https://fleximize.com/ en-uk Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:33:13 +0100 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:33:13 +0100 https://fleximize.com/articles/269919/business-tax-year-dates-deadlines Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:02:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/269919/business-tax-year-dates-deadlines A roundup of important tax year dates, payment deadlines, and legislation changes for 2024/25. Use our calendar to prepare for the new financial year with ease. https://fleximize.com/articles/238066/top-20-business-podcasts Tue, 05 Dec 2023 19:52:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/238066/top-20-business-podcasts Discover the top 20 business podcasts for 2024 featuring innovative entrepreneurs, authoritative figures and inspirational leaders https://fleximize.com/articles/018166/black-friday-sale Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000 Jessica Flinn https://fleximize.com/articles/018166/black-friday-sale Is a Black Friday sale right for your business? Fine jewellery purveyor Jessica Flinn explores tackling Black Friday as an SME in the luxury goods market https://fleximize.com/articles/016440/stress-small-business-owner Wed, 01 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000 Henry Brookman https://fleximize.com/articles/016440/stress-small-business-owner Henry Brookman of Brookman Solicitors explores how to recognize the signs you might be feeling stressed in your role as a small business owner https://fleximize.com/articles/017053/understanding-cash-flow-analysis Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:51:00 +0000 Jade Jordan https://fleximize.com/articles/017053/understanding-cash-flow-analysis Tracking cash flow is essential to the health of your business. Here's a guide to cash flow analysis and how to use this insight to manage your finances https://fleximize.com/articles/235840/presentation-design-trends Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:26:00 +0100 Alina Midori Hernández https://fleximize.com/articles/235840/presentation-design-trends Learn to make your presentation shine with these examples of truly eye-catching graphic design trends in 2023, according to Alina Hernández at Envato Elements. https://fleximize.com/articles/235402/employee-buyout Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:08:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/235402/employee-buyout This helpful guide covers the pros and cons of employee buyouts. Learn whether an employee buyout would be a good transition strategy for your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/234931/master-customer-feedback Fri, 29 Sep 2023 09:55:00 +0100 Scott Dodson https://fleximize.com/articles/234931/master-customer-feedback Customer feedback is essential to business owners. Scott Dodson, Chief Growth Officer at PaleBlue, discusses measuring customer satisfaction in the world of tech. https://fleximize.com/articles/236697/targeting-leads-black-friday Tue, 26 Sep 2023 15:15:00 +0100 Demi Edmunds https://fleximize.com/articles/236697/targeting-leads-black-friday With last year's Black Friday being fully digital, Demi Edmunds of TextAnywhere outlines five strategies to help UK SMEs target high-quality leads https://fleximize.com/articles/004237/best-ecommerce-platforms-for-small-retailers Tue, 26 Sep 2023 10:30:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/004237/best-ecommerce-platforms-for-small-retailers Discover the top five best e-commerce platforms for small retailers with our handy guide. Discover pros and cons, pricing, and overall best options for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/018162/crm-data-marketing Tue, 26 Sep 2023 09:30:00 +0100 Ella Patenall https://fleximize.com/articles/018162/crm-data-marketing Using CRM data correctly can lead to successful personalised marketing campaigns that aid business growth. Ella Patenall shares her outreach tips https://fleximize.com/articles/233340/business-budget-tips Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:44:00 +0100 Ida Ohlsson https://fleximize.com/articles/233340/business-budget-tips Budgets are crucial for the success of any small or medium business. Use these ten tips to ensure that you manage your SME budget and are always prepared financially.  https://fleximize.com/articles/233248/creating-a-business-budget-that-works Wed, 23 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0100 Simon Bacher https://fleximize.com/articles/233248/creating-a-business-budget-that-works Create a business budget that actually works for your company. Simon Bacher, CEO of ed tech app Ling, talks about the budgeting lessons he learnt to launch Ling into the app store - and keep it there https://fleximize.com/articles/232956/small-business-budget-allocation Tue, 22 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0100 Lauren Wakeling https://fleximize.com/articles/232956/small-business-budget-allocation Manage your small business budget with ease using this essential guide to budget allocation. Steal this handy budgeting blueprint for your own business https://fleximize.com/articles/233083/setting-prices-strategy Mon, 21 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0100 Matthew Hayes https://fleximize.com/articles/233083/setting-prices-strategy Have you set your prices correctly? Learn how to create a pricing strategy with our in-depth look at the five things you need to analyse in your business to get your prices right. https://fleximize.com/articles/233111/sme-sales-summer-holidays Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0100 Chris Price https://fleximize.com/articles/233111/sme-sales-summer-holidays 75% of B2B businesses report a drop in sales during July and August. Learn how to beat the school summer holiday sales slump with advice from journalist Chris Price, writer at The Telegraph https://fleximize.com/articles/231067/flexible-working-school-holidays Wed, 26 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0100 Catherine Oliver https://fleximize.com/articles/231067/flexible-working-school-holidays Employees with school-age children can find the summer holidays a challenge. Here's how employers can make flexible working arrangements to ease the work-life balance. https://fleximize.com/articles/000814/business-ready-for-summer Tue, 25 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0100 Catherine Oliver https://fleximize.com/articles/000814/business-ready-for-summer Level up your business by remaining agile to seasonal business trends. Our guide explains how to make the most of the school summer holidays. https://fleximize.com/articles/018587/recovery-loan-scheme Thu, 20 Jul 2023 15:04:00 +0100 Catherine Oliver https://fleximize.com/articles/018587/recovery-loan-scheme The recovery loan scheme is designed to support access to finance for UK businesses. However, there have been some key changes to the scheme since its launch in 2021. https://fleximize.com/articles/229767/lgbtqia-inclusive-workplaces Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:29:00 +0100 Joseph Williams https://fleximize.com/articles/229767/lgbtqia-inclusive-workplaces A commitment to LGBTQI+ inclusion in the workplace can actually strengthen a business’s strategic position. https://fleximize.com/articles/229269/cultural-differences-business Fri, 14 Jul 2023 14:09:00 +0100 Robin N. Hamilton https://fleximize.com/articles/229269/cultural-differences-business Differences in communication styles don't have to be a problem in cross-cultural teams. Find out how to use cultural differences to benefit everyone in your SME https://fleximize.com/articles/227763/hr-crisis-management Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:27:00 +0100 Jessica Fuhl https://fleximize.com/articles/227763/hr-crisis-management This useful guide to crafting a strong HR crisis management strategy explains all you need to know to prevent a crisis turning into a disaster for your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/228152/business-strategy-guide Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0100 Kesar Rana https://fleximize.com/articles/228152/business-strategy-guide Six tips for adapting your business strategy in the pre-recession era. Learn how to navigate market trends, build resilience, and leverage technology to stay competitive https://fleximize.com/articles/228074/independent-retail-bucking-trends Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:30:00 +0100 Wizz Selvey https://fleximize.com/articles/228074/independent-retail-bucking-trends Independent shops can thrive on the high street. Find out how independent retailers can buck trends to beat the big name stores. https://fleximize.com/articles/008967/payment-options-for-businesses Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/008967/payment-options-for-businesses The payment options you offer to customers can have a significant impact on sales. Here's a look at the pros and cons of cash, card, and mobile payments to help you decide https://fleximize.com/articles/226911/commercial-finance-broker Mon, 12 Jun 2023 12:35:00 +0100 Catherine Oliver https://fleximize.com/articles/226911/commercial-finance-broker Commercial finance brokers can help you understand your business financing options, and get you access to the right funding. https://fleximize.com/articles/015911/employee-burnout Mon, 12 Jun 2023 11:47:00 +0100 Carolyn Nevitte https://fleximize.com/articles/015911/employee-burnout Discover seven early signs of employee burnout and what to do about it. Find out how preventing employee burnout can increase productivity and reduce workplace based stress https://fleximize.com/articles/226271/tiktok-marketing-guide Mon, 05 Jun 2023 16:00:00 +0100 Catherine Oliver https://fleximize.com/articles/226271/tiktok-marketing-guide Your complete Tiktok marketing guide, including a free 30 Day TikTok ideas PDF download. Use Tiktok's unique community to gain a competitive advantage for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/016443/build-successful-company-website Fri, 02 Jun 2023 10:27:00 +0100 Kris Jeary https://fleximize.com/articles/016443/build-successful-company-website A well-designed website is important for brand experience and business growth. Kris Jeary offers five aspects to consider when building your website https://fleximize.com/articles/019389/sme-working-with-micro-influencers Fri, 02 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0100 Annabel Mulliner https://fleximize.com/articles/019389/sme-working-with-micro-influencers Influencer marketing is often too expensive for SMEs, but working with 'micro-influencers' could provide a healthy return on investment https://fleximize.com/articles/226168/marketing-on-a-budget Fri, 12 May 2023 15:21:00 +0100 Kesar Rana https://fleximize.com/articles/226168/marketing-on-a-budget Develop marketing tactics on a budget for your small business with our tips for creating cost-effective strategies https://fleximize.com/articles/224881/small-business-tax-deductions Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:41:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/224881/small-business-tax-deductions The new tax year begins 6th April 2024. Learn what's changed and prepare your SME to take advantage of upcoming small business tax deductions https://fleximize.com/articles/223663/business-tax-year-dates-deadlines Wed, 05 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/223663/business-tax-year-dates-deadlines A roundup of important tax year dates, payment deadlines, and legislation changes for 2023/24. Use our calendar to prepare for the new financial year with ease. https://fleximize.com/articles/224123/reduce-business-energy-costs Fri, 31 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/224123/reduce-business-energy-costs The Energy Bill Relief Scheme ended on 31 March. Manage rising energy costs with commercial energy-efficient technology with our free guide https://fleximize.com/articles/223459/13-tools-your-business-needs-2023 Tue, 14 Mar 2023 16:35:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/223459/13-tools-your-business-needs-2023 Discover small business tools, productivity and accounting software to save you time and money. We round up the best free cash flow resources for UK SMEs. https://fleximize.com/articles/221037/innovative-recruitment-strategies Thu, 02 Feb 2023 19:03:00 +0000 Jill Bates https://fleximize.com/articles/221037/innovative-recruitment-strategies Attract top talent with innovative recruitment strategies that demonstrate your company's value. Start today with our step-by-step recruitment strategy guide. https://fleximize.com/articles/209630/increasing-business-prices-guide Wed, 18 Jan 2023 10:47:00 +0000 Nick Shaw https://fleximize.com/articles/209630/increasing-business-prices-guide Our guide takes you through the steps of increasing your business's prices without negatively affecting your customers. https://fleximize.com/articles/208926/ways-to-cut-business-costs Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:07:00 +0000 Liz Rosling https://fleximize.com/articles/208926/ways-to-cut-business-costs Learn how to combat economic downturn with a well planned cost reduction strategy. We share the best ways to cut business costs without risking future growth. https://fleximize.com/articles/017562/retention-marketing-for-smes Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:21:00 +0000 Conor Cawley https://fleximize.com/articles/017562/retention-marketing-for-smes Here's our guide to retention marketing to help you foster loyalty amongst customers. Learn how to create a successful retention marketing strategy here https://fleximize.com/articles/198850/everything-about-quiet-quitting Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:54:00 +0100 Ashley Gurr https://fleximize.com/articles/198850/everything-about-quiet-quitting As a business owner, you may have recently come across the term ’quiet quitting’ in the media and may not be sure exactly what it means, how to recognize it, or how to approach it. https://fleximize.com/articles/193769/social-listening Fri, 30 Sep 2022 11:37:00 +0100 Vicky Groombridge https://fleximize.com/articles/193769/social-listening Social listening is an integral part of any business's marketing strategy. Vicky from REad Group shares her insights into the benefits of social listening and what the best tools are. https://fleximize.com/articles/192926/energy-bill-relief-scheme Fri, 23 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0100 Jade Isaac https://fleximize.com/articles/192926/energy-bill-relief-scheme In this guide, we outline the support small businesses can expect from the Energy Bill Relief Scheme and steps you can take to save money on your energy bills. https://fleximize.com/articles/185741/social-media-and-the-law Wed, 10 Aug 2022 14:55:00 +0100 Dallia Appleton https://fleximize.com/articles/185741/social-media-and-the-law Knowing how to deal with any legal risks that come with posting on social media is essential to creating a safe online working environment. https://fleximize.com/articles/180373/transgender-rights-protection-in-the-workplace Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:46:00 +0100 Sasha Brine https://fleximize.com/articles/180373/transgender-rights-protection-in-the-workplace A trans-inclusive workplace is critical to building a safe, productive environment. Here's a legal guide to protecting transgender employees at work https://fleximize.com/articles/175005/overcoming-the-skills-shortage-in-the-uk Tue, 24 May 2022 10:13:00 +0100 Deepak Shukla https://fleximize.com/articles/175005/overcoming-the-skills-shortage-in-the-uk The UK skills gap has made it increasingly difficult for small businesses to recruit in 2022. Founder Deepak Shukla shares his advice on hiring new talent https://fleximize.com/articles/174582/taking-legal-action-against-late-payments Tue, 26 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0100 Andrew Farrguia https://fleximize.com/articles/174582/taking-legal-action-against-late-payments Late payments can be fatal for a small business. Discover LawBite's guide to the legal action you can take to resolve late payments and protect cash flow https://fleximize.com/articles/000596/submitting-vat-returns Thu, 31 Mar 2022 01:00:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/000596/submitting-vat-returns Unsure how to submit a VAT return to HMRC? In this handy guide, Fleximize covers everything a business owner should know to calculate and pay their VAT bill https://fleximize.com/articles/019870/tax-changes-april-2022 Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 Charlotte Nash https://fleximize.com/articles/019870/tax-changes-april-2022 Ahead of the new tax year, Crunch outlines key changes affecting businesses in April 2022, including increases in National Insurance rates and dividend tax https://fleximize.com/articles/019849/commercial-rent-leases-evictions Thu, 24 Mar 2022 10:12:00 +0000 LawBite https://fleximize.com/articles/019849/commercial-rent-leases-evictions With the end of the commercial evictions ban in the UK, LawBite shares how small business owners can resolve the issue of rent arrears on a business lease https://fleximize.com/articles/019763/support-for-female-entrepreneurs Tue, 08 Mar 2022 00:30:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/019763/support-for-female-entrepreneurs If you're a female founder or woman in business looking for support, check out Fleximize's hub of online resources, network groups, and finance providers https://fleximize.com/articles/001739/a-positive-workplace-is-a-great-motivator Fri, 04 Mar 2022 00:30:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/001739/a-positive-workplace-is-a-great-motivator Fleximize shares different strategies for keeping the workforce motivated such as providing a positive environment, making employees feel valued, and more https://fleximize.com/articles/019738/the-art-of-demand-forecasting Wed, 23 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 Nick Shaw https://fleximize.com/articles/019738/the-art-of-demand-forecasting Predicting consumer demand is key to good business decisions. Nick Shaw of Brightpearl reveals how you can accurately forecast demand to maximize sales https://fleximize.com/articles/019698/5-ways-manage-rising-costs Fri, 18 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/019698/5-ways-manage-rising-costs Rising business costs, from energy prices to salaries, pose a serious threat to businesses in the UK. Here are 5 ways to protect your SME against inflation https://fleximize.com/articles/019685/vaccines-guide-for-employers Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:51:00 +0000 Kim Knox https://fleximize.com/articles/019685/vaccines-guide-for-employers The Covid vaccine could aid employers looking to get back to normal, but there are legal issues to consider before approaching your staff. Lawbite explores https://fleximize.com/articles/019634/why-apprentices-crucial-sme-growth Sun, 06 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/019634/why-apprentices-crucial-sme-growth Apprenticeships have always been helpful to businesses, but they could prove vital to post-pandemic recovery. Here are 4 top tips for managing an apprentice https://fleximize.com/articles/019598/7-ways-mental-health Sun, 16 Jan 2022 13:29:00 +0000 Peter Tuvey https://fleximize.com/articles/019598/7-ways-mental-health Peter Tuvey, CEO of Fleximize, shares 7 easy steps for small business owners to improve their mental health, and how this can boost company performance https://fleximize.com/articles/019534/going-green-british-manufacturers Tue, 30 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000 John Pearce https://fleximize.com/articles/019534/going-green-british-manufacturers Adopting eco-friendly practices is difficult for SMEs, but in light of COP26, it's a must. Made in Britain reveals how manufacturers can go greener, faster https://fleximize.com/articles/019521/building-an-efficient-sales-funnel Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 Rebecca Barnatt-Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/019521/building-an-efficient-sales-funnel Optimizing your sales funnel is essential to ensuring your online followers are converted to loyal customers. Rebecca Barnatt-Smith shares her key tactics https://fleximize.com/articles/019468/post-brexit-movement-of-goods Wed, 13 Oct 2021 16:30:00 +0100 Carla Caroli https://fleximize.com/articles/019468/post-brexit-movement-of-goods Brexit rules continue to disrupt small businesses trading abroad. Lawbite's Carla Caroli shares a practical checklist for importing and exporting to the EU https://fleximize.com/articles/019424/find-packaging-design-partner Wed, 06 Oct 2021 01:00:00 +0100 Rich Quelch https://fleximize.com/articles/019424/find-packaging-design-partner Packaging can greatly impact your supply chain efficiency, so how can you improve your design? Rich Quelch explores hiring the right packaging partner https://fleximize.com/articles/019354/vat-changes-for-smes-2021 Fri, 10 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0100 Ross Bramble https://fleximize.com/articles/019354/vat-changes-for-smes-2021 VAT is changing for UK businesses, and it's vital to be prepared for updates like Making Tax Digital. Read Crunch's quick summary to learn the key deadlines https://fleximize.com/articles/019369/restaurant-upselling-techniques-boost-profits Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:24:00 +0100 Laura-Andreea Voicu https://fleximize.com/articles/019369/restaurant-upselling-techniques-boost-profits Encouraging your staff to upsell to customers can play a big role in boosting your restaurant profits. Here are 10 upselling techniques proven to work. https://fleximize.com/articles/019335/guide-to-intellectual-property-smes Mon, 06 Sep 2021 16:32:00 +0100 Kevin Hanson https://fleximize.com/articles/019335/guide-to-intellectual-property-smes Intellectual Property can be a business' most valuable asset, so it's vital to secure the right legal protection. Lawbite's Kevin Hanson explores in detail https://fleximize.com/articles/019270/starting-a-wholesale-business Fri, 27 Aug 2021 09:09:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/019270/starting-a-wholesale-business If you're looking to start a wholesale distribution business in the UK, here are 8 easy steps to launch your brand, identify suppliers, and win new clients https://fleximize.com/articles/019231/how-manufacturers-can-leverage-ai Wed, 18 Aug 2021 01:00:00 +0100 Jinender Jain https://fleximize.com/articles/019231/how-manufacturers-can-leverage-ai The emergence of artificial intelligence and augmented reality gives manufacturers a great opportunity to streamline processes and grow efficiently. Here's how https://fleximize.com/articles/002211/what-is-supply-and-demand Mon, 16 Aug 2021 03:00:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/002211/what-is-supply-and-demand Supply and demand laws are key to understanding your market, increasing sales, and turning a healthy profit. Read Fleximize's guide for SME's to learn more https://fleximize.com/articles/000724/choose-online-inventory-management-system Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/000724/choose-online-inventory-management-system Discover how picking the best inventory management system for your small business can improve purchase decisions, shorten lead times, and boost profits https://fleximize.com/articles/001027/10-steps-to-attracting-customers-away-from-your-competitors Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:00:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/001027/10-steps-to-attracting-customers-away-from-your-competitors Winning customers from the competition is the fastest way to increase your market share and sales. Follow these 10 steps to attract and retain new customers https://fleximize.com/articles/001983/boost-footfall-in-retail Fri, 09 Jul 2021 01:00:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/001983/boost-footfall-in-retail If you're a retail business owner struggling to drive traffic to your store, follow our 10 easy steps to boost your retail footfall and increase shop sales https://fleximize.com/articles/018825/boost-patient-engagement Fri, 02 Jul 2021 02:00:00 +0100 Sam O’Brien https://fleximize.com/articles/018825/boost-patient-engagement With more and more patients expecting digital-first services, we take a look at four strategies you can use as a medical practice to better serve your customers and improve engagement https://fleximize.com/articles/018831/new-eu-vat-e-commerce-rules Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:02:00 +0100 Andrew Diver https://fleximize.com/articles/018831/new-eu-vat-e-commerce-rules ​From the 1st of July, the new EU VAT e-commerce rules will introduce significant changes for UK businesses selling to EU consumers. Here's everything you need to know https://fleximize.com/articles/018823/an-smes-guide-to-the-end-of-furlough Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:27:00 +0100 Simon Thomas https://fleximize.com/articles/018823/an-smes-guide-to-the-end-of-furlough As the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme comes to a close on 30th September 2021, Simon Thomas explores everything UK SMEs need to know in order to prepare their business and employees https://fleximize.com/articles/015814/uk-fashion-startups Fri, 11 Jun 2021 02:00:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/015814/uk-fashion-startups As London Fashion Week gets underway, we're showcasing five UK startups making a name for themselves in the British fashion industry beyond the pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/018771/guide-to-office-clearance Thu, 10 Jun 2021 15:52:00 +0100 Rebecca Sheeres https://fleximize.com/articles/018771/guide-to-office-clearance If you want to downsize your office, here's a step-by-step guide to office clearance by the experts at AnyJunk, covering everything from choosing a clearance firm to documentation https://fleximize.com/articles/018729/starting-a-hospitality-business Wed, 19 May 2021 16:12:00 +0100 Stacey McIntosh https://fleximize.com/articles/018729/starting-a-hospitality-business Here's everything you need to know about starting a hospitality business in 2021, from writing a post-lockdown business plan to embracing technology https://fleximize.com/articles/018723/tax-deadlines-limited-company Tue, 18 May 2021 11:31:00 +0100 Simon Thomas https://fleximize.com/articles/018723/tax-deadlines-limited-company Limited company owners need to adhere to several tax deadlines for Companies House and HMRC. Here's a breakdown of all the tax deadlines you need to be aware of as a limited company business owner. https://fleximize.com/articles/018717/get-more-restaurant-reviews Mon, 17 May 2021 16:38:00 +0100 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/018717/get-more-restaurant-reviews Online reviews can make or break a restaurant, particularly as hospitality recovers from the pandemic. Here are 5 ways to build credibility and get more customer reviews for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/018713/hotels-tech-drive-revenue Tue, 11 May 2021 15:41:00 +0100 Peter King https://fleximize.com/articles/018713/hotels-tech-drive-revenue Technology such as cloud communication and contactless payments can help keep your hotel trading during the pandemic. Here's how to use technology to keep your hotel running. https://fleximize.com/articles/018578/vat-reverse-charge-construction Tue, 06 Apr 2021 15:22:00 +0100 ​Craig Farmer https://fleximize.com/articles/018578/vat-reverse-charge-construction The new 2021 VAT reverse charge impacts how VAT-registered businesses operating under CIS process their invoices. Here's everything you need to know https://fleximize.com/articles/018585/end-of-2020-21-tax-year Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:25:00 +0100 Ross Bramble https://fleximize.com/articles/018585/end-of-2020-21-tax-year A guide exploring how to prepare for the end of the 2020/21 tax year as a sole trader or director of a limited company, brought to you by the experts at Crunch https://fleximize.com/articles/010737/open-banking-what-it-means-for-businesses Fri, 26 Mar 2021 09:00:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/010737/open-banking-what-it-means-for-businesses The launch of Open Banking in the UK could end the banks' dominance of the financial services sector. But what benefits, if any, will this have for SMEs? https://fleximize.com/articles/004002/the-rise-of-the-startups Wed, 24 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/004002/the-rise-of-the-startups The swell in UK startups and digital businesses has been remarkable helping to grow the UK economy, but what are the stats behind this rise? https://fleximize.com/articles/018351/consumer-trust-ecommerce-2021 Tue, 26 Jan 2021 12:20:00 +0000 Jon Higham https://fleximize.com/articles/018351/consumer-trust-ecommerce-2021 Creating consumer trust for your eCommerce business is vital to continue trading during the Covid-19 pandemic. Jon Higgins explores building trust online https://fleximize.com/articles/018321/covid-19-marketing-your-business Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:53:00 +0000 Dean Standing https://fleximize.com/articles/018321/covid-19-marketing-your-business When it comes to communicating with customers during the pandemic, marketing can help small businesses get back on their feet that bit quicker. Here’s how https://fleximize.com/articles/018315/build-your-brand-recession Tue, 19 Jan 2021 14:47:00 +0000 Charlotte Nichols https://fleximize.com/articles/018315/build-your-brand-recession Recessions are a challenge for SMEs but they also bring opportunity. Charlotte Nichols of Harvey & Hugo shares 5 ways PR and marketing can help in a crisis https://fleximize.com/articles/018298/pr-maximize-reach-2021 Thu, 14 Jan 2021 12:43:00 +0000 Ellen Widdup https://fleximize.com/articles/018298/pr-maximize-reach-2021 It's vital for SMEs to alter their PR strategies in 2021 so that they can continue to reach customers during the pandemic. Ellen Widdup explores https://fleximize.com/articles/018292/why-customer-personas-matter Wed, 13 Jan 2021 10:55:00 +0000 Rebecca Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/018292/why-customer-personas-matter Customer personas can attract high-value leads and loyal customers. Learn how to create them with our easy step-by-step guide https://fleximize.com/articles/018284/entering-introduction-agreements Tue, 12 Jan 2021 12:20:00 +0000 Patrick McCallum https://fleximize.com/articles/018284/entering-introduction-agreements Patrick McCallum of Wright Hassall LLP explores eight steps business owners should take when entering into an introduction agreement https://fleximize.com/articles/018255/check-business-hmrc-position Wed, 23 Dec 2020 15:27:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/018255/check-business-hmrc-position Here's our handy guide covering how UK business owners can check their company's HMRC position for PAYE and VAT online https://fleximize.com/articles/018250/covid19-accountant-support Tue, 22 Dec 2020 12:11:00 +0000 Elizabeth Hughes https://fleximize.com/articles/018250/covid19-accountant-support Elizabeth Hughes of Pandle outlines the many ways an accountant can provide practical guidance to help business owners weather the Covid-19 storm https://fleximize.com/articles/018242/what-happens-to-vat-after-brexit Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:23:00 +0000 Andrew Diver https://fleximize.com/articles/018242/what-happens-to-vat-after-brexit Andrew Diver, Head of Taxation at Beatons Group, debunks some common myths about VAT after Brexit & sheds some light on what may happen in the months ahead https://fleximize.com/articles/018237/commercial-contracts-duty-to-act-responsibly Fri, 18 Dec 2020 13:10:00 +0000 Evie Clemance https://fleximize.com/articles/018237/commercial-contracts-duty-to-act-responsibly Evie Clemance of Backhouse Solicitors talks us through government guidance on acting responsibly when enforcing contractual arrangements during the pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/018204/ecommerce-strategy-2021 Tue, 15 Dec 2020 16:08:00 +0000 Maura Monaghan https://fleximize.com/articles/018204/ecommerce-strategy-2021 As the pandemic pushes consumer spending further online, many SMEs may benefit from revisiting their ecommerce strategy. Maura Monaghan shares her top tips https://fleximize.com/articles/018198/community-based-marketing Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:06:00 +0000 Ashley Friedlein https://fleximize.com/articles/018198/community-based-marketing Ashley Friedlein explores the concept of community based marketing and shares tips on how to create your own community as a B2B SME https://fleximize.com/articles/018177/seasonal-marketing-campaigns-b2b Tue, 01 Dec 2020 14:51:00 +0000 Andy Woods https://fleximize.com/articles/018177/seasonal-marketing-campaigns-b2b Annual holidays and events are a lucrative business. Rouge Media's Andy Woods shares nine tips for creating a successful B2B seasonal marketing campaign https://fleximize.com/articles/018173/sme-guide-data-protection-brexit Thu, 26 Nov 2020 14:30:00 +0000 ​Jonathan Smy https://fleximize.com/articles/018173/sme-guide-data-protection-brexit Jonathan Smy of SMY IT Services explores the new data protection regulations that business owners need to be aware of as the UK leaves the European Union https://fleximize.com/articles/013580/small-business-christmas-gift-guide Wed, 25 Nov 2020 10:43:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013580/small-business-christmas-gift-guide With Christmas just around the corner, we share our favourite small businesses to shop with, including an interactive map of the businesses local to you https://fleximize.com/articles/016613/east-anglian-christmas-food-producers Wed, 25 Nov 2020 10:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016613/east-anglian-christmas-food-producers We've put together an extensive list of independent food producers across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex to help you shop local this Christmas https://fleximize.com/articles/018157/smes-and-greenwashing Thu, 12 Nov 2020 14:43:00 +0000 Donald Moore https://fleximize.com/articles/018157/smes-and-greenwashing Greenwashing is common amongst UK SMEs and this needs to change. Donald Moore shares a number of steps SMEs can take to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 https://fleximize.com/articles/018127/talk-money-week-2022 Tue, 10 Nov 2020 15:46:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/018127/talk-money-week-2022 We take a look at how business owners can cultivate healthy conversations about money, along with outlining three steps to achieve stable cash flow https://fleximize.com/articles/018105/trading-through-lockdown Fri, 06 Nov 2020 11:47:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/018105/trading-through-lockdown We take a look at some of the platforms small business owners can use in order to keep trading safely during Lockdown 3.0 https://fleximize.com/articles/018120/understand-your-payslip Thu, 05 Nov 2020 16:08:00 +0000 Stacey McIntosh https://fleximize.com/articles/018120/understand-your-payslip Stacey McIntosh of Sage Advice UK​ talks us through how to understand your payslips as an employee, including a look at key terminology https://fleximize.com/articles/018100/managing-document-security Mon, 02 Nov 2020 16:03:00 +0000 Ben Liu https://fleximize.com/articles/018100/managing-document-security Ben Liu of Kofax takes a look at why it's essential to invest time into protecting your business' paperwork and digital file infrastructure https://fleximize.com/articles/018096/business-risks-for-contractors Fri, 30 Oct 2020 11:02:00 +0000 Paul Monaco https://fleximize.com/articles/018096/business-risks-for-contractors Paul Monaco of Focus Oxford Risk Management explores the 10 most common business risks facing UK contractors and how to overcome them https://fleximize.com/articles/018079/brand-image-instagram Mon, 26 Oct 2020 16:29:00 +0000 Denise Langenegger https://fleximize.com/articles/018079/brand-image-instagram Denise Langenegger of Instasize explores the power of a brand 'aesthetic' on social media and six steps to creating impactful visual content on Instagram https://fleximize.com/articles/018022/2020-corporate-tax-submissions Fri, 23 Oct 2020 10:08:00 +0100 Tim Pearce https://fleximize.com/articles/018022/2020-corporate-tax-submissions Tim Pearce outlines the new changes to Corporate Tax Submissions that will impact UK SMEs, such as the recently reduced VAT rate in the hospitality sector https://fleximize.com/articles/018010/how-to-rebuild-business-reputation Wed, 21 Oct 2020 10:44:00 +0100 Angela Podmore https://fleximize.com/articles/018010/how-to-rebuild-business-reputation Angela Podmore, CEO and Founder of Kinetic Communications, discusses how SMEs can work to rebuild their reputation amid times of unrest https://fleximize.com/articles/017996/motherhood-penalty-parental-pay Mon, 19 Oct 2020 12:07:00 +0100 Eliza Serna-Cochrane https://fleximize.com/articles/017996/motherhood-penalty-parental-pay Eliza Serna-Cochrane reveals how UK legislation and workplace discrimination make it difficult for new mothers to return to work and steps to change this https://fleximize.com/articles/017948/apprenticeships-kickstart-scheme Wed, 14 Oct 2020 15:59:00 +0100 Simon Thomas https://fleximize.com/articles/017948/apprenticeships-kickstart-scheme Simon Thomas of Ridgefield Consulting covers everything employers need to know about hiring apprentices in 2021, including the government Kickstart Scheme https://fleximize.com/articles/017934/fleet-management-challenges Mon, 12 Oct 2020 15:22:00 +0100 Andreas Schneider https://fleximize.com/articles/017934/fleet-management-challenges Andreas Schneider shares how to tackle common fleet management challenges by leveraging technology, like preparing for the introduction of Clean Air Zones https://fleximize.com/articles/017909/north-star-metric Thu, 01 Oct 2020 17:24:00 +0100 Andy Woods https://fleximize.com/articles/017909/north-star-metric Andy Woods explores how the North Star Metric helped Silicon Valley startups find success and how UK SMEs can apply the same concept to their web design https://fleximize.com/articles/017905/technology-upskill-staff Wed, 30 Sep 2020 11:30:00 +0100 Aldona Limani https://fleximize.com/articles/017905/technology-upskill-staff With many SMEs postponing employee training due to the pandemic, we explore why now is the time to focus on upskilling staff and how technology can help https://fleximize.com/articles/017901/ethical-leadership Mon, 28 Sep 2020 16:28:00 +0100 Michelle Wright https://fleximize.com/articles/017901/ethical-leadership It's vital to make ethical business decisions in times of hardship. Michelle Wright, Founder and CEO of one of the UKs first B Corporations, explores https://fleximize.com/articles/017895/omnichannel-marketing-strategies Fri, 25 Sep 2020 14:13:00 +0100 Marouane El Baghati https://fleximize.com/articles/017895/omnichannel-marketing-strategies We explore 4 omnichannel marketing strategies to integrate into your next marketing campaign, including an overview of customer personas and A/B testing https://fleximize.com/articles/017874/grow-family-run-construction-business Thu, 24 Sep 2020 14:21:00 +0100 Katy Carter https://fleximize.com/articles/017874/grow-family-run-construction-business Being a family-run firm in construction has many benefits, including brand image and company culture. Katy Carter of B&A Group shares six growth strategies https://fleximize.com/articles/017867/mobile-marketing-hospitality Wed, 23 Sep 2020 14:50:00 +0100 Yulia Yakunina https://fleximize.com/articles/017867/mobile-marketing-hospitality Mobile marketing has been a lifeline for hospitality businesses trying to reach customers during the pandemic. Here are four ways to use mobile marketing https://fleximize.com/articles/017847/agile-people-management Tue, 15 Sep 2020 12:12:00 +0100 Jenn Brown https://fleximize.com/articles/017847/agile-people-management Agile management has become more popular amongst UK SMEs during the pandemic whilst teams work remotely. Here's a quick look at the basics https://fleximize.com/articles/017844/promoting-neurodiversity-workplace Mon, 14 Sep 2020 14:27:00 +0100 Thomas Owen https://fleximize.com/articles/017844/promoting-neurodiversity-workplace Neurodiversity has multiple benefits for the workplace. Thomas Owen explores, with a particular focus on employing and supporting autistic employees https://fleximize.com/articles/017840/make-better-business-decisions Fri, 11 Sep 2020 16:03:00 +0100 Ben Harper https://fleximize.com/articles/017840/make-better-business-decisions Making big decisions for your business can be daunting, especially in times of economic crisis. Here's our guide to decision making for business owners https://fleximize.com/articles/017836/covid-19-professional-networking Thu, 10 Sep 2020 13:41:00 +0100 Ashley Friedlein https://fleximize.com/articles/017836/covid-19-professional-networking Professional networking and connecting with colleagues have both become much more difficult during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some alternatives https://fleximize.com/articles/017831/finding-it-service-provider Tue, 08 Sep 2020 12:12:00 +0100 