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The customer is the rationale for companies, for without their presence, there is no possible business. To attract the attention of potential customers and get them to proactively approach your business, it is essential that you develop specific marketing strategies.

Here are some tips to get consumers interested in what you do:

1. Do not focus worldwide. Although for some, focusing on a niche lowers corporate scope, leading marketing experts say that focus on a specific sector of the public will help to meet the personalised needs of users, a trend that governs the commercial world today.Operate this way and it should increase your chances of success.2. Make your marketing entertaining. A marketing campaign should catch the senses of users and detonate them with certain memorable business attitudes.3. Positive relationships. A good option to convince potential customers is to provide free care. Provide some support or advice to consumers at no cost, as this will allow you to gain their trust and build an image of credibility. If you do, you will succeed where 99% of people have failed.4. Position your business as an expert. To achieve this goal you can follow three ways:- Communicate with specialists. Establish relationships with leading players in your industry.- Be present in the media. Try and get the name of your business flowing everywhere, both offline and on the Internet. Contact editors, producers and others responsible for media to provide information relevant to your company, but will fit every editorial style.- Show you operate from a great office location. Register your business office in London shows you are centrally located and creates a sense of prestige.- Share your wisdom. Use websites, blogs, and other channels to communicate what you do, what you know. This is essential to gain credibility.5. Create a solid digital profile. Having an online presence is essential for your customers to find you more easily. Try to build your company a powerful digital image, and show your passion.If you enjoyed this blog by Your Virtual Office London, you can read more insightful blogs in our news and tips section.

A responsible approach to the environment for businesses can be very positive in terms of trade. But it is also important for a company to achieve its objectives in terms of practical green measures.If you are responsible for an SME, it is possible that you`re not too sure how to help people and the planet. It can be a steep learning curve, but if these important tips are taken on board, you will start in the right direction for your business and beyond:

Use the right type of office

If you decide on the right solution for an office then it will be very beneficial for you in terms of ecology. Serviced offices are ideal, because you can see easily if you are in a building with the requirements of environmental protection. You want somewhere that uses a good amount of insulation, as it can keep your bills down. Also, try to find a place that does not require major changes for the majority of their employees, as long trips may have a negative impact on the environment, in particular.

Save energy, if possible

Leaving the computer on while it is not in use can lose a lot of valuable and expensive energy. It's a clever move to buy power strips for suitable IT facilities. Further energy minimisation can be achieved by using special IT configurations as well.

Avoid using plastic cups

Plastic cups might seem ideal for those that would rather not do the washing up. However, the disposal of such items is difficult from the point of view of the environment, because their use involves needless waste. Instead, you should think about buying traditional mugs and consider the implementation of a dishwasher.

Moving towards being a green company

Moving to a new office can be a stressful process. However, it is not recommended for businesses to forget their impact on the environment while moving, because it would be ineffective.If you take the necessary precautions, then a relocation of the company can enable you to make a positive start from the outset. Not only this, but if you are careful about the natural world, it can save you money.Smooth relocations can be positive in several different ways, and you should look at the following tips if you want to continue being sensitive to environmental issues:

Plan your move carefully

Poorly planned moves are not usually green. You should start planning early enough to do it right. It should not be you alone who does all the planning. Allow some of the rest of the team to share your burden. If errors are minimised at the planning stage, it will bode well for the future.

Assess how green the removal company is

Before a transaction is made with the removals firm to carry items to the office, check their environmental footprint. If they have evidence of keeping a tight rein on carbon dioxide emissions, it may suggest that it may be reliable in other respects too.

Recycling of any waste

Moving offices can generate a lot of waste and rubbish. You may want to rush back to work when the removal is done, but do not neglect the possibility of recycling on return - keep up the good habits on a daily basis and let your team be aware of all the methods for keeping your company greener.

