About

Ben Lobel was the editor of SmallBusiness.co.uk from 2010 to 2018. He specialises in writing for start-up and scale-up companies in the areas of finance, marketing and HR.

Business Loans

Business loans for starting up abroad

Here is brief overview on getting finance for an overseas business in the UK – can you do it and what do you need to know?

Business Loans

Getting small business loans with bad credit

Even a small business owner with bad credit may need to borrow unexpectedly for stock or a sudden car repair. Where can you turn to for a small business loan with bad credit?

Sole trader

What is the definition of a sole trader and being self-employed

What does it mean to be a 'sole trader'? Is there any difference between a sole trader and being ‘self employed’?

Employing & managing staff

How to set up an apprenticeship scheme at your small business

Is an apprenticeship scheme right for your business, and where do you begin? Crissi Williams, CEO of the Institute of Telecommunications Professionals, looks into the matter.

Employing & managing staff

How to elevate employee engagement levels

Pietro Carmignani, UK country manager at Gympass, provides some simple tips to empower staff and keep them engaged.

Business Ideas & Planning

How to write a marketing plan

This guide offers practical advice on developing and writing a marketing plan using simple English

Export & Import

The essential guide to commodity codes and HS categories

In this guide we’ll look at when and why commodity codes are used, what they look like, and how to find the right one for your needs.

Office & home working

What to consider when choosing a commercial property

Here, we look at some of the main factors to consider when selecting the perfect commercial property for your business needs.

Finding and selling to customers

How to maximise sales through the art of listening

With a few simple techniques, you can hone your listening skills to maximise sales. In this piece, we look at how.

Marketing

The importance of good copy in your marketing communications

Writer and marketer Jenni O'Connor shares her thoughts on why it's necessary to take extra care with copywriting.

Advice

A small business guide to going freelance

In this piece, we look at the main considerations when going freelance, from procedural advice to managing your work-life balance.

Small Business Banking

Do you need a business bank account? Which one is right for you?

Do you need a business bank account and what are the right questions to ask when choosing one?

Ben Lobel

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