q&A session.

Jamie Banks thanked UEL and the various speakers for their input and flagged up some future events the Chamber will be running in the coming months. See the event section in this issue for details or our website www.bdchamber.co.uk

To contact Knowledge Dock call 020 8223 3301 or Email: [email protected] website: www.knowledgedock.com

.

NETWORK BREAKFAST BRIEFING‘FRESH IDEAS TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS’

In short, they are able to provide the

latest business thinking,

technology and skills to help grow a business and streamline

the business process.

39

REPRINT:6 COLD CALLING CLAMPDOWN TO BENEFIT SME’SSmall businesses will be the main beneficiaries when new limits on cold calling are introduced in the UK.

From June 25, businesses will have the same rights as individuals to block annoying sales calls under the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) introduced in 1999.

Under the system, businesses will be invited to register their office and mobile numbers in a directory which ‘direct marketers’ are banned from calling and must check with before picking up the phone. A parallel system is also in operation to prevent unsolicited faxes, and similar limits apply to spam email in the UK, although these are much more difficult to police.

According to the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), smaller companies will benefit most from the new rules, because of the time restrictions they face. “The government’s directive will ease the burden of unwanted cold calls on UK businesses from direct marketing companies”, said John Davies, head of business law at ACCA.” Small businesses in particular, can find this form of marketing intrusive and time consuming, but by registering free of charge with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), they will be able to freeze out the unwanted cold calls.”

The scheme, which has been operational for individual subscribers since 1999, has proved to be effective and companies will now be able to enjoy the same protection of their privacy. Davies added that, “More should be done to prevent the rising tide of spam emails which are clogging up email inboxes and regularly cause offence to recipients. He called on the Direct Marketing Association to step up its efforts to combat the problem.”

Clearly Business 16th June, 2004.

40

Steve’s Scaffold Services Ltd

4 Carrow Road, Dagenham, Essex RM9 4TJ

Telephone: 020 8526 6307

Fax: 020 8595 3808

Mobile: 07977 373566

Home: 020 8595 8833

Email: [email protected]

42

Are you paying too muchfor your Business Rates?

If you are a small business you could be entitled to receive a

reduction of up to 50%.Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) is a reduction available to business ratepayers who occupy only one property in England and Wales with a Rateable Value of less than £21,500. You can find out the Rateable Value of your premises by checking your Business Rates bill (this will also show if you are already receiving Small Business Rates Relief) or, alternatively, on the Valuation Office website: www.voa.gov.uk (go to ‘Check your Rateable Value’).

To find out if you qualify for a reduction and would like a Small Business Rates Relief application form or you are unsure if you are already receiving this reduction, please contact the Business Rates team.

Telephone: 020 8227 2934 - between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday

By email: [email protected]

Fax: 020 8227 2089

Website: www.barking-dagenham.gov.uk go to ‘Business Rates’ then “Small Business Rates Relief” to print off the application form directly, complete and return to the address below.

Post: Business Rates, PO Box 2807, Romford, Essex, RM7 1FJ

In person: 90 Stour Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM10 7JD

The Business Rates team will contact you to confirm whether you qualify, once your completed form has been received.

43

Economic forecasts suggest that 2010 is likely to be just as tough as 2009 for small businesses. The economic gloom is set to continue, so how can you raise your profile and get noticed by lots more potential customers and do it in a cost effective, time efficient way?

The answer: invest in your public relations. Public relations is about communicating with everyone that has an interest in your business. It’s about managing your reputation and making sure that you have a voice.

There are so many demands on budgets and it can be difficult to know what to cut back on and where to invest. But in a recession you want more people to know about you, so it makes sense to focus on your PR – it’s cheaper and more flexible than advertising.

Here are some simple tips to help you increase your profile:

Identify your target audienceThe first step in any effective PR campaign is to decide who you want to communicate with. Is it your customers? Potential new customers? Suppliers? Employees? Spend some time thinking about exactly who you want to see your messages.

Define the message Next, what do you want to say to them? You need to be very clear about what you want to communicate and don’t over complicate the messages. If you are looking to generate media coverage of your product or service you need to think about whether you are targeting the trade or local media, for instance. Local media will only be interested in very local stories, for example, a local business that has won a prestigious contract or an award. Trade media will be more interested in new products or services or how your company is growing.

Think about the mediumYour story may be relevant to both the trade press and the local media, but don’t forget social media. Are there any websites that may be relevant, for example, could you set up a group on Facebook or Twitter? Do you have any video of your product or service in action that you could post on YouTube?

Embrace the netAny materials you produce such as media materials, newsletters, free guides and so on, should be added to your internet site – they really help improve search engine optimisation.Where possible, include hyperlinks that link back to relevant pages on your website. This helps drive web traffic and will improve your page ranking.

Blog it!Blogs are simple to set up and again play a vital role in helping increase your search engine ranking. Blogs are a great way of connecting with a wider audience and sharing your knowledge and expertise and can help create an online community.

Consistency is kingFinally, take a look at all your marketing materials, including your website, newsletters, brochures, flyers and so on. Are they well written and professional? Are they consistent? Are you happy that they accurately reflect your business and positioning in the marketplace? People will judge your business on the basis of these materials. Make sure they work for you, not against you.If you spend time ensuring you are communicating effectively with your audiences now, your business will be top of mind when people start making buying decisions again.