Vikki Durden https://fleximize.com/articles/017831/finding-it-service-provider When switching IT service providers, there are a number of pros and cons to consider. Vikki Durden of UK IT Services shares how SMEs can find the right fit https://fleximize.com/articles/017825/unexpected-costs-employee Mon, 07 Sep 2020 14:30:00 +0100 Simon Thomas https://fleximize.com/articles/017825/unexpected-costs-employee There can be many unexpected costs associated with hiring your first employee, from pension contributions to purchasing new equipment. Learn more here https://fleximize.com/articles/017821/combatting-loneliness-isolation-staff Fri, 04 Sep 2020 15:26:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/017821/combatting-loneliness-isolation-staff Here are five ways that employers can support their home-working staff to help tackle social isolation and loneliness during the coronavirus pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017815/covid-19-wrongful-trading-rules Wed, 02 Sep 2020 12:16:00 +0100 Jon Munnery https://fleximize.com/articles/017815/covid-19-wrongful-trading-rules We take a look at the temporary suspension of wrongful trading rules for businesses experiencing financial struggles due to the global coronavirus pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017792/management-training-for-smes Wed, 26 Aug 2020 09:00:00 +0100 Sally-Ann Hall-Jones https://fleximize.com/articles/017792/management-training-for-smes Implementing quality management training will make employees feel more integrated as a team and increase motivation levels. We explore how to get it right https://fleximize.com/articles/017789/ensure-your-marketing-is-responsible Fri, 21 Aug 2020 12:04:00 +0100 Scott Logie https://fleximize.com/articles/017789/ensure-your-marketing-is-responsible Customers who trust a business are more likely to share better quality data with them. Scott Logie of REaD Group explores how to use this data responsibly https://fleximize.com/articles/017780/modern-leadership-todays-workplace Wed, 19 Aug 2020 12:38:00 +0100 Robert Ordever https://fleximize.com/articles/017780/modern-leadership-todays-workplace Robert Ordever, Managing Director of O.C Tanner Europe, discusses what being a modern leader means and why it's crucial for success in today's workplace https://fleximize.com/articles/017775/smes-guide-press-release-distribution Mon, 17 Aug 2020 14:28:00 +0100 Graeme Patfield https://fleximize.com/articles/017775/smes-guide-press-release-distribution Press release distribution is essential for SMEs to increase brand awareness and credibility. Here are 5 ways to get a release in front of the right people https://fleximize.com/articles/017767/covid-19-commercial-leases Fri, 14 Aug 2020 10:47:00 +0100 Philippa Cobb https://fleximize.com/articles/017767/covid-19-commercial-leases LawBite's Philippa Cobb explores the impact of lockdown on commercial leases, including government's temporary legal protection for commercial tenants https://fleximize.com/articles/017736/footfall-hospitality-business Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:14:00 +0100 Craig Pannozzo https://fleximize.com/articles/017736/footfall-hospitality-business We explore three ways that hospitality businesses can encourage footfall during the coronavirus pandemic and continue to serve customers safely and legally https://fleximize.com/articles/017610/restaurants-tech-serve-customers Mon, 03 Aug 2020 12:57:00 +0100 Georgie Peru https://fleximize.com/articles/017610/restaurants-tech-serve-customers With the hospitality trade reopening as lockdown eases, we look at how hospitality businesses can leverage technology to safely serve their customers https://fleximize.com/articles/017606/protecting-sme-disasters Fri, 31 Jul 2020 16:50:00 +0100 Doug Kelley https://fleximize.com/articles/017606/protecting-sme-disasters Many SMEs lack the correct business insurance to cover them in a disaster. Doug Kelley shares his advice for protecting your business from future disasters https://fleximize.com/articles/017601/communication-crisis Thu, 30 Jul 2020 09:42:00 +0100 ​Darren Hockley https://fleximize.com/articles/017601/communication-crisis There are many benefits to communicating effectively during a crisis. Darren Hockley of DeltaNet International shares his practical tips for communication https://fleximize.com/articles/017565/covid19-stories-ten-green-bottles Mon, 27 Jul 2020 17:04:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/017565/covid19-stories-ten-green-bottles Simon Broad of Brighton-based Ten Green Bottles talks us through how he pivoted his business offering to continue serving customers during lockdown https://fleximize.com/articles/017590/sme-guide-excellent-customer-service Fri, 24 Jul 2020 15:45:00 +0100 Natasha Deaves https://fleximize.com/articles/017590/sme-guide-excellent-customer-service Discover our tips on delivering excellent customer service, and how this can improve customer retention as well as attract new prospects to your business https://fleximize.com/articles/017585/5-steps-long-term-virtual-office Wed, 22 Jul 2020 15:51:00 +0100 Mike Castle https://fleximize.com/articles/017585/5-steps-long-term-virtual-office With many small businesses considering a permanent shift to remote working, Mike Castle of ITRM shares 5 steps to creating a long-term virtual office https://fleximize.com/articles/017577/covid-19-future-of-the-workplace Mon, 20 Jul 2020 15:07:00 +0100 John Flanagan https://fleximize.com/articles/017577/covid-19-future-of-the-workplace The future of the UK's workplace is uncertain, with many considering whether a return to the office is necessary. John Flanagan of Cartridge People explores https://fleximize.com/articles/017556/smes-avoid-redundancies Mon, 13 Jul 2020 16:10:00 +0100 Daniel Barnett https://fleximize.com/articles/017556/smes-avoid-redundancies Daniel Barnett of Getting Redundancy Right explores seven alternative options for SME owners who may be considering staff redundancies https://fleximize.com/articles/017530/covid-19-staff-returning-to-work Mon, 06 Jul 2020 09:30:00 +0100 Brendan Street https://fleximize.com/articles/017530/covid-19-staff-returning-to-work Nuffield Health's Brendan Street shares his guide on how to effectively communicate with and support employees returning to work after the UK lockdown https://fleximize.com/articles/017524/covid-19-customer-engagement-strategies Wed, 01 Jul 2020 16:35:00 +0100 Amy Robinson https://fleximize.com/articles/017524/covid-19-customer-engagement-strategies Customer engagement is challenging for many businesses recovering from the coronavirus pandemic. Here are five key ways to re-engage your customer base https://fleximize.com/articles/017509/bespoke-software-as-a-service-smes Tue, 30 Jun 2020 15:54:00 +0100 James Ansell https://fleximize.com/articles/017509/bespoke-software-as-a-service-smes Bespoke software as a service has many advantages over off-the-shelf options. Code23's James Ansell explains the benefits of SaaS tailored to your business https://fleximize.com/articles/017504/office-space-covid-secure Mon, 29 Jun 2020 13:08:00 +0100 Mark Wiggins https://fleximize.com/articles/017504/office-space-covid-secure As SMEs in the UK prepare for staff to return to work, it's crucial for employers to ensure workplaces are Covid-secure. Here are six ways to get started https://fleximize.com/articles/017483/covid-19-rd-tax-credits Tue, 23 Jun 2020 16:30:00 +0100 Alistair Aird https://fleximize.com/articles/017483/covid-19-rd-tax-credits Alistair Aird of Easy R&D explores the impact of the UK Government's coronavirus support loans on the SME R&D Tax Credit Scheme https://fleximize.com/articles/017464/balancing-business-with-fatherhood Fri, 19 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0100 Alex Fisher https://fleximize.com/articles/017464/balancing-business-with-fatherhood To mark Father’s Day, six leading businessmen from across the UK share their advice and opinions on juggling family life with their careers https://fleximize.com/articles/017458/disengagement-construction-team Tue, 16 Jun 2020 15:21:00 +0100 Paddy O’Hagen https://fleximize.com/articles/017458/disengagement-construction-team As construction work tends to be field-based, preventing employee disengagement is critical for your business. Here are the steps to avoid reduced morale https://fleximize.com/articles/017454/business-shareholders-agreement Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:52:00 +0100 Chris Brightling https://fleximize.com/articles/017454/business-shareholders-agreement A shareholders agreement is vital to any small business. Chris Brightling of Girlings Solicitors explains why businesses need a legal agreement in place https://fleximize.com/articles/017445/impact-covid-19-recruitment Wed, 10 Jun 2020 09:17:00 +0100 Ann Swain https://fleximize.com/articles/017445/impact-covid-19-recruitment In this exclusive from the Association of Staffing Professionals, Chief Executive Ann Swain explores the impact of Covid-19 on the UK recruitment sector https://fleximize.com/articles/017438/promoting-diversity-workplace Thu, 04 Jun 2020 12:06:00 +0100 Suki Sandhu https://fleximize.com/articles/017438/promoting-diversity-workplace It's important to foster an inclusive and diverse culture within your SME. Suki Sandhu of Audeliss reviews three ways to promote diversity in the workplace https://fleximize.com/articles/017434/covid19-adapting-business-offering Wed, 03 Jun 2020 16:06:00 +0100 Charlotte Holmes-Darby https://fleximize.com/articles/017434/covid19-adapting-business-offering Here's a look at how small business owners can adapt their offering during the pandemic in order to continue engaging with customers and the wider community https://fleximize.com/articles/017426/motivating-todays-employees Tue, 02 Jun 2020 11:32:00 +0100 Richard Shotton https://fleximize.com/articles/017426/motivating-todays-employees Richard Shotton, one of the countrys top behavioural scientists, gives business leaders insight into the science behind getting employee motivation right https://fleximize.com/articles/017414/covid-19-tips-for-managing-cash-flow Fri, 29 May 2020 05:00:00 +0100 Patrick Hogan https://fleximize.com/articles/017414/covid-19-tips-for-managing-cash-flow Patrick Hogan of Handle.com shares three tips on how small business owners across the UK can manage their cash flow through the coronavirus pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017421/maintaining-company-culture-lockdown Thu, 28 May 2020 13:47:00 +0100 Dave Wrightson https://fleximize.com/articles/017421/maintaining-company-culture-lockdown With most UK businesses working remotely during the pandemic, it can be difficult to maintain company culture. Dave Wrightson of Engage shares his tips https://fleximize.com/articles/017377/covid19-showing-appreciation-employees Fri, 22 May 2020 10:15:00 +0100 Robert Ordever https://fleximize.com/articles/017377/covid19-showing-appreciation-employees Making your employees feel valued and appreciated is especially crucial in the current climate. Here's how to show appreciation to staff during the pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017373/covid19-vat-obligations Thu, 21 May 2020 15:32:00 +0100 Tamara Habberley https://fleximize.com/articles/017373/covid19-vat-obligations VAT People's Tamara Habberley outlines new changes to VAT payments affecting UK business owners. Find out what options are available during the pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017284/a-guide-to-bounce-back-loans Fri, 15 May 2020 16:15:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/017284/a-guide-to-bounce-back-loans Here's a quick look at the UK Government's Bounce Back Loans Scheme, including key features, eligibility criteria and how to apply https://fleximize.com/articles/017294/remote-workers-cyber-attacks Fri, 15 May 2020 14:29:00 +0100 Paul Callaghan https://fleximize.com/articles/017294/remote-workers-cyber-attacks With remote working at a record high, it's vital to ensure your business is protected from cyber-attacks. Paul Callaghan of CyberInsurer shares his advice https://fleximize.com/articles/017286/build-trust-remote-workplace Thu, 14 May 2020 15:22:00 +0100 Darren Hockley https://fleximize.com/articles/017286/build-trust-remote-workplace With remote working increasing due to the coronavirus pandemic, trust-based company culture is crucial. Here's how to build trust amongst your workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/017280/data-driven-business-development Wed, 13 May 2020 14:42:00 +0100 Scott Wallingford https://fleximize.com/articles/017280/data-driven-business-development A data-driven approach to business development can be highly successful for SMEs that may have previously relied on face-to-face interactions. Here's how https://fleximize.com/articles/017264/supporting-local-businesses-during-pandemic Thu, 07 May 2020 10:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/017264/supporting-local-businesses-during-pandemic Supporting local & independent businesses can make a big difference to your local economy. Here's a list of businesses in Suffolk and Norfolk to shop with https://fleximize.com/articles/017259/covid-19-leveraging-social-media-campaigns Wed, 06 May 2020 15:59:00 +0100 Dan Timcke https://fleximize.com/articles/017259/covid-19-leveraging-social-media-campaigns Dan Timcke of The Sole Supplier shares his key insights into how SMEs can leverage social media campaigns to build their brand during the pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017247/digital-marketing-during-lockdown Tue, 05 May 2020 10:20:00 +0100 Mark Wright https://fleximize.com/articles/017247/digital-marketing-during-lockdown Mark Wright of The Apprentice shares his expert guide covering how to implement an effective digital marketing strategy during the coronavirus pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017243/self-care-remote-working Mon, 04 May 2020 12:00:00 +0100 Tina Frost https://fleximize.com/articles/017243/self-care-remote-working Here's a guide to help remote working staff with self-care during the pandemic so they can stay healthy, happy and focused https://fleximize.com/articles/017200/keyword-research Thu, 30 Apr 2020 16:02:00 +0100 Kerry Sheahan https://fleximize.com/articles/017200/keyword-research Marketing expert Kerry Sheahan shares her step-by-step guide to conducting keyword research using free and accessible tools https://fleximize.com/articles/017198/online-campaigns-lockdown Mon, 27 Apr 2020 16:51:00 +0100 Sam Carr https://fleximize.com/articles/017198/online-campaigns-lockdown Ecommerce has been an essential way for businesses to survive the UK lockdown. Here are three approaches to online campaigns to keep your business trading https://fleximize.com/articles/017193/how-to-survive-coronavirus-startup Fri, 24 Apr 2020 10:18:00 +0100 Nic Redfern https://fleximize.com/articles/017193/how-to-survive-coronavirus-startup The Covid-19 pandemic poses a threat to all businesses, but many startups are feeling particularly vulnerable. Nic Redfern outlines five steps for survival https://fleximize.com/articles/017190/legal-responsibilities-remote-workers Thu, 23 Apr 2020 14:51:00 +0100 Chris Salmon https://fleximize.com/articles/017190/legal-responsibilities-remote-workers With the uptake in remote working, it's important for employers to understand the legal responsibilities to those working from home. Chris Salmon explores https://fleximize.com/articles/017179/move-your-fitness-business-online Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:25:00 +0100 Sarig Reichert https://fleximize.com/articles/017179/move-your-fitness-business-online The fitness industry has been severely affected by restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic. Sarig Reichert from Wix offers advice for business owners https://fleximize.com/articles/017168/everything-you-need-to-know-about-cbils Fri, 17 Apr 2020 13:08:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/017168/everything-you-need-to-know-about-cbils We explore the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) and how it can help small and medium-sized businesses affected by Covid-19 https://fleximize.com/articles/017163/fleet-van-insurance-smes Thu, 16 Apr 2020 12:07:00 +0100 Mark McKenna https://fleximize.com/articles/017163/fleet-van-insurance-smes Mark McKenna of specialist insurance brokers Bluedrop Services talks us through the key benefits of fleet van insurance for growing businesses in the UK https://fleximize.com/articles/017139/voip-remote-workers Tue, 14 Apr 2020 15:51:00 +0100 Robert Seymour https://fleximize.com/articles/017139/voip-remote-workers As UK businesses adapt operations to the coronavirus pandemic, we take a look at how VoIP technology can help maintain effective business communications https://fleximize.com/articles/017125/ir35-minor-status-tests Thu, 09 Apr 2020 15:38:00 +0100 Alice Hickling https://fleximize.com/articles/017125/ir35-minor-status-tests Alice Hickling of Larsen Howie talks us through the minor status tests that assessors look at when evaluating a company's IR35 status https://fleximize.com/articles/017099/efficient-business-fleet Mon, 06 Apr 2020 16:05:00 +0100 Simon Fitton https://fleximize.com/articles/017099/efficient-business-fleet A savvy fleet strategy can help bring down costs and improve profits. Crown Oil's Simon Fitton shares 6 ways to reduce overheads when managing your fleet https://fleximize.com/articles/017095/covid-19-hospitality-sector Fri, 03 Apr 2020 16:05:00 +0100 Barbara Jamieson https://fleximize.com/articles/017095/covid-19-hospitality-sector LawBite's Barbara Jamieson outlines five steps hospitality business owners can take to protect themselves against the impact of the coronavirus pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/017091/ir35-changes-construction-industry Fri, 03 Apr 2020 14:09:00 +0100 Barbara Jamieson https://fleximize.com/articles/017091/ir35-changes-construction-industry Barbara Jamieson of LawBite shares the impact of the delayed IR35 reform on the construction industry, and how businesses can prepare in the meantime https://fleximize.com/articles/017086/covid-19-financial-aid-for-pscs Thu, 02 Apr 2020 11:32:00 +0100 Andy Vessey https://fleximize.com/articles/017086/covid-19-financial-aid-for-pscs Andy Vessey, Head of Tax at Larsen Howie, talks us through the government support currently available to Personal Service Companies in the UK https://fleximize.com/articles/017079/contract-reviews-retailers Mon, 30 Mar 2020 16:17:00 +0100 Barbara Jamieson https://fleximize.com/articles/017079/contract-reviews-retailers LawBite's Barbara Jamieson takes a look at how contract reviews can help retail businesses protect themselves from the implications of coronavirus https://fleximize.com/articles/017075/5-technologies-to-help-run-your-sme-2020 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 14:30:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/017075/5-technologies-to-help-run-your-sme-2020 From cloud computing to HR management software, there's a wide range of tech available to help run your business. We take a look at five examples https://fleximize.com/articles/017064/pivoting-business-models-covid-19 Wed, 25 Mar 2020 17:08:00 +0000 Matt Evans https://fleximize.com/articles/017064/pivoting-business-models-covid-19 We take a look at five SMEs who have changed their business models to continue trading during the coronavirus pandemic, such as shifting to ecommerce https://fleximize.com/articles/017059/what-is-a-furloughed-worker Wed, 25 Mar 2020 15:39:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/017059/what-is-a-furloughed-worker We take a look at the new Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and the process to follow if UK business owners find that they must furlough their employees https://fleximize.com/articles/017044/tools-business-events-online Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:57:00 +0000 Jessica Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/017044/tools-business-events-online We've curated a list of five virtual event tools and platforms to help you adapt your business events calendar during the coronavirus lockdown https://fleximize.com/articles/017036/covid19-six-key-areas-for-business-owners-to-consider Tue, 24 Mar 2020 15:40:00 +0000 Joe Hinton https://fleximize.com/articles/017036/covid19-six-key-areas-for-business-owners-to-consider Here are six key areas business owners should turn their attention to in order to help minimise disruption to trade caused by the coronavirus pandemic https://fleximize.com/articles/001838/frontline-employee-key-worker Mon, 23 Mar 2020 11:00:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/001838/frontline-employee-key-worker In the wake of the UK Government announcing new measures to stop the spread of coronavirus, we take a quick look at the definition of key workers and frontline staff in the UK https://fleximize.com/articles/016973/coronavirus-business-support-guide Fri, 20 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016973/coronavirus-business-support-guide In uncertain times, businesses need clarity and knowledge. Here's an extensive guide to accessing financial support to help keep your business trading https://fleximize.com/articles/017010/remote-working-mental-health Fri, 20 Mar 2020 11:35:00 +0000 Brendan Street https://fleximize.com/articles/017010/remote-working-mental-health Remote working for prolonged periods during the pandemic can have a negative impact on mental health. Here are three steps to help your employees cope https://fleximize.com/articles/016984/supporting-staff-with-coronavirus-anxiety Thu, 19 Mar 2020 15:22:00 +0000 Brendan Street https://fleximize.com/articles/016984/supporting-staff-with-coronavirus-anxiety Employees across the UK are suffering from high levels of anxiety due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Here's how you can support your staff https://fleximize.com/articles/016968/support-local-businesses-coronavirus Thu, 19 Mar 2020 12:39:00 +0000 Jessica Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/016968/support-local-businesses-coronavirus With the coronavirus pandemic impeding normal business activity, it's vital to support small businesses that rely on local custom. Here's how you can help https://fleximize.com/articles/016952/ir35-delayed-to-2021 Thu, 19 Mar 2020 11:26:00 +0000 Hannah Robinson https://fleximize.com/articles/016952/ir35-delayed-to-2021 The IR35 reform has been delayed to 2021, giving the private sector extra time to prepare. The Larsen Howie Team explore what this means for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/016936/support-remote-working-staff Mon, 16 Mar 2020 14:46:00 +0000 Mark Wiggins https://fleximize.com/articles/016936/support-remote-working-staff As remote-working becomes increasingly common across UK businesses, it's important for employers to consider how to support staff while working from home https://fleximize.com/articles/016929/construction-equipment-leasing-vs-financing Mon, 16 Mar 2020 13:10:00 +0000 Patrick Hogan https://fleximize.com/articles/016929/construction-equipment-leasing-vs-financing Knowing whether to lease or purchase equipment for your construction business can be tricky. Patrick Hogan, CEO of Handle, explores the pros and cons https://fleximize.com/articles/016903/top-20-business-blogs-2020 Mon, 09 Mar 2020 19:52:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016903/top-20-business-blogs-2020 Discover the 20 best business blogs for entrepreneurs and business owners interested in the latest business news, best practices, and industry trends https://fleximize.com/articles/016898/top-10-business-youtube-channels-2020 Fri, 06 Mar 2020 15:04:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016898/top-10-business-youtube-channels-2020 We've compiled a list of the top ten YouTube channels for entrepreneurs and small business owners in 2020, including Crunch Accounting and The Startup Van https://fleximize.com/articles/016893/2020-restaurant-marketing-mix Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:31:00 +0000 Hannah Hambleton https://fleximize.com/articles/016893/2020-restaurant-marketing-mix Hannah Hambleton shares six essential strategies every restaurant should consider for 2020, from leveraging user-generated content to providing guest Wi-Fi https://fleximize.com/articles/016886/how-to-prepare-2020-ir35-reform Mon, 02 Mar 2020 12:30:00 +0000 Hannah Robinson https://fleximize.com/articles/016886/how-to-prepare-2020-ir35-reform With the rollout of the private sector IR35 due in April 2020, Hannah Robinson of Larsen Howie delves into what this means for business owners in practice https://fleximize.com/articles/016882/improve-employee-engagement Thu, 27 Feb 2020 14:56:00 +0000 Cassy Aite https://fleximize.com/articles/016882/improve-employee-engagement As a small business owner, it's important to cultivate a working environment that encourages your employees to feel motivated and engaged. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/016877/shared-workspaces-for-smes Mon, 24 Feb 2020 15:04:00 +0000 Harry Arnold https://fleximize.com/articles/016877/shared-workspaces-for-smes Shared workspaces have grown significantly in the last decade. Harry Arnold explores the benefits of co-working spaces for SMEs, including cost and agility https://fleximize.com/articles/016869/10-best-business-apps-2020 Wed, 19 Feb 2020 16:32:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016869/10-best-business-apps-2020 We take a look at 10 of the best business apps for entrepreneurs and small business owners in 2020, including the likes of Rocketbook, Flock and Bonjoro https://fleximize.com/articles/016842/employees-business-security Mon, 17 Feb 2020 16:06:00 +0000 Izzy Schulman https://fleximize.com/articles/016842/employees-business-security Izzy Schulman of Keys4U encourages employers to create a culture in which business security is every employee’s responsibility https://fleximize.com/articles/016837/attract-and-retain-talented-workers Fri, 14 Feb 2020 11:19:00 +0000 Beau Peters https://fleximize.com/articles/016837/attract-and-retain-talented-workers There are many employee benefits that SMEs can provide to attract and retain talented workers. Beau Peters shares five ways to increase staff retention https://fleximize.com/articles/016832/supporting-female-led-startups-with-investment Thu, 13 Feb 2020 11:42:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016832/supporting-female-led-startups-with-investment We delve into how male startup owners in the UK receive a disproportionate amount of investment compared to females, and how this can be changed https://fleximize.com/articles/016819/top-10-podcasts-business-2020 Fri, 07 Feb 2020 11:34:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016819/top-10-podcasts-business-2020 We've compiled a list of the top ten podcasts for entrepreneurs and small business owners for 2020, including the Masters of Scale and Creative Rebels https://fleximize.com/articles/016813/prioritising-cybersecurity-in-2022 Thu, 06 Feb 2020 10:51:00 +0000 Adam Louca https://fleximize.com/articles/016813/prioritising-cybersecurity-in-2022 Research shows that UK businesses are prioritising investment in cybersecurity in 2022 to strengthen their defences. Adam Louca from Softcat explores. https://fleximize.com/articles/016803/guide-exhibiting-business-show Mon, 03 Feb 2020 11:47:00 +0000 Austin Rowlands https://fleximize.com/articles/016803/guide-exhibiting-business-show Exhibiting at an event or trade show is an exciting opportunity to grow your business. Here are 4 tips for SMEs to help make the most of your first show https://fleximize.com/articles/016794/claims-management-software-for-smes Thu, 30 Jan 2020 15:27:00 +0000 Yaakov Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/016794/claims-management-software-for-smes Claims management software can speed up claims processing, reduce errors and enhance the customer experience. Here's a guide to how it can benefit your SME. https://fleximize.com/articles/016791/using-data-to-compete-big-businesses Mon, 27 Jan 2020 12:53:00 +0000 Cordy Bartlett https://fleximize.com/articles/016791/using-data-to-compete-big-businesses For small business owners, it's vital to leverage data to better understand your target audience and compete against big business. Cordy Bartlett explores https://fleximize.com/articles/016786/stopping-counterfeits-construction Mon, 20 Jan 2020 11:24:00 +0000 Stijn Kits https://fleximize.com/articles/016786/stopping-counterfeits-construction Counterfeit building materials and tools are a significant cause for concern in the construction sector. Here's a look at how IP registration can help https://fleximize.com/articles/016780/vat-error-correction Fri, 17 Jan 2020 11:16:00 +0000 Alan Rolfe https://fleximize.com/articles/016780/vat-error-correction If you make a mistake on your VAT return, it's vital to correct it. Alan Rolfe of HWB Chartered Accountants outlines the process for VAT error correction https://fleximize.com/articles/016773/common-financial-pitfalls Thu, 16 Jan 2020 13:56:00 +0000 Chris Woodard https://fleximize.com/articles/016773/common-financial-pitfalls Chris Woodard, Co-Founder of Handle.com, explores some of the biggest financial mistakes that new business owners make and how to avoid them https://fleximize.com/articles/016764/increase-profits-without-increasing-sales Mon, 13 Jan 2020 13:51:00 +0000 Mark Tighe https://fleximize.com/articles/016764/increase-profits-without-increasing-sales Claiming tax relief that your business is eligible for is a great way to boost profits without relying on sales or cutbacks. Mark Tighe of Catax explores https://fleximize.com/articles/016751/marketing-trends-2020 Thu, 09 Jan 2020 10:35:00 +0000 Stacey MacNaught https://fleximize.com/articles/016751/marketing-trends-2020 Here are 3 marketing trends likely to affect your business in 2020, including the impact of changes in web tracking platforms and Amazon product searches https://fleximize.com/articles/016732/find-clients-construction-business Wed, 08 Jan 2020 13:42:00 +0000 Ross Bramble https://fleximize.com/articles/016732/find-clients-construction-business If you're struggling to find clients for your construction business, this guide explores three easy ways to promote your services and attract new customers https://fleximize.com/articles/016737/tories-podcasts-carbon-neutral-christmas Tue, 31 Dec 2019 09:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016737/tories-podcasts-carbon-neutral-christmas We look at how the Tory majority impacts on your personal and business finances, the podcasts to accompany your drive home, and having a 'green' Christmas https://fleximize.com/articles/016728/eco-friendly-corporate-event Mon, 23 Dec 2019 09:00:00 +0000 Matthew Payne https://fleximize.com/articles/016728/eco-friendly-corporate-event Hosting an eco-friendly event can help brand visibility without damaging the environment. Matthew Payne of Made by Ooomph shares his event planning tips https://fleximize.com/articles/016725/guide-hiring-first-virtual-assistant Tue, 17 Dec 2019 08:55:00 +0000 Sam Wilson https://fleximize.com/articles/016725/guide-hiring-first-virtual-assistant Here's a guide outlining how business owners can find and hire their first virtual assistant, covering how to define the role and delegate effectively https://fleximize.com/articles/016721/stress-free-digital-marketing Fri, 13 Dec 2019 11:36:00 +0000 Heather Baker https://fleximize.com/articles/016721/stress-free-digital-marketing Digital marketing can be stressful when you first get started, but it can also work wonders for your brand image and conversion. Heather Baker shares 5 tips https://fleximize.com/articles/016713/mistakes-upscaling-your-business Wed, 11 Dec 2019 14:33:00 +0000 Huw Moxon https://fleximize.com/articles/016713/mistakes-upscaling-your-business When upscaling your business, it's crucial to preserve your customer experience, product quality, and brand values. Huw Moxon explores the common pitfalls https://fleximize.com/articles/016710/introduction-video-marketing-startups Mon, 09 Dec 2019 11:43:00 +0000 Victor Blasco https://fleximize.com/articles/016710/introduction-video-marketing-startups Video content is now an essential part of digital marketing strategies. Take a look at how to get started with 5 types of videos that can benefit startups https://fleximize.com/articles/016681/early-repayment-charges-penalties Fri, 06 Dec 2019 15:23:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/016681/early-repayment-charges-penalties We compare the early repayment fees and terms of the UK's top altfi providers, pairing their claims with what this means for business owners in practice https://fleximize.com/articles/016675/performance-first-approach-business Wed, 04 Dec 2019 11:46:00 +0000 Ben Hunt-Davis https://fleximize.com/articles/016675/performance-first-approach-business Shifting to a performance-first approach can help SMEs achieve their goals. Olympic medallist Ben Hunt-Davis shares his experience of analyzing success https://fleximize.com/articles/016670/benefits-digital-training-webinars Mon, 02 Dec 2019 11:33:00 +0000 Anthony Chadwick https://fleximize.com/articles/016670/benefits-digital-training-webinars Anthony Chadwick of The Webinar Vet shares his knowledge of how to leverage the digital training market and the ways it can grow your small business https://fleximize.com/articles/016661/elections-spreadsheets-christmas-dinner Fri, 29 Nov 2019 12:11:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016661/elections-spreadsheets-christmas-dinner Here we look at how the general election results could impact your business, the spreadsheet of the future, and shopping local for your Christmas dinner https://fleximize.com/articles/016636/a-guide-to-chasing-late-payments Thu, 28 Nov 2019 10:00:00 +0000 Stacey McIntosh https://fleximize.com/articles/016636/a-guide-to-chasing-late-payments Explore Sage's expert guide on how businesses should approach chasing late payments, with seven clear steps outlining how to manage late-paying customers https://fleximize.com/articles/016628/startup-data-protection-gdpr Fri, 22 Nov 2019 12:16:00 +0000 Stuart Cooke https://fleximize.com/articles/016628/startup-data-protection-gdpr A guide to data protection and GDPR for startups, including managing personal data and compliance, written by data protection services expert Stuart Cook https://fleximize.com/articles/016555/improve-visitor-to-buyer-ratio Wed, 20 Nov 2019 13:18:00 +0000 Roberto Garvin https://fleximize.com/articles/016555/improve-visitor-to-buyer-ratio A successful website is designed to encourage a high level of conversion. Roberto Garvin of Mofluid outlines steps to increase your visitor to buyer ratio https://fleximize.com/articles/016435/content-development-tips Wed, 13 Nov 2019 13:40:00 +0000 Amos Onwukwe https://fleximize.com/articles/016435/content-development-tips Here are five tips for developing customer-focused content for your SME, including a look at how to conduct competitor research and keyword planning https://fleximize.com/articles/016415/sole-traders-guide-alternative-finance Mon, 11 Nov 2019 13:34:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/016415/sole-traders-guide-alternative-finance We explore 5 alternative finance options for sole traders operating in the UK, such as crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance and unsecured business loans https://fleximize.com/articles/016423/sustainable-business-growth Fri, 08 Nov 2019 10:00:00 +0000 Mark Tighe https://fleximize.com/articles/016423/sustainable-business-growth The majority of SMEs struggle to grow beyond five years. Mark Tighe of Catax shares four ways to achieve sustainable growth, including protecting cash flow https://fleximize.com/articles/016417/preparing-remote-working Wed, 06 Nov 2019 12:04:00 +0000 Maria Espie Vidal https://fleximize.com/articles/016417/preparing-remote-working The transition to remote working should be as smooth as possible for both your employees and clients. Maria Espie Vidal shares the steps SMEs need to take https://fleximize.com/articles/016409/managers-guide-to-reviews Tue, 05 Nov 2019 11:34:00 +0000 Stuart Hearn https://fleximize.com/articles/016409/managers-guide-to-reviews One-to-one performance reviews can help your team feel more confident in their roles and promote a healthy channel of communication. Here's how to hold 1-1s https://fleximize.com/articles/016404/motherhood-running-a-business Mon, 04 Nov 2019 10:55:00 +0000 Rebecca Newenham https://fleximize.com/articles/016404/motherhood-running-a-business Rebecca Newenham, Founder of GetAhead VA, shares her tips and advice on how to balance motherhood with steering a growing business towards success https://fleximize.com/articles/016052/brexit-freelancers-diversity-tech Thu, 31 Oct 2019 14:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/016052/brexit-freelancers-diversity-tech We look at the family-run SME taking over Thomas Cook, preparing your business for Brexit, and diversifying the tech industry to be more accessible https://fleximize.com/articles/016048/professional-indemnity-insurance Wed, 30 Oct 2019 10:58:00 +0000 Kerri-Ann Hockley https://fleximize.com/articles/016048/professional-indemnity-insurance Kerri-Ann Hockley, Head of Customer Service at professional insurance broker PolicyBee, shares her guide to professional indemnity insurance for UK SMEs https://fleximize.com/articles/016013/smes-guide-brexit-trading Mon, 28 Oct 2019 09:30:00 +0000 Paul Beard https://fleximize.com/articles/016013/smes-guide-brexit-trading As uncertainty around Brexit continues, Paul Beard of Creditsafe shares his expertise on how UK SMEs should approach international trade ahead of 2021 https://fleximize.com/articles/015941/event-planning-small-business Fri, 25 Oct 2019 10:51:00 +0100 Toby Heelis https://fleximize.com/articles/015941/event-planning-small-business Toby Heelis, CEO of events management company Eventopedia, shares his top five tips on how to plan and run a successful event as a small business https://fleximize.com/articles/015935/pros-cons-limited-company-contracts Wed, 23 Oct 2019 14:05:00 +0100 Hannah Robinson https://fleximize.com/articles/015935/pros-cons-limited-company-contracts Hannah Robinson, Digital Marketing Manager of Larsen Howie, talks us through IR35 liability and the pros and cons of limited company contracts https://fleximize.com/articles/015922/digital-marketing-ecommerce Mon, 21 Oct 2019 10:42:00 +0100 Marc Swann https://fleximize.com/articles/015922/digital-marketing-ecommerce Marc Swann, Search Director at SEO agency Glass Digital, shares five digital marketing tactics to make your e-commerce website stand out from the crowd https://fleximize.com/articles/015917/2020-employment-law-changes Fri, 18 Oct 2019 10:26:00 +0100 Paula Fisher https://fleximize.com/articles/015917/2020-employment-law-changes Employment law specialist Paula Fisher provides insight into the 2020 Employment Law Changes and what this means for UK SMEs https://fleximize.com/articles/015904/elearning-employee-training Mon, 14 Oct 2019 11:12:00 +0100 Kaine Shutler https://fleximize.com/articles/015904/elearning-employee-training If you're looking for cost-effective and time-efficient development opportunities for your employees, it may be worth looking into e-learning. Here's why https://fleximize.com/articles/015898/basics-of-seo Fri, 11 Oct 2019 11:28:00 +0100 Adam Chard https://fleximize.com/articles/015898/basics-of-seo Adam Chard, from online retailer Victoria Plum, shares five tips on how small business owners can get to grips with the basic elements of SEO https://fleximize.com/articles/015887/merge-workplace-cultures Wed, 09 Oct 2019 13:19:00 +0100 Mark Tighe https://fleximize.com/articles/015887/merge-workplace-cultures Bringing together two company cultures after an acquisition can cause tension. Mark Tighe of Catax outlines three steps to take for a smooth transition https://fleximize.com/articles/015879/offline-vs-online-marketing Fri, 04 Oct 2019 10:00:00 +0100 Dmitrii Kustov https://fleximize.com/articles/015879/offline-vs-online-marketing Dmitrii Kustov evaluates the pros and cons of offline and online marketing, including how traditional offline marketing can be leveraged by modern SMEs https://fleximize.com/articles/015872/bookkeeping-tips-for-smes Wed, 02 Oct 2019 14:40:00 +0100 Hasan Ekici https://fleximize.com/articles/015872/bookkeeping-tips-for-smes If you run a small business, keeping on top of your accounting and financial transactions is vital. Here are five tips to improve your bookkeeping. https://fleximize.com/articles/015850/electric-vans-productivity-fashion Mon, 30 Sep 2019 16:18:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015850/electric-vans-productivity-fashion We take a look at electric delivery vans, how microbreaks can increase productivity, and innovative fashion startups stepping away from the status quo https://fleximize.com/articles/015841/pci-level-1 Fri, 27 Sep 2019 10:34:00 +0100 Anita Spenceley https://fleximize.com/articles/015841/pci-level-1 If your business processes card payments, being PCI compliant will be vital for building consumer trust. Here's our guide to protecting customer card data https://fleximize.com/articles/015823/guide-to-checking-contracts Mon, 23 Sep 2019 09:46:00 +0100 Diane Pearce https://fleximize.com/articles/015823/guide-to-checking-contracts