Newsletter September 2012

Newsletter September 2012

Newsletter September 2012

Newsletter September 2012

“I have been so “I have been so “I have been so “I have been so much happier now much happier now much happier now much happier now I’m doing a job that I’m doing a job that I’m doing a job that I’m doing a job that I really enjoy”I really enjoy”I really enjoy”I really enjoy”

Justine Bates of Jusbakes

Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Newsletter Newsletter Newsletter Newsletter

Leicester Business Women would like to welcome you to our September newsletter. The cold and dark mornings are back, and September has come and gone in a flash! So we approach October, which in business is the ideal time (if you haven’t already) to prepare for the forthcoming seasonal delights - Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas and the New Year. What’s your plan? How are you going to ensure that your business makes the most of these celebrations? Think about your target market, where will they be, what could your business offer and how can you catch their eye? Most of us become busy at this time of year with family, friends and our own celebrations - so begin now, start to plan your strategy! If you’re yet to register your business, could you register in time for these festive events? Is there something holding you back? Do you need that last bit of support before you become a legal business? If you would like to discuss your business idea, the final stages or your festive action plan contact Leicester Business Women today and we can arrange you for to see one of our experienced coaches and advisors so you and your business are prepared and can make the most of the exciting events.

“It’s not the plan that is important, it’s the planning”“It’s not the plan that is important, it’s the planning”“It’s not the plan that is important, it’s the planning”“It’s not the plan that is important, it’s the planning” Dr Graeme Edwards

This months newsletter is full of support and advice to help you further. With information on the key to successful networking, advice on getting a mentor for your business, the HMRC workshops and their new easy steps to register your business, details of the new Start Up Now Project and the Leicester Business Women Membership scheme, Skills for Enterprise’s virtual office package plus case studies and advertisements from our members and other organisations. For further information about the Leicester Business Women programme please contact Nicole Hocking on 0116 251 8730 or view our website www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk

“I have gained a clearer idea about the thinking and “I have gained a clearer idea about the thinking and “I have gained a clearer idea about the thinking and “I have gained a clearer idea about the thinking and attitudes needed to start attitudes needed to start attitudes needed to start attitudes needed to start

business as well as practicalities such business as well as practicalities such business as well as practicalities such business as well as practicalities such the as business plan”the as business plan”the as business plan”the as business plan”

Tracey Daw

“I enjoyed meeting the other women in the “I enjoyed meeting the other women in the “I enjoyed meeting the other women in the “I enjoyed meeting the other women in the

same position”same position”same position”same position” Nel Kirby

“I now believe in what I want to do”“I now believe in what I want to do”“I now believe in what I want to do”“I now believe in what I want to do” Zahira Saiyad

Leicester Business Women’s September Newsletter

Includes

Sharing Your Success

Case Study - Karen Sealey of Pure & Blessed Tarot

Get Ahead, Get A Mentor

Leicester Business Women Membership Package

Start Up Now Programme

The Key To Successful Networking Is Being Prepared

Case Study - Sue Grogan of Joined-Up Working Leicestershire

Easy Steps To Start Your Business With The HMRC

HMRC Workshops

A ‘Little Bit Extra’ From Leicester Business Women

From Family Mediator to Games maker

Leicester Business Women’s Web Portal

Virtual Office

****

We hope you enjoy We hope you enjoy We hope you enjoy We hope you enjoy

Business Top Tips from Vision Development Consultants 1. Have passion for your business Work should be fun. Your passion will help you overcome difficult moments and persuade people to work for you and want to do business with you. Passion can't be taught. When it wanes, as it surely will in difficult times, take some quiet time. Whether it be an hour or a week, take inventory of all the reasons you started the business and why you like being your own boss. That should renew your passion. 2. Set an example of trustworthiness People have confidence in trustworthy individuals and want to work for them in a culture of integrity. The same is true for customers. 3. Be flexible, except with core values It's a given that your plans and strategies will change as time goes on. This flexibility for rapid change is an inherent advantage of small over large business. However, no matter the pressure for immediate profits, do not compromise on core values.

Sharing Your Success

Local magazines, newspapers, radio and television are around us either at work or at home 24/7. Having the opportunity to feature in or on them is a huge marketing opportunity for any business or organisation! This, not to be missed opportunity gives those advertising the chance to shout about them and their business, inform others of the journey they have taken and where they are going, plus sharing experiences and successes to inspire others. Leicester Business Women are delighted that many members have done just that! They have appeared in local newspapers such as the Leicester Mercury, featured an BBC Radio Leicester and on the local BBC news to share their stories and to tell others about their businesses. This month has been no different with Bina Sitaram appearing on the local news on BBC One, this gave Bina the opportunity to show Leicester and Leicestershire the amazing work that her business Eco Kids Ltd is doing with a local school, showing the value and the benefits of her work.