Here are some important ways to optimise your start-up:

1. Find a balance between your business plan and its execution.

It is very important to have a good business plan and marketing in which you will base the development of your idea, but do not forget that on paper often, things are very often different from reality. Of course, it is essential to know where you are going, but it is also essential to be flexible enough to change your plan when setbacks or changes occur in your internal or external environment.Keep simple and easily identifiable, measurable, achievable objectives in the plan. Keep in mind a clear picture of where you want to go and get ready to follow a path. But do not forget that in general, it is important to keep an open mind and be open to achieve the goals that you have set in a long-term plan. Remember that although the idea precedes action, it is through action that the idea is valid and takes its final form. In the end, the rule is: adapt or die.

2. Optimise your resources.

You are at an ideal time to start a new business, but it is also a time when it is difficult to obtain resources for the early stage of a new business. This is why the ability to maximise and conserve resources at an early stage of the business, dramatically increases the likelihood of success. Even with a large budget, companies that survive best are those who know how to manage their resources efficiently and live "below their means". Solve this problem and work is much more effective and efficient to fix the finances. A virtual office can help reduce overheads whilst boosting your image, this is a good way to make the most of your capital resource.

3. Build the right team.

It is important to realise when to lean on the right people for the activities that make you lose focus. These may be areas where you are not the most competent, or activities that consume valuable time you could spend on more productive issues. Building the right team also means doing it in good time. Hiring more people ahead of time can provoke capitalisation and expense or undue pressure. Always remember that spending / investment must always be preceded by a real need arising from growth in income.

4. Be a good communicator (or get one).

Building trust and good communication always go together. A good communicator is essential, since the presentation of an idea to potential investors, partners and customers is crucial; to convey good news to motivate your people or bad news to instill empathy and sense of responsibility are all effects of a great communicator.

5. Get a mentor.

The fact is that your business does not mean you should be alone. It is important to recognise that in an early stage you do not know everything, nor are good at everything. So getting someone who can guide you through your "slim" areas is a great way to plug the 'leaks' of your business. This is not always possible to achieve, but if you succeed, it's a golden opportunity, as through a mentor you can get the advice of someone who has been in the position where you are and who has significant experience. Use your judgment to determine whether criticism or advice will warrant a change in direction. Do not forget that in the end, only you are responsible for your business.This is not a recipe for an "infallible" business - there are companies that have met these criteria and fail, but in general these points will help you dramatically increase your chances of success.

Every business is different, however, your company`s insurance policy requirements will usually be determined by exactly what it does, its framework, area and if you have staff members. A specialized insurance agent can assist you in choosing the kind and level of protection plans that best fits your organization`s needs, however in this content we have a quick look at the primary types of company insurance policy you could possibly consider. We have several in depth articles on various types of insurance cover should you require additional information.Initially we`ll examine the actual property that your organization has to secure and then proceed to other attainable types of insurance coverage you`ll require for your company.

Properties insurance

In the event you own an freehold building, you should cover it against natural risks such as flooding as well as other water destruction, fire, explosion etc. If you`re making use of your residence for business functions, verify that you`re protected for the company use – many insurance providers provide combined insurance policies such as either home or home office insurance cover.When you hire a business property, it`s better to look at the conditions of the lease contract to establish who has liability for covering them – you or the property owner.

Contents, company resources and tools insurance

Consider covering any company resources and tools, PCs and other products. Similar to your home items insurance, be careful never to undervalue the worth of anything you require to manage your company – the value covered should reveal the substitute cost. Pay specific interest to highly-priced tools that your company cannot operate without. You should think about if you only have to protect on company property or if you would like broader coverage. For instance, if notebooks are taken out from the workplace and utilized off site.In case your business is work at home, you`ll have to look into the terms of your residence insurance plan. It`s likely that the current insurance will have to be modified or changed to cover tools utilized in the course of company.Your Virtual Office London help small businesses increase their productivity through the use of our prestigious virtual office services. If you would like to discuss how we can help you, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Creative business is an important contribution to the UK economy in this day and age. Most of these companies and corporations new and old - choose to be in London.These ambitious companies have different motivations to be in the capital. However, it is worth looking at some of these things if you want to go forward. If you are responsible for the organisation within the creative industries, then it may be worth the risk of being in London. If you cant afford a real office a virtual office in London could be suitable, however you should consider the following points if you're considering a decision of this type:

Network capabilities are necessary

You will not get far without all kinds of networking opportunities. If you decide to use a serviced office in London, then there are plenty of them to choose from. It is important to carefully think about the office location you intend to rent however, as some districts of London has many large network of high quality, but for high prices too.

Meetings are significant

Informal meeting places, such as restaurants, bars and hotels may be crucial for the development of your team. You want a place that is located in an area with a real buzz. You can learn a lot if you find the right neighbourhood.

It helps to highlight progress

The choice of London as the basis for an advertising agency is like a declaration of intent. What's more, it shows how far you've come. This shows that you are going to be competitive, and showing such faith in the future of your business can be a very positive step forward.

Firstly, not every candidate fits every job. The task of finding a suitable employee is often a major challenge. The employer should clearly formulate what they are looking for when it comes to employees:

• Is training necessary - yes or no - and if so, what?
• Is work experience necessary or can it be appropriated in operating these too?
• What working conditions prevail - shift work, night work, regular or irregular hours, overtime readiness is necessary, etc.?
• Are special skills needed, such as certain license categories, languages, computer skills, etc.?

These and similar questions should be answered clearly and honestly. However, it should not be too far up the measure of who you accept. Employees who are continually challenged are neither happy and permanently in the company, such as employees who have to struggle daily with excessive demands.

New staff - what to consider:

As an employer, you take a lot of responsibility for your staff. This is particularly the case in the area of insurance and accounting. The contractor has therefore the need to perform some messages:- Application for an operating pointThe application may be made by phone, mail or by completing a form. All necessary information can be found in the Internet.- Notification of the company at the trade associationEvery business owner has to pay contributions for its employees in the legal professional association. Whoever is responsible for the individual depends on the industry. When in doubt, this information can be obtained via the Internet, or the Chamber of Commerce.- Registration of the employeeAt the start of employment, the employee must be notified to the competent institution. Certain sectors will have your staff report on the first day of employment, but most industries have this done over a longer period of time.If you enjoyed this article you can read more on Your Virtual Office London business blog.

To avoid any shortcomings for your business, it is a good idea to opt for business interruption insurance. This is the best step your company can take, to ensure that there are no losses incurred due to an interrupted business.By getting covered under business interruption insurance, one can ensure that their business would not face any losses due to an abrupt interruption and they would be able to get the business back on track with much ease. This is mainly because the incapability to generate revenues when the business is subject to damage would be covered by the insurance. Business Interruption Insurance can be procured as an additional extra to the existing business insurance package.

When can I raise a claim?

When your business is subject to any of the above mentioned conditions, you are liable to claim a compensation fee. Based on the below mentioned factors, you may raise a claim with the insurance provider when you are not able to generate sufficient revenues.a) The margin between the estimated and actual profits, which occurs due to a business interruption.b) Reduced income due to high operating costs, such as temporary relocation, procuring goods at higher prices due to various factors etc.c) Damage to the records of accounts of customers due to which you are unable to recover revenues from them.When you raise a claim, the payment is made subject to the policy constraints. By opting for business insurance, you would be free from losses when your business is interrupted. Moreover, the chain reaction would be avoided due to which a business slips to losses and is unable to raise funds.Also, in events of shortcomings or interruptions, your business would be able to bounce back and resume with the business. However, it is best recommended that you understand the scope and limitations of the policy precisely before opting for one.Your Virtual Office London have helped thousands of small businesses progress to become successful enterprises. If you would like to discuss how we can help you please contact the team today.