LawBite's Diane Pearce talks us through how to check legal contracts as a small business owner, along with exploring the commercial implications of Brexit https://fleximize.com/articles/015809/robust-cybersecurity-strategy Thu, 19 Sep 2019 13:40:00 +0100 Dean Moulden https://fleximize.com/articles/015809/robust-cybersecurity-strategy Having a robust cybersecurity strategy is crucial to protecting your business. Dean Moulden of SRM shares his expertise on preventing a breach or attack https://fleximize.com/articles/015802/avoiding-burnout Wed, 18 Sep 2019 11:08:00 +0100 Donna Torres https://fleximize.com/articles/015802/avoiding-burnout Xero's Donna Torres highlights the importance of 'switching off' from work as a small business owner, along with six ways to help you avoid burn out https://fleximize.com/articles/015794/adapting-product-new-customers Tue, 17 Sep 2019 12:07:00 +0100 Matt Deighton https://fleximize.com/articles/015794/adapting-product-new-customers Matt Deighton, Managing Director of Sofas By Saxon, shares his tips for tapping into a new market following their recently launched vegan sofa range https://fleximize.com/articles/015780/getting-the-most-out-of-your-sales-team Mon, 16 Sep 2019 13:21:00 +0100 Ian Clark https://fleximize.com/articles/015780/getting-the-most-out-of-your-sales-team Optimising your sales team can positively impact your business as a whole. Ian Clark of Frank Recruitment Group shares four ways to improve your results https://fleximize.com/articles/015756/charity-limited-company Tue, 10 Sep 2019 14:13:00 +0100 Hannah Robinson https://fleximize.com/articles/015756/charity-limited-company Donating to charity through your limited company can have many benefits, such as lowering your corporation tax bill. Find out more about how to donate https://fleximize.com/articles/015725/a-guide-to-certified-b-corporations Fri, 06 Sep 2019 12:23:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/015725/a-guide-to-certified-b-corporations Explore what a B Corp Certification could do for your business if you're interested in long-term benefits for your customers, employees and the planet https://fleximize.com/articles/015714/keeping-your-company-safe-online Thu, 05 Sep 2019 13:42:00 +0100 Phil Upton https://fleximize.com/articles/015714/keeping-your-company-safe-online Here's a quick guide from Phil Upton covering five ways to keep your small business and its data safe from malware and security breaches https://fleximize.com/articles/015701/credit-control-checklist-small-businesses Tue, 03 Sep 2019 11:42:00 +0100 John Baird https://fleximize.com/articles/015701/credit-control-checklist-small-businesses If you offer your products or services on credit, it's vital that this is carried out in a controlled manner and a strict collection procedure is in place https://fleximize.com/articles/015695/website-crawlable-googlebot Mon, 02 Sep 2019 10:11:00 +0100 Crispin Boden-Tebbutt https://fleximize.com/articles/015695/website-crawlable-googlebot In this detailed guide, Crispin Boden-Tebbutt covers how to fix Google crawl errors so that your website can be easily found and navigated by customers https://fleximize.com/articles/015682/google-phone-boxes-plant-pots Fri, 30 Aug 2019 14:20:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015682/google-phone-boxes-plant-pots We explore how many Google searches result in zero clicks, the SMEs repurposing the iconic red telephone box, and the startup creating mailable plant pots https://fleximize.com/articles/015653/how-to-create-video-content Thu, 29 Aug 2019 11:43:00 +0100 Sam Shepler https://fleximize.com/articles/015653/how-to-create-video-content Video content can be highly effective in generating new leads and improving user experience. Sam Shepler shares 7 steps to create engaging video content https://fleximize.com/articles/015582/coaching-better-leader Tue, 27 Aug 2019 10:00:00 +0100 Susy Roberts https://fleximize.com/articles/015582/coaching-better-leader Having the right people in leadership positions is vital to the success of every SME. Susy Roberts explains how coaching can make you a better leader https://fleximize.com/articles/015560/services-free-up-time Thu, 22 Aug 2019 10:00:00 +0100 Lisa Appleby https://fleximize.com/articles/015560/services-free-up-time If you're an SME owner who's upscaling, it may be worth freeing up bandwidth by outsourcing some business functions to a third party. Lisa Appleby explores https://fleximize.com/articles/015575/seo-business-benefits Tue, 20 Aug 2019 10:00:00 +0100 Alice Mansley https://fleximize.com/articles/015575/seo-business-benefits Here's our guide to SEO for your small business, explaining how search engine optimisation works and what to focus on if you're starting from scratch https://fleximize.com/articles/015572/building-an-inclusive-workforce Fri, 16 Aug 2019 11:09:00 +0100 Darren Hockley https://fleximize.com/articles/015572/building-an-inclusive-workforce Equality, diversity & inclusion are essential in today's workplace. Darren Hockley of DeltaNet International explores how to build a culture of inclusivity https://fleximize.com/articles/015529/due-diligence-on-suppliers Wed, 14 Aug 2019 10:57:00 +0100 Mark Halstead https://fleximize.com/articles/015529/due-diligence-on-suppliers Mark Halstead of Red Flag Alert shares his thoughts on the most effective approach for finding efficient and reliable suppliers for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/015457/tailoring-employee-benefits Mon, 12 Aug 2019 10:29:00 +0100 Wojciech Dochan https://fleximize.com/articles/015457/tailoring-employee-benefits Employee benefits should be a central part of your strategy to attract and retain talent. Here's how to create benefit packages tailored to your employees https://fleximize.com/articles/015437/prioritizing-investment Wed, 07 Aug 2019 09:41:00 +0100 Lewis Miller https://fleximize.com/articles/015437/prioritizing-investment Knowing which parts of your business need to be prioritized for investment can be highly beneficial for growth. Lewis Miller of Nelson Frank explores how https://fleximize.com/articles/015428/tax-relief-salary-sacrifice-pensions Mon, 05 Aug 2019 12:05:00 +0100 James Alesbury https://fleximize.com/articles/015428/tax-relief-salary-sacrifice-pensions Salary sacrifice is a tax-efficient way to boost your employees’ pensions. James Alesbury of HWB Chartered Accountants talks us through the details. https://fleximize.com/articles/015414/claiming-limited-company-expenses Fri, 02 Aug 2019 10:55:00 +0100 Keith Tully https://fleximize.com/articles/015414/claiming-limited-company-expenses Operating as a limited company means you have access to incentivised schemes and tax relief. Here's a look at some of the expenses you could be claiming https://fleximize.com/articles/015358/uk-festivals-stats-sustainability-smes Wed, 31 Jul 2019 11:29:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015358/uk-festivals-stats-sustainability-smes In this month's Business Bookmarks, we review the latest news stories about summer festivals and share two helpful guides on how UK SMEs can get involved https://fleximize.com/articles/015342/data-loss-from-business-devices Mon, 29 Jul 2019 10:40:00 +0100 Andrew Magee https://fleximize.com/articles/015342/data-loss-from-business-devices Andrew Magee, Development Manager at software specialist Enigma Recovery, explains what to do if you've lost data from one of your business devices https://fleximize.com/articles/015306/guide-to-trading-at-festivals Wed, 24 Jul 2019 16:08:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/015306/guide-to-trading-at-festivals Here's an extensive guide for small business owners who want to get involved in supplying to music festivals, food markets and outdoor events across the UK https://fleximize.com/articles/015116/mental-health-breaks-employees Mon, 22 Jul 2019 11:54:00 +0100 Dr Zubair Ahmed https://fleximize.com/articles/015116/mental-health-breaks-employees Employers have a responsibility to support their staff by addressing mental health issues. Dr Zubair Ahmed explores the benefits of mental health breaks https://fleximize.com/articles/015302/pitch-deck-investor-funding Thu, 18 Jul 2019 11:52:00 +0100 Mike Sims https://fleximize.com/articles/015302/pitch-deck-investor-funding Pitching to investors for the first time can be daunting. Mike Sims of ThinkLions shares three tips for securing investment with the perfect pitch deck https://fleximize.com/articles/015299/phone-system-sme Wed, 17 Jul 2019 11:38:00 +0100 Dan Baker https://fleximize.com/articles/015299/phone-system-sme Here's a quick guide to the pros and cons of cloud-based and on-premises telephone systems to help you decide which system best suits your business needs https://fleximize.com/articles/015285/branding-your-sme-festival Mon, 15 Jul 2019 10:00:00 +0100 Richard Cutmore https://fleximize.com/articles/015285/branding-your-sme-festival Richard Cutmore of TFH Gazebos shares five tips on how to brand your SME at festivals this year to draw in customers and increase engagement https://fleximize.com/articles/015270/transition-to-remote-working Thu, 11 Jul 2019 08:37:00 +0100 ​Darren Hockley https://fleximize.com/articles/015270/transition-to-remote-working Remote working is becoming increasingly popular among UK SMEs. Here are 10 considerations to ensure your workforce remains happy and productive at home https://fleximize.com/articles/015264/sme-carbon-neutral Tue, 09 Jul 2019 10:40:00 +0100 Matt Greensmith https://fleximize.com/articles/015264/sme-carbon-neutral If you're concerned about your business' carbon emissions, here are six ways to help your business become more environmentally-conscious. https://fleximize.com/articles/015257/benefits-incorporating-your-business Mon, 08 Jul 2019 11:43:00 +0100 Nicola Clothier https://fleximize.com/articles/015257/benefits-incorporating-your-business Incorporating your business can offer many important legal and tax benefits. Here's a quick look at whether incorporation is right for your small business https://fleximize.com/articles/015250/talk-mental-health-work Wed, 03 Jul 2019 09:48:00 +0100 Brendan Street https://fleximize.com/articles/015250/talk-mental-health-work Nuffield Health’s Brendan Street suggests how businesses can encourage dialogue about mental health and nurture a culture of openness in the workplace. https://fleximize.com/articles/015237/guide-to-risks-of-sitting Mon, 01 Jul 2019 10:22:00 +0100 Mark Wiggins https://fleximize.com/articles/015237/guide-to-risks-of-sitting The long-term health effects of sitting at an office desk have been widely researched. Here's a quick look at how employers can protect their workers https://fleximize.com/articles/015219/plastic-free-tech-brand-writing Fri, 28 Jun 2019 15:21:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015219/plastic-free-tech-brand-writing Fleximize takes a look at one of the UK's first packaging-free supermarkets trials, how to be a great tech manager, and ways to create a strong brand voice https://fleximize.com/articles/015208/user-experience-seo Thu, 27 Jun 2019 07:15:00 +0100 Marc Woodhead https://fleximize.com/articles/015208/user-experience-seo User experience is now an integral factor in SEO. Marc Woodhead of Holograph explores how user-friendly web design can help your site rank higher in SERPs https://fleximize.com/articles/015203/lead-successful-tech-team Wed, 26 Jun 2019 10:10:00 +0100 Mark Hill https://fleximize.com/articles/015203/lead-successful-tech-team Mark Hill of FRG Technology Consulting shares three ways to cement your status as a great manager, even if you’re new to the leadership game https://fleximize.com/articles/015181/marketing-trends-2019 Mon, 24 Jun 2019 14:11:00 +0100 Peter Watson https://fleximize.com/articles/015181/marketing-trends-2019 Peter Watson, Managing Director of Distract, shares his thoughts on the digital marketing trends that UK SMEs should be aware of in 2019 https://fleximize.com/articles/015126/international-franchising Tue, 18 Jun 2019 11:14:00 +0100 Mike Ryan https://fleximize.com/articles/015126/international-franchising Mike Ryan, CEO of PACK & SEND​, explains how UK businesses thinking of going international with their brand can seize the opportunities on offer https://fleximize.com/articles/015119/approach-diversity-sme Mon, 17 Jun 2019 10:44:00 +0100 Siân Goodson https://fleximize.com/articles/015119/approach-diversity-sme Diversity has huge benefits for SME business owners and their employees. Sin Goodson of Goodson Thomas shares six strategies for a more diverse workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/015103/expanding-to-a-second-location Wed, 12 Jun 2019 10:38:00 +0100 Zoe Morris https://fleximize.com/articles/015103/expanding-to-a-second-location Expanding to a second location can seem daunting, but it's key for growth. Zoe Morris shares five insightful tips on how to approach expansion as a UK SME https://fleximize.com/articles/015088/producing-first-explainer-video Mon, 10 Jun 2019 13:59:00 +0100 Jamie Field https://fleximize.com/articles/015088/producing-first-explainer-video Explainer videos are a great way to engage customers and boost brand awareness. Jamie Field shares his tips on how to produce your first explainer video https://fleximize.com/articles/015081/balancing-digital-transformation-with-privacy Fri, 07 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0100 Sophie Chase-Borthwick https://fleximize.com/articles/015081/balancing-digital-transformation-with-privacy Sophie Chase-Borthwick at Calligo discusses how to include data privacy in digital transformation projects to avoid compromising security and compliance https://fleximize.com/articles/015061/smes-workplace-cultures Thu, 06 Jun 2019 10:04:00 +0100 Carolyn Nevitte https://fleximize.com/articles/015061/smes-workplace-cultures Carolyn Nevitte of People Insight takes a closer look at seven SMEs in the UK who have taken the time to cultivate incredible workplace cultures https://fleximize.com/articles/015047/boost-wellbeing-productivity Mon, 03 Jun 2019 10:29:00 +0100 Sam Cropper https://fleximize.com/articles/015047/boost-wellbeing-productivity Sam Cropper of Viking reveals how providing the right office environment can boost the overall wellbeing and productivity of your workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/015033/may-retail-pride Fri, 31 May 2019 10:45:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015033/may-retail-pride In this Business Bookmarks, we review the top news stories from the last four weeks and explore how UK businesses can take part in London Pride Month https://fleximize.com/articles/014986/how-to-master-the-art-of-delegation Thu, 30 May 2019 12:00:00 +0100 Marianne Page https://fleximize.com/articles/014986/how-to-master-the-art-of-delegation SME owners can struggle with delegation, but sharing tasks can be vital for business growth. Here's Marianne Page's guide on how to delegate successfully. https://fleximize.com/articles/014946/maintaining-branding-across-multiple-channels Tue, 28 May 2019 15:17:00 +0100 Owen Simpson https://fleximize.com/articles/014946/maintaining-branding-across-multiple-channels Consistent branding across marketing channels is crucial for maintaining trust and authority. Owen Simpson explains how to keep your brand message intact https://fleximize.com/articles/014916/selecting-business-vehicles-sme Wed, 22 May 2019 14:40:00 +0100 Mark McKenna https://fleximize.com/articles/014916/selecting-business-vehicles-sme Whether leasing, renting or purchasing, picking the right business vehicle for your SME can seem a complex choice. Here are six considerations to review https://fleximize.com/articles/014912/private-healthcare-for-smes Mon, 20 May 2019 11:12:00 +0100 Dr Zubair Ahmed https://fleximize.com/articles/014912/private-healthcare-for-smes Dr Zubair Ahmed, Co-founder and CEO of Medicspot, explains why small businesses should be thinking differently about employee healthcare https://fleximize.com/articles/014905/build-an-inclusive-culture-sme Thu, 16 May 2019 13:05:00 +0100 Zoe Morris https://fleximize.com/articles/014905/build-an-inclusive-culture-sme While businesses are focusing more on inclusivity, the gender gap in technology continues. Zoe Morris of Jefferson Frank explores promoting women in tech https://fleximize.com/articles/014856/creating-a-productive-office-environment Mon, 13 May 2019 11:12:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014856/creating-a-productive-office-environment If you're looking for ways to give your workspace a boost, here's a quick look at six simple changes you can make to encourage productivity https://fleximize.com/articles/014850/sme-guide-fair-trade-principles Fri, 10 May 2019 15:12:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014850/sme-guide-fair-trade-principles Here's our guide on how UK SMEs can get involved with the fair trade movement, including a quick look at some of the UK businesses championing fair trade https://fleximize.com/articles/014841/5-sales-podcasts-2019 Thu, 09 May 2019 14:05:00 +0100 Charlotte Powell https://fleximize.com/articles/014841/5-sales-podcasts-2019 Looking for ways to motivate your sales team? We have the perfect fix - a list of the best sales podcasts available to you in 2019. https://fleximize.com/articles/014828/ucc-platform-for-smes Tue, 07 May 2019 14:08:00 +0100 ​Todd Carothers https://fleximize.com/articles/014828/ucc-platform-for-smes Unified Communications and Collaboration platforms can transform the working practices of your SME. Here's our guide to choosing the perfect UCC platform https://fleximize.com/articles/014812/google-data-studio-smes Fri, 03 May 2019 11:02:00 +0100 Edgars Boitmanis https://fleximize.com/articles/014812/google-data-studio-smes Switching to Google Data Studio could save SMEs a significant amount of time, effort, and money. Edgars Boitmanis discusses its benefits for data reporting https://fleximize.com/articles/014731/hiring-your-first-cloud-developer Wed, 01 May 2019 11:31:00 +0100 James McDonagh https://fleximize.com/articles/014731/hiring-your-first-cloud-developer Hiring your first cloud developer can prove challenging for busy SME owners. Here are some tips from a technology recruitment specialist to help you along https://fleximize.com/articles/014723/talent-pools-apps-animations Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014723/talent-pools-apps-animations In this Business Bookmarks, we look at the narrowing talent pool in Finance, the app which keeps film scripts secret, and hypnotic Instagram animations https://fleximize.com/articles/014661/save-money-business-utility-bills Thu, 25 Apr 2019 09:28:00 +0100 Kelly Ivison https://fleximize.com/articles/014661/save-money-business-utility-bills Overheads can become an obstacle to your business growth. Kelly Ivison outlines how SMEs can save money and cut costs on their business utility bills https://fleximize.com/articles/014643/uk-smes-written-word Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:21:00 +0100 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014643/uk-smes-written-word For UN English Language Day, we're celebrating the UK SMEs, charities, and enterprises that have built campaigns and products based on the written word https://fleximize.com/articles/014664/data-for-hyper-personalized-marketing Thu, 18 Apr 2019 10:38:00 +0100 Jason Lark https://fleximize.com/articles/014664/data-for-hyper-personalized-marketing Jason Lark of Celerity shares his tips on how to collect the right types of data to inform your SME's hyper-personalized marketing campaigns https://fleximize.com/articles/014650/business-interruption-insurance Wed, 17 Apr 2019 10:55:00 +0100 Doug Kelley https://fleximize.com/articles/014650/business-interruption-insurance Business interruption insurance is often overlooked, but could make a huge difference to SMEs in the case of a disaster. Doug Kelley explains how it works https://fleximize.com/articles/014596/vehicle-tracking-benefit-smes Mon, 15 Apr 2019 11:16:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014596/vehicle-tracking-benefit-smes Commercial fleets are an expensive but necessary expense for many SMEs in the transport space. Here's how vehicle tracking could benefit your business https://fleximize.com/articles/014613/best-youtube-business-channels-2019 Fri, 12 Apr 2019 10:26:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014613/best-youtube-business-channels-2019 We've picked out the best Youtube channels for business owners in 2019. Whether you're seeking marketing tips or motivation, there's something for everyone https://fleximize.com/articles/014604/sme-guide-optimising-transparency Thu, 11 Apr 2019 11:33:00 +0100 KJ Dearie https://fleximize.com/articles/014604/sme-guide-optimising-transparency In this detailed guide, KJ Dearie of Termly explores how SMEs can promote transparency through their data collection and marketing practices https://fleximize.com/articles/014589/uk-smes-accepting-card-payments Wed, 10 Apr 2019 11:05:00 +0100 Nick Healy https://fleximize.com/articles/014589/uk-smes-accepting-card-payments A guide to accepting card payments in the UK, covering fees, payment providers, compliance and charging structures. Everything you need to know about accepting card payments as a UK SME https://fleximize.com/articles/014582/european-cities-uk-smes-relocating Mon, 08 Apr 2019 11:08:00 +0100 ​Matthew Pitt https://fleximize.com/articles/014582/european-cities-uk-smes-relocating Matthew Pitt of Wilbury Stratton shares his knowledge on why a record number of UK businesses are relocating to Europe in the lead up to Brexit https://fleximize.com/articles/014574/recruit-retain-generation-z Thu, 04 Apr 2019 11:07:00 +0100 Howard Wiley https://fleximize.com/articles/014574/recruit-retain-generation-z Howard Wiley of global technical recruitment consultancy VHR explores how SMEs can tailor recruitment drives to attract and retain Generation Z https://fleximize.com/articles/014566/renting-vs-purchasing-commercial-property Wed, 03 Apr 2019 10:21:00 +0100 Jamie Costello https://fleximize.com/articles/014566/renting-vs-purchasing-commercial-property If you're considering your next office space, here's a summary of the pros and cons of renting versus purchasing a commercial property to help you decide https://fleximize.com/articles/014559/save-energy-costs-business-fleet Tue, 02 Apr 2019 10:09:00 +0100 Tom Preston https://fleximize.com/articles/014559/save-energy-costs-business-fleet Tom Preston of Hippo Leasing explores the many ways SME leaders can save energy while running a more productive and efficient business fleet https://fleximize.com/articles/014539/women-fintech-leaders-diversity Thu, 28 Mar 2019 10:23:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014539/women-fintech-leaders-diversity We take a look at the 100 top women in fintech, the female business leaders who inspire us, and how to promote diversity in your workplace going ahead https://fleximize.com/articles/014534/streamlining-financial-processes Wed, 27 Mar 2019 10:11:00 +0000 Neil Robertson https://fleximize.com/articles/014534/streamlining-financial-processes Neil Robertson of Compleat Software shares his thoughts on how streamlining financial processes can facilitate sustainable business growth https://fleximize.com/articles/014527/guide-to-google-ad-extensions Mon, 25 Mar 2019 10:49:00 +0000 Mathew Porter https://fleximize.com/articles/014527/guide-to-google-ad-extensions Mathew Porter of Kumo Digital shares his guide to everything you could need to know about using Google Ad Extensions https://fleximize.com/articles/014513/marketing-niche-product-new-locations Thu, 21 Mar 2019 11:05:00 +0000 Kashif Naqshbandi https://fleximize.com/articles/014513/marketing-niche-product-new-locations Kashif Naqshbandi of Anderson Frank shares how he successfully marketed a niche product in different locations https://fleximize.com/articles/014499/family-business-brand-image Wed, 20 Mar 2019 14:05:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014499/family-business-brand-image Strengthening your brand image can do wonders for your family business. We talk you through the four key areas to invest in when building your brand. https://fleximize.com/articles/014466/reinvention-through-relocation Tue, 19 Mar 2019 09:56:00 +0000 Andrew Mawson https://fleximize.com/articles/014466/reinvention-through-relocation Andrew Mawson of Advanced Workplace Associates shares his thoughts on how business relocation can be a rare opportunity for reinvention and agile working https://fleximize.com/articles/014442/ensure-your-supply-chain-is-ethical Fri, 15 Mar 2019 09:06:00 +0000 Darren Hockley https://fleximize.com/articles/014442/ensure-your-supply-chain-is-ethical SMEs must ensure their supply chain is ethical & lawful. Darren Hockley of DeltaNet International identifies the red flags to look out for in supply chains https://fleximize.com/articles/014430/the-best-business-podcasts-of-2019 Thu, 14 Mar 2019 10:43:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014430/the-best-business-podcasts-of-2019 We’ve curated a list of the best business podcasts currently available, with quick summaries of each so that you can pick out those most suited to you https://fleximize.com/articles/014392/startup-guide-to-business-funding Wed, 13 Mar 2019 08:51:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014392/startup-guide-to-business-funding Heres our guide to the main funding options available to startups in the UK, including bank funding, crowdfunding, angel investment, and government grants https://fleximize.com/articles/014421/big-pieces-of-coverage-on-a-budget Mon, 11 Mar 2019 11:44:00 +0000 Stacey MacNaught https://fleximize.com/articles/014421/big-pieces-of-coverage-on-a-budget Press coverage can lead to increased client exposure, inbound links to your site and credibility building. Here's how SMEs can secure coverage on a budget https://fleximize.com/articles/014384/womens-day-2020 Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:31:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014384/womens-day-2020 For International Womens Day, we're highlighting our favourite female entrepreneurs, business women, books and podcasts to inspire the girl boss in you https://fleximize.com/articles/014394/best-business-apps-2019 Thu, 07 Mar 2019 09:43:00 +0000 Andy Mitchell https://fleximize.com/articles/014394/best-business-apps-2019 From collaboration through to accounting, here's a quick run down of the most useful business apps of 2019 https://fleximize.com/articles/014379/pr-contribute-to-bottom-line Wed, 06 Mar 2019 10:16:00 +0000 Andy Barr https://fleximize.com/articles/014379/pr-contribute-to-bottom-line Andy Barr of 10 Yetis Digital explores how PR campaigns can influence conversions by increasing authority and attracting customers https://fleximize.com/articles/014374/stand-out-in-crowded-marketplace Tue, 05 Mar 2019 10:36:00 +0000 Matt Stevens https://fleximize.com/articles/014374/stand-out-in-crowded-marketplace Differentiating your business from competitors isn't always a simple task. Matt Stevens explains how to make your SME stand out from your competitors https://fleximize.com/articles/014365/choosing-web-host-provider Mon, 04 Mar 2019 10:23:00 +0000 Kerry Leigh Harrison https://fleximize.com/articles/014365/choosing-web-host-provider Kerry Leigh Harrison of UK Web Host Review outlines the different types of website hosting available and how to choose a web host provider for your SME https://fleximize.com/articles/014344/goodbye-honda-hello-taxes-welcome-parents Thu, 28 Feb 2019 11:21:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014344/goodbye-honda-hello-taxes-welcome-parents In this Business Bookmarks, we share the latest on the Honda Swindon closure, a potential retailer tax, and the London coworking space with onsite childcare https://fleximize.com/articles/014305/promote-your-business-offline Fri, 22 Feb 2019 09:31:00 +0000 Andrew Dark https://fleximize.com/articles/014305/promote-your-business-offline Traditional offline marketing remains important for building customer relationships and loyalty. Andrew Dark weighs up the benefits of offline versus online https://fleximize.com/articles/014297/employee-retention-strategies-smes Wed, 20 Feb 2019 14:08:00 +0000 Jade Jordan https://fleximize.com/articles/014297/employee-retention-strategies-smes Having robust employee retention strategies can result in higher morale and increased productivity amongst staff. Jade Jordan of Maxmillion explores https://fleximize.com/articles/014286/smes-records-management Mon, 18 Feb 2019 13:35:00 +0000 Paul Ravey https://fleximize.com/articles/014286/smes-records-management Paul Ravey of Access Records Management shares tips on how businesses can refine their records management practices https://fleximize.com/articles/014230/flat-structure-smes Thu, 14 Feb 2019 10:04:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014230/flat-structure-smes Management hierarchies often emerge organically, but can slow down growth. We explore the pros and cons of flat-structures for SMEs and how to implement one https://fleximize.com/articles/014221/complete-guide-making-tax-digital Wed, 13 Feb 2019 10:52:00 +0000 Keir Thomas-Bryant https://fleximize.com/articles/014221/complete-guide-making-tax-digital Here's a guide to everything you need to know about the Making Tax Digital scheme, including a useful checklist to prepare your business for the deadline https://fleximize.com/articles/014204/effective-mobile-workforce Tue, 12 Feb 2019 09:00:00 +0000 Paul Fisher https://fleximize.com/articles/014204/effective-mobile-workforce Paul Fisher of Parallels talks us through how to create a mobile workforce so that your team can access everything they need from any location https://fleximize.com/articles/014200/employee-health-assessments-smes Mon, 11 Feb 2019 09:06:00 +0000 ​Marcus Herbert https://fleximize.com/articles/014200/employee-health-assessments-smes Marcus Herbert, Corporate Operations Specialist at Nuffield Health, explores the value of intelligent personal health assessments for SMEs https://fleximize.com/articles/014191/phishing-threats-to-smes-2019 Thu, 07 Feb 2019 11:10:00 +0000 Danielle Skinner https://fleximize.com/articles/014191/phishing-threats-to-smes-2019 It’s imperative that SME owners and employees know exactly how to detect and react to potential phishing threats. Here's what to look out for in 2019. https://fleximize.com/articles/014185/virtual-offices-for-smes Wed, 06 Feb 2019 10:32:00 +0000 Christina Attrah https://fleximize.com/articles/014185/virtual-offices-for-smes Many business owners consider renting a virtual office in the early growth stage. Christina Attrah of Virtual HQ explores the benefits of virtual offices https://fleximize.com/articles/014178/why-entrepreneurs-should-mentor Tue, 05 Feb 2019 09:55:00 +0000 Ed Johnson https://fleximize.com/articles/014178/why-entrepreneurs-should-mentor Ed Johnson, CEO & Co-Founder of PushFar, shares five reasons why every entrepreneur should consider becoming a mentor https://fleximize.com/articles/014144/eggs-freelancers-making-tax-digital Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014144/eggs-freelancers-making-tax-digital We take a look at how an egg broke world records, the freelancer hub making a difference to Brooklyn's gig workers, and the impact of Making Tax Digital https://fleximize.com/articles/014137/making-tax-digital-common-misconceptions Wed, 30 Jan 2019 09:19:00 +0000 Tony Mills https://fleximize.com/articles/014137/making-tax-digital-common-misconceptions The new Making Tax Digital scheme has caused some confusion among UK businesses. Tony Mills of Online Tax Rebates clarifies the most common misconceptions https://fleximize.com/articles/014113/business-rates-guide Tue, 29 Jan 2019 09:19:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014113/business-rates-guide Here's our guide to paying business rates bills in the UK, including a look at how business rates are calculated, exemptions and small business rates relief https://fleximize.com/articles/014117/cybersecurity-training-smes Mon, 28 Jan 2019 11:38:00 +0000 Melanie Jones https://fleximize.com/articles/014117/cybersecurity-training-smes Melanie Jones looks at how investing in cybersecurity training can positively impact both your business and your wider workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/014039/sme-guide-government-contracts Wed, 23 Jan 2019 10:00:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/014039/sme-guide-government-contracts Government contracts can provide lucrative business opportunities for SMEs to build brand reputation. Here's a guide to bidding for public sector contracts https://fleximize.com/articles/014064/workspace-productivity Tue, 22 Jan 2019 11:10:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/014064/workspace-productivity We explore how to organize, lay-out and decorate your office workspace so that it increases productivity within your SME https://fleximize.com/articles/014042/brexit-preparing-your-business Mon, 21 Jan 2019 11:17:00 +0000 Gianluca Bisceglie https://fleximize.com/articles/014042/brexit-preparing-your-business With more uncertainty around Brexit dominating headlines, here's how to keep your business prepared in the face of the unexpected. https://fleximize.com/articles/002314/selling-your-business Wed, 16 Jan 2019 11:20:00 +0000 Sean Mallon https://fleximize.com/articles/002314/selling-your-business When selling an online business, being prepared ahead of the transition will ultimately bring financial gains. CEO Sean Mallon provides an extensive guide https://fleximize.com/articles/013972/what-is-fintech Mon, 14 Jan 2019 10:25:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/013972/what-is-fintech If you're wondering how fintech works and the impact it may have on your small business, read our guide covering everything you need to know about fintech https://fleximize.com/articles/013938/mastering-the-art-project-management Fri, 11 Jan 2019 09:44:00 +0000 Jonathon Kofler https://fleximize.com/articles/013938/mastering-the-art-project-management Successful project management requires an array of skills. Jonathon Kofler of Access Self Storage reveals his 8 steps to getting project management right https://fleximize.com/articles/013918/20-business-blogs-2019 Thu, 10 Jan 2019 09:51:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013918/20-business-blogs-2019 If you're looking for some inspiration in 2019, we've curated a list of the 20 best blogs, magazines and websites that every business owner should bookmark. https://fleximize.com/articles/013910/write-and-deliver-perfect-pitch Wed, 09 Jan 2019 10:09:00 +0000 Alison Watson https://fleximize.com/articles/013910/write-and-deliver-perfect-pitch Writing and delivering a powerful business pitch can make all the difference when seeking investment. Alison Watson shares her tips for the perfect pitch https://fleximize.com/articles/013871/branding-business-as-family-run Mon, 07 Jan 2019 11:11:00 +0000 Louise Findlay-Wilson https://fleximize.com/articles/013871/branding-business-as-family-run Marketing your SME as 'family-run' can have an impact on the perception of your brand. Energy PR's Louise Findlay-Wilson evaluates the risk and rewards https://fleximize.com/articles/013861/do-you-need-a-leadership-audit Thu, 03 Jan 2019 13:44:00 +0000 Marianne Page https://fleximize.com/articles/013861/do-you-need-a-leadership-audit Your performance as a manager directly impacts staff productivity, company morale and, ultimately, the success of your business. Here's a closer look at how https://fleximize.com/articles/013845/financial-resolutions-for-smes Wed, 02 Jan 2019 12:33:00 +0000 Tony Mills https://fleximize.com/articles/013845/financial-resolutions-for-smes The new year provides the ideal time for businesses to reflect on financial practices. Tony Mills of Online Tax Rebates shares 4 tips for money management https://fleximize.com/articles/013843/sme-lone-working-policy Thu, 27 Dec 2018 09:00:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/013843/sme-lone-working-policy We explore why lone working policies are an important part of every SME's Health & Safety process and how to write one that is tailored to your employees https://fleximize.com/articles/013826/pay-gaps-disagreements-christmas-reading Mon, 24 Dec 2018 09:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013826/pay-gaps-disagreements-christmas-reading The Fleximize Team run through key learnings from 2018, along with how to make 2019 a successful year for your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/013848/business-processes-impact-growth Fri, 21 Dec 2018 11:24:00 +0000 Alister Esam https://fleximize.com/articles/013848/business-processes-impact-growth Many SMEs reach a state where growth plateaus as competition increases. Fleximize reveals the common obstacles to growth and tips for getting around them https://fleximize.com/articles/013818/four-pillars-brand-purpose Wed, 19 Dec 2018 10:43:00 +0000 Tony Wright https://fleximize.com/articles/013818/four-pillars-brand-purpose Promoting brand purpose has become increasingly popular within marketing efforts. Tony Wright explores four key aspects to consider for your next campaign https://fleximize.com/articles/013811/psychology-behind-a-successful-team Mon, 17 Dec 2018 11:10:00 +0000 Sara Lou-Ann Jones https://fleximize.com/articles/013811/psychology-behind-a-successful-team Having a workforce of engaged employees is crucial to the success of your SME. Here are ten actionable steps to cultivate an efficient and motivated team https://fleximize.com/articles/013790/developing-confidence-at-work Thu, 13 Dec 2018 12:00:00 +0000 Paul Russell https://fleximize.com/articles/013790/developing-confidence-at-work Managing Director of Luxury Academy Paul Russell explains how to develop your confidence and gain authority in the workplace. https://fleximize.com/articles/013637/guide-to-business-award-applications Wed, 12 Dec 2018 09:00:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/013637/guide-to-business-award-applications Once your business has been running for a few years it's good practice to consider applying for small business awards. Here's how to go about it. https://fleximize.com/articles/013739/capitalize-on-holiday-marketing-trends Tue, 11 Dec 2018 11:12:00 +0000 Amanda Walls https://fleximize.com/articles/013739/capitalize-on-holiday-marketing-trends Holidays and celebrations are a great opportunity for SMEs to boost sales. Amanda Walls of Cedarwood Digital shares eight tips on holiday marketing plans https://fleximize.com/articles/013724/employment-law-changes-2019 Mon, 10 Dec 2018 11:45:00 +0000 Alan Price https://fleximize.com/articles/013724/employment-law-changes-2019 Changes in employment law have been difficult to keep up with in 2019. Here are 10 key changes all SMEs should be aware of, including pay gaps and pensions https://fleximize.com/articles/013707/marketing-leads-arent-working Fri, 07 Dec 2018 10:02:00 +0000 Bryony Thomas https://fleximize.com/articles/013707/marketing-leads-arent-working Here's a guide to common pitfalls SMEs face when executing their marketing strategy. We also look at the four pillars of marketing success for UK SMEs https://fleximize.com/articles/013625/fleximize-misspellings Thu, 06 Dec 2018 09:26:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013625/fleximize-misspellings At Fleximize, were pretty used to people misspelling or mispronouncing our name. Here's a quick rundown of our favourite misspellings from over the years https://fleximize.com/articles/013698/password-management-cyber-stress Wed, 05 Dec 2018 09:57:00 +0000 Ian Pitt https://fleximize.com/articles/013698/password-management-cyber-stress Many SMEs struggle with password management and cyber-stress among employees. Ian Pitt explains how technology and staff training can relieve the burden https://fleximize.com/articles/013682/smes-corporate-social-responsibility Tue, 04 Dec 2018 11:14:00 +0000 Jonathan Chapman https://fleximize.com/articles/013682/smes-corporate-social-responsibility Corporate social responsibility policies are highly valued by employees, investors and customers alike. But what can SMEs do to play their part? https://fleximize.com/articles/013669/social-media-policy-for-your-sme Mon, 03 Dec 2018 11:30:00 +0000 Marie Dancer & Jayne Harrison https://fleximize.com/articles/013669/social-media-policy-for-your-sme The Richard Nelson LLP Team explain why SMEs need a watertight social media policy, along with sharing their guide on creating one for your employees https://fleximize.com/articles/013598/loss-aversion-thinking-spots-chimpanzees Thu, 29 Nov 2018 09:08:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013598/loss-aversion-thinking-spots-chimpanzees Fleximize takes a look at how loss aversion can impact your decisions, along with where entrepreneurs go to think and David Attenborough's new documentary https://fleximize.com/articles/013591/gdpr-rectifying-non-compliance Wed, 28 Nov 2018 10:29:00 +0000 Adam Prince https://fleximize.com/articles/013591/gdpr-rectifying-non-compliance Many SMEs are still unsure if they are fully compliant with GDPR. Adam Prince shares three changes for businesses to make if concerned about non-compliance https://fleximize.com/articles/013563/protecting-your-brands-intellectual-property Mon, 26 Nov 2018 10:44:00 +0000 Peter Matthews