Sabina Kovacheva appeared in the Leicester Mercury giving her the opportunity to share information of her new business Sabivo, her journey and her business aims, all very inspiring to those reading. See Sabina’s article below. All other articles, radio links etc are our Facebook page.

Leicester Business Women look forward to seeing more of our members sharing their experiences and success with others in the future.

Karen Sealey of Pure & Blessed Tarot

“I can choose my hours and work around my family, “I can choose my hours and work around my family, “I can choose my hours and work around my family, “I can choose my hours and work around my family, or take advantage of the rare sunny day rather than being stuck or take advantage of the rare sunny day rather than being stuck or take advantage of the rare sunny day rather than being stuck or take advantage of the rare sunny day rather than being stuck

indoors”indoors”indoors”indoors”

Karen approached Leicester Business Women in March 2012 with her idea of tarot readings for clients. As she had been out of the work place for quite some time due to raising a family, she couldn’t stand the thought of being employed again and being told what to do. It wasn’t until her meeting with Leicester Business Women coach Sharon Roberts that Karen felt confident with her idea and herself! Karen found that she had received a much needed

perspective which helped her identify and shape her business idea. “After 90 minutes “After 90 minutes “After 90 minutes “After 90 minutes with Sharon, I was starting to get a glimpse of what I could achieve with Sharon, I was starting to get a glimpse of what I could achieve with Sharon, I was starting to get a glimpse of what I could achieve with Sharon, I was starting to get a glimpse of what I could achieve and booked onto the course of 6 workshops.”and booked onto the course of 6 workshops.”and booked onto the course of 6 workshops.”and booked onto the course of 6 workshops.”

Through the training programme, Karen developed her business acumen and confidence even further, and shortly after went onto register herself as a business – Pure & Blessed Tarot.

Having read tarot on and off since 1988, and more seriously over the last five years, Karen has

developed her skills in the area and knows she has a real talent here and passion for helping

and guiding others. In addition, with her background in a range of holistic therapies it is a great way to combine all the things she loves to do. “I want to deliver readings that are meaningful to people in “I want to deliver readings that are meaningful to people in “I want to deliver readings that are meaningful to people in “I want to deliver readings that are meaningful to people in terms of stress management and positive life style planning. I want to make Tarot accessible and terms of stress management and positive life style planning. I want to make Tarot accessible and terms of stress management and positive life style planning. I want to make Tarot accessible and terms of stress management and positive life style planning. I want to make Tarot accessible and useful to people useful to people useful to people useful to people ---- a practical tool for everyday life.” a practical tool for everyday life.” a practical tool for everyday life.” a practical tool for everyday life.”

Karen very much enjoys being self employed, and from our perspective has taken everything in her stride. “every day is different. I like to get out and about and meet people. One day I can be sat in “every day is different. I like to get out and about and meet people. One day I can be sat in “every day is different. I like to get out and about and meet people. One day I can be sat in “every day is different. I like to get out and about and meet people. One day I can be sat in someone's home, the next a charity event, a pub, a tattoo studio, or the middle of a field!!! My motto someone's home, the next a charity event, a pub, a tattoo studio, or the middle of a field!!! My motto someone's home, the next a charity event, a pub, a tattoo studio, or the middle of a field!!! My motto someone's home, the next a charity event, a pub, a tattoo studio, or the middle of a field!!! My motto is 'Have cards is 'Have cards is 'Have cards is 'Have cards ---- will travel” will travel” will travel” will travel” Like many women, having been at home a number of years and bringing up a family meant that her confidence was low and she was equally doubtful of her skills and business idea and

interest within it. This was soon shaken off with a meeting with Sharon Roberts, one of the Leicester Business Women coaches who gave her a glimpse of what she could achieve with some focus and commitment. “Part of “Part of “Part of “Part of me thought that nome thought that nome thought that nome thought that no----one would be at all interested in what I do, but in actual fact, I'm yet to meet one would be at all interested in what I do, but in actual fact, I'm yet to meet one would be at all interested in what I do, but in actual fact, I'm yet to meet one would be at all interested in what I do, but in actual fact, I'm yet to meet anyone who is not interested... So the biggest thing for me was to switch off the negative selfanyone who is not interested... So the biggest thing for me was to switch off the negative selfanyone who is not interested... So the biggest thing for me was to switch off the negative selfanyone who is not interested... So the biggest thing for me was to switch off the negative self----talk talk talk talk and to accept compliments from people. I've not cracked it completely but hey and to accept compliments from people. I've not cracked it completely but hey and to accept compliments from people. I've not cracked it completely but hey and to accept compliments from people. I've not cracked it completely but hey ---- I'm a work in I'm a work in I'm a work in I'm a work in progress and each day gets easier...”progress and each day gets easier...”progress and each day gets easier...”progress and each day gets easier...”