About the authorJanet Rafferty runs the Message Consultancy, a public relations company which specialises in helping small businesses and organisations to raise their profiles.

For further information call 07912 295282 or email [email protected]

BUILD YOUR PROFILE TO WIN NEW CLIENTS

Public relations is about

communicating with everyone that has an

interest in your business.

44

CAPTION COMPETITIONAdd a caption to this photograph, which shows our new Chamber President, Simon Green, holding court at the recent dinner with John Cruddas MP. The winner of the best judged caption will win a bottle of Champagne donated by Simon. Please send your captions to [email protected] marked ‘Captions Competition’.

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MARCHIn Association with and Sponsored by BDEBusiness Growth Workshop SeriesSelling and Customer Care .... Hand in HandHow to out-promote, out-market and out-sell in challenging times

GUEST SPEAKER: John Sealey, ‘The Courageous Marketeer’ Your Marketing MattersDATE: Wednesday, 10 March, 2010

VENUE: Eastbury Manor House, Eastbury Square, Barking IG11 9SN TIME: 9.00am-1.30pm

In association with and sponsored by BDENo cost to attend

Special LEGI Directors’ Breakfast Briefing SeriesDATE: Thursday, 18 March, 2010 TIME: 7.45 for 8.00am-9.30am

By Invitation only

LEGI Networking EveningMike Southon, FT Columnist and Entrepreneur Mentor and Chris West, Authors of The Beermat EntrepreneurDATE: Wednesday, 24 March, 2010 VENUE: Eastbury Manor House, Eastbury Square, Barking IG11 9SN TIME: 6.00am-8.00pm

No cost to attend

APRIL1-day Training Course – Sage ‘Intermediate’DATE: 23 April, 2010

There will be a ticket price for this event

MAYJames Bond Themed Spring BallDATE: 14th May, 2010 VENUE: To be advised TIME: 7.00 for 7.30pm-1.00am

There will be a ticket price for this event which includes a 3-course dinner and ‘Alvin Jones Band’

JUNESpecial LEGI Directors’ Breakfast Briefing SeriesDATE: Wednesday, 30 June, 2010 TIME: 7.45 for 8.00am-9.30am

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474646

Employers and ChildcareWhen working parents do not know about available childcare facilities, it can affect absenteeism, lateness and retention of staff.

Many parents find that juggling their work and home lives puts them under a lot of stress.

Large sums of money are wasted on recruitment and training, because some employees with valuable skills cannot remain in the workforce when they have children, because of lack of quality childcare.

The Family Information ServiceBarking and Dagenham Family Information Service offers impartial information and advice to help working parents make informed choices about services for children up to the age of 19.

Barking and Dagenham Family Information Service can help youAs an employer you want the best from your staff in terms of commitment and enthusiasm. If staff are worried about their childcare arrangements their performance may be affected. The Family Information Service can offer a range of services to assist you and your workforce, including:

• a telephone helpline and brokerage service to help parents find childcare and other services for children up to 19 years.

• help for parents to assess if they are eligible for any financial help towards the cost of childcare

• childcare information packs for your new and existing employees

• advice sessions for your employees (at your premises or at a local children’s centre)

• information for you to display on your staff notice boards

Give us a call and help your business by helping your employees.

Contact us nowFind out more or arrange an appointment to discuss how we may be able to help your business. Contact Barking and Dagenham Family Information Service on:

Phone 020 8227 5395 Email [email protected]

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBERMarketing 4 Success LtdMarketing & Training SkillsLinda Eyre0208 270 9464

HSBC Bank plcFinancial AZulfi Hussain07920 254858

‘Mike Wood`HealthcareMike Wood020 8441 2663

1 Stop WebsWeb ServicesRobert Crisp01708 507867

Shopmobility of Barking & DagenhamCharityKitty Cluney020 8594 1687

Saunders Display UK LtdDisplay ProductsMark Saunders020 8594 7221

Panjab RadioRadio StationSurjit Ghurman020 8848 8877

Remploy LtdTraining & DevelopmentGerald Young020 8507 5820

SubwayFast FoodRaj Rao020 8507 1544

COS EssexOffice ProductsRichard Overall0845 389 3030

J+H Bateman Haulage LtdRoad HaulageJohn Bateman020 8591 4688

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Gench & CompanyInternational AccountantsGuvench Gench0208 595 4400

Connection Electrical & Alarm Services LtdElectrical ContractorsDavid Collier01708 752286

Premier InnHotelDaniela Delucia0870 990 6318

Treasure FinanceMortgage, InsuranceMayowa Oluyede020 8517 8866

Essex Wrought Iron LimitedGate Manufacturers, Welders & FabricatorsMr Marnham020 8592 9619

Steve’s Scaffold Services LtdScaffold ContractorSteve Hewitt020 8526 6307

DJ RobboDJRobert Baillie07510 536178

Smiths Sports ToursSports ToursNigel Smith07870 413548

Going Forward EnterprisesVolunteering AbroadFretta Toussaint07908 217623

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