https://fleximize.com/articles/013563/protecting-your-brands-intellectual-property Intellectual property and brand image are an SME's most valuable assets and require ongoing protection. Peter Matthews shares 4 tips for your IP strategy https://fleximize.com/articles/013548/vehicle-leasing-for-your-sme Thu, 22 Nov 2018 10:18:00 +0000 Tom Preston https://fleximize.com/articles/013548/vehicle-leasing-for-your-sme Many SMEs struggle to weigh the benefits of leasing a fleet of vehicles versus purchasing outright. Tom Preston talks us through the key points to consider https://fleximize.com/articles/013461/improve-your-company-credit-score Wed, 21 Nov 2018 09:14:00 +0000 Jyoti Patel https://fleximize.com/articles/013461/improve-your-company-credit-score Credit scores are one of the most telling reflections of your business' financial health. We explore seven steps to take to improve your credit score https://fleximize.com/articles/013506/building-a-feedback-culture-that-works Mon, 19 Nov 2018 15:50:00 +0000 Rob O’Donovan https://fleximize.com/articles/013506/building-a-feedback-culture-that-works An effective feedback culture can transform working processes. Rob O'Donovan, CEO of CharlieHR, reveals the seven pillars of sharing constructive feedback https://fleximize.com/articles/013488/cloud-based-solutions-for-smes Fri, 16 Nov 2018 11:02:00 +0000 Dean Gardner https://fleximize.com/articles/013488/cloud-based-solutions-for-smes An increasing number of SMEs are harnessing the flexibility of cloud services to increase day-to-day efficiencies, support scalability and boost security https://fleximize.com/articles/013470/facial-recognition-technology-smes Wed, 14 Nov 2018 09:33:00 +0000 Rhys David https://fleximize.com/articles/013470/facial-recognition-technology-smes Identity verification is a vital part of many businesses' customer checks. Rhys David examines how facial recognition technology can help. https://fleximize.com/articles/013464/director-redundancy-guide Mon, 12 Nov 2018 11:15:00 +0000 Gary Addison https://fleximize.com/articles/013464/director-redundancy-guide Director redundancies can be a complicated process to navigate. Gary Addison talks us through how to check if directors are eligible for redundancy pay-outs https://fleximize.com/articles/013441/startups-benefit-from-mentor Thu, 08 Nov 2018 12:02:00 +0000 John Stapleton https://fleximize.com/articles/013441/startups-benefit-from-mentor New Covent Garden Soup's John Stapleton shares his thoughts on the value of mentorship to a startup and how to choose the right mentor for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/013434/secure-remote-working-policy Wed, 07 Nov 2018 09:45:00 +0000 Nik Williams https://fleximize.com/articles/013434/secure-remote-working-policy Secure remote working policies are crucial for all businesses, especially with staff working remotely during the pandemic. Here's our guide to creating one https://fleximize.com/articles/013400/securing-tools-construction-companies Thu, 01 Nov 2018 10:24:00 +0000 Simon Williams https://fleximize.com/articles/013400/securing-tools-construction-companies Tool theft can cause crippling losses to construction SMEs. Storage Giant's Simon Williams shares nine ways to secure your tools, such as forensic marking https://fleximize.com/articles/013379/how-to-go-green-without-impacting-profit-margins Wed, 31 Oct 2018 10:32:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013379/how-to-go-green-without-impacting-profit-margins Many business owners avoid eco-friendly policies fearing it will impact profits. We explore steps you can take to go green without hurting your bottom line https://fleximize.com/articles/013355/job-descriptions-attracting-wrong-candidates Mon, 29 Oct 2018 10:42:00 +0000 Charlie Johnson https://fleximize.com/articles/013355/job-descriptions-attracting-wrong-candidates Recruiting the right candidate can be stressful and time-consuming. BrighterBox's Charlie Johnson shares his tips on how to attract worthwhile applicants https://fleximize.com/articles/013335/plastic-fifties-storm-idris-homemade-wi-fi Thu, 25 Oct 2018 15:12:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/013335/plastic-fifties-storm-idris-homemade-wi-fi Fleximize looks at the new plastic fifty-pound notes entering circulation in 2020, along with how storms are named and the Wi-Fi solution helping refugees https://fleximize.com/articles/013283/choosing-the-perfect-business-premises Wed, 24 Oct 2018 11:54:00 +0100 Mike Patterson https://fleximize.com/articles/013283/choosing-the-perfect-business-premises Finding the perfect business premises can be complex. Mike Patterson of We Buy Any House offers his expert advice on how to find premises for your SME https://fleximize.com/articles/013241/how-to-overcome-financial-restraint Mon, 22 Oct 2018 01:00:00 +0100 Keith Tully https://fleximize.com/articles/013241/how-to-overcome-financial-restraint SME owners face numerous financial challenges, such as poor cash flow and access to funding. Real Business Rescues Keith Tully explores how to resolve this https://fleximize.com/articles/013206/launch-business-from-kitchen-table Thu, 18 Oct 2018 11:00:00 +0100 Merje Shaw https://fleximize.com/articles/013206/launch-business-from-kitchen-table Launching a new business from scratch can seem daunting. Merje Shaw reveals the common pitfalls for startups to avoid and three key areas to make savings https://fleximize.com/articles/013196/gig-economy-benefits-for-smes Tue, 16 Oct 2018 09:35:00 +0100 Michelle Wright https://fleximize.com/articles/013196/gig-economy-benefits-for-smes SMEs are increasingly turning to the gig economy for workforce solutions over the long-term. Cause4's Michelle Wright explores the benefits of gig workers https://fleximize.com/articles/013175/capitalizing-on-business-micro-moments Thu, 11 Oct 2018 16:00:00 +0100 Ian Blackburn https://fleximize.com/articles/013175/capitalizing-on-business-micro-moments With the growth of online shopping, particularly on mobile devices, capitalizing on 'micro-moments' in your customer journey could be the key to success https://fleximize.com/articles/013134/small-business-guide-to-biophilic-design Tue, 09 Oct 2018 09:30:00 +0100 Dale Stone https://fleximize.com/articles/013134/small-business-guide-to-biophilic-design Biophilic office design is one approach to counteracting the busy and stressful qualities of modern working life, particularly for SMEs. Dale Stone reviews https://fleximize.com/articles/013117/blockchain-solutions-to-supply-chain-problems Fri, 05 Oct 2018 13:00:00 +0100 Adrian Clarke https://fleximize.com/articles/013117/blockchain-solutions-to-supply-chain-problems The modern supply chain is under strain from increased demand. We look at how blockchain technology could be a unique solution for supply chain management https://fleximize.com/articles/013093/ai-automation-technology-small-business Wed, 03 Oct 2018 11:00:00 +0100 Stacey McIntosh https://fleximize.com/articles/013093/ai-automation-technology-small-business Find out how artificial intelligence and automation are not only transforming large businesses but also offering huge opportunities for small businesses https://fleximize.com/articles/013053/leading-with-honesty-and-transparency Fri, 28 Sep 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Evan Wienburg https://fleximize.com/articles/013053/leading-with-honesty-and-transparency Maintaining transparency within the leadership of a small business isn't always easy. Former serviceman Evan Weinburg shares his own experiences and advice https://fleximize.com/articles/013021/uk-exports-exporting-asia Tue, 25 Sep 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Siddharth Shankar https://fleximize.com/articles/013021/uk-exports-exporting-asia Exporting to Asia is becoming an increasingly profitable and attractive market as Brexit looms. Siddharth Shankar looks at how UK SMEs can get started https://fleximize.com/articles/012999/influencer-marketing-artificial-intelligence Fri, 21 Sep 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Joel Davis https://fleximize.com/articles/012999/influencer-marketing-artificial-intelligence Influencer marketing brings huge results when done right, and artificial intelligence could be the key to maximizing your efforts. Joel Davis explores https://fleximize.com/articles/012987/the-changing-tide-of-women-in-finance Wed, 19 Sep 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Aanisah Begg https://fleximize.com/articles/012987/the-changing-tide-of-women-in-finance The shortage of women in the UK financial space has been prevalent for many years, but the gender gap is slowly closing. Aanisah Begg of Midven explores https://fleximize.com/articles/001051/high-street-survive-online-retail Fri, 31 Aug 2018 09:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/001051/high-street-survive-online-retail The survival of the high street relies on retailers understanding their customers, with a focus on catering to millennials and generation Z. Here's how https://fleximize.com/articles/012906/small-business-online-learning-resources Fri, 24 Aug 2018 10:00:00 +0100 David Howell https://fleximize.com/articles/012906/small-business-online-learning-resources Using online learning and staff training services to enhance your employee's skills – How on-going training is the key to commercial success https://fleximize.com/articles/012885/agile-scrum-project-management-guide Wed, 22 Aug 2018 10:30:00 +0100 Jug Babic https://fleximize.com/articles/012885/agile-scrum-project-management-guide The Agile project management methodology, and the Scrum framework in particular, has revolutionized team collaboration and development. Here's an SME guide https://fleximize.com/articles/012868/ai-automation-future-workplace Thu, 16 Aug 2018 11:00:00 +0100 Stephen Quinn https://fleximize.com/articles/012868/ai-automation-future-workplace With the use of AI and automation increasing in the workplace, how can SMEs prepare for the future of work? Founder of Jobbio Stephen Quinn takes a look https://fleximize.com/articles/012841/how-to-start-a-photography-business Mon, 13 Aug 2018 20:00:00 +0100 Sarah Adams https://fleximize.com/articles/012841/how-to-start-a-photography-business Starting a photography business is about more than taking photos. Sarah Adams of PolicyBee shares an in-depth guide to setting up your photography business https://fleximize.com/articles/012828/small-business-trademark-guide Fri, 10 Aug 2018 09:30:00 +0100 Rachael Ward https://fleximize.com/articles/012828/small-business-trademark-guide A trade mark is an easily-recognizable design or word that differentiates your business from others. Here's our guide to choosing a trade mark for your SME https://fleximize.com/articles/012800/top-tips-working-with-freelancers Mon, 06 Aug 2018 09:32:00 +0100 Warren Hill https://fleximize.com/articles/012800/top-tips-working-with-freelancers With the number of freelance workers on the rise, Warren Hill of Dream Digital offers five tips for collaborating effectively with independent contractors https://fleximize.com/articles/012618/tech-companies-tackling-food-waste Mon, 30 Jul 2018 15:00:00 +0100 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/012618/tech-companies-tackling-food-waste The sustainability issue around food waste has captured public attention recently. The founders of app-based services OLIO and Karma discuss their approach https://fleximize.com/articles/012727/the-importance-of-product-packaging Wed, 25 Jul 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Konrad Kwiatkowski https://fleximize.com/articles/012727/the-importance-of-product-packaging Product packaging, once regarded as just a basic necessity, is now seen as pivotal to the success of the selling process. Here are our top four design tips https://fleximize.com/articles/012652/protecting-your-business-data-breach Mon, 23 Jul 2018 14:00:00 +0100 Rahul Powar https://fleximize.com/articles/012652/protecting-your-business-data-breach From educating your staff about phishing emails to protecting your local network, here are some important cyber security measures for small businesses https://fleximize.com/articles/012627/geovation-the-shining-light-of-government-funded-innovation Fri, 20 Jul 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Will Darbyshire https://fleximize.com/articles/012627/geovation-the-shining-light-of-government-funded-innovation By nurturing some of the UKs very best startups, accelerator Geovation is supplying much-needed support to the UK tech industry to fuel future innovation https://fleximize.com/articles/012588/small-business-online-accounting-software Tue, 17 Jul 2018 10:30:00 +0100 Elizabeth Page https://fleximize.com/articles/012588/small-business-online-accounting-software When it comes to online accounting and bookkeeping software, there's a great deal of choice for SMEs. Here's a guide to finding the right platform for you https://fleximize.com/articles/012520/business-benefits-of-an-ageing-workforce Fri, 13 Jul 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Lindsay Long https://fleximize.com/articles/012520/business-benefits-of-an-ageing-workforce Research shows that older employees bring many benefits to a business including experience and morale. Here's how to attract and retain an ageing workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/012461/small-business-tackling-late-payments Tue, 10 Jul 2018 11:00:00 +0100 Nikki Th’ng https://fleximize.com/articles/012461/small-business-tackling-late-payments Late payments are highly damaging for SMEs and their owners. ClassForKids cofounder, Nikki Thng, looks at options for entrepreneurs facing late payments https://fleximize.com/articles/012377/small-business-tax-guide Mon, 02 Jul 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Elizabeth Page https://fleximize.com/articles/012377/small-business-tax-guide Understanding tax law can be tricky, whether you're a sole trader or a limited company. In this guide for small businesses, we cover all you need to know https://fleximize.com/articles/011866/how-to-organise-an-event-on-a-budget Mon, 25 Jun 2018 14:15:00 +0100 Amy Stroud https://fleximize.com/articles/011866/how-to-organise-an-event-on-a-budget A corporate event can be an excellent way to gain brand exposure but can be costly for SMEs. Here's a guide to organising a business event on a budget https://fleximize.com/articles/011844/landing-page-best-practices Tue, 19 Jun 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/011844/landing-page-best-practices A successful landing page strategy can be pivotal for maximising return-on-investment, supporting wider marketing efforts, and meeting business goals https://fleximize.com/articles/011818/business-give-to-charity Fri, 15 Jun 2018 11:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/011818/business-give-to-charity Giving back to charity and the local community through your business is a great way to grow your brand reputation, whilst helping those in need. Here's how https://fleximize.com/articles/011784/power-of-referral-marketing Wed, 13 Jun 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/011784/power-of-referral-marketing Referral marketing is one of the most powerful ways to grow your business. Here’s how to implement a successful referral campaign for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/011751/how-to-avoid-early-repayment-charges Mon, 04 Jun 2018 10:30:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/011751/how-to-avoid-early-repayment-charges If you’re taking out a business loan, you may wish to repay it early. But how can you avoid early repayment charges? Find out in Fleximize’s handy guide https://fleximize.com/articles/011710/death-startups Tue, 22 May 2018 10:01:00 +0100 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/011710/death-startups The funeral industry has a reputation for over-charging and under-serving. Two startups explain how they're challenging the status quo through innovation https://fleximize.com/articles/011622/late-starters-guide-to-gdpr Mon, 14 May 2018 15:32:00 +0100 Mark Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/011622/late-starters-guide-to-gdpr With changes to GDPR due in May, some firms are concerned about their readiness. Here's our guide to preparing your business for the new regulations https://fleximize.com/articles/011609/subscription-startups-e-commerce-experience Fri, 11 May 2018 10:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/011609/subscription-startups-e-commerce-experience Vinyl Me, Please and uOpen explain how subscription box services are challenging the status quo in e-commerce with personalised and delivered treats https://fleximize.com/articles/011588/buying-a-uk-franchise Wed, 09 May 2018 14:02:00 +0100 Carl Reader https://fleximize.com/articles/011588/buying-a-uk-franchise Franchising is a great alternative to a brand new business concept offering stability, fixed startup costs and an established business plan https://fleximize.com/articles/011565/how-cloud-technology-helps-hr Thu, 03 May 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Alex Tebbs https://fleximize.com/articles/011565/how-cloud-technology-helps-hr In a world with rapidly-advancing technology and an ever-changing business environment, could cloud technology be the answer to HR woes? https://fleximize.com/articles/011529/unpaid-internships-risks-and-rewards Mon, 30 Apr 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/011529/unpaid-internships-risks-and-rewards There are risks and rewards for employers when it comes to unpaid internships. We review the recent controversy and employment laws regarding internships https://fleximize.com/articles/011508/top-tips-doing-your-own-publicity Thu, 26 Apr 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Lucy Werner https://fleximize.com/articles/011508/top-tips-doing-your-own-publicity Getting effective press coverage for your new business can be tricky on a budget. This guide covers the basics of PR so you can promote your own business https://fleximize.com/articles/011468/top-10-business-blogs-2018 Thu, 19 Apr 2018 09:00:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/011468/top-10-business-blogs-2018 Here are 10 of the best business blogs for SME owners to follow in 2018, covering topics such as SEO, ecommerce, digital marketing and entrepreneurship https://fleximize.com/articles/011427/save-time-on-social-media-marketing Tue, 17 Apr 2018 09:00:00 +0100 Alex Packham https://fleximize.com/articles/011427/save-time-on-social-media-marketing With social media marketing becoming increasingly time-consuming, Alex Packham shares 11 ways to create and share quality content without wasting time https://fleximize.com/articles/011372/choosing-the-right-accountant-for-your-business Tue, 10 Apr 2018 11:00:00 +0100 Carl Reader https://fleximize.com/articles/011372/choosing-the-right-accountant-for-your-business With budgets tight, many entrepreneurs choose to handle their accounts on their own. However, the benefits of an accountant can far outweigh the cost. https://fleximize.com/articles/011328/hr-sme-lessons-fedex Thu, 05 Apr 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Jonathan Richards https://fleximize.com/articles/011328/hr-sme-lessons-fedex HR is a function often overlooked in a business, particularly SMEs. Jonathan Richards of breatheHR explores what we can learn from FedEx's approach to HR https://fleximize.com/articles/011295/key-employment-law-developments-2018-q2 Thu, 29 Mar 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Alan Price https://fleximize.com/articles/011295/key-employment-law-developments-2018-q2 Alan Price outlines the key employment law developments business owners need to be aware of in the coming months, including reporting on gender pay gaps https://fleximize.com/articles/011275/cyber-threats-facing-smes Mon, 26 Mar 2018 10:00:00 +0100 Ben Rose https://fleximize.com/articles/011275/cyber-threats-facing-smes With massive cyber-attacks increasing in regularity, what are the main cyber threats that businesses should be aware of? And how can they tackle them? https://fleximize.com/articles/011252/personal-data-problem-pollution-equal-pay Fri, 23 Mar 2018 09:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/011252/personal-data-problem-pollution-equal-pay How to protect your personal data on Facebook. The company aiming to solve London's pollution problem. Investigating why equal pay still doesn't exist. https://fleximize.com/articles/011222/five-essential-steps-to-exporting-success Tue, 20 Mar 2018 08:00:00 +0000 Ian McCarthy https://fleximize.com/articles/011222/five-essential-steps-to-exporting-success Exporting is an exciting prospect for any business, but it’s not without its challenges. Learn how to conquer overseas markets with this simple guide https://fleximize.com/articles/011191/how-to-increase-profit-with-new-revenue-streams Tue, 13 Mar 2018 11:43:00 +0000 Jason Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/011191/how-to-increase-profit-with-new-revenue-streams Introducing new revenue streams is a great way to reduce risk and boost profit. But how can a business find the best opportunities for additional income? https://fleximize.com/articles/011160/ed-sheeran-newcastle-startups-p2p-shopping Fri, 09 Mar 2018 11:56:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/011160/ed-sheeran-newcastle-startups-p2p-shopping Why there's more to Suffolk than Ed Sheeran. The app that's connecting shoppers with travellers. What makes Newcastle a startup hub to be reckoned with? https://fleximize.com/articles/011097/business-awards-getting-shortlisted Thu, 01 Mar 2018 08:00:00 +0000 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/011097/business-awards-getting-shortlisted With plenty of free awards available to UK businesses, its a great chance to generate some positive PR. Get yourself shortlisted with these top tips https://fleximize.com/articles/011055/google-home-gangsters-gun-control Fri, 23 Feb 2018 10:52:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/011055/google-home-gangsters-gun-control The essential guide to the internet of things. Examining the scale of America’s growing gun problem. What makes the BBC crime thriller McMafia a must-see? https://fleximize.com/articles/011017/how-to-simplify-hr Tue, 20 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 Stuart Hearn https://fleximize.com/articles/011017/how-to-simplify-hr A complex HR function can impair company performance and weaken employee morale. Here’s how to simplify it for the good of your business https://fleximize.com/articles/010984/how-to-download-a-bank-statement Tue, 13 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 Elizabeth Page https://fleximize.com/articles/010984/how-to-download-a-bank-statement A simple guide to downloading a bank statement from all of the major UK banks, including Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, HSBC, Nationwide, Santander and RBS https://fleximize.com/articles/010888/blockchain-albanian-beaches-tech-bro-slang Fri, 09 Feb 2018 15:40:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010888/blockchain-albanian-beaches-tech-bro-slang Blockchain technology explained in cartoons. Why Albania is an underrated holiday destination. What is Uber founder Travis Kalanick talking about? https://fleximize.com/articles/010879/benefits-of-sponsorship Tue, 06 Feb 2018 14:36:00 +0000 Lauren Muxworthy https://fleximize.com/articles/010879/benefits-of-sponsorship Sponsoring a sports team or TV show can be a cost-effective way for SMEs to reach their target audience. Here's how to use sponsorship to your advantage https://fleximize.com/articles/010802/carillion-collapse-business-lessons Tue, 30 Jan 2018 10:15:00 +0000 Mike Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/010802/carillion-collapse-business-lessons The insolvency of Carillion will have far-reaching implications for its employees and contractors. But what lessons has it taught other businesses? https://fleximize.com/articles/010792/card-surcharge-ban Mon, 29 Jan 2018 09:22:00 +0000 Nicky Hirst https://fleximize.com/articles/010792/card-surcharge-ban It's now illegal for businesses to charge customers for debit and credit card payments. How can companies manage the impact of the card surcharge ban? https://fleximize.com/articles/010774/social-good-seaweed-seamless-shopping Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:35:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010774/social-good-seaweed-seamless-shopping The teenager developing an app for Alzheimer's sufferers. What the launch of Amazon Go means for retail. Could seaweed be the ideal replacement for plastic? https://fleximize.com/articles/010742/brand-storytelling Tue, 16 Jan 2018 12:00:00 +0000 Claire Wilson https://fleximize.com/articles/010742/brand-storytelling Storytelling is a brilliant way of attracting and retaining customers. What can small businesses learn from the best and worst campaigns of recent years? https://fleximize.com/articles/010696/discovering-employee-has-criminal-conviction Tue, 09 Jan 2018 09:33:00 +0000 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/010696/discovering-employee-has-criminal-conviction What rights and responsibilities do employers have in respect of employees with undisclosed criminal records? Tackle this tricky issue with our handy guide https://fleximize.com/articles/010716/slack-sheds-sicily Mon, 08 Jan 2018 10:16:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010716/slack-sheds-sicily The messaging app that will transform your business. Find out how somebody tricked TripAdvisor. Why there's far more to Sicily than the Mafia. https://fleximize.com/articles/010684/isdn-switch-off-how-businesses-can-prepare Wed, 03 Jan 2018 09:26:00 +0000 Damian Hanson https://fleximize.com/articles/010684/isdn-switch-off-how-businesses-can-prepare BT is switching off its ISDN and PSTN networks in 2025 and replacing them with voice-over-IP services. Here's how to prepare your business for the change https://fleximize.com/articles/010668/why-employers-should-embrace-social-media Thu, 21 Dec 2017 11:38:00 +0000 Sukh Ryatt https://fleximize.com/articles/010668/why-employers-should-embrace-social-media Many employers regard social media as an unwelcome distraction and drain on company productivity. Used correctly, however, it could transform your workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/010654/how-to-improve-staff-morale-cost-effectively Mon, 18 Dec 2017 11:40:00 +0000 Richard Walton https://fleximize.com/articles/010654/how-to-improve-staff-morale-cost-effectively Evidence shows that happy employees are more productive and generate higher profits. But how can you improve staff morale on a small business budget? https://fleximize.com/articles/010598/late-trains-reddit-true-crime-podcasts Tue, 12 Dec 2017 08:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010598/late-trains-reddit-true-crime-podcasts Why businesses shouldn't be afraid of Reddit. The podcast that's going in pursuit of justice. Are Britain's trains the least punctual in the world? https://fleximize.com/articles/010623/performance-management-annual-appraisals Mon, 11 Dec 2017 16:14:00 +0000 Stuart Hearn https://fleximize.com/articles/010623/performance-management-annual-appraisals Companies are beginning to move away from annual appraisals towards continuous performance management. But what does this mean for employee pay and bonuses? https://fleximize.com/articles/010592/business-structures-for-startups Thu, 07 Dec 2017 10:36:00 +0000 Victoria Cimaz https://fleximize.com/articles/010592/business-structures-for-startups Choosing the wrong business structure can cause serious problems for a startup. Avoid making the same mistake with this short guide to business structures https://fleximize.com/articles/010585/employer-brand Fri, 01 Dec 2017 16:09:00 +0000 Laura Haynes https://fleximize.com/articles/010585/employer-brand A strong employer brand is essential for any business in this day and age. But what does it mean, and how do you build one for your company? https://fleximize.com/articles/010557/finland-farmers-caffeinated-buses Thu, 30 Nov 2017 09:48:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010557/finland-farmers-caffeinated-buses Why farmers are already feeling the backlash of Brexit. How your used coffee grounds could be used to fuel a bus. Why is it time to say hello to Helsinki? https://fleximize.com/articles/010342/why-its-time-to-stop-fearing-ai Wed, 15 Nov 2017 12:32:00 +0000 Sebastian Lewis https://fleximize.com/articles/010342/why-its-time-to-stop-fearing-ai Far from being a threat, artificial intelligence presents a huge opportunity for businesses and customers alike. How could robots transform your company? https://fleximize.com/articles/010319/bad-reviews-how-to-take-advantage Tue, 07 Nov 2017 15:00:00 +0000 Joy Zarine https://fleximize.com/articles/010319/bad-reviews-how-to-take-advantage It's never nice to receive a negative review from a customer. However, there are plenty of ways that business owners can benefit from bad reviews https://fleximize.com/articles/010330/stranger-things-stress-prevention-seo-tips Sun, 05 Nov 2017 08:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010330/stranger-things-stress-prevention-seo-tips The triumphant return of a Netflix favourite. How to tackle the pressures of business ownership. What's the secret to outranking your rivals on Google? https://fleximize.com/articles/010305/future-of-cryptocurrency Fri, 03 Nov 2017 12:18:00 +0000 Sacha Bright https://fleximize.com/articles/010305/future-of-cryptocurrency With more people buying and trading in cryptocurrencies, some have suggested they could eventually replace traditional currency. But how likely is that? https://fleximize.com/articles/010293/r-d-tax-credits Wed, 01 Nov 2017 09:17:00 +0000 Alex Boothman https://fleximize.com/articles/010293/r-d-tax-credits What are R&D tax credits, and how can your company claim them? We answer these questions, and more, in this definitive guide to R&D tax relief https://fleximize.com/articles/010214/9-ways-to-cut-your-cart-abandonment-rate Tue, 17 Oct 2017 14:33:00 +0100 Dave Howell https://fleximize.com/articles/010214/9-ways-to-cut-your-cart-abandonment-rate Cart abandonment is a common problem for e-commerce businesses. What practical steps can they take to improve their checkout process and boost conversions? https://fleximize.com/articles/010263/blue-planet-black-mirror-balkans Mon, 16 Oct 2017 11:13:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010263/blue-planet-black-mirror-balkans Sir David Attenborough is back with Blue Planet II. How Charlie Brooker foresaw China's latest controversy. Why is Dubrovnik worth discovering? https://fleximize.com/articles/015469/virgin-bank-business-loans Tue, 10 Oct 2017 18:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015469/virgin-bank-business-loans Virgin Bank are a Start Up Loans Delivery Partner, offering UK entrepreneurs personal loans of up to £25k. Here are the key details you need to know. https://fleximize.com/articles/010170/annual-leave-lessons-from-the-ryanair-debacle Fri, 06 Oct 2017 11:44:00 +0100 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/010170/annual-leave-lessons-from-the-ryanair-debacle With Ryanair blaming flight cancellations on a change to its holiday year, what has it taught other employers about managing their employees' annual leave? https://fleximize.com/articles/010110/employment-tribunal-fees Tue, 26 Sep 2017 10:04:00 +0100 Nicola Mullineux https://fleximize.com/articles/010110/employment-tribunal-fees Four years after their introduction, the Supreme Court has abolished employment tribunal fees, ruling them unlawful. But what does it mean for employers? https://fleximize.com/articles/010199/augmented-reality-apple-autumn-in-austria Mon, 25 Sep 2017 14:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010199/augmented-reality-apple-autumn-in-austria How to deliver a revolutionary buying experience. The wonders of a weekend waltz in Vienna. Could it be the beginning of the end for Apple? https://fleximize.com/articles/015465/co-operative-bank-business-loans Tue, 12 Sep 2017 20:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015465/co-operative-bank-business-loans If you're considering applying for a Co-operative Bank business loan, we've put together a quick guide to their key products https://fleximize.com/articles/009534/web-design-best-practices Thu, 31 Aug 2017 12:24:00 +0100 Chris Hardy https://fleximize.com/articles/009534/web-design-best-practices Designing a website for your business is a complex but essential task. These handy web design tips should be all you need to help your company shine online https://fleximize.com/articles/009433/casper-and-eve-mattress-innovation Thu, 24 Aug 2017 15:23:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/009433/casper-and-eve-mattress-innovation Startups Casper and Eve have revolutionized the experience of buying a mattress. We discover how the two companies have successfully disrupted the industry https://fleximize.com/articles/010155/theme-parks-telly-addicts-tax-problems Wed, 23 Aug 2017 22:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010155/theme-parks-telly-addicts-tax-problems What are the secrets of Disney's success? What is it that makes Channel 4's Gogglebox so special? Who does Amazon owe €250m in unpaid tax? https://fleximize.com/articles/009434/flexible-working Thu, 17 Aug 2017 08:39:00 +0100 Jason Downes https://fleximize.com/articles/009434/flexible-working Many employers are wary of flexible working, but it presents far more opportunities than threats. So, why and how should you implement it in your business? https://fleximize.com/articles/009346/7-ways-to-up-your-ppc-game Thu, 03 Aug 2017 11:12:00 +0100 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/009346/7-ways-to-up-your-ppc-game PPC ads not converting? Paid search not paying the bills? Check out this simple guide to maximizing the returns from your pay-per-click campaigns https://fleximize.com/articles/009334/why-business-owners-should-love-failure Mon, 31 Jul 2017 12:42:00 +0100 Flick Hardingham https://fleximize.com/articles/009334/why-business-owners-should-love-failure Building a successful business depends on embracing failure from the start, not fearing it. Here's how to create a fail-friendly culture in your company https://fleximize.com/articles/010123/cybersecurity-czech-charm-commuter-congestion Sat, 29 Jul 2017 02:00:00 +0100 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/010123/cybersecurity-czech-charm-commuter-congestion Why passwords still carry their weight in importance. The magic of medieval Prague. Will facial recognition take the pain out of rush hour? https://fleximize.com/articles/009322/trade-show-tips Thu, 27 Jul 2017 10:48:00 +0100 Richard LeCount https://fleximize.com/articles/009322/trade-show-tips Trade shows and exhibitions are still a valuable marketing channel for businesses, but how can you make them to work to your advantage? https://fleximize.com/articles/009308/employee-wellbeing Mon, 24 Jul 2017 11:08:00 +0100 Emma Davidson https://fleximize.com/articles/009308/employee-wellbeing Looking after the health of your employees can deliver tangible benefits to your business, but what steps can you take to improve employee wellbeing? https://fleximize.com/articles/009285/dissecting-aftermath-of-general-election-2017 Wed, 19 Jul 2017 14:18:00 +0100 Paul Anderson https://fleximize.com/articles/009285/dissecting-aftermath-of-general-election-2017 As parliament takes its summer recess and attention turns to Brexit, how does one make sense of the last three months in UK politics? And what's next? https://fleximize.com/articles/010095/giant-pandas-doorbells-dystopian-futures Tue, 18 Jul 2017 12:11:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/010095/giant-pandas-doorbells-dystopian-futures The two biggest reasons to visit Edinburgh this winter. Why The Handmaid's Tale cleaned up at the Emmys. How is Nest making smart homes smarter? https://fleximize.com/articles/009267/what-is-a-sole-trader Tue, 11 Jul 2017 10:20:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/009267/what-is-a-sole-trader Thinking of setting up as a sole trader? Find out what it means, how to register, and the advantages and disadvantages of this type of business structure https://fleximize.com/articles/009259/business-meeting-sos-holding-effective-meetings Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:01:00 +0100 Dave Howell https://fleximize.com/articles/009259/business-meeting-sos-holding-effective-meetings Meetings can be a huge drain on company resources, but they don't need to be. Wave goodbye to the bored room with these essential business meeting tips https://fleximize.com/articles/009165/asset-based-finance Wed, 05 Jul 2017 15:08:00 +0100 Craig Farmer https://fleximize.com/articles/009165/asset-based-finance Is asset-based finance a good fit for your business? This guide examines the pros and cons of factoring, invoice discounting and asset-based lending https://fleximize.com/articles/009232/shared-parental-leave Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:33:00 +0100 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/009232/shared-parental-leave The UK government introduced shared parental leave in 2015, offering parents a more flexible childcare arrangement. But what does it all mean for employers? https://fleximize.com/articles/010007/driverless-cars-blockchain-clowns Wed, 28 Jun 2017 02:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/010007/driverless-cars-blockchain-clowns Discovering how driverless cars actually see. How a Finnish fintech startup is making life easier for refugees. Is It the horror movie of the year? https://fleximize.com/articles/009206/debentures Sun, 25 Jun 2017 01:00:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/009206/debentures If you're looking to apply for a business loan or overdraft, you might be asked to agree to a debenture. Here's everything you need to know about debentures https://fleximize.com/articles/009213/work-life-balance Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:06:00 +0100 Richard Walton https://fleximize.com/articles/009213/work-life-balance Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is notoriously difficult for entrepreneurs. But it's not impossible. Here's how you can find your perfect balance https://fleximize.com/articles/009558/space-cofounders-amazon Thu, 22 Jun 2017 09:20:00 +0100 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/009558/space-cofounders-amazon The expensive business of the space race. How a fake co-founder exposed sexism in the tech sector. What would a house controlled by Amazon look like? https://fleximize.com/articles/009096/hiring-a-virtual-assistant Thu, 18 May 2017 11:00:00 +0100 Sarra Bejaoui https://fleximize.com/articles/009096/hiring-a-virtual-assistant Hiring a virtual assistant can deliver numerous benefits to a business, but there are a few things to consider before bringing a virtual PA on board https://fleximize.com/articles/009083/secured-and-unsecured-loans Wed, 17 May 2017 08:30:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/009083/secured-and-unsecured-loans Compare secured vs unsecured loans for personal and business finance. Explore advantages and disadvantages of secured and unsecured borrowing features today. https://fleximize.com/articles/015565/clydesdale-bank-business-loans Tue, 16 May 2017 01:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015565/clydesdale-bank-business-loans Here's our guide to Clydesdale Bank's business loan products, such as their term loan, flexible business loan and business investment loan https://fleximize.com/articles/009518/tapas-pay-gaps-secrets-of-netflix Mon, 15 May 2017 11:48:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/009518/tapas-pay-gaps-secrets-of-netflix Exploring the cheap eats of Seville. Tackling the super-sized salaries of corporate CEOs. How does Netflix know what you like and don't like? https://fleximize.com/articles/009072/business-energy-how-to-get-a-good-deal Thu, 04 May 2017 14:48:00 +0100 Nick Dwan https://fleximize.com/articles/009072/business-energy-how-to-get-a-good-deal As a small business owner, you'll want to pay as little as possible for your energy supply. Here's how to avoid the traps of the business energy market https://fleximize.com/articles/009039/small-business-pr Fri, 28 Apr 2017 11:30:00 +0100 Alison Shadrack https://fleximize.com/articles/009039/small-business-pr Getting press coverage for your small business needn't be that tricky. Here's how to do your own small business PR on a budget, without using a PR agency https://fleximize.com/articles/008996/networking-advice Tue, 11 Apr 2017 09:05:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/008996/networking-advice Networking events remain an important part of the modern business landscape. Learn how to network effectively with these top networking tips https://fleximize.com/articles/009484/spinach-pastries-ghosts-power-of-spotify Mon, 10 Apr 2017 09:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/009484/spinach-pastries-ghosts-power-of-spotify The gastronomic delights of the Greek capital. The little blue ghost keeping your data secure. Why is Spotify bigger than radio for some artists? https://fleximize.com/articles/008939/how-to-access-your-vat-returns Tue, 28 Mar 2017 09:30:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/008939/how-to-access-your-vat-returns When you apply for a business loan or other type of business funding, a lender might ask to see your VAT returns. Here's how you can access them online https://fleximize.com/articles/008924/water-deregulation-what-it-means-for-businesses Wed, 22 Mar 2017 16:37:00 +0000 Jason Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/008924/water-deregulation-what-it-means-for-businesses The non-domestic water market in England was deregulated on 1 April 2017. Here's everything small businesses need to know about water deregulation https://fleximize.com/articles/009448/robots-detectives-sir-richard-branson Mon, 20 Mar 2017 07:30:00 +0000 Jessie Leong https://fleximize.com/articles/009448/robots-detectives-sir-richard-branson Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson reveals all in his new book. We reveal the gritty crime thriller of the summer. And will we soon be replaced by robots? https://fleximize.com/articles/008903/how-to-edit-a-website Fri, 17 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 Gloria Kopp https://fleximize.com/articles/008903/how-to-edit-a-website Errors on your website can put off customers and damage your brand's credibility. These proofreading tools will take the pain out of editing a website https://fleximize.com/articles/008882/how-to-be-a-successful-entrepreneur Wed, 15 Mar 2017 14:51:00 +0000 Richard Walton https://fleximize.com/articles/008882/how-to-be-a-successful-entrepreneur Entrepreneurship is often depicted as a life of luxury, but making a success of it takes blood, sweat and tears. Here's how to be a successful entrepreneur https://fleximize.com/articles/008853/freelance-copywriters-for-smes Thu, 09 Mar 2017 15:56:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/008853/freelance-copywriters-for-smes Writing about your business online or in print can be challenging. By hiring a freelance copywriter, you can boost your brand without breaking the bank https://fleximize.com/articles/009387/brexit-balloons-breaking-bad Wed, 08 Mar 2017 12:05:00 +0000 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/009387/brexit-balloons-breaking-bad Bristol hosts its 39th International Balloon Fiesta. Netflix subscribers go nuts over new show Ozark. Will Brexit actually ever happen? https://fleximize.com/articles/008674/business-name-fails Tue, 24 Jan 2017 09:54:00 +0000 Dan Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/008674/business-name-fails Picking the wrong name for your business can set you up for failure. So make sure you avoid these common mistakes when naming your company https://fleximize.com/articles/008635/business-energy Wed, 11 Jan 2017 15:01:00 +0000 Jason Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/008635/business-energy Finding the right energy supplier can be a headache for small business owners. Here's a simple guide to getting your business utilities up and running https://fleximize.com/articles/009358/unicorns-skeletons-bucket-headed-mps Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/009358/unicorns-skeletons-bucket-headed-mps Stripe founders tell their incredible story. Natural History Museum unveils Dippy's replacement. What the hell is going on in UK politics? https://fleximize.com/articles/008609/25-years-of-web-design Thu, 22 Dec 2016 11:31:00 +0000 Carl-Stéphan Parent https://fleximize.com/articles/008609/25-years-of-web-design How has web design evolved since Tim Berners-Lee launched the world wide web? We chart its history from Mosaic to the emergence of responsive design https://fleximize.com/articles/008462/excel-tips Fri, 16 Dec 2016 11:59:00 +0000 Elizabeth Page https://fleximize.com/articles/008462/excel-tips Microsoft Excel is the world's most important piece of business software. Business owners won't need an accountant with these handy little spreadsheet hacks https://fleximize.com/articles/008420/currency-risk Wed, 07 Dec 2016 11:54:00 +0000 Nat Davison https://fleximize.com/articles/008420/currency-risk Exchange rate fluctuations can have a significant impact on any business. