The last 12 months have been incredibly tough for all of us, but we’re optimistic that 2010 will be a great year for UK small businesses. To succeed, businesses will need a sound understanding of their priorities and strategies. Based on our discussions with small business owners, we have come up with the Top 10 Goals for 2010 that every small business owner needs to think about.
Here is a taste of some of the tips on offer:
1. I will sort out my finances
Sometimes even the greatest business ideas can fail due to a simple lack of readily available cash. This is something that many small business owners find challenging to keep track of, but it’s vital to be aware of how much is being spent and for what, as is tracking VAT and making accurate returns. It is important to keep on top of bookkeeping right from the start, otherwise there is a risk of forgetting crucial costs or, even worse, failing to invoice a customer.
2. I will learn something new
Going solo can be nerve-wracking and lonely at times, however there is an absolute wealth of advice and top tips available online, as well as many forums and communities where other small businesses share their experiences. Our blog has advice and tips, including the ‘Secret Guide for Small Business’, which was created by small businesses for small businesses. Smarta, Enterprise Nation and BusinessLink are just a few other examples of sites where you can get free information and support.




Small Business Britain: On the airwaves!
As part our Small Business Britain campaign, our managing director Pernille Bruun-Jensen, took to the airwaves to discuss the importance of UK small businesses in the run up to the election.
She chatted with more than 20 radio stations around the UK, sharing the findings of our Small Business Britain survey, as well as some of the key tips that came from the research.
Couldn’t get to the radio in time? Click on the podcast below to hear Pernille’s interview with BBC Radio Northampton (104.2-103.6FM).
Some of the advice that Pernille shared from small business owners around the UK included:
Be heard! Use channels such as Small Business Britain to make sure your voice is heard, and to call on the government, elected bodies, banks and the wider business community to support your success and prosperity.
Make it personal – According to our research, 84% of small businesses believe that their ability to provide a more personal touch with customers is a key advantage. Start-ups and small companies can show a fresher, newer approach and take advantage of their flexibility.
Keep on top of accounts – Awareness of how much is being spent and for what is important. Our research showed that 85% of small businesses felt the best way to manage cash flow was to always keep accounts up-to-date.
Don’t be late – Most small businesses have experienced difficulty with timely customer payments. Put simply, if you don’t get paid, you won’t be in business for long. Our research showed that the number one way to avoid late payments is to set up clear payment terms at an early stage (48%).
If you want to know more about Small Business Britain or have some comments on the Charter, please get involved and post your thoughts on our discussion boards.
Posted at 06:28 PM in Advice, Banks, Cash flow, Comment, Customer service, radio, Small Business Britain, Small business success, Startups, Top tips | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)