As part of the UK launch of our latest version of QuickBooks, Catherine Harrell, Small Business Specialist at Intuit took to the airwaves to talk about the issues facing UK small businesses today.
She spoke to over 15 radio stations around the UK, sharing some great tips for those thinking about starting a business, and also on how to cope with one of the key challenges of today – the rumoured VAT changes.
Couldn’t get to the radio in time? Click on the podcast below to hear Catherine’s interview with Waves Radio 101.2 FM in North East Scotland.
Waves Radio 101.2 FM Podcast
Some of the advice that Catherine shared for small business owners that are concerned about imminent or future VAT changes included:
• Save time and headaches by automating your bookkeeping: if you’re using spreadsheets or paper-based methods to keep track of your accounts, filing VAT can be extremely time-consuming. Using some simple accounting software can take the pain out of this process and greatly reduce the likelihood of a costly mistake in calculation. When changes in VAT rates do happen – you can automatically update your records with a minimum of fuss!
• Make the most of online resources: there is a wealth of important information and handy tips available online which can help you to get prepared for any upcoming changes. Take a look at the HMRC website to keep up to date with VAT Notices, news and updates. There are also many forums where other UK small business owners are happy to share their experience.
• Don’t get caught out: with all the pressures of running a business, it’s easy to forget important dates such as deadlines for VAT returns and payments. However if you miss the deadline, you may have to pay a surcharge. Keeping your books up-to-date will help you to avoid rushing to calculate VAT and making errors.
Have we missed something? Feel free to add your top tips on coping with VAT by commenting below.
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)
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