In addition, Karen has had massive support from Leicester Business Women through the programme of workshops, networking events and website as well as social media that Leicester Business Women do. “This “This “This “This help has been invaluable and now I am out there working whereas, without LBW, I would still have help has been invaluable and now I am out there working whereas, without LBW, I would still have help has been invaluable and now I am out there working whereas, without LBW, I would still have help has been invaluable and now I am out there working whereas, without LBW, I would still have been sat in my house whining and driving myself and everyone else around me nuts!”been sat in my house whining and driving myself and everyone else around me nuts!”been sat in my house whining and driving myself and everyone else around me nuts!”been sat in my house whining and driving myself and everyone else around me nuts!” Karen goes onto add that she has found the Leicester Business Women support flexible enough to adapt to different situations of the business, “A business is a dynamic, living entity “A business is a dynamic, living entity “A business is a dynamic, living entity “A business is a dynamic, living entity ---- so needs and plans can change. so needs and plans can change. so needs and plans can change. so needs and plans can change. So it is really helpful for me to be able to thrash ideas out with experienced people, who can help me So it is really helpful for me to be able to thrash ideas out with experienced people, who can help me So it is really helpful for me to be able to thrash ideas out with experienced people, who can help me So it is really helpful for me to be able to thrash ideas out with experienced people, who can help me prioritise, goal set and strategically plan where I am headingprioritise, goal set and strategically plan where I am headingprioritise, goal set and strategically plan where I am headingprioritise, goal set and strategically plan where I am heading and also pull me back on track if I am and also pull me back on track if I am and also pull me back on track if I am and also pull me back on track if I am over stressing and focusing too much energy into something that is not crucial to where I am at.”over stressing and focusing too much energy into something that is not crucial to where I am at.”over stressing and focusing too much energy into something that is not crucial to where I am at.”over stressing and focusing too much energy into something that is not crucial to where I am at.”

“I think the one thing I would have changed “I think the one thing I would have changed “I think the one thing I would have changed “I think the one thing I would have changed ---- if I had known then, what I know now if I had known then, what I know now if I had known then, what I know now if I had known then, what I know now---- would be to ask would be to ask would be to ask would be to ask for help sooner. There is so much more advice available out there than I had ever imagined.”for help sooner. There is so much more advice available out there than I had ever imagined.”for help sooner. There is so much more advice available out there than I had ever imagined.”for help sooner. There is so much more advice available out there than I had ever imagined.”

Karen’s advice to other women out there who are not sure what the future holds:

• Tell people what you do

• Ask for and accept help

• DO IT NOW!!!

Leicester Business Women’s Web Portal

Our website www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk is updated regularly with guidance on the practicalities of setting up in business, tips on developing your self confidence, how to move out of your comfort zone and advice on how to develop your business. You also have the opportunity to promote your own events online through our online calendar whilst networking in a safe and friendly online environment. Join groups and discussions to help others and use your blog or wall space to promote your business or special offers. Ask questions where you are unsure of your next steps.

Check it out today by visiting www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk

Get Ahead, Get A Mentor It’s a fact that in its first eighteen months of trading a new business is at its most vulnerable. Like a new born baby, your fledgling company needs loads of support, while it finds its feet and gets up and running in the world of commerce. So, how can you make sure that your venture doesn’t fall by the wayside? Well there’s plenty you can do, but one smart move is to enlist the help of a mentor. This is someone who’s been there, done it and worn the business T-Shirt. Quite frankly, with their fabulous credentials this could be the equivalent of recruiting a personal guardian angel. The benefit of their learning, experience and business kudos could be at your fingertips. Whether it’s planning ahead, anticipating issues or giving you the confidence to make decisions that’ll take your business to the next level. A mentor could give you the Midas touch. The right one is worth their weight in gold. So, where do you find them? You could source your own. It’s as simple as deciding who your perfect mentor would be, then asking if they’re willing to help. Approach someone with the qualities you admire in a businessperson, or someone with specialist skills that you lack, perhaps in marketing or IT. Think about their strengths in relation to your weaknesses. What gaps could they fill? Most people will be flattered and love to help. Before you make your request, know what you want from a mentoring relationship. How often will you want to meet? Will you have a phone, face-to-face or online relationship? What are your expectations? How much time are you asking them to commit? What are you willing to commit to the relationship? If they can’t help, don’t be deterred. They’re probably not the right person for you. Ask someone else. If you want assistance sourcing a mentor, there are plenty of people willing to help. Everywoman, www.everywoman.co.uk/ResourcesAdvice/Mentoring will match you up with one who has the skills or expertise that you lack and they won’t charge you a penny. They offer this service to women whatever stage their business is at. There’re plenty of other options if you’re willing to pay, for example, www.coachingnetwork.org.uk have a database of coaches and mentors. They also provide a matching service. Your industry sector might be able to provide mentors with in depth, industry specific knowledge and skills. It makes sense to get a mentor. Even the most successful people have them. Simon Cowell, an entrepreneur fast rising up the rich list, is a perfect example of an outstandingly successful individual with a mentor. Simon turned to Pete Waterman, the record industry mogul, for mentoring before he became a household name himself. Even now Simon uses Pete. So, come on all you Mumpreneurs, you know it makes sense. Get ahead, get a mentor. © Copyright Lou Gimson, Making It Business Limited

