Advice and Ideas for UK Small Businesses and SMEs
News
A fifth of UK employers believe school leavers make better employees than university graduates.
Finding and selling to customers
It's been a dog-eat-dog world out there for small retailers for some time now, and it looks as if retaining vital customers will continue to be a tough ask.
Business management
In 2007, Nicko Williamson launched Climatecars, which provides an environmentally-friendly hybrid car service in London, and now turns over £2.2 million.
Crowdfunding for Business
Knitting wool wholesaler Artesano raised £65,000 on Funding Circle, which matches lenders with businesses online.
Alternative finance
The banks aren't interested, but social lending websites are. SmallBusiness.co.uk talks to three early-stage companies that have benefitted from the growing phenomenon in peer-to-peer SME fundraising.
Advice
Q: I have now gone fully self-employed. What do I need to do differently?
Blog
While it is encouraging that someone has made a constructive effort to breathe life back into our high streets, a more conclusive plan may be needed to resurrect them.
News
Employers who impose strict policies against the use of social networking tools designed for business are at risk of alienating 'Generation Facebook' from joining their organisation, research finds.
Employing & managing staff
As Christmas approaches, many companies may be considering hiring extra staff on a temporary basis to cover them over the busy period.
Business Ideas & Planning
National mobile bar and cocktail service Zest Mixology started trading in January this year and expects to turn over £145,000 in its opening 12 months. SmallBusiness.co.uk talks to founder Murdo McLeod.
News
Four fifths of small businesses feel their customer service could be improved, despite two thirds identifying that responsiveness is the most important factor in their company.
Advice
SmallBusiness.co.uk presents five ideas for increasing profitability and keeping your business in the black.