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways for SMEs to manage their currency risk https://fleximize.com/articles/015314/rbs-business-loans Wed, 30 Nov 2016 16:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015314/rbs-business-loans Here's a quick look at the RBS business loans available to UK SMEs, including the RBS small business loan, business overdraft, and business credit card https://fleximize.com/articles/007125/how-to-make-a-good-video Fri, 25 Nov 2016 10:28:00 +0000 Kevin Conway https://fleximize.com/articles/007125/how-to-make-a-good-video Video marketing has become a 'must-do' for small businesses that want to stand out from the crowd. So what makes a good video? Check out these top tips https://fleximize.com/articles/007107/rebranding-a-company Wed, 23 Nov 2016 09:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/007107/rebranding-a-company AOL's rebrand may have divided opinion, but it taught businesses a number of lessons about rebranding. Here are the most important ones https://fleximize.com/articles/007065/what3words Fri, 18 Nov 2016 15:30:00 +0000 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/007065/what3words What3Words, the London-based startup founded in 2013, has transformed the lives of billions by giving them something they've never had – an address https://fleximize.com/articles/007039/going-global-expansion Mon, 14 Nov 2016 09:00:00 +0000 Gavin Fell https://fleximize.com/articles/007039/going-global-expansion Expanding overseas can be a daunting prospect for any small business, but a plethora of online tools is enabling companies to compete from the outset https://fleximize.com/articles/007021/uber-claim-gig-economy Wed, 09 Nov 2016 09:00:00 +0000 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/007021/uber-claim-gig-economy Uber's defeat in a recent employment tribunal will have a huge impact on the company, but what are the wider implications for the gig economy as a whole? https://fleximize.com/articles/015446/tsb-business-loans Wed, 02 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/015446/tsb-business-loans TSB offers business funding options in the form of overdrafts, credit cards and business loans. Explore our TSB loan guide to UK business funding here https://fleximize.com/articles/006993/best-crowdfunding-sites Mon, 31 Oct 2016 11:38:00 +0000 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/006993/best-crowdfunding-sites Crowdfunding has given startups and SMEs an exciting new route to investment, but what are the five best crowdfunding sites for UK businesses? https://fleximize.com/articles/006970/history-of-ecommerce Mon, 24 Oct 2016 10:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/006970/history-of-ecommerce Think of the history of e-commerce, and you'd probably think of the 1990s. But you'd be wrong. Here's our short guide, from ARPANET to Google algorithms https://fleximize.com/articles/006947/facebook-workplace Thu, 20 Oct 2016 11:31:00 +0100 Anna Roberts https://fleximize.com/articles/006947/facebook-workplace With the launch of Workplace, Facebook will be competing with the likes of Slack and Yammer. We weigh up the pros and cons of the company's enterprise tool https://fleximize.com/articles/006866/reporting-lines Wed, 12 Oct 2016 09:00:00 +0100 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/006866/reporting-lines With more and more businesses changing their reporting lines, how can you avoid employee conflict when you change your business structure? https://fleximize.com/articles/006855/the-new-5-note-and-the-future-of-cash Tue, 11 Oct 2016 09:00:00 +0100 Ewan Ogilvie https://fleximize.com/articles/006855/the-new-5-note-and-the-future-of-cash The UK's first polymer 5 note was recently introduced as a cleaner and safer form of currency, prompting questions about the survival of cash payments https://fleximize.com/articles/006843/how-to-improve-cash-flow Fri, 07 Oct 2016 14:00:00 +0100 Laura Beatrix Green https://fleximize.com/articles/006843/how-to-improve-cash-flow Poor cash flow is the biggest cause of small business failure, but there are plenty of ways that business owners can overcome this barrier to growth https://fleximize.com/articles/000973/angel-investors Tue, 04 Oct 2016 10:00:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/000973/angel-investors Angel investors are an important part of the business funding landscape in the UK. But what is an angel investor, and how could they benefit your business? https://fleximize.com/articles/006796/starting-a-business Mon, 03 Oct 2016 08:38:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/006796/starting-a-business Have you ever considered starting a business? Our step-by-step guide should be all you need to turn your startup dream into reality https://fleximize.com/articles/006809/choosing-a-domain-name Thu, 29 Sep 2016 12:38:00 +0100 Hiren Parekh https://fleximize.com/articles/006809/choosing-a-domain-name Domain names are a key part of a company's online identity. So how do you go about choosing a domain name for your business, and how can you protect it? https://fleximize.com/articles/006773/crowdfunding-and-peer-to-peer-lending Wed, 21 Sep 2016 15:15:00 +0100 Paul Marston https://fleximize.com/articles/006773/crowdfunding-and-peer-to-peer-lending Crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending are often lumped together, but there's an important distinction between these two types of business finance https://fleximize.com/articles/002271/communication-models Thu, 15 Sep 2016 13:00:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/002271/communication-models There are numerous communication models in the modern workplace, but some can be more effective than others. Here are the pros and cons of each model https://fleximize.com/articles/001824/working-past-state-pension-age Wed, 14 Sep 2016 12:00:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/001824/working-past-state-pension-age More people in the UK are working past 65 than a decade ago. Fleximize examines the advantages of working beyond the state pension age https://fleximize.com/articles/000536/differences-between-creativity-and-innovation Tue, 13 Sep 2016 11:00:00 +0100 Peter Tuvey https://fleximize.com/articles/000536/differences-between-creativity-and-innovation Creativity and innovation rely on each other, and are easily confused. What's the difference between them and why should they be embraced by businesses? https://fleximize.com/articles/006702/financial-projections Wed, 07 Sep 2016 11:53:00 +0100 Paul Clarke https://fleximize.com/articles/006702/financial-projections Many entrepreneurs have a brilliant business idea, but fail to back it up with solid financial projections. Why can this ruin their chances of investment? https://fleximize.com/articles/006687/probationary-periods Mon, 05 Sep 2016 14:50:00 +0100 Michelle Last https://fleximize.com/articles/006687/probationary-periods Probationary periods can protect employers when a new employee doesn’t make the grade. But how can an employer implement one effectively and responsibly? https://fleximize.com/articles/006663/chinese-super-app-changing-tech Fri, 02 Sep 2016 09:54:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/006663/chinese-super-app-changing-tech Chinese apps have long been derided as 'copy-cat apps'. But, with WeChat, could we be seeing the emergence of the world's first super-app? https://fleximize.com/articles/006649/amazon-dash-internet-of-things Thu, 01 Sep 2016 10:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/006649/amazon-dash-internet-of-things With Amazon's release of Dash Buttons in the UK, the internet of things has taken a sharp turn toward commerce and one-touch grocery ordering https://fleximize.com/articles/000943/difference-between-gross-and-net-profit Fri, 26 Aug 2016 10:00:00 +0100 Elizabeth Page https://fleximize.com/articles/000943/difference-between-gross-and-net-profit What's the difference between gross profit and net profit? To help you get the financials right when securing finance, Fleximize has created a handy guide https://fleximize.com/articles/006601/safety-systems-for-commercial-vehicles Thu, 25 Aug 2016 13:45:00 +0100 Naomi Webb https://fleximize.com/articles/006601/safety-systems-for-commercial-vehicles Its important to keep your staff safe when they get behind the wheel. These safety solutions should do the trick for any business with commercial vehicles https://fleximize.com/articles/006526/importance-of-business-insurance Tue, 23 Aug 2016 12:53:00 +0100 Chris Marsh https://fleximize.com/articles/006526/importance-of-business-insurance 'Why do I need business insurance?' we hear you ask. That's one of the questions we answer in this super simple guide for startups and SMEs https://fleximize.com/articles/006450/famous-photos Fri, 19 Aug 2016 14:35:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/006450/famous-photos On World Photography Day, Fleximize threw the spotlight on the famous photos that stopped people in their tracks https://fleximize.com/articles/005171/myths-of-entrepreneurship Wed, 17 Aug 2016 11:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/005171/myths-of-entrepreneurship There are a number of myths swirling around the startup space – and many entrepreneurs fall for them hook, line and sinker. We debunk five of the biggest https://fleximize.com/articles/006411/wordpress-ecommerce-plugins Thu, 11 Aug 2016 15:27:00 +0100 Naomi Webb https://fleximize.com/articles/006411/wordpress-ecommerce-plugins There's a multitude of WordPress plugins that can help e-commerce startups offer customers a seamless shopping experience. Here are four of the best https://fleximize.com/articles/006365/compete-on-ppc Fri, 05 Aug 2016 10:19:00 +0100 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/006365/compete-on-ppc PPC offers a perfect, cost-effective platform for small businesses to position their brands among market leaders, and contend in the paid search arena https://fleximize.com/articles/006345/the-small-business-guide-to-kickstarter Wed, 03 Aug 2016 10:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/006345/the-small-business-guide-to-kickstarter Launching your next product on Kickstarter could be the best and worst thing you ever do. Here's our guide to navigating the crowdfunding minefield https://fleximize.com/articles/006331/how-to-improve-your-productivity Mon, 01 Aug 2016 09:30:00 +0100 Richard Walton https://fleximize.com/articles/006331/how-to-improve-your-productivity It seems we’ve hit an all-time low in productivity levels in the UK and, as a result, are more stressed. What’s holding us back and how do we escape it? https://fleximize.com/articles/000841/revenue-advance Fri, 29 Jul 2016 10:48:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/000841/revenue-advance Revenue Advance is one of the most flexible business loans available to SMEs. But how exactly does it work and what types of business does it suit best? https://fleximize.com/articles/006267/moving-office Thu, 21 Jul 2016 16:28:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/006267/moving-office Moving to a new office is a sign of business growth, but it can also be a stressful experience. So how can you take the pain out of the moving process? https://fleximize.com/articles/006215/the-small-business-guide-to-vr Tue, 19 Jul 2016 09:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/006215/the-small-business-guide-to-vr Virtual reality isn't just a platform for gamers. It could provide your customers with the best shopping experience they've ever had https://fleximize.com/articles/006183/pokemon-go Wed, 13 Jul 2016 15:47:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/006183/pokemon-go With Pokémon Go taking the gaming world by storm, there are plenty of ways that SMEs can capitalize on the craze https://fleximize.com/articles/002180/creating-company-culture Thu, 07 Jul 2016 17:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/002180/creating-company-culture Company culture means something different to everyone but no business can afford to ignore it. So how can you build a great culture for your company? https://fleximize.com/articles/001787/sponsoring-employees-abroad-faqs Fri, 01 Jul 2016 12:13:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/001787/sponsoring-employees-abroad-faqs When recruiting a worker from outside the EU, employers might need to apply for a Tier 1, Tier 2 or Tier 5 sponsor licence. Here's all you need to know https://fleximize.com/articles/006096/eu-referendum Wed, 22 Jun 2016 11:54:00 +0100 Adam Pescod https://fleximize.com/articles/006096/eu-referendum With one day left to the EU referendum, we were on hand to help business owners who were still sitting on the fence https://fleximize.com/articles/005999/5-fast-hacks-to-improve-your-local-search-visibility Tue, 07 Jun 2016 10:00:00 +0100 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/005999/5-fast-hacks-to-improve-your-local-search-visibility 5 free SEO hacks to improve your local search visibility on Google by utilising Google My Business, Facebook, Reviews and more https://fleximize.com/articles/005965/managing-business-on-holiday Thu, 26 May 2016 09:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/005965/managing-business-on-holiday How do you keep your business running smoothly whilst on holiday? These 7 handy online tools may help you focus more on the beach and less on spreadsheets https://fleximize.com/articles/005945/what-is-equipment-leasing Thu, 05 May 2016 13:00:00 +0100 Stephen Jenkins https://fleximize.com/articles/005945/what-is-equipment-leasing Want to invest in new equipment for your small business without compromising cash flow? Equipment leasing could be the answer to your problems https://fleximize.com/articles/005929/15-image-resources-for-budget-businesses Wed, 27 Apr 2016 15:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/005929/15-image-resources-for-budget-businesses Our run down of the best image resources, copyright free photography, design assets and WordPress themes for small businesses on a budget https://fleximize.com/articles/005859/small-business-hacks Tue, 19 Apr 2016 12:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/005859/small-business-hacks Can't afford a marketing team? You still need to think like one. Here are four hacks that marketers use all the time to prove ROI https://fleximize.com/articles/005848/survival-rates-of-businesses Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0100 https://fleximize.com/articles/005848/survival-rates-of-businesses Fleximize's interactive visual debunks the myth that 80% of businesses fail in their first year. The picture is much more positive. Find out more now! https://fleximize.com/articles/005634/6-best-british-co-working-spaces Tue, 05 Apr 2016 09:30:00 +0100 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005634/6-best-british-co-working-spaces Want a co-working space with a difference? Check out some of the best – and coolest – co-working spaces for entrepreneurs from around Britain https://fleximize.com/articles/005617/who-spending-money-in-uk Fri, 01 Apr 2016 13:00:00 +0100 Brendan Cunningham https://fleximize.com/articles/005617/who-spending-money-in-uk Gift retailer, Buyagift, reveals research on regional spending habits and what it means for businesses around the UK https://fleximize.com/articles/005262/fastest-unicorns-in-the-world Tue, 15 Mar 2016 10:00:00 +0000 https://fleximize.com/articles/005262/fastest-unicorns-in-the-world Today's billion-dollar companies: See who the world's fastest unicorns are, how quickly they got there, their industries and locations https://fleximize.com/articles/005465/5-employers-amazing-apprenticeships Tue, 15 Mar 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Sophie Hardwick https://fleximize.com/articles/005465/5-employers-amazing-apprenticeships Apprenticeship stories: five small businesses using apprenticeships in inspiring ways that benefit the business and the young employees https://fleximize.com/articles/005487/what-smes-learn-from-master-cooper Tue, 15 Mar 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Sophie Hardwick https://fleximize.com/articles/005487/what-smes-learn-from-master-cooper What your business can learn from this inspiring story of how a niche business found the perfect apprentice. https://fleximize.com/articles/005454/why-apprenticeships-are-great-news-for-small-businesses Mon, 14 Mar 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Sophie Hardwick https://fleximize.com/articles/005454/why-apprenticeships-are-great-news-for-small-businesses Savvy SMEs know apprenticeships benefit their employees and business growth. From funded training to low employment costs, here's the lowdown. https://fleximize.com/articles/005363/ways-female-entrepreneurs-break-down-barriers Tue, 08 Mar 2016 10:30:00 +0000 Annelie Carver https://fleximize.com/articles/005363/ways-female-entrepreneurs-break-down-barriers This International Women's Day, business woman and lawyer Annelie Carver shares how other female business owners can break down barriers to achieve success https://fleximize.com/articles/005326/funding-circle Mon, 07 Mar 2016 11:00:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005326/funding-circle Find out what the big deal is about Funding Circle, the $1 billion P2P lending platform that offers great business borrowing and investment opportunities https://fleximize.com/articles/005356/changing-face-trade-finance Thu, 03 Mar 2016 10:30:00 +0000 James Sinclair https://fleximize.com/articles/005356/changing-face-trade-finance Trade finance expert looks at the rise of UK exporting, business funding and the future of trade finance https://fleximize.com/articles/005264/5-ways-small-businesses-keep-employees-happy Wed, 24 Feb 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Jonathan Austin https://fleximize.com/articles/005264/5-ways-small-businesses-keep-employees-happy Employee engagement experts, Best Companies, provide advice on the ways SMEs can build a loyal workforce https://fleximize.com/articles/005257/the-paypal-mafia Tue, 23 Feb 2016 08:00:00 +0000 https://fleximize.com/articles/005257/the-paypal-mafia The Ventures of the PayPal Mafia: Awesome interactive graphic that lifts the veil on the 'Dons' running Silicon Valley https://fleximize.com/articles/005246/ebay-loans Mon, 22 Feb 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005246/ebay-loans Article offering great advice for eBay Sellers who want to boost business – from applying for eBay loans to strategic timing of auctions https://fleximize.com/articles/000825/how-revenue-based-financing-works Mon, 15 Feb 2016 09:00:00 +0000 Max Chmyshuk https://fleximize.com/articles/000825/how-revenue-based-financing-works revenue-based financing agreement helps you tap into capital without leveraging equity or taking on debt. Learn how revenue funding could help your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/005158/how-deborah-meaden-made-her-fortune Mon, 08 Feb 2016 10:00:00 +0000 Lucy Douglas https://fleximize.com/articles/005158/how-deborah-meaden-made-her-fortune The Dragons' Den businesswoman, Deborah Meaden, may be worth millions, but how did she achieve her high-flying status? Read her story here https://fleximize.com/articles/004923/millionaires-to-billionaires Thu, 04 Feb 2016 11:00:00 +0000 https://fleximize.com/articles/004923/millionaires-to-billionaires Millionaires to Billionaires: See how long it took 21 of the richest entrepreneurs to build their fortunes and who went from $1m to $1bn the fastest https://fleximize.com/articles/005130/airpnp-the-airbnb-for-toilets Thu, 04 Feb 2016 09:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005130/airpnp-the-airbnb-for-toilets AirPnP is the Airbnb for people renting our their bathrooms, and is one of the newest additions to the sharing economy https://fleximize.com/articles/005106/top-10-fintech-for-small-businesses Wed, 03 Feb 2016 09:00:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005106/top-10-fintech-for-small-businesses We delve into the prestigious FinTech50 2015 list of the hottest European Fintech firms to find the top 10 offering valuable tools to SMEs including Klarna https://fleximize.com/articles/005055/the-top-10-business-blogs-to-follow-in-2016 Fri, 29 Jan 2016 11:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/005055/the-top-10-business-blogs-to-follow-in-2016 Business blogs are becoming more mainstream, so we've hand-picked 10 of our favourites to give your bookmarks folder a spring clean https://fleximize.com/articles/004977/esif-how-can-your-business-benefit Wed, 27 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Richard Harrison https://fleximize.com/articles/004977/esif-how-can-your-business-benefit New ESIF schemes are rolling out in 2016 and beyond. Our expert, Richard Harrison, explains how your business can benefit https://fleximize.com/articles/004958/is-a-side-business-right-for-you Fri, 22 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/004958/is-a-side-business-right-for-you It’s become the latest career trend – more people are launching their own side business. It sounds exciting, but is it the right career move for you? https://fleximize.com/articles/004937/business-funding-advice-for-smes Wed, 20 Jan 2016 13:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004937/business-funding-advice-for-smes Small business funding can be tricky to find, but this article tells you what's available, with more info in the FREE Ultimate Guide to Business Funding https://fleximize.com/articles/004921/the-fleximize-mission Wed, 20 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000 https://fleximize.com/articles/004921/the-fleximize-mission Take a look at The Fleximize Mission - an award-winning interactive experience for entrepreneurs which will help unleash the potential of your business https://fleximize.com/articles/003927/courts-help-with-personal-debt Tue, 19 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/003927/courts-help-with-personal-debt Personal debt can seem like a problem that's impossible to resolve, but you don’t have to face your finances alone. Learn how the courts can help you repay https://fleximize.com/articles/004884/why-smes-need-apprentices Tue, 19 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Tracy Ewen https://fleximize.com/articles/004884/why-smes-need-apprentices SME owner Tracy Ewen talks about the huge value apprentices bring to small businesses and shares advice like how to recruit an apprentice and salaries https://fleximize.com/articles/004891/career-of-steve-jobs Mon, 18 Jan 2016 09:30:00 +0000 Lucy Douglas https://fleximize.com/articles/004891/career-of-steve-jobs The story of Apple founder Steve Jobs' career and his mission to revolutionize how we use consumer electronics – from the Apple 1 computer to the iPhone 5 https://fleximize.com/articles/004847/morning-rituals-of-highly-successful-people Mon, 11 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000 https://fleximize.com/articles/004847/morning-rituals-of-highly-successful-people Is your morning ritual setting you up for success? See how some of the most successful people structure mornings to get the best start to the day https://fleximize.com/articles/004805/data-protection-act-1998 Mon, 11 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/004805/data-protection-act-1998 What is the Data Protection Act 1998, how should you deal with data access requests, and what other aspects of DPA are likely to affect your small business? https://fleximize.com/articles/004809/whats-an-sme Thu, 07 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004809/whats-an-sme The definition of an SME can vary – we give you the micro, small and medium enterprise business criteria from HMRC, the EU, Companies House and others https://fleximize.com/articles/002301/motivating-employees-to-achieve-goals Mon, 04 Jan 2016 08:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002301/motivating-employees-to-achieve-goals Inspiring a motivated workforce improves productivity, brand reputation and staff retention. Read our tips for enhancing your employee engagement strategy https://fleximize.com/articles/004780/5-new-years-resolutions-for-the-digital-entrepreneur Mon, 28 Dec 2015 12:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004780/5-new-years-resolutions-for-the-digital-entrepreneur New Year's resolutions for digital entrepreneurs: some awesome resolution ideas for 2016. We've given resolutions a digital spin https://fleximize.com/articles/004801/the-ultimate-list-of-christmas-distractions Thu, 24 Dec 2015 10:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004801/the-ultimate-list-of-christmas-distractions Need some time away from screaming kids this Christmas? We went on an epic trawl across the internet to put together the ultimate list of 2015 distractions https://fleximize.com/articles/004760/why-do-smes-need-to-switch-energy-supplier Wed, 23 Dec 2015 11:00:00 +0000 Phil Foster https://fleximize.com/articles/004760/why-do-smes-need-to-switch-energy-supplier With scandals emerging of energy suppliers overcharging their customers, many SMEs are considering switching. Find out if you should be doing the same https://fleximize.com/articles/004741/is-your-website-putting-customers-off Tue, 22 Dec 2015 12:00:00 +0000 Natalie O'Neill https://fleximize.com/articles/004741/is-your-website-putting-customers-off Mistakes in website design could cost you valuable leads and online sales. We list 8 common issues that ruin user experience so you can avoid the pitfalls https://fleximize.com/articles/004707/top-50-twitter-accounts Mon, 21 Dec 2015 15:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004707/top-50-twitter-accounts Want your Twitter timeline to be filled with great content? Check out our favourite Twitter accounts, full of influencers, entrepreneurs and innovators https://fleximize.com/articles/004671/employee-not-just-for-christmas Fri, 18 Dec 2015 12:00:00 +0000 Perkbox https://fleximize.com/articles/004671/employee-not-just-for-christmas Staff satisfaction and retention should be of concern for employers all year round. Perkbox shares why and how to reward your workforce to keep them happy https://fleximize.com/articles/004646/fleximizes-year-2015 Fri, 18 Dec 2015 10:00:00 +0000 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/004646/fleximizes-year-2015 Star Wars, royal nippers, and a sexy new Fleximize — 2015 has been a year to remember. We round up the highlights of a busy year in fintech. https://fleximize.com/articles/004633/will-nlw-make-employees-victims Wed, 16 Dec 2015 10:30:00 +0000 Phil Foster https://fleximize.com/articles/004633/will-nlw-make-employees-victims Phil Foster discusses how the new National Living Wage could cause SMEs to make low-skilled staff unemployed to save on costs. https://fleximize.com/articles/004608/the-story-of-colonel-sanders-kfc-founder Tue, 15 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000 Lucy Douglas https://fleximize.com/articles/004608/the-story-of-colonel-sanders-kfc-founder KFC founder, Colonel Sanders, fought hard for success he triumphed after a lifetime of drama and bad luck. Read about his rollercoaster of a career here https://fleximize.com/articles/003921/how-to-file-for-bankruptcy Tue, 15 Dec 2015 11:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/003921/how-to-file-for-bankruptcy Filing for bankruptcy is often a last resort, but it's important to be prepared ahead of time. We cover the various stages involved in declaring bankruptcy https://fleximize.com/articles/004564/increase-customer-loyalty-in-2016 Fri, 11 Dec 2015 09:30:00 +0000 Phil Foster https://fleximize.com/articles/004564/increase-customer-loyalty-in-2016 Increasing customer loyalty in 2016 – follow advice from successful business owner of Love Energy Savings, Phil Foster. https://fleximize.com/articles/004505/top-board-games-for-entrepreneurs Wed, 09 Dec 2015 09:06:00 +0000 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/004505/top-board-games-for-entrepreneurs Our round up of the best board games for all entrepreneurs - from the cutthroat strategy of Monopoly to a game that requires total collaboration to succeed. https://fleximize.com/articles/004517/the-experts-view-closure-of-the-business-growth-service Mon, 07 Dec 2015 10:15:00 +0000 Richard Harrison https://fleximize.com/articles/004517/the-experts-view-closure-of-the-business-growth-service Richard Harrison offers a candid view of the implications for providers and SMEs of the Business Growth Service closure, including GrowthAccelerator and MAS https://fleximize.com/articles/004469/choosing-your-office-christmas-tree Fri, 04 Dec 2015 09:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004469/choosing-your-office-christmas-tree The Christmas tree sellers to the stars, Pines and Needles, offer great advice on finding the ideal Christmas tree for your office. https://fleximize.com/articles/004161/smes-gender-pay-gap Thu, 03 Dec 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/004161/smes-gender-pay-gap Government want big firms to report pay for men and women, but SMEs can also take action to help close the gender pay gap. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/004159/santa-master-burglar-or-house-guest Tue, 01 Dec 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/004159/santa-master-burglar-or-house-guest If you think Santa is above scrutiny, click away now. Otherwise, read our legal expertise on his annual antics in light of increased break ins at Christmas https://fleximize.com/articles/004418/small-business-interviews-small-business-saturday Mon, 30 Nov 2015 13:00:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004418/small-business-interviews-small-business-saturday Get some small business advice – short audio interviews and advice from British micro-enterprise owners in the arts, tech and retail. https://fleximize.com/articles/003923/how-to-conquer-your-debt Mon, 30 Nov 2015 11:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/003923/how-to-conquer-your-debt Debt can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to get back on track. Read our guide to setting up a debt management plan and other alternatives https://fleximize.com/articles/004391/the-entrepreneurs-holiday-gift-guide Thu, 26 Nov 2015 17:30:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004391/the-entrepreneurs-holiday-gift-guide With Black Friday approaching, Christmas gift buying can be a challenge, especially for busy people. So we've trawled the web for you. Here's our top picks. https://fleximize.com/articles/004263/sme-stamps-down-christmas-postal-prices Tue, 24 Nov 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004263/sme-stamps-down-christmas-postal-prices Want to save money this Christmas? This family business offers a cheaper alternative to Royal Mail at Christmas. One in a series on SMEs at Christmas. https://fleximize.com/articles/004273/indy-traders-love-easy-mobile-payment Tue, 24 Nov 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004273/indy-traders-love-easy-mobile-payment Droplet mobile payment app is fintech that's making Christmas trading easier and less costly for independent retailers and their customers. https://fleximize.com/articles/004277/digital-nomad-makes-impossible-possible Tue, 24 Nov 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004277/digital-nomad-makes-impossible-possible Know a friend who's impossible to buy for? This nomadic entrepreneur's got it in the bag. Find out about how she set up and runs her store from Thailand. https://fleximize.com/articles/004071/5-tips-for-surviving-office-christmas-party Mon, 23 Nov 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/004071/5-tips-for-surviving-office-christmas-party With the festive season upon us, we've got the ultimate guide to surviving the office Christmas party, and avoiding disciplinary or legal action. https://fleximize.com/articles/004302/top-tips-email-marketing-christmas Fri, 20 Nov 2015 16:22:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004302/top-tips-email-marketing-christmas Do you know how to optimize your email strategy to get the best results at Christmas and New Year? This infographic shows you how. https://fleximize.com/articles/003918/whats-an-individual-voluntary-arrangement Thu, 19 Nov 2015 10:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/003918/whats-an-individual-voluntary-arrangement We explain the steps to finding an insolvency practitioner who'll help you get an Individual Voluntary Arrangement. https://fleximize.com/articles/004255/are-your-christmas-staff-workers-or-employees Thu, 19 Nov 2015 09:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/004255/are-your-christmas-staff-workers-or-employees Recruiting temporary Christmas staff? Here's a guide to understanding the difference between who's a worker, and who's an employee. https://fleximize.com/articles/004233/how-to-maximize-on-christmas-mayhem Tue, 17 Nov 2015 12:00:00 +0000 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/004233/how-to-maximize-on-christmas-mayhem Independent toy store owner, Kirit Kumar, offers wise words on getting the most from the Christmas shopping season on the high street and online. https://fleximize.com/articles/004224/careers-of-the-founders Mon, 16 Nov 2015 14:50:00 +0000 https://fleximize.com/articles/004224/careers-of-the-founders From Heinz to Zuckerberg: explore the successes and failures of 33 inspirational founders in this visual, interactive infographic. https://fleximize.com/articles/004177/unwrap-secrets-online-retail-christmas Fri, 13 Nov 2015 10:00:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004177/unwrap-secrets-online-retail-christmas Prezzybox owner, Zak Edwards, opens up about the secrets to a merry Christmas in online retail, and offers wise advice to smaller retailers. https://fleximize.com/articles/004165/guide-to-20-popular-startup-jargon-words Thu, 12 Nov 2015 09:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004165/guide-to-20-popular-startup-jargon-words Read Fleximize's guide to 20 popular startup terms – ideal for entrepreneurs who are new to the buzzing startup and business funding scene. https://fleximize.com/articles/004076/the-top-10-apps-for-entrepreneurs Tue, 10 Nov 2015 09:00:00 +0000 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/004076/the-top-10-apps-for-entrepreneurs Mobile apps are important tools for modern entrepreneurs, increasing productivity and enabling them to do business, but what ones make our Top 10 Apps list? https://fleximize.com/articles/004061/google-amp-is-coming Mon, 09 Nov 2015 09:30:00 +0000 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/004061/google-amp-is-coming Mobile search is set to outdo PC, so it's time to get your content mobile-ready before you start to lose customers to other sites. https://fleximize.com/articles/003966/5th-of-november-horrific-justice-system Tue, 03 Nov 2015 08:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/003966/5th-of-november-horrific-justice-system Fleximize's legal eagle shares her thoughts on how today's courts would treat Guy Fawkes' gruesome sentencing for treason. https://fleximize.com/articles/003913/whats-a-creditors-voluntary-arrangement Thu, 29 Oct 2015 09:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/003913/whats-a-creditors-voluntary-arrangement Fleximize's very own legal expert explains a Creditors' Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) and the steps you need to take. https://fleximize.com/articles/005562/hsbc-business-loans Thu, 29 Oct 2015 08:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005562/hsbc-business-loans Here's a quick look at the HSBC business loans currently available to UK SMEs, including their fees and eligibility requirements. https://fleximize.com/articles/002825/funding-for-the-gaming-industry Mon, 19 Oct 2015 10:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/002825/funding-for-the-gaming-industry Funding is an issue that plagues the gaming industry on a daily basis, so how can we overcome it, and how can developers find the finance they need? https://fleximize.com/articles/005565/natwest-business-loans Mon, 19 Oct 2015 09:30:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005565/natwest-business-loans NatWest business loans include startup funding and financing for growing SMEs. Here's our guide to decide if NatWest business finance is right for your SME https://fleximize.com/articles/001010/sole-trader-to-limited-company Fri, 16 Oct 2015 13:13:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001010/sole-trader-to-limited-company ​Being a sole trader may offer you the business structure you want, but it doesn’t give you the protection a limited company gives you. https://fleximize.com/articles/000808/unlock-business-potential-create-a-great-place-to-work Thu, 15 Oct 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/000808/unlock-business-potential-create-a-great-place-to-work How to unlock potential by creating a great place to work. Find out what makes a positive workplace and why it inspires people to work better. https://fleximize.com/articles/002887/our-views-on-the-apprentice Thu, 15 Oct 2015 12:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/002887/our-views-on-the-apprentice Fan of BBC's The Apprentice? Fleximize is too! We reveal our thoughts on the new season and the next 18 candidates looking to prove their business know-how https://fleximize.com/articles/001429/the-small-business-guide-to-video-content Thu, 15 Oct 2015 11:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001429/the-small-business-guide-to-video-content A quick look at viral content from recent years shows some common themes. Popular videos have content that people want to share with others. https://fleximize.com/articles/001080/tips-for-applying-for-a-business-loan Thu, 08 Oct 2015 13:30:00 +0100 Caz Blaxcell https://fleximize.com/articles/001080/tips-for-applying-for-a-business-loan Read our essential tips for applying for a business loan to give yourself the best possible chance of securing funding https://fleximize.com/articles/001467/how-to-use-infographics-to-get-your-message-across Thu, 08 Oct 2015 12:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001467/how-to-use-infographics-to-get-your-message-across ​Infographics, or information graphics, can be a very useful and effective medium for sharing or explaining concepts or data. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/000869/social-media-marketing-on-a-tiny-budget Wed, 07 Oct 2015 10:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000869/social-media-marketing-on-a-tiny-budget So many companies have a small or non-existent marketing budget, so how can they still market effectively without tugging at the purse strings every day? https://fleximize.com/articles/001280/setting-up-or-altering-a-uk-partnership-business Tue, 06 Oct 2015 10:27:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001280/setting-up-or-altering-a-uk-partnership-business Setting up or altering a UK partnership business requires some practical and legal knowledge; these FAQs should help you get your company up and running. https://fleximize.com/articles/000902/register-your-trademark Sat, 03 Oct 2015 11:39:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000902/register-your-trademark If you've got your small business set up, you need to safeguard it with a trademark. Here's everything you need to know to protect your business today. https://fleximize.com/articles/001415/five-useful-vat-schemes Fri, 02 Oct 2015 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001415/five-useful-vat-schemes We all like to save a bit of money here and there. It's especially important for small businesses. Here are our top 5 VAT schemes to save you a few pounds.. https://fleximize.com/articles/001533/ask-fleximize-content-marketing Thu, 01 Oct 2015 12:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001533/ask-fleximize-content-marketing The three burning questions on the lips of business owners. This time, we look at content marketing and how you can type your way to business success https://fleximize.com/articles/001283/four-faqs-for-freelancers Wed, 30 Sep 2015 10:30:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001283/four-faqs-for-freelancers From long-term freelancing, to non-compete agreements and working from home, these four FAQs should help you understand your rights as a freelancer. https://fleximize.com/articles/000714/how-can-i-revamp-my-email-lists Mon, 28 Sep 2015 16:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000714/how-can-i-revamp-my-email-lists How to test, cleanse and segment your email lists to help you avoid the dreaded spam filter and increase the ROI from email marketing https://fleximize.com/articles/001479/3-simple-steps-to-revolutionizing-your-product-cycle Fri, 25 Sep 2015 14:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001479/3-simple-steps-to-revolutionizing-your-product-cycle How to work out what your customers actually want, how to deliver it (metaphorically and literally) and the effect it could have on your business https://fleximize.com/articles/001852/freelancing-vs-full-time-employment Fri, 25 Sep 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001852/freelancing-vs-full-time-employment What would work best for you? The freedom of freelancing or the stability of employment work. Check out this article about the pros and cons of each. https://fleximize.com/articles/000933/patent-a-new-idea Tue, 22 Sep 2015 09:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000933/patent-a-new-idea Protecting a new idea, invention or design with a patent can give you a competitive edge in the market by preventing copies. We share how and when to apply https://fleximize.com/articles/001268/understanding-your-legal-rights-as-an-employee Mon, 21 Sep 2015 10:30:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001268/understanding-your-legal-rights-as-an-employee Your employer should (of course) abide by employment law, but a wise employee should always seek to understand his or her legal rights. https://fleximize.com/articles/001409/what-your-logo-and-font-say-about-your-business Thu, 17 Sep 2015 17:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001409/what-your-logo-and-font-say-about-your-business Getting your logo design right is hugely important for your business, principally because it establishes your brand and creates customer recognition. https://fleximize.com/articles/001750/how-to-market-your-niche-product Tue, 15 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/001750/how-to-market-your-niche-product Marketing a niche product can be difficult. Here's a super-quick and low-cost way of getting your niche product in front of the right crowd, however small. https://fleximize.com/articles/002016/whats-the-consumer-confidence-index Tue, 15 Sep 2015 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002016/whats-the-consumer-confidence-index What’s the Consumer Confidence Index, and why is it important in business? Fleximize explains in detail, including how to use this data to plan your budget https://fleximize.com/articles/000731/think-you-can-entrepreneur Mon, 14 Sep 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000731/think-you-can-entrepreneur Being an entrepreneur can seem very exciting, but what's entrepreneurship really about? Fleximize breaks down exactly what it takes to be an entrepreneur https://fleximize.com/articles/002070/how-to-combat-the-competition Fri, 11 Sep 2015 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002070/how-to-combat-the-competition Competition is fierce across all industries so it's vital to know how to deal with competitors. We evaluate strategies for staying ahead of the compeititon https://fleximize.com/articles/001808/how-to-find-your-perfect-marketing-agency Thu, 10 Sep 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001808/how-to-find-your-perfect-marketing-agency Taking on a marketing agency can be a daunting prospect for any small business, so here's what you should expect and how to find the one most suited to you. https://fleximize.com/articles/000929/what-is-trademark-infringement Tue, 08 Sep 2015 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000929/what-is-trademark-infringement Trademark infringement: What is it? Have you seen someone with a similar or identical mark? Then you may need to take action... https://fleximize.com/articles/001549/3-examples-of-government-grants Wed, 02 Sep 2015 14:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001549/3-examples-of-government-grants Government offers a range of business grants, and while limited it can be a good starting point when seeking support. We list 3 types of government funding https://fleximize.com/articles/005572/ulster-bank-loans Wed, 02 Sep 2015 09:00:00 +0100 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005572/ulster-bank-loans Ulster Bank business loans are available in small and large amounts for SMEs, but is a traditional lender the suitable solution for your funding needs? https://fleximize.com/articles/002136/how-unique-are-you Tue, 01 Sep 2015 15:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002136/how-unique-are-you Offering customers a unique product or serving a niche market can help you stand apart from your rivals. https://fleximize.com/articles/001812/how-to-avoid-the-dreaded-unsubscribe-button Mon, 31 Aug 2015 14:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/001812/how-to-avoid-the-dreaded-unsubscribe-button So you've jumped on the email marketing bandwagon. Now here's how to avoid high bounce and unsubscribe rates and keep your ROI high. https://fleximize.com/articles/001801/how-to-drive-sales-for-your-new-product Sat, 29 Aug 2015 16:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001801/how-to-drive-sales-for-your-new-product When launching a new product there are two things you should consider before starting your marketing campaign; content & delivery. Here's why. https://fleximize.com/articles/001490/creating-your-first-content-strategy Tue, 25 Aug 2015 11:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001490/creating-your-first-content-strategy Everything you need to know to start putting together your first content strategy for your business from understanding your customers to implementing it. https://fleximize.com/articles/001449/content-the-most-profitable-revenue-channel-ever Fri, 21 Aug 2015 10:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001449/content-the-most-profitable-revenue-channel-ever How to mine your business and industry for interesting and engaging topics such as new products, technological developments and fashions. https://fleximize.com/articles/000931/defences-for-trademark-infringement Thu, 20 Aug 2015 14:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000931/defences-for-trademark-infringement Have you been accused of trademark infringement? Are you facing a threat of proceedings? Don’t panic - there may be a defence. https://fleximize.com/articles/001443/the-small-business-guide-to-making-content-work Thu, 20 Aug 2015 11:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/001443/the-small-business-guide-to-making-content-work A strong piece of content shouldn't be limited. Making the most out of your content means thinking about different channels. https://fleximize.com/articles/001437/why-content-is-such-a-buzzword-in-21st-century-business Wed, 19 Aug 2015 18:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001437/why-content-is-such-a-buzzword-in-21st-century-business In the age of ecommerce, the way in which companies and clients interact has changed in recent years, and posting adverts simply doesnt cut it anymore https://fleximize.com/articles/001419/how-to-turn-blogging-into-a-revenue-channel Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001419/how-to-turn-blogging-into-a-revenue-channel A blog gives your company a personal face. It can be a simple way to convey complicated messages to your customers and can help you build a loyal following. https://fleximize.com/articles/001403/what-your-images-say-about-your-business Sat, 15 Aug 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001403/what-your-images-say-about-your-business A picture is worth a thousand words. Supporting imagery is essential to creating a great website, but it’s vital that you use those images legally. https://fleximize.com/articles/001321/launching-your-own-personal-training-business Fri, 14 Aug 2015 20:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001321/launching-your-own-personal-training-business ​To launch your own personal training business you will need to make sure you can deliver a quality service yourself, or hire a partner. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/000882/make-the-most-of-twitter-on-a-tiny-budget Thu, 13 Aug 2015 14:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000882/make-the-most-of-twitter-on-a-tiny-budget If you have a small marketing budget, how do you use Twitter? How can you grow your presence for free? Here are our top tips.. https://fleximize.com/articles/002203/is-your-business-ready-to-go-global Wed, 12 Aug 2015 11:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002203/is-your-business-ready-to-go-global It can be one of the most difficult decisions an entrepreneur will ever make - Can your business stand the test of time in a different country? https://fleximize.com/articles/000875/how-to-make-the-most-of-facebook-on-a-tiny-budget Wed, 12 Aug 2015 11:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000875/how-to-make-the-most-of-facebook-on-a-tiny-budget ​It all used to be quite simple. You'd work out who you wanted to like your page, put together the right content and Bob's your uncle. And then... https://fleximize.com/articles/000708/why-you-should-focus-on-mail-marketing Mon, 10 Aug 2015 07:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000708/why-you-should-focus-on-mail-marketing With other, more 'exciting' digital channels, email marketing is often a forgotten channel, but it could actually be your most effective. https://fleximize.com/articles/000906/how-to-use-linkedin-to-market-your-business-effectively Fri, 07 Aug 2015 11:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000906/how-to-use-linkedin-to-market-your-business-effectively With over 313 million members in more than 200 new countries, if your business doesnt have a presence on LinkedIn, it should do. Here's our handy guide https://fleximize.com/articles/001290/declaring-your-second-income Thu, 06 Aug 2015 10:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001290/declaring-your-second-income If you're lucky enough to have a second income, not declaring it could land you in a whole heap of trouble with HMRC, so here's how to declare it. https://fleximize.com/articles/001295/leaving-your-family-business Wed, 05 Aug 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001295/leaving-your-family-business Leaving your family business is always hard, after all you don't want to upset family members. Here's everything you need to know. https://fleximize.com/articles/001299/a-licence-to-kill Tue, 04 Aug 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001299/a-licence-to-kill If you’re operating solely within the UK, there's often no need to obtain a business licence. However, specific licences may be required in your sector. https://fleximize.com/articles/001303/dealing-with-sub-contractors Mon, 03 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001303/dealing-with-sub-contractors It's important to remember that a sub-contractor isn’t an employee, so you can’t treat them as one. So how do you deal with them when it all goes sour? https://fleximize.com/articles/001309/can-you-actually-save-money-on-business-tax Sun, 02 Aug 2015 11:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001309/can-you-actually-save-money-on-business-tax Tax in the UK is decided by the type of goods or services you’re providing, not the type of company that runs it, so can you use this to your advantage? https://fleximize.com/articles/001193/how-you-can-learn-to-be-creative Sat, 01 Aug 2015 11:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001193/how-you-can-learn-to-be-creative You can’t teach someone to come up with great ideas, but creativity is something that can be nurtured and developed with the right kind of attitude. https://fleximize.com/articles/001137/the-small-business-owners-guide-to-protecting-your-ideas Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/001137/the-small-business-owners-guide-to-protecting-your-ideas In a technologically advanced age, businesses need to protect their products and ideas from plagiarism via a copyright, a trademark, a patent or a design. https://fleximize.com/articles/000492/grow-your-email-subscribers Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:52:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000492/grow-your-email-subscribers How do you go about growing your email subscribers without holding a gun to their head. Seriously, don't do that. https://fleximize.com/articles/001128/how-website-design-influences-your-customers Mon, 27 Jul 2015 11:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001128/how-website-design-influences-your-customers The importance of a strong online presence has never been clearer, and good website design can provide a great return on investment for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/001120/how-to-use-content-to-drive-sales Sun, 26 Jul 2015 13:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001120/how-to-use-content-to-drive-sales These days the line between marketing and sales is particularly thin. In this article we look how content can be used to build trust and drive acquisition https://fleximize.com/articles/001109/6-zero-cost-ways-to-win-business-from-your-competition Sat, 25 Jul 2015 16:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001109/6-zero-cost-ways-to-win-business-from-your-competition There are many ways to win business from your competition. Some come at a cost. Some are completely free apart from in time and effort. Just like these. https://fleximize.com/articles/001086/6-steps-to-finding-an-investor-for-your-business Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001086/6-steps-to-finding-an-investor-for-your-business We take a good look at how to attract great investors, and how to work with them to grow you company. https://fleximize.com/articles/001327/franchisees-and-the-law Tue, 21 Jul 2015 13:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001327/franchisees-and-the-law What separates business owners and franchisees when things start to turn sour and where do you stand? https://fleximize.com/articles/001333/starting-your-own-consultancy-business Mon, 20 Jul 2015 13:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001333/starting-your-own-consultancy-business ​Starting a consulting business is like starting any other business, except most consultants have a head start because they already work in their field. https://fleximize.com/articles/001344/ask-fleximize-llc Sat, 18 Jul 2015 15:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001344/ask-fleximize-llc This week we're answering the pressing questions on the lips of everybody connected to a Limited Liability Company (LLC) https://fleximize.com/articles/001346/three-faqs-on-payroll-and-tax Fri, 17 Jul 2015 16:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001346/three-faqs-on-payroll-and-tax We take three of your pressing questions and get our team of small business experts at Fleximize to answer. https://fleximize.com/articles/005575/aldermore-invoice-finance Fri, 17 Jul 2015 09:30:00 +0100 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005575/aldermore-invoice-finance Aldermore invoice finance: Is it suitable for your SME? What's the difference between invoice factoring and invoice discounting? This article explains all. https://fleximize.com/articles/000854/how-you-can-use-twitter-to-market-your-business Tue, 14 Jul 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000854/how-you-can-use-twitter-to-market-your-business With 316 million monthly active users and 500 million Tweets sent globally each day, It’s surely a no-brainer for businesses to jump on Twitter. https://fleximize.com/articles/000953/the-most-effective-project-management-techniques Mon, 13 Jul 2015 13:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000953/the-most-effective-project-management-techniques Project management can sometimes seem very daunting. Luckily, there are several tried and tested project management techniques that can help you succeed https://fleximize.com/articles/000969/how-to-begin-business-debt-consolidation Sat, 11 Jul 2015 13:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000969/how-to-begin-business-debt-consolidation ​If your business is struggling financially, debt consolidation is an effective first step towards getting things back on track. Here's how you can start. https://fleximize.com/articles/000977/how-to-deal-with-difficult-customers Fri, 10 Jul 2015 16:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000977/how-to-deal-with-difficult-customers In every industry there will be times when you have to deal with difficult customers. Handle a situation well and most customers will do business with you. https://fleximize.com/articles/000983/why-offering-a-free-trial-might-not-be-such-a-great-idea Thu, 09 Jul 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000983/why-offering-a-free-trial-might-not-be-such-a-great-idea Offering free products or trials can seem like a great idea for persuading people to use and talk about what youre offering, but what are the implications? https://fleximize.com/articles/000988/how-to-break-into-a-new-demographic Wed, 08 Jul 2015 17:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000988/how-to-break-into-a-new-demographic It’s obviously essential to exploit new avenues of growth in a business, but there are steps you should consider before pushing into a new demographic https://fleximize.com/articles/000991/is-the-customer-really-always-right Tue, 07 Jul 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000991/is-the-customer-really-always-right Customer complaints can have a huge impact on a business' reputation. Here's an article exploring how to deal with customer complaints effectively https://fleximize.com/articles/000995/how-to-turn-digital-media-into-increased-footfall Mon, 06 Jul 2015 12:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000995/how-to-turn-digital-media-into-increased-footfall Traditional promotion is dead. Long live Digital Media. Here are some ways you can use technology to grow your business footfall https://fleximize.com/articles/001006/how-can-i-create-amazing-content-for-free Sun, 05 Jul 2015 17:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001006/how-can-i-create-amazing-content-for-free Be clear about how you want to come across as a business, it's your own content, not a marketing professionals. Think about the personality of your brand. https://fleximize.com/articles/000594/3-ways-to-market-on-a-tiny-budget Thu, 02 Jul 2015 09:30:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/000594/3-ways-to-market-on-a-tiny-budget There are many effective methods that both new and established companies can use to raise their profile without spending a small fortune https://fleximize.com/articles/001033/is-your-competitor-analysis-as-good-as-it-can-be Wed, 01 Jul 2015 17:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001033/is-your-competitor-analysis-as-good-as-it-can-be Competitor analysis means working out who your competitors are, and assessing their strengths and weaknesses. Remember, knowledge is power. https://fleximize.com/articles/005214/bad-credit-business-loans Wed, 01 Jul 2015 11:00:00 +0100 Elma Glasgow https://fleximize.com/articles/005214/bad-credit-business-loans Do you have a bad credit score? Don't worry, there are still plenty of business funding options from alternative finance providers like Fleximize https://fleximize.com/articles/001039/the-basics-of-an-m-a-deal Tue, 30 Jun 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Tom Addleston-Towney https://fleximize.com/articles/001039/the-basics-of-an-m-a-deal M&A Deals involve the buying, selling, splitting up or coming together of companies, and can prove to be lucrative or disastrous to all involved. https://fleximize.com/articles/001044/why-not-to-get-into-a-price-war-with-a-competitor Mon, 29 Jun 2015 15:00:00 +0100 Tom Addleston-Towney https://fleximize.com/articles/001044/why-not-to-get-into-a-price-war-with-a-competitor Sensible pricing is essential for business – but price wars can be disastrous, and usually mean that everybody loses. https://fleximize.com/articles/001065/how-to-grow-your-sales-without-all-the-leg-work Sat, 27 Jun 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001065/how-to-grow-your-sales-without-all-the-leg-work Our exclusive guide to finding relevant and strongly positioned resellers for your product, how to pitch them and key points you should know. https://fleximize.com/articles/001357/what-to-do-for-your-business-in-a-natural-disaster Fri, 26 Jun 2015 20:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001357/what-to-do-for-your-business-in-a-natural-disaster We are lucky in the UK that natural disasters are a pretty rare occurrence, but Mother Nature can have devastating consequences on small businesses. https://fleximize.com/articles/001504/how-a-simple-piece-of-copy-can-boost-your-business Thu, 25 Jun 2015 12:26:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001504/how-a-simple-piece-of-copy-can-boost-your-business Good, effective marketing copy needs to combine a number of essential elements - a call to action, and a solution that invokes a reaction. https://fleximize.com/articles/001576/how-finding-a-reseller-could-revolutionize-your-sales Sun, 21 Jun 2015 09:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001576/how-finding-a-reseller-could-revolutionize-your-sales Many business don't even consider using a reseller to grow their sales, but it's a channel that could give your sales a huge boost, for a tiny cost. https://fleximize.com/articles/001582/marketing-to-high-end-low-end-customers Sat, 20 Jun 2015 15:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001582/marketing-to-high-end-low-end-customers Segmenting your customers based on their income may not be the most morally right thing to do, but it could totally reinvigorate your sales. https://fleximize.com/articles/001588/advertising-your-business-on-tv Fri, 19 Jun 2015 10:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001588/advertising-your-business-on-tv TV advertising is something often overlooked by SMEs due to the expected high costs. The benefits can, however, outweigh the negatives https://fleximize.com/articles/001594/how-to-properly-introduce-your-business Thu, 18 Jun 2015 13:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001594/how-to-properly-introduce-your-business Two steps to providing helpful communication, setting you apart from your competitors while also introducing and promoting your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001601/ask-fleximize-sales-management Wed, 17 Jun 2015 10:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001601/ask-fleximize-sales-management This time, we've scoured the country for business owners with sales management issues and brought there questions to the Fleximize experts https://fleximize.com/articles/001609/how-bluetooth-marketing-could-give-you-the-edge Tue, 16 Jun 2015 10:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001609/how-bluetooth-marketing-could-give-you-the-edge Bluetooth Marketing is a still relatively untested channel but in terms of catching passing trade and winning business it can be incredibly effective. https://fleximize.com/articles/001616/a-brave-new-revenue-stream Mon, 15 Jun 2015 13:45:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001616/a-brave-new-revenue-stream There is often a debate around the quality of native web advertising but there is one thing for certain - it's effectiveness. https://fleximize.com/articles/001626/launching-your-trial-product Sun, 14 Jun 2015 15:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001626/launching-your-trial-product You might be wondering if free trials are cost effective. The short answer is yes. The longer answer is yes, but only if they’re carefully planned out. https://fleximize.com/articles/001634/the-golden-oldies-of-marketing Sat, 13 Jun 2015 11:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001634/the-golden-oldies-of-marketing Do MySpace, The Phonebook and Flyer distribution still work as ways of promoting your small-medium business? We take a closer look... https://fleximize.com/articles/001641/promoting-your-business-on-zero-budget Fri, 12 Jun 2015 15:18:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001641/promoting-your-business-on-zero-budget It's a common gripe amongst marketers and business owners - not having enough money/time to do everything they want. Here's how you can get around that. https://fleximize.com/articles/001651/do-you-know-your-leads-from-your-weeds Thu, 11 Jun 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001651/do-you-know-your-leads-from-your-weeds Are your sales figures stuck in a rut? In this article we look at one simple way you can revolutionize your lead management process and grow your numbers. https://fleximize.com/articles/002305/ask-fleximize-growth-part-2 Wed, 10 Jun 2015 13:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002305/ask-fleximize-growth-part-2 The three burning questions on the lips of business owners. This time we look at some of the common growth challenges facing small business owners. https://fleximize.com/articles/005561/yorkshire-bank-loans Wed, 10 Jun 2015 08:30:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005561/yorkshire-bank-loans Here's our guide to Yorkshire Bank business loans, covering investment loans, term loans and the Enterprise Finance Guarantee https://fleximize.com/articles/001663/how-affiliate-marketing-could-revolutionize-your-lead-flow Tue, 09 Jun 2015 14:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001663/how-affiliate-marketing-could-revolutionize-your-lead-flow For many small business owners, affiliate marketing can seem confusing and complicated, but it's actually incredibly simple. Here's how it works... https://fleximize.com/articles/002244/ask-fleximize-money-issues Mon, 08 Jun 2015 16:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002244/ask-fleximize-money-issues All your questions answered by the experts at Fleximize: These are real money issues facing real small business owners. https://fleximize.com/articles/001760/to-offer-discounts-or-not-to-offer-discounts Mon, 08 Jun 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001760/to-offer-discounts-or-not-to-offer-discounts Volume discounts are a proven way to increase sales and gain customer loyalty. But do they make financial sense for your business? https://fleximize.com/articles/002231/writing-business-plan Mon, 08 Jun 2015 14:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002231/writing-business-plan If you want to start out in business, and you've got a great idea, you need to plan how your business will launch, grow and sustain itself. Here's how https://fleximize.com/articles/001777/how-to-market-your-product-to-a-foreign-country Sun, 07 Jun 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001777/how-to-market-your-product-to-a-foreign-country In order to market to your foreign audience as effectively as possible, you need to be prepared to really get to know your customers. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/001783/how-to-write-a-press-release Sat, 06 Jun 2015 11:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001783/how-to-write-a-press-release Writing an effective press release for a new business can be tricky if you're unsure, but there are steps you can take to get your press release noticed https://fleximize.com/articles/002259/ask-fleximize-growth Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002259/ask-fleximize-growth All your questions answered by the experts at Fleximize: These are real growth issues facing real small business owners. https://fleximize.com/articles/002277/employing-externally-vs-promoting-internally Wed, 03 Jun 2015 17:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002277/employing-externally-vs-promoting-internally When looking to fill a vacant position there are two common trains of thought - external or internal. But where is best to look? https://fleximize.com/articles/001538/ask-fleximize-video-marketing Tue, 02 Jun 2015 15:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001538/ask-fleximize-video-marketing The three burning questions on the lips of business owners. This time we look at video marketing and how you can shoot yourself to the top. https://fleximize.com/articles/002288/does-your-business-have-partner-problems Mon, 01 Jun 2015 13:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002288/does-your-business-have-partner-problems With any business partnership there can be friction. If your business is being held back by a partner, here's what you can do it certain situations. https://fleximize.com/articles/002295/is-your-business-ready-to-rule-a-new-roost Sun, 31 May 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002295/is-your-business-ready-to-rule-a-new-roost Your business needs should dictate when you move from your home to a retail location. You’ll need to take into account plenty of costs. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/001544/ask-fleximize-design-creative Tue, 19 May 2015 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001544/ask-fleximize-design-creative The three burning questions on the lips of business owners. This time we look at the questions you have regarding design and everything creative https://fleximize.com/articles/002221/growing-your-small-business-online Thu, 14 May 2015 21:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002221/growing-your-small-business-online Want to grow your small business online, but don't know where to start? Here are the basics before you get tweeting/posting/blogging. https://fleximize.com/articles/001973/interacting-with-your-clients Thu, 14 May 2015 15:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001973/interacting-with-your-clients Should client interaction be based on their regular custom or should all customers be treated equally? https://fleximize.com/articles/005598/halifax-business-loans Wed, 13 May 2015 09:30:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005598/halifax-business-loans Halifax business loans are operated by Lloyds Bank and RBS. We look at the the range of small business loans from Lloyds, RBS and other high street lenders. https://fleximize.com/articles/001551/ask-fleximize-creative-challenges Thu, 07 May 2015 12:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001551/ask-fleximize-creative-challenges The three burning questions on the lips of business owners. This time we look at some of the common creative challenges facing small business owners. https://fleximize.com/articles/001559/ask-fleximize-potential-clients Thu, 23 Apr 2015 14:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001559/ask-fleximize-potential-clients In this edition of Ask Fleximize we answer all your burning questions on reaching out to potential customers, converting and retaining them. https://fleximize.com/articles/001822/how-is-your-pension-calculated Mon, 13 Apr 2015 16:33:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001822/how-is-your-pension-calculated Interested to know how your pension is calculated, or what you're entitled to? Fleximize offers a brief introduction to the state pension and when to claim https://fleximize.com/articles/002250/3-tips-for-starting-up Wed, 08 Apr 2015 14:37:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002250/3-tips-for-starting-up When starting up your business, there are many things to consider. But which 3 are most important? Knowledge Hub reveals the first three things to address.. https://fleximize.com/articles/002132/managing-staff-personalities Wed, 08 Apr 2015 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002132/managing-staff-personalities In every office environment, there are strong personalities. Do you understand fully how to manage them to benefit your business? https://fleximize.com/articles/002068/ensure-effective-team-management Mon, 06 Apr 2015 10:49:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002068/ensure-effective-team-management Good team management is based on trust, understanding and recognition. Read why it's necessary to get results, and our tips for being a successful manager https://fleximize.com/articles/001995/use-google-surveys-for-customer-data Tue, 24 Mar 2015 09:28:00 +0000 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001995/use-google-surveys-for-customer-data Struggling to understand your customers? Here's how your business can utilise Google Surveys to get to know them, and what they want. https://fleximize.com/articles/001566/get-to-grips-with-ir35 Tue, 17 Mar 2015 15:15:00 +0000 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001566/get-to-grips-with-ir35 IR35 is used by HMRC to stop companies using intermediaries to​ avoid paying the correct tax and National Insurance. https://fleximize.com/articles/000647/invoice-financing Mon, 09 Mar 2015 11:30:00 +0000 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000647/invoice-financing A slew of tech startups have turned the invoice financing sector on its head. But what does it mean for the future of small business funding? https://fleximize.com/articles/001858/how-much-maternity-leave-do-you-give-staff Fri, 06 Mar 2015 10:50:00 +0000 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001858/how-much-maternity-leave-do-you-give-staff It's vital that employers know how much maternity and paternity leave is legally required for employees. Learn more here about signing time off for a baby https://fleximize.com/articles/001277/terminating-executive-officers-after-tarp-funds Tue, 03 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001277/terminating-executive-officers-after-tarp-funds What are the consequences for terminating an executive officer in a US firm that has accepted Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) government funding? https://fleximize.com/articles/005557/metro-bank-business-loans Thu, 26 Feb 2015 08:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005557/metro-bank-business-loans Metro Bank business accounts and loans challenge the services offered by traditional banks. Here's how to decide if they're right for your growing business https://fleximize.com/articles/001459/what-is-the-actual-seo-value-of-content Tue, 24 Feb 2015 10:00:00 +0000 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/001459/what-is-the-actual-seo-value-of-content ​For SEO purposes, content is more important than ever. Google has just released an important algorithm update and here's what it means for businesses. https://fleximize.com/articles/000663/the-one-with-p2p-finance-funding-circle Mon, 23 Feb 2015 17:00:00 +0000 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000663/the-one-with-p2p-finance-funding-circle We explore why alternative finance and peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platforms like Funding Circle are getting businesses and the government so excited https://fleximize.com/articles/000671/the-one-with-all-the-crowdsourcing Mon, 09 Feb 2015 11:30:00 +0000 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000671/the-one-with-all-the-crowdsourcing How you can use crowdfunding to successfully grow your business and establish buzz around your brand https://fleximize.com/articles/005563/barclays-bank-loans Thu, 15 Jan 2015 08:30:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005563/barclays-bank-loans Is a Barclays business loan right for your small business? Find out how much you can borrow and what you need to do to prepare for the lending application. https://fleximize.com/articles/000507/growth-hacking-101 Mon, 05 Jan 2015 10:00:00 +0000 Vanessa Barlow https://fleximize.com/articles/000507/growth-hacking-101 Actionable tips on growing your small business or start up, and taking your business to the next level of growth. Hack your way to the top! https://fleximize.com/articles/000688/new-year-new-resolutions-and-new-resources Wed, 31 Dec 2014 10:30:00 +0000 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000688/new-year-new-resolutions-and-new-resources These books and blogs, old and new, have helped us to grow and build our business, and will hopefully help you, too https://fleximize.com/articles/005559/lloyds-business-loans Wed, 17 Dec 2014 07:30:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005559/lloyds-business-loans Lloyds Bank business loans and Lloyds Bank commercial finance are available for SMEs. Read this article to figure out if they're right for your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001271/intellectual-property-rights Wed, 10 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001271/intellectual-property-rights Your frequently asked questions (FAQs) on trademark law, intellectual property, product manufacturing and your associated legal protection. https://fleximize.com/articles/001274/7-business-tax-basics Tue, 09 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001274/7-business-tax-basics 7 frequently asked questions (FAQs) on business tax, covering the basics of setting yourself as a new business, and staying on the right side of the law. https://fleximize.com/articles/002297/the-effect-of-promotion-on-your-leadership-style Tue, 02 Dec 2014 15:08:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002297/the-effect-of-promotion-on-your-leadership-style When you're promoted, there is an inevitable change in your leadership style. But how can you ensure you don't alienate employees and keep them performing? https://fleximize.com/articles/000727/why-youre-doing-fx-payments-all-wrong Wed, 19 Nov 2014 12:00:00 +0000 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000727/why-youre-doing-fx-payments-all-wrong For those who have to contend with the murky world of transferring money abroad, you know that there are large risks with dealing in foreign exchange. https://fleximize.com/articles/001668/whats-debt-to-equity-ratio Thu, 06 Nov 2014 15:32:00 +0000 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001668/whats-debt-to-equity-ratio Debt to equity ratio is one important indicator of a company's financial stability. Learn how to