Leicester Business Women Membership Package

As you may know the very successful Leicester Business Women project is shortly coming to an end, however all is not lost!!! With prices beginning at £60.00 per year you can join our membership scheme... As a member of the Leicester Business Women network you will have access to a range of services and support through your Annual Membership fee, these include:

Promoting Your Business On the World Wide Web – Associate Members of the Network can have a free link to their own website from the Network’s site on the web. Visit us at www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk

Associate Members Database – All Associate Members of the Leicester Business Women network will automatically receive a comprehensive entry into the directory, which has contact details and business descriptions for all Associates. A copy is sent out bi-monthly (MS Excel format) to Associates members.

Network Newsletter – The LBW Network will publish a bi-monthly Newsletter which is sent out to all members. The newsletter represents an excellent opportunity to promote your business at a very reasonable cost. The newsletter will also provide Case Studies of members, practical business tips, updates on key business topics plus much more.

Mail shots – For Associate Members only. You supply us with a leaflet, flyer or letter and for a starting fee of £50 we will distribute it on your behalf to Associates. Currently this will reach 600 local businesses and relevant local organisations.

E-shots – You supply us with the wording and we will email this out on your behalf to Associates as above, for a starting fee of £10.

Sponsorship – Become a full sponsor of the Leicester Business Women network or sponsor one of our events and we will help to promote your business on a wider scale. Contact us for full details on what sponsoring with us can do for your business.

Local Help for Businesses Group Coaching Sessions – As part of your membership package you would be given access to attend up to 3 Group Coaching sessions with one of our Business Coaches per year. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity for members to learn from our coaches whilst networking and sharing business issues with other members of the network.

Member to Member Discounts - The LBW network has over 600 members on its database at present, if you would like to offer a Member to Member discount then we will promote this on the LBW website, free of charge.

Virtual Office - For people who are currently working from home. the Skills for Enterprise Virtual Office is a practical resource offering a professional mailing address, mail box, message forwarding and use of the meeting room facilities for a modest monthly fee. Packages from £12.99 + VAT p.m.

Conference & Meeting Rooms – Skills for Enterprise has a range of Conference, Training and Meeting Rooms including a fully equipped ICT suite available to hire. All are complemented by Broadband connectivity and a comprehensive range of supporting equipment. To find out more, please contact us.

Networking Opportunities Business Lounge – Smalltalk Events – The importance of networking is understated. As part of your membership package you will be given free attendance to our Smalltalk Events held in the Business Lounge on Colton Street. A great chance to meet and share experiences with new and existing members. Non Members will be required to pay a £5 fee for these events.

We are continually looking to increase and develop our membership offer and to work with organisations who are able to provide benefits to our members.

For further details of Membership Benefits or to enquire about receiving a Membership pack,

please call David Ryan on 0116 2518703 or e-mail

david.ryan@skillsforenterprise.co.uk

Start Up Now Programme

Thinking of self employment?

Do you have a hobby that you would like to turn into an income?

Can’t find a suitable job?

Always wanted to work for yourself, but don't know how to begin?

Attend our free workshops and find out if self employment is for you, and at the same time

discover the skills that many business entrepreneurs use to gain self confidence, keep

motivated, manage their time, and work from home whilst gaining an income!

This service is also for you if you already have a business idea, and don’t know where to start.

Maybe you’ve already begun, and would like some help

identifying your next steps?

Our service is completely free and begins with a one to one consultation with a dedicated

advisor to help get you started and support you as you get your business up and running.

Other areas we focus on include:

Motivation

Self Confidence

Working from home

Marketing

Time Management

Call Start Up Now for further information on

0116 242 9482

or e-mail : info@skillsforenterprise.co.uk

The Key To Successful Networking Is Being Prepared

Networking is a crucial tool when starting your own business and in the early stages of making your business name known. Attending events and speaking to others is the best way and a perfect opportunity to let others know about your business, gain further support and contacts - you never know who you may meet, what you will learn, and how people can help you! It’s a great way to get inspired and motivated to take more action with your business. In this case, power in numbers works so well as you can gain that momentum you so require for your business, the motivation to get started or just some inspirational stories, advice and friendly faces for encouragement and support.

At most events it’s said that you have an average of three minutes to make an impression, this doesn’t mean a huge speech, with a lot of information, facts, dates etc - you will lose peoples concentration and looks unprofessional (plus if they want to know more they will ask!) So ensure you practice your ‘elevator speech’ This is a key thing to bear in mind when starting in business and make sure you practise, practise, practise to make it perfect. Your elevator pitch should includeQ ♦ Who you are ♦ What you do (your business purpose / description) ♦ Who your target audience is ♦ The benefits of your product / service (for those of you that have attended our programme, remember it’s the benefits, not the features!!!) ♦ Keep it short, concise, clear and to the point

Then practice, practice, practice!! - Preparation is the vital!