The Office for National Statistics said the UK economy in the three months to June rose by 0.6%, meaning good news for British companies. Tucked into the new publishing efforts for Companies House, there`s further good news for 2012/13. Although the UK also showed some signs of its recent illness, it is a good forecast for the country.The new company establishments often regarded as a proxy for optimism in the economy is still growing. The 479,500 inclusion in Great Britain in 2012 exceeded the previous highlights from 443,800 in 2007, before the financial crisis took its toll on the confidence of those who were considering setting up a new business. The newest data has extra good news, with the installation of 40,082 newly formed companies in June - almost 11% more than in the same month in 2012.Although the number of companies that did not dissolve in the previous year has continued at a steady drip, the crisis seems to have levelled out. Since increasing the involvement of more than a small increase in dissolution, average growth in the industry suggests that the number of new businesses is higher than at any point since the beginning of the financial crisis.This also means that today a record number of companies are active in the UK. Although a small number are to be taken out of the equation, for the first time, there are more than 3,000,000 British companies in the housing register. Most of these are recently established companies.47.5% of enterprises in the current register were produced from the beginning of the financial crisis - with 1,446,300 establishing a new incorporation from the beginning of 2008. That there are far fewer older companies is partly explained by sheer numbers being dissolved in 2007, when the economic situation in the whole of business proved so difficult.However, there are many people who have started a new company in this challenging environment. While many of these will be created out of necessity, especially for owners displaced by other company`s problems, there are also many examples of people who suggest opportunities for business and are not afraid to be followed by the creation of new businesses.Some of the best companies are formed in an economy where there is so much emphasis on budget control and getting the basics right. They are more likely to be small and agile, able to respond quickly to opportunities and threats in the competitive environment. They also tend to deal with the owner of the business where managers are shareholders in all interest in efforts to bring in business success.Your Virtual Office London can help your business achieve great success through use of our specialised virtual office and company formation services. Our professional tailored products are designed to give your company a professional corporate image through use of our prestigious mail addresses, business registered office address and skilled virtual receptionist services. If you would like to find out more about our services please do not hesitate to contact us today.

The area of public liability insurance can take on specific requirements, so if you`re not sure, then you should contact your local authority.For many industries, though, some customers or clients will need to be presented with proof of public liability insurance from yourself. When working with local authorities or other government institutions, this type of insurance is particularly common. Local authorities often require a minimum of £ 5 million of public liability cover.

The level of public liability insurance cover

Determining the level of cover required by insurance companies or insurance brokers can be difficult to determine. It depends on:

• The nature of your business;
• Members of the public and the dangers posed to your business premises and operations;
• Size or turnover of your business;
• The type of customers;
• The number of people you employ;
• Your insurance claims history.

These factors will also affect the cost of insurance

Reduce the likelihood of a claim and therefore carry out a proper and regular risk assessment to help keep the cost low. Minimise the chance of accidents by taking appropriate controls and have regular risk assessments completed and put in place.

Why insurance?

Everything is always understood and under control, even when business customers, visitors or others are involved in an accident that causes injury or loss of earnings. Should such an accident occur in which your business is responsible and you are not insured, the costs can be significant. If your business is unable to meet the expenses, it also gives you a bad name, and it may be hard for you to find new business in the future.If you found this blog interesting you can read more interesting and informative blog posts in our Your Virtual Office article archive library.

Whitbread has experienced a large sales growth in the first half of 2014. Strong figures from Costa Coffee and Premier Inn have helped Whitbread see a huge rise of 12.8% in new sales.Costa Coffee saw a large increase in sales up 7.3%, Premier Inn also saw a large jump to 9.2% increase in the first half of the year.Premier Inn has increased its market share; total occupancy has hit a new record high for the company and is looking to open 4,500 new rooms in the coming year.Costa is also on the expansions radar, it is looking to open 76 new Cota stores inside the UK and a further 300 stores worldwide. Global sales were up 15.3% which in monetary terms is £602.4 million.