calculate your score and what it means for your business https://fleximize.com/articles/001977/creating-a-buzz-about-your-business Mon, 27 Oct 2014 12:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001977/creating-a-buzz-about-your-business Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, so how can you encourage your customers to create a buzz about your brand? We look at building brand champions https://fleximize.com/articles/000850/whats-the-national-minimum-wage Mon, 27 Oct 2014 11:19:00 +0000 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/000850/whats-the-national-minimum-wage With the hourly national minimum wage due to rise, it's important for employers to be prepared. Find out about the current regulations and planned changes https://fleximize.com/articles/001572/non-compete-clauses-for-freelancers-part-2 Fri, 24 Oct 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001572/non-compete-clauses-for-freelancers-part-2 Freelancers: find out what your options are for exiting a non-compete clause that could be blocking you moving on in your career. https://fleximize.com/articles/001570/non-compete-clauses-for-freelancers-part-1 Thu, 23 Oct 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001570/non-compete-clauses-for-freelancers-part-1 Freelancers: always pay attention to the small print in non-compete clauses in supplier contracts. Read Part 1 of our article on this vital issue. https://fleximize.com/articles/000743/selling-your-products-globally Wed, 22 Oct 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Claire Taylor https://fleximize.com/articles/000743/selling-your-products-globally Are you aware that by selling goods to consumers in Europe – you are governed by the EU distance selling rules for VAT? What are these rules? https://fleximize.com/articles/000947/what-is-passing-off Wed, 22 Oct 2014 09:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000947/what-is-passing-off Are you aware of the term 'passing off'? It may be worth knowing in case your business needs to defend itself against intellectual property infringement https://fleximize.com/articles/000750/why-mobile-banking-really-matters Mon, 20 Oct 2014 14:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000750/why-mobile-banking-really-matters Mobile payments have become increasingly popular for a number of reasons. We explore how mobile banking works and the financial implications for consumers https://fleximize.com/articles/000762/your-small-business-on-mobile Wed, 15 Oct 2014 13:11:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000762/your-small-business-on-mobile Apple’s NFC offering – Apple Pay – has opened a new, broad consciousness to a future of card-less, cash-less payment. The space isn’t empty, though. https://fleximize.com/articles/000887/defence-for-copyright-claims Tue, 14 Oct 2014 16:33:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000887/defence-for-copyright-claims Are you facing a claim issued against you for infringing someone’s copyright? If so, all is not lost - there may be a defence available to you. https://fleximize.com/articles/002150/poaching-employees Thu, 09 Oct 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002150/poaching-employees How to avoid getting into legal hot water when headhunting competitor's staff, and preventing their own staff from being poached. https://fleximize.com/articles/000884/introduction-to-entrepreneurial-copyright Wed, 08 Oct 2014 16:27:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000884/introduction-to-entrepreneurial-copyright Entrepreneurial ​rights offer protection to people who take the time to invest in creativity, but differ from literary, drama, music or art copyright. https://fleximize.com/articles/002020/make-key-decisions Tue, 07 Oct 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002020/make-key-decisions Everyone knows that business owners have to make some tough decisions. But which are the most difficult? And how do you prepare for them? https://fleximize.com/articles/001356/minority-shareholder-rights Mon, 06 Oct 2014 17:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001356/minority-shareholder-rights A minority shareholder is the David to the majority's Goliath. Know your rights and how you can fight against the Majority Rule. https://fleximize.com/articles/001971/drafting-your-business-marketing-plan Mon, 06 Oct 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001971/drafting-your-business-marketing-plan How you can use your current or previous customers as a powerful marketing tool, and how to turn them into effective brand advocates. https://fleximize.com/articles/000945/how-to-draft-an-invoice Mon, 06 Oct 2014 09:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000945/how-to-draft-an-invoice When drafting your first invoice, there are a few essential details you must include so you get paid properly. Read our guide to how to draft an invoice https://fleximize.com/articles/001014/how-to-add-a-new-shareholder Tue, 30 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001014/how-to-add-a-new-shareholder Find out how to add a shareholder to your company and how to invest in a firm by buying shares. Before you do anything, read our guide. https://fleximize.com/articles/001830/acas-and-employment-disputes Tue, 30 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001830/acas-and-employment-disputes Acas is essential in bringing a dispute to an employment tribunal, but do you know what it is? We share an overview of the service, and when to use it https://fleximize.com/articles/001828/how-the-employment-appeal-tribunal-works Tue, 30 Sep 2014 14:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001828/how-the-employment-appeal-tribunal-works If you think an employment tribunal has made a wrong decision, there may be steps you can take to appeal. We cover the appeal process from start to finish https://fleximize.com/articles/001826/the-employment-tribunal-timeline Tue, 30 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001826/the-employment-tribunal-timeline Planning to make a claim to the employment tribunal? Wondering how long the process will take? This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know https://fleximize.com/articles/002072/business-is-never-too-big-to-fail Tue, 30 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002072/business-is-never-too-big-to-fail Big business should never ignore their rivals, instead they should embrace the competition and keep up with developments. https://fleximize.com/articles/002322/tips-on-sustainable-growth Tue, 30 Sep 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002322/tips-on-sustainable-growth Being aware of the the key factors and challenges of sustainable growth can help your business succeed in the long term. https://fleximize.com/articles/001957/time-scales-for-handling-customer-complaints Mon, 29 Sep 2014 17:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001957/time-scales-for-handling-customer-complaints No business owner wants complaints about their products or business, but when they happen, here's how you should respond to them. https://fleximize.com/articles/002088/why-you-need-a-digital-brand Fri, 26 Sep 2014 16:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002088/why-you-need-a-digital-brand Don't let competitors get ahead - you need to develop a digital strategy too. Beginning with your website. https://fleximize.com/articles/002324/how-to-build-a-client-base Fri, 26 Sep 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002324/how-to-build-a-client-base Landing your first client can be tough, particularly if don't already have a network in place. Explore our advice on developing a client base from scratch https://fleximize.com/articles/000935/non-compete-clause-the-ins-and-outs Thu, 25 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000935/non-compete-clause-the-ins-and-outs Non-compete clauses are commonplace in the commercial world, so if you’ve signed one but you’re considering your options, here's all you need to know. https://fleximize.com/articles/000937/what-is-content-marketing Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/000937/what-is-content-marketing Content marketing is now an essential part of any marketing strategy. Read our introduction to content marketing including blogs, videos and social posts https://fleximize.com/articles/002320/avoiding-the-pitfalls-of-expansion Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002320/avoiding-the-pitfalls-of-expansion Discover the common pitfalls of business growth and how to avoid them. If you're targeting new markets or diversifying your services, here are our top tips https://fleximize.com/articles/000773/the-financial-revolution Thu, 25 Sep 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000773/the-financial-revolution Get the key facts and figures about the rapid growth of fintech on a global scale to understand exactly why industry leaders are so excited for the future https://fleximize.com/articles/001471/peer-to-peer-lenders-in-the-uk Wed, 24 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001471/peer-to-peer-lenders-in-the-uk With peer-to-peer lending growing in popularity among businesses seeking new investors for funding, we take a look at some of the top P2P lenders in the UK https://fleximize.com/articles/000900/trademarks-the-basics Wed, 24 Sep 2014 10:29:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000900/trademarks-the-basics A trademark is a distinguishing mark used to set your products and services aside from your competitors, and here's why it's important for your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001370/security-on-a-loan-mortgages-and-fixed-and-floating-charges Wed, 24 Sep 2014 10:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001370/security-on-a-loan-mortgages-and-fixed-and-floating-charges Security against business loans comes in different forms, here we explain mortgages, and how fixed and floating charges work. https://fleximize.com/articles/002318/how-to-diversify-your-business Tue, 23 Sep 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002318/how-to-diversify-your-business Thinking of targeting new markets and innovating your products or services? We're offering some useful advice to help you advance your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001348/shareholders-rights-unfair-prejudice Mon, 22 Sep 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001348/shareholders-rights-unfair-prejudice We explain unfair prejudice and how it can affect company shareholders. If you think you're a victim, read our guidance and examples. https://fleximize.com/articles/001969/monitoring-your-clients-happiness Sun, 21 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001969/monitoring-your-clients-happiness Ensuring your clients are happy and content with your business is key to building lasting relationships and repeat custom. Here's why... https://fleximize.com/articles/002225/merging-with-another-company Fri, 19 Sep 2014 17:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002225/merging-with-another-company Merging with another business can be daunting prospect for everyone from employees to owners. Here's how to plan your merger to ensure success. https://fleximize.com/articles/002026/why-do-half-of-m-a-deals-fail Fri, 19 Sep 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002026/why-do-half-of-m-a-deals-fail It's a fact of reality that many M&A deals end up in failure. Here are the key reasons why, and what you can learn from experience. https://fleximize.com/articles/002217/why-your-business-location-is-key Fri, 19 Sep 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002217/why-your-business-location-is-key In an increasingly digital world, how does the location of a business impact its success? And what factors should you consider when locating your company? https://fleximize.com/articles/001390/introduction-to-non-disclosure-agreements Fri, 19 Sep 2014 10:07:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001390/introduction-to-non-disclosure-agreements What's a non-disclosure agreement, and do you need one? Read our introduction to NDAs to learn how they work and why you need one to protect your business https://fleximize.com/articles/000787/the-not-so-silent-revolution Thu, 18 Sep 2014 17:00:00 +0100 Michael Bridgman https://fleximize.com/articles/000787/the-not-so-silent-revolution Entrepreneurs in the industry have taken lessons from Silicon Valley and are trying to disrupt a millennia old banking industry by focusing on customers. https://fleximize.com/articles/001744/employment-tribunals Thu, 18 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001744/employment-tribunals What is an employment tribunal, how does it work and what will it achieve? This simple guide from Fleximize covers the basics of employment tribunals https://fleximize.com/articles/001012/introduction-to-vat Thu, 18 Sep 2014 09:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001012/introduction-to-vat Confused about VAT? Unsure how it's calculated, or what it applies to? These are just some of the questions we cover in our beginner's introduction to VAT https://fleximize.com/articles/002076/why-you-should-worry-about-indirect-competition Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002076/why-you-should-worry-about-indirect-competition It's not just your direct competitors, you need to worry about. Be aware of the wider competition also vying for your customers' business. https://fleximize.com/articles/002213/key-marketing-metrics-to-assess-strategy Tue, 16 Sep 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002213/key-marketing-metrics-to-assess-strategy For any marketing strategy, it's vital you're able to measure its success. CPA and ROI are among the marketing metrics that help to assess your performance https://fleximize.com/articles/002092/no-frills-deals-and-freebies Sun, 14 Sep 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002092/no-frills-deals-and-freebies No frills deals and freebies can work incredibly well for some businesses and not at all for others. Here's how you can work out the potential benefits. https://fleximize.com/articles/002265/cut-costs-via-outsourcing-automation Fri, 12 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002265/cut-costs-via-outsourcing-automation Outsourcing or automating tasks may help save money for your business, but there are some drawbacks to consider such as quality control and upfront costs https://fleximize.com/articles/002074/reacting-to-a-more-successful-competitor Fri, 12 Sep 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002074/reacting-to-a-more-successful-competitor We suggest positive ways in dealing with a more successful competitor - there's no reason why you can't still thrive. https://fleximize.com/articles/001997/why-offer-live-chat-on-your-website Thu, 11 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001997/why-offer-live-chat-on-your-website Live chat provides a unique way to communicate with customers instantaneously. Here are a few reasons why you should consider offering a live chat service https://fleximize.com/articles/001622/5-steps-to-protecting-your-credit-rating Thu, 11 Sep 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001622/5-steps-to-protecting-your-credit-rating Credit rating can have a huge effect on your ability to secure vital funding for your business. Here are five simple steps to improve your credit rating https://fleximize.com/articles/001620/how-to-look-after-your-credit-rating Wed, 10 Sep 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001620/how-to-look-after-your-credit-rating Your credit rating can be a major factor when it comes to getting business funding. We answer your questions on how a credit rating is looked at by lenders https://fleximize.com/articles/000904/trademark-registration-not-everlasting Wed, 10 Sep 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000904/trademark-registration-not-everlasting Just because you have registered your trademark, it doesn’t mean that it remains registered. Here's what you need to do to maintain its registered status. https://fleximize.com/articles/001921/dealing-with-hmrc-for-a-client Tue, 09 Sep 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001921/dealing-with-hmrc-for-a-client If you're going to be dealing with HMRC on behalf of one of your clients, you need to obtain client authorisation. Here's how. https://fleximize.com/articles/002058/which-traits-shorten-your-leadership-career Sun, 07 Sep 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002058/which-traits-shorten-your-leadership-career Which leaderships traits will end your leadership role, and what can you do to counterbalance these. https://fleximize.com/articles/001927/top-tips-on-customer-care Fri, 05 Sep 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001927/top-tips-on-customer-care Knowing how to make and keep your customers happy is crucial to the success of any business, large or small. Here are our top tips... https://fleximize.com/articles/001965/tailoring-your-business-to-your-clients Wed, 03 Sep 2014 16:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001965/tailoring-your-business-to-your-clients Everybody understands that customers are vital to the success of a business, so how can you tailor your business to suit your clients' needs? https://fleximize.com/articles/002186/the-businesses-that-listen-to-customers Wed, 03 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002186/the-businesses-that-listen-to-customers Follow the example of these major companies that keep customers loyal by responding to their feedback. https://fleximize.com/articles/001967/contacting-your-clients-via-email Wed, 03 Sep 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001967/contacting-your-clients-via-email Contacting your customers via email can be very effective for many small businesses. Here are our top tips to get your message across, first time round... https://fleximize.com/articles/002148/developing-your-company-culture Wed, 03 Sep 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002148/developing-your-company-culture Fostering a productive but enjoyable company culture can be a mammoth task for any business owner. Here are the key things to watch out for... https://fleximize.com/articles/005564/santander-business-loans Wed, 03 Sep 2014 09:30:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/005564/santander-business-loans Here's our guide to Santander's business loans. Learn about the Santander finance products available to you, plus the pros and cons of bank business loans https://fleximize.com/articles/002124/the-scope-creep-monster Tue, 02 Sep 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002124/the-scope-creep-monster If you're a freelance or use a freelancer for your business, you'll probably know what Scope Creep is. Here's how you can eliminate it from your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001071/best-cloud-accounting-software-for-smes Tue, 02 Sep 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smth https://fleximize.com/articles/001071/best-cloud-accounting-software-for-smes We've picked our favourite cloud accounting software that's currently available for small businesses. https://fleximize.com/articles/002036/managing-difficult-employees Tue, 02 Sep 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002036/managing-difficult-employees It's essential to address any disruptive behaviour in the workplace that could harm productivity. Read our top tips for how to manage a difficult employee https://fleximize.com/articles/000897/copyright-infringement Tue, 02 Sep 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000897/copyright-infringement Is someone utilising your work as their own or manufacturing it without your permission? Read our article to see if there may be an infringement claim. https://fleximize.com/articles/000939/how-to-forecast-your-annual-profits Mon, 01 Sep 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/000939/how-to-forecast-your-annual-profits Knowing how to forecast your profits is essential to small business. We share the basics of putting together an annual forecast. https://fleximize.com/articles/002326/finding-quality-leads-and-forecasting Mon, 01 Sep 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002326/finding-quality-leads-and-forecasting Fleximize offers tips on generating sales leads that convert and projecting revenue. Discover how you can find high-quality leads and make a sales forecast https://fleximize.com/articles/002080/attracting-customers-with-your-good-looks Fri, 29 Aug 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002080/attracting-customers-with-your-good-looks It's one thing attracting people with the look of your business, but make sure you follow it up with a quality service. https://fleximize.com/articles/001963/customer-reviews-key-for-attracting-new-business Thu, 28 Aug 2014 17:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001963/customer-reviews-key-for-attracting-new-business Eight in ten people trust online reviews as much as word of mouth recommendations - this is why reviews are key to attracting new business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001955/communicating-with-customers Thu, 28 Aug 2014 15:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001955/communicating-with-customers Think you can get away with a customer newsletter once a month? Wrong. Here are our top tips for regularly communicating with your customers. https://fleximize.com/articles/002046/best-time-for-m-a-and-expert-advice Thu, 28 Aug 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002046/best-time-for-m-a-and-expert-advice Knowledge Hub looks at the optimum time to approach an M&A deal and the support you can get to see a successful deal completed. https://fleximize.com/articles/001676/accountants-outsourcing-vs-in-house Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001676/accountants-outsourcing-vs-in-house Looking for an accountant, but unsure whether to outsource or go in-house? We weigh up the pros and cons of both, and evaluate cloud solutions such as Xero https://fleximize.com/articles/001836/what-is-statutory-redundancy-pay Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001836/what-is-statutory-redundancy-pay If you're facing redundancy, it's vital to know what you're entitled to. Review our brief introduction to statutory redundancy pay and how it's calculated https://fleximize.com/articles/001834/introduction-to-redundancy-consultation Wed, 27 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001834/introduction-to-redundancy-consultation If you're being affected by possible redundancies, you need to know what redundancy consultation is and how long it lasts for... https://fleximize.com/articles/001890/advice-on-quitting-your-job Tue, 26 Aug 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001890/advice-on-quitting-your-job Quitting your job can often be one of the most stressful points in your career. Here are our top tips for smoothing the process just a little bit. https://fleximize.com/articles/001082/vat-registering-unregistering-and-useful-tools Tue, 26 Aug 2014 13:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/001082/vat-registering-unregistering-and-useful-tools Want to register your business for VAT? Fleximize's guide to registering for VAT covers everything you need to know, including useful digital tools and information about Making Tax Digital https://fleximize.com/articles/001530/how-to-find-and-apply-for-a-government-grant Mon, 25 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001530/how-to-find-and-apply-for-a-government-grant Searching for government grants for small business is a lengthy process, but the government's search tool and advice is easy to access. https://fleximize.com/articles/001991/relationships-are-key-to-customer-retention Fri, 22 Aug 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001991/relationships-are-key-to-customer-retention It's a big mistake to neglect your current customers in favour of new leads. Explore how to improve customer retention with great communication and service https://fleximize.com/articles/000587/whistleblowing-in-the-workplace Fri, 22 Aug 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/000587/whistleblowing-in-the-workplace What is whistleblowing, and what are the pros and cons of encouraging it in your organisation? How do go about reaching the right balance for your company? https://fleximize.com/articles/002215/using-customer-service-to-win-business Wed, 20 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002215/using-customer-service-to-win-business Provide great customers service can attract new customers and help you stand apart from your competitors. https://fleximize.com/articles/001674/financial-manager-boost-business Wed, 20 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001674/financial-manager-boost-business Find out how a financial manager can boost your business, and get advice on when to recruit someone. https://fleximize.com/articles/001925/advertising-your-business-to-potential-customers Mon, 18 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001925/advertising-your-business-to-potential-customers There are many ways to reach out to potential customers, but there is one almost guaranteed way to reach more customers. Knowledge Hub investigates... https://fleximize.com/articles/001723/rewarding-staff Thu, 14 Aug 2014 14:09:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001723/rewarding-staff Rewarding your staff is a great way to recognise their achievements and motivate your entire workforce. Find out more about how to reward good performance https://fleximize.com/articles/001073/steps-to-business-insolvency Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001073/steps-to-business-insolvency When your business goes beyond the brink, it can lead to insolvency. But just what is insolvency? Hint: It's got nothing to do with Bankruptcy. https://fleximize.com/articles/002118/the-evolution-of-project-management Thu, 14 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002118/the-evolution-of-project-management Knowledge Hub uncovers how project management has evolved and adapted to suit the changing nature of business as we know it today. https://fleximize.com/articles/002138/developing-your-leadership-skills Thu, 14 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002138/developing-your-leadership-skills How can you, as a leader, ensure you continue to develop and grow? Here are our top tips for business owners and entrepreneurs leading a team... https://fleximize.com/articles/001860/7-common-terms-of-an-employment-contract Wed, 13 Aug 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001860/7-common-terms-of-an-employment-contract There are some common terms that you need to include in employment contracts. We share 7 of these terms including basic wage, working hours and holiday pay https://fleximize.com/articles/002004/customer-attraction-and-retention Wed, 13 Aug 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002004/customer-attraction-and-retention Customer attraction and retention both require attention if you want to maintain sales in the long run. But which takes more effort? We compare strategies https://fleximize.com/articles/002239/introduction-to-not-for-profits Tue, 12 Aug 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002239/introduction-to-not-for-profits Top tips for starting and operating a not-for profit organisation, and turning a profit-making business into a not-for-profit https://fleximize.com/articles/001912/where-to-start-as-a-sole-trader Tue, 12 Aug 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001912/where-to-start-as-a-sole-trader So you want to start your own business. Be your own boss. Here's all the key legislation you need to protect yourself as a sole traders. https://fleximize.com/articles/002078/creating-healthy-competition-in-teams Tue, 12 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002078/creating-healthy-competition-in-teams Creating healthy competition can have huge benefits for team performance. Get our tips on how to inspire competitiveness with targets, rewards and praise https://fleximize.com/articles/002032/regulatory-tax-considerations-for-m-as Mon, 11 Aug 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002032/regulatory-tax-considerations-for-m-as We explain the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers and tax issues involved in mergers and acquisitions. https://fleximize.com/articles/001388/investors-rights-in-a-company Mon, 11 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001388/investors-rights-in-a-company As an investor in a company you're classed as a shareholder - make sure you know your rights, what you can do and the restrictions. https://fleximize.com/articles/001413/separating-personal-and-business-finances Mon, 11 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001413/separating-personal-and-business-finances Keeping personal and business finances separate is essential - or you may end up in trouble with the tax man (or woman). https://fleximize.com/articles/002082/addition-of-staff-to-the-business Mon, 11 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002082/addition-of-staff-to-the-business New staff members or department reshuffles can cause disruption, so what’s the best way to manage internal changes to personnel? Fleximize shares its tips https://fleximize.com/articles/002311/operating-a-franchise-faqs Sun, 10 Aug 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002311/operating-a-franchise-faqs Franchises are great opportunities, but preparation is essential. In this article, we answer your pressing questions on how to run a successful franchise. https://fleximize.com/articles/000575/faux-hawk-hairstyles-at-work Sun, 10 Aug 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/000575/faux-hawk-hairstyles-at-work The faux hawk soars above the city, swooping down on fashion like a hipster bird of prey, but is it an appropriate hairstyle for a professional workplace? https://fleximize.com/articles/001975/customer-service-questions Fri, 08 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001975/customer-service-questions How much should you spend on customer service, and should you be training your staff on it? Fleximize covers questions and answers about customer service https://fleximize.com/articles/001264/how-markets-and-trade-relations-affect-business Thu, 07 Aug 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/001264/how-markets-and-trade-relations-affect-business Learn how changes in business markets and trade relations (as a result of both domestic and international politics) can significantly affect a business. https://fleximize.com/articles/002126/why-care-about-project-management Wed, 06 Aug 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002126/why-care-about-project-management Most business owners have so many things on their mind, managing individual projects often gets delegated down. But here's why you should think otherwise... https://fleximize.com/articles/002176/synergistic-communication-and-business Wed, 06 Aug 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002176/synergistic-communication-and-business How opening your mind to new possibilities and opportunities can improve you as an entrepreneur, and your business as a whole. https://fleximize.com/articles/001961/structuring-your-customer-services-department Wed, 06 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001961/structuring-your-customer-services-department Your customers are vital to your business, therefore it is crucial to ensure that your customer services team are managed and performing well. https://fleximize.com/articles/002316/restarting-your-business Wed, 06 Aug 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002316/restarting-your-business Thinking of relaunching your business after a period of dormancy or dip in income? We have a few tips that could help you be successful this time round. https://fleximize.com/articles/000794/5-ways-to-grow-your-small-business Tue, 05 Aug 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/000794/5-ways-to-grow-your-small-business ​By their very definition SMEs have the scope to grow. So want to go large? Here are some top ways to grow your SME.​ https://fleximize.com/articles/002038/managing-your-companys-culture Tue, 05 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002038/managing-your-companys-culture When it looks like your company culture is failing to meet the objectives for which it was made, how can you manage, or limit the effect on productivity? https://fleximize.com/articles/002144/why-dont-people-listen Tue, 05 Aug 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002144/why-dont-people-listen Communication is a two-way street, yet most people don't listen to others. What's the most common reason for people tuning out, and how can you solve this? https://fleximize.com/articles/001456/finding-small-business-loans Mon, 04 Aug 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001456/finding-small-business-loans Getting a small business loan is a common way of funding a startup or growing your business. But you need to do the groundwork first. https://fleximize.com/articles/001680/limited-company-with-a-foreign-partner Mon, 04 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001680/limited-company-with-a-foreign-partner Some business owners have concerns about working with a foreign business partner. Review our advice on what to consider before entering into a partnership https://fleximize.com/articles/001935/the-personal-touch-is-key Mon, 04 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001935/the-personal-touch-is-key Finding new customers is important for any business, but just as vital, is retaining them. How can you use personal touches to make sure they stay with you? https://fleximize.com/articles/002034/how-can-i-inspire-my-employees Mon, 04 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002034/how-can-i-inspire-my-employees How, as a leader, you can inspire all of your employees to work productively, creatively and keep your business moving forward. https://fleximize.com/articles/002028/4-essential-resources-for-m-a-transactions Sun, 03 Aug 2014 16:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smithm https://fleximize.com/articles/002028/4-essential-resources-for-m-a-transactions Any M&A deal can be stressful for all business stakeholders, so here are the top 4 resources needed to negotiate a successful M&A deal. https://fleximize.com/articles/002269/finding-a-manufacturer Fri, 01 Aug 2014 16:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002269/finding-a-manufacturer Finding the right manufacturer to deliver your product is key to your business' success. We discuss the key considerations when sourcing a new manufacturer https://fleximize.com/articles/002283/communicating-core-values Fri, 01 Aug 2014 15:43:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002283/communicating-core-values Marketing your business, products and services is important. But how do you get the core values of your business across easily and effectively? https://fleximize.com/articles/000549/providing-finance-to-customers Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/000549/providing-finance-to-customers How do I offer financing to my customers? If you're considering this question, its important to first understand a little about consumer credit practices https://fleximize.com/articles/002084/analysis-behind-the-marketing Thu, 31 Jul 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002084/analysis-behind-the-marketing Launching a new marketing campaign to overcome the competition requires forethought. Read our advice on competitor analysis for your marketing strategy https://fleximize.com/articles/002053/effective-communication-in-business Thu, 31 Jul 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002053/effective-communication-in-business Effective communication with employees and customers is the backbone of any successful business. But what's the secret to communicating with clarity? https://fleximize.com/articles/002172/train-staff-to-identify-competition Thu, 31 Jul 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002172/train-staff-to-identify-competition Competition can be tough, so make sure your staff are on the ball, that they're engaging customers and they're aware of what your rivals are doing. https://fleximize.com/articles/002281/improve-my-public-speaking-skills Wed, 30 Jul 2014 15:38:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/002281/improve-my-public-speaking-skills Public speaking can be challenging for many people, causing many to flat out refuse. Here's how you can overcome your nerves to deliver the perfect speech. https://fleximize.com/articles/001069/employment-supply-contracts Wed, 30 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001069/employment-supply-contracts Terms and conditions are a key part of an employment contract but can be overlooked. We explain the common terms and issues to consider before signing https://fleximize.com/articles/001993/asking-for-customer-feedback Wed, 30 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001993/asking-for-customer-feedback Just how useful are questionnaires and surveys for retaining customers? Fleximize reveals how to ask for customer feedback that will improve your business https://fleximize.com/articles/000543/public-and-private-debt Fri, 25 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/000543/public-and-private-debt What's the difference between public and private debt? Emma Meakin defines each in simple, non-technical terms. https://fleximize.com/articles/002022/mergers-and-acquisitions-faqs-part-2 Thu, 24 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002022/mergers-and-acquisitions-faqs-part-2 A merger or acquisition can be a confusing time for any business owner. Here we answer more of your questions on M&A deals and what it means for you. https://fleximize.com/articles/001888/4-common-reasons-for-dismissal Thu, 24 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001888/4-common-reasons-for-dismissal Have to sack an employee is a sad reality of running a business, whatever the reason. But what are the most common reasons employees are let go? https://fleximize.com/articles/002164/development-of-new-products Wed, 23 Jul 2014 14:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002164/development-of-new-products As a leader, is it important to communicate with all levels of employees about the development of a product? https://fleximize.com/articles/001931/social-media-and-customer-retention Wed, 23 Jul 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001931/social-media-and-customer-retention When it comes to retaining customers or clients, Social Media can be incredibly important, and could be the crucial factor in someones purchasing decision. https://fleximize.com/articles/001846/think-youre-ready-to-hire-your-first-employee Tue, 22 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001846/think-youre-ready-to-hire-your-first-employee Are you sure you're ready to recruit your first employee? Read this article before drafting that all-important ad. https://fleximize.com/articles/001929/prices-v-customer-service Tue, 22 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001929/prices-v-customer-service For your customers, there are two main factors to focus on in their decision making cycle - price and customer service. But which is the most important? https://fleximize.com/articles/001528/not-sure-what-to-pay-staff Mon, 21 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001528/not-sure-what-to-pay-staff Read our rundown of all the things you need to consider when calculating the cost of hiring a new employee. It could impact salary levels. https://fleximize.com/articles/001647/busting-myths-about-administrators-or-insolvency-practitioners Mon, 21 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001647/busting-myths-about-administrators-or-insolvency-practitioners Putting right the myth that administrators are the bad buys. Read how they always try to salvage your business, not destroy. https://fleximize.com/articles/002178/choosing-and-protecting-your-business-name Mon, 21 Jul 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002178/choosing-and-protecting-your-business-name The name of your business is one of the most important factors in establishing a strong brand. Here's how you can choose and protect your business name https://fleximize.com/articles/000965/what-is-a-venture-capitalist Mon, 21 Jul 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/000965/what-is-a-venture-capitalist Spotify, Skype and Zoopla have benefited from venture capitalist funding. We tell you what VCs do and where you can find the right one for your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/000604/how-government-type-affects-business Sat, 19 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/000604/how-government-type-affects-business Government type (dictatorship, democracy, monarchy, etc) can have many significant affects on the way you manage and operate your business. https://fleximize.com/articles/002191/is-your-business-ready-for-the-next-step Tue, 15 Jul 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Daniel