If you have never been to a networking event, you maybe feeling unsure, perhaps a little anxious, and you may even feel like not going (or try to find excuses not to go, busy your time with other things). All this is completely natural, and most people feel like this when doing something different for the first, second or even third time. However, by making the effort to step outside your comfort zone, you are able to show your inner self that you are truly motivated and determined, and you will be more confident in yourself, your business and everything you say.

When talking to others at an event, you will be promoting your business, remember you are the ‘face’ of your business. Here there is no telephone, website or promotional materials to hide behind. So make sure you have your business cards with you and any other leaflets or flyers that maybe appropriate. Again, practising what you will say about your business will help you be one step ahead. If necessary, practise with friends or family. Or if you prefer, you can practise in front of a mirror. Top Tips When Networking: ♦ Make sure you’re attending an event where you and your business can benefit from - research it’s the

correct event for your business (sector/ target market) ♦ Know what you want to walk away with at the end of each event - your goal ♦ Know your objectives - what are your reasons for attending ♦ Be prepared - take your business cards, leaflets, notebook and pen ♦ Mix and meet as many people at the event as possible ♦ Take notes of everyone you meet and what they do and their business ♦ Stretch and step out of your confirm zone, take small steps if necessary, its not always right to take big

leaps, have a goal of how many people you want to speak with by the end of the event or how many business cards you’d like to give out, when you go to another event, increase your numbers

♦ Move around the room – don’t get too comfortable, this is your time that you are spending at the event, you may as well make the most of it rather than sitting in one corner

♦ Dress appropriately to your target market ♦ Ask others how can you help them reach their goals ♦ Always ask permission to stay in touch - if they agree, ensure you make contact! Stick to your word.

Contact them soon afterwards and ensure that you keep in regular contact, perhaps update them with offers, add them to your newsletter list

And most important relax and enjoy networking with others!

Sue Grogan of Joined-Up Working Leicestershire Sue joined Leicester Business Women in 2010 where she attended the programme in Belgrave. Soon after completing the programme, Sue went onto register her business Joined-Up Working Leicestershire - a consultancy to provide capacity to the public sector at a time when they are losing skilled and experienced staff. This involves developing a network of consultants to work together on a sub contracting basis and bid writing / funding applications writing service to Social Enterprises, Charities, Small businesses and Start ups, with a focus on women in particular. However, it was not until May 2011 that Sue began to fully trade.

Although Sue did not start generating work for her business straight away, she saw the benefits of registering her business, as well as pro actively working towards her business and developing her contacts whilst she was still working. For Sue, she started setting up her own business because at the time she faced redundancy from the public

sector and “being of an age where it’s very difficult to get another post at the same level of “being of an age where it’s very difficult to get another post at the same level of “being of an age where it’s very difficult to get another post at the same level of “being of an age where it’s very difficult to get another post at the same level of seniority and salary I decided to give entrepreneurship a try.”seniority and salary I decided to give entrepreneurship a try.”seniority and salary I decided to give entrepreneurship a try.”seniority and salary I decided to give entrepreneurship a try.” Sue knew that being in a sector such as this meant that she would need to do some market research and have knowledge of where potential business opportunities may come from. So, what does Sue most enjoy about being a self employed woman in business?

“Not having someone else to account for everything I do (apart from to my accountant of course!)”“Not having someone else to account for everything I do (apart from to my accountant of course!)”“Not having someone else to account for everything I do (apart from to my accountant of course!)”“Not having someone else to account for everything I do (apart from to my accountant of course!)” In setting up her business, Sue was aware of some of the challenges she may face, one of which was no public funds out there to commission work that’s needed. Other than that, Sue surrounded herself with

positive and supportive people and now describes herself as “a business woman.”“a business woman.”“a business woman.”“a business woman.” One of the obvious challenges for Sue was her own personal perception of herself needed to adapt from being a senior manager in the public sector (although she still has a part time post there) to a self employed business woman. As with many women in similar situations, Sue had to change her perception of herself and

managed to do this by “talking to myself and telling myself it’s ok to change. I read positive “talking to myself and telling myself it’s ok to change. I read positive “talking to myself and telling myself it’s ok to change. I read positive “talking to myself and telling myself it’s ok to change. I read positive thinking books, articles and talk to friends, colleagues and family.”thinking books, articles and talk to friends, colleagues and family.”thinking books, articles and talk to friends, colleagues and family.”thinking books, articles and talk to friends, colleagues and family.” Having accessed a great deal of support through workshops, coaching, networking and using the website, Sue has seen her business pick up as of January 2012. She goes onto say the support from Leicester

Business Women has been “Invaluable as it is tailored to women and is therefore more relevant than “Invaluable as it is tailored to women and is therefore more relevant than “Invaluable as it is tailored to women and is therefore more relevant than “Invaluable as it is tailored to women and is therefore more relevant than generic information.”generic information.”generic information.”generic information.” In Sue’s situation, she feels that you need to spend more time than you think on the infrastructure and organising your office / admin so that its there when you need it, and this would’ve made a difference had she realised at the start. Sue’s three key pieces of advice that she would give to other women wishing to set up a business?

1. Have faith in yourself – if you don’t then no-one else will 2. Whilst you need to keep good financial records, the HMRC processes are best done by an accountant, don’t attempt to do it all yourself unless you are very confident as you will make mistakes, spend too much time on it and still get in trouble. Pay someone who knows what they are doing. 3. Don’t be afraid to diversify if things aren’t working out the way you predicted. We are all allowed to change and go with the flow. Rome wasn’t built in a day

Sue Grogan – Joined-Up Working Leicestershire www.joinedupwork.co.uk mail@joinedupwork.co.uk Tel 07754 150 559

Easy Steps To Start Your Business With The HMRC

Being on the right side of the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) can only work in your favour and will mean that you do not get any unwanted surprises when starting up your business, that's why the HMRC have launched their new e learning package. An easy way to work through starting your own business with simple step by step guidelines and modules.

The HMRC have launched their new e learning package to help you start up your own business. This is an excellent tool with their step by step processes and modules covering all the elements of starting up your new business venture, there are a number of aspects that you can also focus on if you don't want to go through the whole module such as the legal requirements, registering your business and of course tax and VAT. In addition, there are also experiences of others who have started their business and details on how they did it, a great way to pick up useful hints and tips for yourself. To access the e learning tool, please click on the following link http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/courses/syob/syob/HTML/syob_menu.html

Please note the learning cannot yet be accessed from iPods or ipads.

HMRC Workshops

The Business Education and Support Team are a dedicated team trained to provide help and advice to employers and the self-employed.

HMRC has arranged a series of free workshops, delivered in key geographical locations designed especially to help you.

HMRC’s forthcoming workshops:

Newly Self-employed - 30th October & 27th November 2012

• how to register your business with HMRC

• understanding what is meant by employment status

• different classes of National Insurance contributions

• basic record keeping

• the tax return cycle, payments to HMRC and penalties

• where to go for further help and advice

Business expenses and Allowances - 7th November & 6th December 2012

• what allowable business expenses are and how to work out your tax allowances

• how to recognise the most common types of allowable business expenses

• how to identify allowable and non-allowable business expenses

• the different ways to work out your motoring expenses

• how to correctly work out Capital Allowances for cars, other vehicles and equipment using examples

• where to find any further information and help you may need

• Self Assessment Online

They are all held at Saxon House, 1 Causeway Lane, Leicester, LE1 4AA and are FREE

If you would like to book a place please visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/bst/ to book online or telephone 0845 603 2691

If you’re unsure how or when to register your business and would like further support, please give Leicester Business Women a call on 0116 251 8730 to make and a one to one

appointment with our experienced advisors.

A ‘Little Bit Extra’ From Leicester Business Women Like many you may have been in a situation in business where you just need that ‘little bit extra’? That little bit of extra support, confidence or motivation. This may be needed after a meeting, half way through your Paperwork, when you keep getting those ‘no’s or you may just need that little bit extra after a long tough day!

You may call a friend or family member to get some reassurance, listen to a favourite song or pieces of music, look at a family photo or your passion plan all of which will highlight the reason you started the journey to self employment to begin with. But for some reading short quotes and phases can give that little bit of confidence, motivation and inspiration .

Leicester Business Women are here to help, with a selection of motivational quotes and phases that may just give you that ‘little bit extra’ that you are looking for:

• “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past” “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past” “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past” “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past” Patrick Henry

• "What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by "What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by "What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by "What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by

achieving your goals" achieving your goals" achieving your goals" achieving your goals" Henry David Thoreau

• “Every path has it's puddle” “Every path has it's puddle” “Every path has it's puddle” “Every path has it's puddle” English proverb

• “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Neale Donald Walsch

• ”It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” ”It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” ”It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” ”It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” Vince Lombardi

• "Success does not consist in never making blunders, but in never making the same one a "Success does not consist in never making blunders, but in never making the same one a "Success does not consist in never making blunders, but in never making the same one a "Success does not consist in never making blunders, but in never making the same one a

second time" second time" second time" second time" Josh Billings

• "To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are" "To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are" "To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are" "To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are" Kurt Cobain

• "Little by little, one travels far" "Little by little, one travels far" "Little by little, one travels far" "Little by little, one travels far" J. R. R. Tolkien

• “Stop thinking of what could go wrong and start thinking of what could go right” Author “Stop thinking of what could go wrong and start thinking of what could go right” Author “Stop thinking of what could go wrong and start thinking of what could go right” Author “Stop thinking of what could go wrong and start thinking of what could go right” Author