Kidd https://fleximize.com/articles/002191/is-your-business-ready-for-the-next-step Every entrepreneur, at some stage, comes to a point where their small business needs an office. If this is you, how do you find the right one? https://fleximize.com/articles/002170/introduction-to-the-cma Tue, 15 Jul 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002170/introduction-to-the-cma Take a look at what the The Competition and Markets Authority ​(CMA) does and what areas are covered by its regulations. https://fleximize.com/articles/001832/key-criteria-for-making-redundancies Mon, 14 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001832/key-criteria-for-making-redundancies Selecting which staff members to make redundant is never easy, but here's some guidance on the criteria you can use to help make this difficult decision https://fleximize.com/articles/001953/corresponding-with-clients Sun, 13 Jul 2014 16:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001953/corresponding-with-clients Contacting customers is the first step to gaining repeat custom. But when and how should you get in touch? Knowledge Hub investigates... https://fleximize.com/articles/001425/business-debt-and-insolvency-and-tax Fri, 11 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001425/business-debt-and-insolvency-and-tax There are agreements you can sort with HMRC in the event of insolvency, debt, or unpaid invoices. We review some of these options including bad debt relief https://fleximize.com/articles/001693/does-my-company-need-an-employee-handbook Thu, 10 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001693/does-my-company-need-an-employee-handbook Many big companies produce an employee handbook to guide their staff in practices and procedures. Here's why you should consider one for your business... https://fleximize.com/articles/002292/being-the-best-leader-you-can-be Wed, 09 Jul 2014 14:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002292/being-the-best-leader-you-can-be What are the seven key characteristics of a great leader, and how can you apply them to yourself and your business? Knowledge Hub investigates... https://fleximize.com/articles/002303/motivating-your-staff-to-work-effectively Wed, 09 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002303/motivating-your-staff-to-work-effectively Managing a workforce and keeping them performing effectively can be tricky. So just how can you keep your team working like a well oiled machine? https://fleximize.com/articles/002000/focus-on-repeat-new-business Wed, 09 Jul 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002000/focus-on-repeat-new-business New sales are important for growth, but your existing customer base is also essential in keeping your business going. But which should you focus on more? https://fleximize.com/articles/002060/difference-between-acquisitions-and-mergers Tue, 08 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002060/difference-between-acquisitions-and-mergers Acquisitions and mergers are an important moment in the lifecycle of many businesses. Here's all you need to know about your next big step in business. https://fleximize.com/articles/001987/obtaining-customer-feedback Tue, 08 Jul 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001987/obtaining-customer-feedback Customer feedback can provide invaluable insight for improving your business. We review the different ways to request feedback including automated systems https://fleximize.com/articles/002006/the-effects-of-buyers-remorse Tue, 08 Jul 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002006/the-effects-of-buyers-remorse Ever heard of buyer's remorse? We explain what causes this emotion and how it affects buying decisions, so you can put strategies in place to overcome it https://fleximize.com/articles/001951/should-you-drop-bad-customers Mon, 07 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001951/should-you-drop-bad-customers Dealing with customers who waste your time can be frustrating for business owners. Do you ignore them? Do you embrace them? Knowledge Hub investigates... https://fleximize.com/articles/000571/transferring-business-assets Sun, 06 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/000571/transferring-business-assets We take a look at how to transfer business assets, and the reasons why you need to ensure you seek professional guidance when doing so https://fleximize.com/articles/000592/communication-styles Sat, 05 Jul 2014 01:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/000592/communication-styles We take a look at how businesses should adapt communication depending on the audience, objectives and channels being used https://fleximize.com/articles/002010/conquering-hard-times-in-business Thu, 03 Jul 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002010/conquering-hard-times-in-business In hard times, is it essential to offer discounts to customers? Or maintain the price and value of the product? https://fleximize.com/articles/002647/project-management-qualifications Wed, 02 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002647/project-management-qualifications Looking to excel in project management? Here are the top qualifications and accreditations you can receive... https://fleximize.com/articles/001862/is-direct-or-transferable-experience-best Wed, 02 Jul 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001862/is-direct-or-transferable-experience-best Don't exclude potential applicants by ignoring transferable skills when you're recruiting new staff. https://fleximize.com/articles/001820/when-can-i-start-claiming-my-pension Tue, 01 Jul 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001820/when-can-i-start-claiming-my-pension If you're about to reach state pension age, here is all you need to understand to start claiming your pension. https://fleximize.com/articles/001894/threat-of-disciplinary-action Tue, 01 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001894/threat-of-disciplinary-action Receiving a warning of disciplinary action at work can be alarming. Follow these steps on what to do after you've been made aware of any kind of accusation https://fleximize.com/articles/001818/when-does-auto-enrolment-kick-in-for-smes Mon, 30 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001818/when-does-auto-enrolment-kick-in-for-smes Auto-enrolment will soon become a legal requirement for employers. Find out the deadline for your business to be prepared for the workplace pension scheme https://fleximize.com/articles/001806/is-my-private-pension-taxable Fri, 27 Jun 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001806/is-my-private-pension-taxable Do you understand all the tax implications of your pension? Here's everything you need to know in order for you to protect your nest egg for the future. https://fleximize.com/articles/001816/auto-enrolment-in-a-nutshell Thu, 26 Jun 2014 15:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001816/auto-enrolment-in-a-nutshell New legislation requires that all qualifying employees are automatically enrolled in a workplace pension scheme. Read our summary on automatic enrolment https://fleximize.com/articles/001795/eligibility-requirements-for-pension-credits Thu, 26 Jun 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001795/eligibility-requirements-for-pension-credits Got questions about your eligibility for pension credits? Knowledge Hub takes a look at common concerns and answers your important questions. https://fleximize.com/articles/001790/the-2-types-of-workplace-pensions Thu, 26 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001790/the-2-types-of-workplace-pensions You may have heard a lot about workplace pensions, but do you fully understand the two types? Here's our guide to protecting your future nest egg. https://fleximize.com/articles/002030/become-an-ace-leader Thu, 26 Jun 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002030/become-an-ace-leader Every entrepreneur should always ask the question "How can I improve myself?". We look at the ways in which you can grow and become a better leader. https://fleximize.com/articles/001789/workplace-pension-contributions Wed, 25 Jun 2014 13:32:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001789/workplace-pension-contributions Workplace pension contributions from you, your employer and government are rising until 2018. Make sure you stay on top of the changes. https://fleximize.com/articles/001799/protecting-a-workplace-pension Wed, 25 Jun 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001799/protecting-a-workplace-pension Your workplace pension is hugely valuable for the future. Discover how to protect and manage your pot, including which services to contact with concerns https://fleximize.com/articles/000599/appealing-a-vat-penalty Wed, 25 Jun 2014 01:00:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/000599/appealing-a-vat-penalty Appealing against a VAT penalty from HMRC means following the guidelines relating to an indirect tax appeal. This article outlines the appeals process. https://fleximize.com/articles/001793/transferring-pensions-to-new-jobs-and-abroad Mon, 23 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001793/transferring-pensions-to-new-jobs-and-abroad Taking a pension scheme to a new job or to a different country? We explain the procedures you need to follow. https://fleximize.com/articles/001916/claiming-start-up-expenses Thu, 19 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001916/claiming-start-up-expenses Got your startup up and running? Did you know that there are ways that you can reclaim the expenses of starting your business? Here's how... https://fleximize.com/articles/001741/is-success-the-secret-to-staff-motivation Thu, 19 Jun 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001741/is-success-the-secret-to-staff-motivation Discover why success is an important motivator for your employees and how you can avoid it demotivating the rest of your workforce. https://fleximize.com/articles/001880/what-is-a-fixed-term-employment-contract Wed, 18 Jun 2014 16:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001880/what-is-a-fixed-term-employment-contract Fixed-term contracts are a great idea for temporary or seasonal workers. Fleximize provides an overview of FTCs, including how to renew and conclude them https://fleximize.com/articles/001630/signing-a-non-disclosure-agreement Wed, 18 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001630/signing-a-non-disclosure-agreement Non-disclosure agreements (NDA) are common across industries. But do you know what you are signing and what happens if you breach the contract? https://fleximize.com/articles/001689/track-staff-time-on-social-media-and-calls Tue, 17 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001689/track-staff-time-on-social-media-and-calls Find out what the best ways are to monitor personal time on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, personal phones, etc. https://fleximize.com/articles/001896/job-is-ending-what-pay-do-you-get Thu, 12 Jun 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001896/job-is-ending-what-pay-do-you-get Your employer's obligations for payments when employment ends - pay for severance, gardening leave and notice period. https://fleximize.com/articles/000561/a-linear-model-of-communication Thu, 12 Jun 2014 01:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/000561/a-linear-model-of-communication Linear models of communication have been largely superseded by transactional and mutual models, but they still have a number of advantages for businesses https://fleximize.com/articles/002299/leadership-mistakes-and-how-to-improve-your-style Wed, 11 Jun 2014 14:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002299/leadership-mistakes-and-how-to-improve-your-style Leadership comes with many pitfalls, but do you know what the most common mistake is? We reveal and share our top tips for improving your leadership style https://fleximize.com/articles/001485/hmrc-penalties-for-self-employed-workers Wed, 11 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001485/hmrc-penalties-for-self-employed-workers Tax rules on using self-employed workers have been tightened. Make sure you understand who's responsible for tax and NI if you have self-employed workers https://fleximize.com/articles/001721/can-i-reduce-employee-benefits Wed, 11 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001721/can-i-reduce-employee-benefits If you're looking to cut costs, you may need to reduce employee benefits. Unpack Fleximize's advice on why it's best to approach with caution and negotiate https://fleximize.com/articles/001678/4-steps-to-debt-restructuring Wed, 11 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001678/4-steps-to-debt-restructuring Most business owners have struggled at some point with finance, and debt restructuring can be an effective way to get your company in the black. Here's why. https://fleximize.com/articles/001898/employee-learning-and-development-faqs Wed, 11 Jun 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001898/employee-learning-and-development-faqs Empowering and educating your employees is vital for an SME. Here, we answer your pressing questions about employee training and learning at SMEs. https://fleximize.com/articles/001496/heres-what-to-do-when-youre-not-making-a-profit Tue, 10 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001496/heres-what-to-do-when-youre-not-making-a-profit Don't panic if you stop making a profit. It happens to every business at some point, and by following these simple steps you can quickly turn things around https://fleximize.com/articles/001500/bank-loan-to-hire-employees Tue, 10 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001500/bank-loan-to-hire-employees Taking out a loan to recruit new staff is okay if you're sure you can afford it. It's risky so consider these issues first. https://fleximize.com/articles/001695/employees-texting-at-work Tue, 10 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001695/employees-texting-at-work With the growth of modern technology, it's inevitable that some employees will get distracted. How can you counter this and keep your team productive? https://fleximize.com/articles/001882/advice-on-reducing-staff-hours-and-laying-off Tue, 10 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001882/advice-on-reducing-staff-hours-and-laying-off If you need to cut costs, sometimes reducing staff hours is the only option. Find out what the legal obligations are before changing your employee's hours https://fleximize.com/articles/002197/the-board-of-directors Tue, 10 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002197/the-board-of-directors Curious about what a company board of directors is, or what it does? We answer these burning questions and outline best practices for businesses to follow https://fleximize.com/articles/001735/taking-disciplinary-action-against-an-employee Mon, 09 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001735/taking-disciplinary-action-against-an-employee Disciplinary action can be necessary to address issues with staff performance. Here are some questions to ask yourself before taking this course of action https://fleximize.com/articles/001854/is-it-legal-to-fill-a-new-role-without-advertising-it Mon, 09 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Tina Chander https://fleximize.com/articles/001854/is-it-legal-to-fill-a-new-role-without-advertising-it Do employers need to advertise a role before appointing someone to complete it?​ Tina Chander, Head of Employment Law at Wright Hassall​ LLP, explores https://fleximize.com/articles/002014/should-you-add-a-customer-feedback-section Fri, 06 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002014/should-you-add-a-customer-feedback-section Getting customer feedback should be an ongoing effort. Find out how adding a customer feedback section to your website helps keep track of customer needs https://fleximize.com/articles/001886/firing-employees-faqs Thu, 05 Jun 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001886/firing-employees-faqs The process of firing an employee always leads to questions. Here are the most frequently asked questions, and how to cover your back as an employer. https://fleximize.com/articles/002227/how-important-is-first-draft-business-reports Thu, 05 Jun 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002227/how-important-is-first-draft-business-reports When you're putting together any form of business report, it's vital that you do a first draft beforehand. Here are the reasons why... https://fleximize.com/articles/001892/how-to-raise-a-formal-grievance Wed, 04 Jun 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001892/how-to-raise-a-formal-grievance When issues arise at work, it's not always possible to fix them without external help. Here's what to do and who to involve when raising a formal grievance https://fleximize.com/articles/001714/3-steps-to-managing-a-difficult-employee Wed, 04 Jun 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001714/3-steps-to-managing-a-difficult-employee Managing a difficult employee can be tricky at the best of times, so here are our tips for talking to them and working with them to improve. https://fleximize.com/articles/001494/when-will-your-startup-start-making-a-profit Wed, 04 Jun 2014 09:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001494/when-will-your-startup-start-making-a-profit It can take years to be profitable, but it doesn't mean you're a failure. Looking for positive signs and planning certainly helps. https://fleximize.com/articles/002267/present-to-a-board-of-directors Tue, 03 Jun 2014 15:02:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002267/present-to-a-board-of-directors Presenting to a Board of Directors can be daunting, even for the most confident of business owners. Here are our top tips for making it go hitch-free. https://fleximize.com/articles/002128/what-is-line-management-system Tue, 03 Jun 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002128/what-is-line-management-system How you can use line management efficiently to manage each employee and their productivity on a day to day basis. https://fleximize.com/articles/001706/maintaining-staff-motivation Mon, 02 Jun 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001706/maintaining-staff-motivation Staff motivation is such an important factor for any business, of any size. We explore how you can motivate your employees and keep them that way. https://fleximize.com/articles/002142/how-to-protect-yourself-from-similar-businesses Sun, 01 Jun 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002142/how-to-protect-yourself-from-similar-businesses Launching a company based on a great idea? Then you must protect it and be strategic to stay ahead of competition. https://fleximize.com/articles/001989/discover-if-customers-are-satisfied Fri, 30 May 2014 16:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001989/discover-if-customers-are-satisfied When running a business, your customers should always be your main priority. But how do you know if they are satisfied? Here are our top tips... https://fleximize.com/articles/002064/basics-of-competition Fri, 30 May 2014 10:25:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002064/basics-of-competition You probably think you already know about your competitors. But do you understand the basics of competition and how you can beat them? https://fleximize.com/articles/001473/where-can-i-find-startup-funding Fri, 30 May 2014 09:30:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/001473/where-can-i-find-startup-funding There are many funding options for startups beyond commercial banks, including crowdfunding and angel investment. We look at how startups can get support https://fleximize.com/articles/001878/recruitment-advice-on-candidate-screening Thu, 29 May 2014 14:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001878/recruitment-advice-on-candidate-screening When holding job interviews, its important to screen out unsuitable candidates. That's obvious. But how do you go about making sure you're not missing out? https://fleximize.com/articles/001874/buying-a-business-and-keeping-staff Thu, 29 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001874/buying-a-business-and-keeping-staff Buying a new business? Are you in the process of buying a business? Here's why maintaining the existing workforce is important to get the most value out of your new investment https://fleximize.com/articles/001509/how-to-keep-your-staff-when-money-is-tight Wed, 28 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001509/how-to-keep-your-staff-when-money-is-tight Are you an SME and struggling to find finance to pay an employee? We have a few options so you can keep them on the payroll. https://fleximize.com/articles/001947/-training-my-customer-service-team Tue, 27 May 2014 14:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001947/-training-my-customer-service-team Training of your customer services team seems like an obvious step to build a solid customer base, but are you doing enough? https://fleximize.com/articles/001731/what-is-a-workers-compensation-scheme Tue, 27 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001731/what-is-a-workers-compensation-scheme A workplace injury can be devastating for employees and has repercussions for the company, so it's vital to have the right insurance or compensation scheme https://fleximize.com/articles/001475/tips-on-finance-for-sole-traders Tue, 27 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001475/tips-on-finance-for-sole-traders Understanding small business finance is essential for sole traders who are just starting up. Read our tips before you order those trendy business cards! https://fleximize.com/articles/001876/want-to-stop-employees-leaving-or-want-someone-to-quit Mon, 26 May 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001876/want-to-stop-employees-leaving-or-want-someone-to-quit Whether you're curious about staff interviewing for other jobs, or you want someone to quit, always follow legal lines. https://fleximize.com/articles/001697/how-behaviour-impacts-workplace Mon, 26 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001697/how-behaviour-impacts-workplace Knowing how positive and negative behaviour can change your office's atmosphere is a key part to creating a productive working culture. Here's why... https://fleximize.com/articles/001959/understanding-your-customers Fri, 23 May 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001959/understanding-your-customers Customers are one of the most important factors in the success of a business. Here's why understanding yours is essential. https://fleximize.com/articles/001498/how-much-profit-are-directors-entitled-to Thu, 22 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001498/how-much-profit-are-directors-entitled-to Fleximize explains the way that directors are awarded company profits, and importantly how much they are entitled to. Read our brief guide to learn more https://fleximize.com/articles/001733/new-recruits-health-not-up-to-the-job Thu, 22 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001733/new-recruits-health-not-up-to-the-job How to manage a new recruit who's too sick to work, and an employee who's given misleading health information. https://fleximize.com/articles/001710/staff-making-negative-comments-social-media Wed, 21 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001710/staff-making-negative-comments-social-media Social media can be a blessing and a curse for your business' reputation. Follow these steps on how to deal with employees making negative comments online https://fleximize.com/articles/001848/how-to-negotiate-salaries-with-staff Wed, 21 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001848/how-to-negotiate-salaries-with-staff Negotiating salaries correctly can make all the difference when securing talent for your workforce. Here's a short guide to tackling salary with your staff https://fleximize.com/articles/001923/relating-products-and-services-to-a-customers-spend Tue, 20 May 2014 17:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/001923/relating-products-and-services-to-a-customers-spend A successful pricing strategy must consider your profit margin, but also your customer's budget. Get our advice on how to price your products or services https://fleximize.com/articles/001771/2-types-of-uk-working-visas Tue, 20 May 2014 15:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001771/2-types-of-uk-working-visas Confused about working in the UK? Whether you're an employee looking for a job or employer looking for talent, these tips will help you smooth the process. https://fleximize.com/articles/001672/where-can-i-get-funding-to-buy-a-business Tue, 20 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001672/where-can-i-get-funding-to-buy-a-business If you're looking to buy a business, there's a good chance you need access to funds. We share some of the options for sourcing business acquisition funding https://fleximize.com/articles/002108/planning-a-new-client-project Tue, 20 May 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002108/planning-a-new-client-project Landing a new project for a client is exciting, but it also requires careful planning. We summarise the stages of project planning from brief to completion https://fleximize.com/articles/001856/whats-the-cost-of-hiring-a-new-employee Mon, 19 May 2014 14:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001856/whats-the-cost-of-hiring-a-new-employee Planning recruitment? The process of hiring new staff can be costly. Check you've got all costs covered with our article. https://fleximize.com/articles/002018/mergers-and-acquisitions-faqs-part-1 Sat, 17 May 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002018/mergers-and-acquisitions-faqs-part-1 A merger or acquisition can be a confusing time for any business owner. Here we answer your questions on M&A deals and what it means for you. https://fleximize.com/articles/001870/paye-forms-explained Fri, 16 May 2014 16:00:00 +0100 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/001870/paye-forms-explained There are several PAYE forms which a business needs to complete on behalf of their employees. We explain the main 3 in our hand guide to P45, P60 and P11D https://fleximize.com/articles/001729/employee-privacy-at-work Fri, 16 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Gold https://fleximize.com/articles/001729/employee-privacy-at-work Employees' privacy is protected by law - HR cannot ask about private conversations or days off for instance. https://fleximize.com/articles/002140/core-values-v-vision Thu, 15 May 2014 15:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002140/core-values-v-vision It's always important for a business to get its core values across to customers but is its vision arguably more important? Knowledge Hub investigates... https://fleximize.com/articles/001564/how-brokers-can-help-customers-find-financing Thu, 15 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001564/how-brokers-can-help-customers-find-financing Brokers can set up partnerships with a range of finance providers to give customers choice in products. https://fleximize.com/articles/001850/legal-and-illegal-conditions-of-employment Thu, 15 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001850/legal-and-illegal-conditions-of-employment As an employer, it's important to know that there are some terms and conditions of employment that are illegal to enforce, like babysitting your boss' kid https://fleximize.com/articles/001866/hiring-seasonal-staff-for-future-jobs Thu, 15 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001866/hiring-seasonal-staff-for-future-jobs Many businesses have peak seasons and have to take on extra seasonal staff for this period. Here's how you can navigate this tricky period. https://fleximize.com/articles/001691/2-tips-for-managing-sick-leave-and-gp-visits Thu, 15 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001691/2-tips-for-managing-sick-leave-and-gp-visits Check whether you can force an employee to take sick leave and whether people need to clock-off for GP visits. https://fleximize.com/articles/002273/ins-and-outs-of-project-management Thu, 15 May 2014 11:00:00 +0100 David Kiriakidis https://fleximize.com/articles/002273/ins-and-outs-of-project-management Successful project management requires attention to budget, deadlines, quality and much more. We explain agile project management and share our 3 top tips https://fleximize.com/articles/001764/are-pay-slips-compulsory Thu, 15 May 2014 10:25:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001764/are-pay-slips-compulsory It's Pay Day, so where do you stand legally on your current processes? By not providing a pay slip are you breaking the law? Here are the facts... https://fleximize.com/articles/001868/hiring-a-copywriter-for-your-ecommerce-business Wed, 14 May 2014 16:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001868/hiring-a-copywriter-for-your-ecommerce-business As an ecommerce business, you need to hire a strong copywriter who knows how sell your products to your customers. https://fleximize.com/articles/001737/want-to-appeal-against-disciplinary-action Wed, 14 May 2014 14:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001737/want-to-appeal-against-disciplinary-action If your employer is taking disciplinary action against you, they're legally obliged to let you appeal. Here's all you need to know to appeal successfully https://fleximize.com/articles/001719/challenging-work-is-great-for-staff-motivation Wed, 14 May 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001719/challenging-work-is-great-for-staff-motivation Challenging work is said to be a great motivator for staff, but it could end up having the reverse effect if they haven't got the correct tools to do it https://fleximize.com/articles/002134/advice-for-new-business-leaders Wed, 14 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002134/advice-for-new-business-leaders Taking on a leadership role is a challenge that can be as intimidating as it is exciting. Fleximize summarises the best advice for any new business leader https://fleximize.com/articles/001670/basics-financial-management Wed, 14 May 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001670/basics-financial-management There isn't one route to mastering financial management, so we share a few different avenues for expanding your financial know-how including online courses https://fleximize.com/articles/001743/the-basics-of-paye Tue, 13 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001743/the-basics-of-paye PAYE is compulsory for most UK businesses, so it's vital for employers to get it right. We cover the basics of PAYE, including who needs to use it and how https://fleximize.com/articles/001699/stress-and-fear-do-they-boost-or-kill-motivation Tue, 13 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001699/stress-and-fear-do-they-boost-or-kill-motivation There are many ways to motivate staff, and one of the most common tactics is by using stress and fear. But, psychologically, is this really a good idea? https://fleximize.com/articles/001842/what-is-the-construction-industry-scheme Tue, 13 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001842/what-is-the-construction-industry-scheme Fleximize explains what the Construction Industry Scheme is, and what it means for self-employed workers in the construction industry. Find out more here https://fleximize.com/articles/001659/how-to-treat-customer-discounts-in-your-bookkeeping Tue, 13 May 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001659/how-to-treat-customer-discounts-in-your-bookkeeping Whether you're offering discounts to get rid of stock, attract new customers or launch a reward scheme, make sure you record the figures accurately. https://fleximize.com/articles/001684/handling-new-customer-credit-applications Mon, 12 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001684/handling-new-customer-credit-applications Correctly handling new customer credit applications across departments will ensure that the process is smooth and efficient. We offer our advice to lenders https://fleximize.com/articles/002062/whats-better-product-price-or-quality Sat, 10 May 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002062/whats-better-product-price-or-quality Is product price or quality more important when overcoming the competition? We share how to gain a competitive edge on brand image and customer experience https://fleximize.com/articles/001727/managing-employee-medical-issues Thu, 08 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001727/managing-employee-medical-issues Dealing with medical conditions in the workplace - when you can terminate contracts and handling personal data. https://fleximize.com/articles/001756/employee-salaries-standard-rates Thu, 08 May 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001756/employee-salaries-standard-rates Salaries are such an important factor in keeping your employees motivated. But just how should you work out what to pay your staff? https://fleximize.com/articles/001682/tax-payments-and-closing-a-company Thu, 08 May 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001682/tax-payments-and-closing-a-company Even when winding down a business, there are taxes you are still expected to pay. Get our top tips on handling taxes and HMRC when you're closing a company https://fleximize.com/articles/001844/written-statements-and-employment Thu, 08 May 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001844/written-statements-and-employment There are a few key differences between written statements and contracts of employment. Fleximize weighs up the pros and cons of both types of agreement https://fleximize.com/articles/001717/how-to-hush-a-loud-colleague Wed, 07 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001717/how-to-hush-a-loud-colleague A loud employee may need addressing if they're affecting the team performance but it's key to approach them with care. We share some possible solutions https://fleximize.com/articles/001840/what-are-collective-agreements Wed, 07 May 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001840/what-are-collective-agreements What are collective agreements with respect to employee representation? Fleximize explores collective bargaining and union ballots when negotiating at work https://fleximize.com/articles/001657/tangible-fixed-assets-vs-intangible-assets Tue, 06 May 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001657/tangible-fixed-assets-vs-intangible-assets Read our quick introductory guide to the differences between tangible fixed assets and intangible assets, and how this affects filing your annual accounts https://fleximize.com/articles/001463/whats-an-inventory-loan Mon, 05 May 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001463/whats-an-inventory-loan Inventory loans are the ideal form of financing for retailers. Useful at peak times of commerce like Christmas, but make you need one first. https://fleximize.com/articles/001872/is-age-an-issue-at-work Fri, 02 May 2014 17:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001872/is-age-an-issue-at-work Age discrimination in the workplace is something we like to think of as a thing of the past. But is it actually still prevalent? https://fleximize.com/articles/002166/use-the-same-wholesaler Fri, 02 May 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002166/use-the-same-wholesaler In certain industries it's inevitable that some wholesalers will supply multiple competitors. Here's how you can make the most of your connections. https://fleximize.com/articles/001981/how-important-are-your-customers Wed, 30 Apr 2014 12:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001981/how-important-are-your-customers Everyone knows your customers are important. But are they always right? It's a common phrase but does it stand up? Knowledge Hub investigates... https://fleximize.com/articles/002146/doing-market-research Tue, 29 Apr 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/002146/doing-market-research Conducting market research is vital to the strategic success of your business or organisation. Here's how you can really get to understand your sector... https://fleximize.com/articles/001725/do-deadlines-motivate-staff Thu, 17 Apr 2014 13:00:00 +0100 Marcia Smith https://fleximize.com/articles/001725/do-deadlines-motivate-staff Setting deadlines can motivate staff but they need to align with business needs and avoid stressing people out. https://fleximize.com/articles/002122/representing-project-management-data Wed, 09 Apr 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002122/representing-project-management-data Taking on any project can be daunting, but there are ways to hack your way to success, the humble graph, for example. Knowledge Hub takes a look... https://fleximize.com/articles/002156/key-components-of-written-communication Mon, 07 Apr 2014 13:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002156/key-components-of-written-communication What are the key components of effective written communication and how can you ensure they come across in anything you write or produce. https://fleximize.com/articles/002152/biggest-challenge-for-a-business-leader Mon, 07 Apr 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002152/biggest-challenge-for-a-business-leader What is the biggest challenge for the average business leader? Have a think. It's probably not what you would expect. Here's why... https://fleximize.com/articles/002120/stakeholder-involvement-in-projects Thu, 03 Apr 2014 11:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002120/stakeholder-involvement-in-projects Every business has stakeholders, and if you can involve them in your next project effectively, it can be great for all parties. Here's how... https://fleximize.com/articles/000566/using-buffer-statements Thu, 03 Apr 2014 11:00:00 +0100 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/000566/using-buffer-statements Buffer statements are a form of neutral language, commonly used to soften the blow when communicating bad news in a business environment. https://fleximize.com/articles/002096/reviewing-staff-performance Wed, 02 Apr 2014 12:00:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002096/reviewing-staff-performance Reviewing staff performance is a process undertaken by many companies of all sizes, but do you really know what you're looking for? https://fleximize.com/articles/002643/best-online-project-management-tools Wed, 02 Apr 2014 10:30:00 +0100 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002643/best-online-project-management-tools We've picked out the top online project management tools, including Treollo, Asana and Basecamp, so you can find one that best meets the needs of your team https://fleximize.com/articles/000556/background-noise-affects-communication Thu, 27 Mar 2014 11:00:00 +0000 The Fleximize Team https://fleximize.com/articles/000556/background-noise-affects-communication Background noise in a work environment can have a profound impact on the effectiveness of communication in several different ways https://fleximize.com/articles/002154/use-plain-english Tue, 25 Mar 2014 14:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002154/use-plain-english Effective communication is vital for the smooth running of your business, and there's one simple, obvious trick to improve it - use plain English. https://fleximize.com/articles/000583/observing-reactions-when-communicating Mon, 17 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000 Carl Stanford https://fleximize.com/articles/000583/observing-reactions-when-communicating Is it important to observe people’s reactions when communicating? A short overview of the power of body language and nonverbal communication https://fleximize.com/articles/002086/creating-a-team Tue, 11 Mar 2014 14:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002086/creating-a-team Everyone knows that teamwork is a crucial factor in any business, but how can you put together a team capable of carrying your company forwards? https://fleximize.com/articles/002257/traits-of-a-dynamic-versatile-organisation Tue, 11 Mar 2014 13:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002257/traits-of-a-dynamic-versatile-organisation Running a dynamic, versatile operation can ensure success of a business or organisation, but it's easier said than done. Here's how you can do it. https://fleximize.com/articles/002174/halo-effect Fri, 07 Mar 2014 13:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002174/halo-effect The Halo effect is an important theory in cognitive psychology, but how can you use it to your advantage in a business sense? https://fleximize.com/articles/002090/selecting-best-for-your-business Thu, 06 Mar 2014 16:30:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002090/selecting-best-for-your-business How do you select the best team for your business? What to look for and techniques for hiring a new team member https://fleximize.com/articles/002162/pros-and-cons-of-a-business-report Thu, 06 Mar 2014 11:00:00 +0000 Emma Meakin https://fleximize.com/articles/002162/pros-and-cons-of-a-business-report What are the Pros and Cons of a Business Report? And is it the best way of communicating information?