Unknown

• “We have a strategic plan, it’s called doing things” “We have a strategic plan, it’s called doing things” “We have a strategic plan, it’s called doing things” “We have a strategic plan, it’s called doing things” Herb Kelleher

• “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people” “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people” “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people” “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people”

Eleanor Roosevelt

• “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out” “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out” “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out” “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out” R Collier

• “Nothing great was ever achieved without great enthusiasm” “Nothing great was ever achieved without great enthusiasm” “Nothing great was ever achieved without great enthusiasm” “Nothing great was ever achieved without great enthusiasm” Emerson

• “Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us

which needs to be ignited with sparks”which needs to be ignited with sparks”which needs to be ignited with sparks”which needs to be ignited with sparks” Johann Gottfried Von Herder

• “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do”“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do”“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do”“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do” Johann

Wolfgang von Goethe

It can be hard to stay motivated when you have ‘one of them days’ but thinking positive and remembering your reasons why will help you through your obstacle, you and your business will become stronger! Try concentrating on just one or a few of these quotes.

These quotes and many more are on our Facebook pages. Leicester Business Women and our members update our pages with inspiration, motivation and confidence pieces, all aim at supporting one another.

Join our Facebook group - www.facebook.com/#!/groups/386715381358641/ Like our Facebook page - www.facebook.com/#!/leicesterbusinesswomen Also Follow us on Twitter - LBW_network

You can join us and help give others that ‘little bit extra’ in their day!

Mediation ............ a better way Mediation ............ a better way Mediation ............ a better way Mediation ............ a better way

The common sense The common sense The common sense The common sense

approach to resolving approach to resolving approach to resolving approach to resolving

issuesissuesissuesissues

Are you separating or divorcing or do you know someone who is?

This is a painful and difficult time of change for all the family.

Trinity Family Mediation is here to help.

Do you want to minimise costs and keep as much money in the

family then Trinity Family Mediation is here to help.

Family Mediation is suitable for married or unmarried parties. The

process is taken at your pace. You make the decisions about what

is right for you/your children. Mediation is less acrimonious than

court proceedings

Trinity Family Mediation are specialists in

helping couples with the practicalities of

separating out their finances and property and

arrangements for children. We also offer

Direct Child Consultation.

For further information please contact Anita Hall on 07827321005

Private Clients Only

MIAMs MIAMs MIAMs MIAMs

undertakenundertakenundertakenundertaken

From Family Mediator To Games Maker What do business people have in abundance and yet not enough of? The answer is time. And why do I ask this? This year I had the wonderful opportunity to be a Games Maker at the London 2012 Olympics and met some great Games Makers who were small business owners. My journey began two years when, in a flurry of enthusiasm, following Seb Coe’s launch of the Games Maker programme, my husband and I registered our interest to get involved in what was being billed as The Greatest Show on Earth. I was delighted to be asked to attend a selection event where I was asked why I wanted the role. The reason was quite simple , it was a matter of service or, to put in more bluntly, payback time. I explained how fortunate I’d been in my life and how I’d benefited from a great education system that had provided an opportunity for a girl from a comprehensive school to go to university. I talked about the many opportunities this country had provided and the doors that had opened for me. It was my time to contribute to ensuring that athletes, officials and visitors went home from Games having seen the best of us. I was lucky to be chosen to be a Games Maker. I say lucky because over 250,000 people applied but only 70,000 were successful. During training I met many interesting people each with their own Olympic journey story. What struck me as we talked, and did the ‘and what do you do for a living dance’ was the high proportion of small business owners. As I began to get to know those people better, I realised that there’s something special that motivates us:

• we are committed to making things work

• we see problems as opportunities to work together to solve problems

• we’re there every day, on time and ready with everything we need

• we’re generous with our time

• we’re generous with our support and praise for each other

• we network in the most unlikely situations

It maybe that people other than small business owners have these attributes but the generosity of spirit was amazing within this group. Business cards were exchanged and potential new business links made. The Olympics will have created a lasting sporting legacy but I believe that it also started a business legacy.

By Anita Hall of Trinity Family Mediation

Leicester Business Event brings inspiration to your doorstep

The East Midlands essential event for business leaders and entrepreneurs Why go to London for business inspiration when everything is on your doorstep?

Attend Leicester Business Event,

on the 11th October 2012 at the Leicester City Football Club. 9.30 – 4.30.

Visiting LEICESTER BUSINESS EVENT is a time and cost-effective way to find thousands of

products and services across a wide range of business areas including finance, HR, IT, Debt control and marketing. You are certain to find something that will boost your business.

Register now to secure your FREE invitation. Elaine Vandelli 0116 240 2330 elaine@hi2events.co.uk

www.leicesterbusinessevents.co.uk

Networking to grow your business

Virtual Office

Have you started your business and are looking for that professional image? Someone to answer your calls and a city centre address?

Leicester Business Women are able to provide this through Skills for Enterprise for you.

For many new businesses, the costs of staff and premises are too high to even consider. With a virtual office package you get these benefits are a substantially discounted rate so you too can enjoy the advantages of office services without the expensive costs incurred.

A virtual office package maybe just what you are looking for if:

• You are after a prestigious city centre address with your business name • You would like a receptionist to answer your calls but cant afford the expense just yet • You want to give the impression of an established well running business • You have just started your business and want more opportunities for promotion • Somewhere close to local points such as train stations or hotels

So, what will the virtual office service do for you?

• We will answer the call in your business name with your own dedicated business number • You will use our business address for your business and we will forward any mail to you • 50 % discounted rates on our rooms for hiring or meetings • We will sign for any recorded or special delivery packages • Discounted learn direct courses for you to brush up on any skills • Help and support with designing business cards, corporate stationery and promotional materials

Our packages begin from just £12.99 per month + VAT and provide an exceptionally professional impression to your business, especially when you speak with potential new clients or customers. It also means that you save on overheads for receptionist and office costs.

Can your business really afford to be without this service?

We have a number of Leicester Business Women clients who use this service and just have a look below at what they say about the benefits of virtual office use:

“With my new publishing company Kapitau Publishing , I could not afford renting premises for the business so I resolved to work from home, but again I needed a proper business address and land-line purely for business purposes. Skills for Enterprise offered a virtual office package and this became an instant solution to my worries regarding my company postal and communications services as well as office space. This virtual office service is convenient and readily available as and when required - all at very reasonable cost. As the Director of Kapitau Publishing Ltd, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation of Leicester Business Women's programmes and the Skills for Enterprise Virtual Office Services which my company is currently using.” Agrena Mushonga of Kapitau Publishing Ltd.

“I think that if you have a business that demands a shop or other outlet then planning for that is relatively straight forward. Planning an operating space for a family mediation service is not! I needed a business and postal address, a telephone answering service to capture and follow up enquiries at an early stage and space to meet clients. As a young business, I wanted to present all this in a professional way but I wasn’t in a financial position to be able to rent a city centre office and employ staff. Skills for Enterprise virtual office provided me with the perfect solution. Setting it up couldn’t have been easier. A meeting with Baljit helped me to clarify my needs and to decide the best service package for me. This is a virtual office which represents good value for money and helps new businesses get up and running.” Anita Hall of Trinity Mediation Services.

Interested in something a little different? Does our virtual office package not include what you’re after? Just give us a call and we maybe able to add it on to one of our services.

Ask for Baljit Nagra on 0116 251 8730

Meeting Rooms for Hire Professional & Convenient Business Facilities

For more information and bookings, please contact us on

0116 251 8730 or e-mail info@skillsforenterprise.co.uk.

www.skillsforenterprise.co.uk

Room Seats Includes Per day Per 1/2 day Per hour

Meeting Room Ideal for smaller meetings and intimate business appointments

Up to 4 people Internet access £60.00 + VAT £35.00 + VAT £10.00 + VAT

Boardroom Ideal for meetings, interviews and business appointments

Up to 8 people Internet access £90.00 + VAT £50.00 + VAT £20.00 + VAT

Training Room Ideal for workshops, lectures and presentations

Up to 30 people Internet access Data projector

Laptop Flipchart

£200.00 + VAT £120.00 + VAT £30.00 + VAT

IT Suite Ideal for trainings and computer based workshops

Up to 12 people Computers Internet access

£200.00 + VAT £120.00 + VAT £30.00 + VAT

To ensure availability, please book in advance. Please note: No Parking is available with room hire. Terms and Conditions apply.

All prices include: Tea, Coffee and Biscuits. Lunch can be provided as an optional extra.

Looking for a city centre venue to hold your business meetings or simply want to impress your clients with clean and professional surroundings? Then look no further, our meeting rooms are available to hire by the hour, half day or full day.

Skills for Enterprise offices are easily reachable by all major routes and are only 5 minutes away from the train station. Our rooms are light, spacious and comfortable with a receptionist to meet and great in a professional and friendly manor.

Want to see you business here?

This exciting newsletter will give you the opportunity to advertise and promote directly to our database, all are female and based in Leicester / Leicestershire.

In addition, we have a large partner database who will also receive the newsletter.

Our next edition will be in October, does your business have any special offers / deal or information to share?

Are you holding or attending any events that you think business ladies in

Leicester / Leicestershire may benefit from?

If so, let us know!!

How would you rate Leicester Business Women’s newsletter?

Is there anything you would you like to see featured in our next newsletter? What would you like more / less of?

Leicester Business Women would like to make our newsletters as informative and exciting to all our members and ladies in Leicester so we would love your feedback.

Contact Leicester Business Women today on 0116 251 8730

If you missed our June, July or August newsletters check them out!

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Full of relevant business information such as marketing, finance, hints and tips on motivation and confidence as well as information on our FREE Business Lounge,

virtual office service, forthcoming training workshops, networking events, adverts from our members and plenty more!!!