Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Newsletter Newsletter Newsletter Newsletter March 2012 March 2012 March 2012 March 2012

“I love being self“I love being self“I love being self“I love being self----employed employed employed employed as I get to decide when I as I get to decide when I as I get to decide when I as I get to decide when I

work and I feel much more work and I feel much more work and I feel much more work and I feel much more in control of my life, my in control of my life, my in control of my life, my in control of my life, my successes and failures. successes and failures. successes and failures. successes and failures. There's something really There's something really There's something really There's something really free about not having to befree about not having to befree about not having to befree about not having to be anyone’s to scapegoat”anyone’s to scapegoat”anyone’s to scapegoat”anyone’s to scapegoat”

Hannah Myatt of Doe Demure’s

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 March newsletter.

February was a fantastic month for Leicester, we had the Queen, Prince Phillip and Kate come to visit the city!! Leicester Business Women thought it was an amazing atmosphere with plenty of buzz on the big day, it was wonderful to see. How fast is this year going!?! We have already seen Valentines Day and Mothers Day fly by, did your business benefit from either or both of these events? What's next for you and your business in 2012? At Leicester Business Women, we have had a very busy start to the year and are now into our third set of workshops already. It’s been great to see so many new faces and ideas coming through our door, and we are definitely looking forward to sharing your journey into self employment! We have also held three successful networking events, giving our members the chance to network with like minded women while gain further support and advice. Leicester Business Women cannot believe that we are on our March edition of our newsletter already! Its exciting...this month’s newsletter has even more information on our forthcoming networking events and training programme, tips, hints and support but also amazing, colourful and interesting adverts by a few of our members - well done ladies!!! Brilliant way to reach over 1000 women in Leicester and Leicestershire, we are just happy we can help! 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 got to be honest and say that the course is probably “I have got to be honest and say that the course is probably “I have got to be honest and say that the course is probably “I have got to be honest and say that the course is probably one of the best things I have ever done in my life. Though I one of the best things I have ever done in my life. Though I one of the best things I have ever done in my life. Though I one of the best things I have ever done in my life. Though I have a business degree and an MBA this course was a great have a business degree and an MBA this course was a great have a business degree and an MBA this course was a great have a business degree and an MBA this course was a great

opportunity to almost see how that knowledge can be opportunity to almost see how that knowledge can be opportunity to almost see how that knowledge can be opportunity to almost see how that knowledge can be assimilated and used successfully in running a business. assimilated and used successfully in running a business. assimilated and used successfully in running a business. assimilated and used successfully in running a business. The course therefore way exceeded the requirements and The course therefore way exceeded the requirements and The course therefore way exceeded the requirements and The course therefore way exceeded the requirements and expectations. It was very motivating, Lou Gimson did a expectations. It was very motivating, Lou Gimson did a expectations. It was very motivating, Lou Gimson did a expectations. It was very motivating, Lou Gimson did a fantastic job and I was truly overcome with emotion. I also fantastic job and I was truly overcome with emotion. I also fantastic job and I was truly overcome with emotion. I also fantastic job and I was truly overcome with emotion. I also understand that it is now up to me to take the learning funderstand that it is now up to me to take the learning funderstand that it is now up to me to take the learning funderstand that it is now up to me to take the learning f orward and do something about it. It is very comforting to orward and do something about it. It is very comforting to orward and do something about it. It is very comforting to orward and do something about it. It is very comforting to know as well that LBW will still be there to offer the one to know as well that LBW will still be there to offer the one to know as well that LBW will still be there to offer the one to know as well that LBW will still be there to offer the one to

one support that may be needed. one support that may be needed. one support that may be needed. one support that may be needed. Thank you, it has meant a lot to me”Thank you, it has meant a lot to me”Thank you, it has meant a lot to me”Thank you, it has meant a lot to me”

Pauline Waweru

More ways of connecting with Leicester Business Women As well as our monthly newsletter and there are many other ways of keeping up with our information, success, our stories, forthcoming events and advice3. Check out our webportal - www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk Join our facebook group - www.facebook.com/#!/groups/386715381358641/ Like our facebook page - www.facebook.com/#!/leicesterbusinesswomen Follow us on Twitter - LBW_network

WWWWeeee llllooooooookkkk ffffoooorrrrwwwwaaaarrrrdddd ttttoooo sssseeeeeeeeiiiinnnngggg yyyyoooouuuu tttthhhheeeerrrreeee…………........

Leicester Business Women’s March Newsletter

Includes

Keeping Going In Business

Leicester Business Women’s Forthcoming Networking Events

Spring Jobs To Do In The Garden

Case Study - Louise Cox Of Who Is Loving You

Are You Linked To LinkedIn?

When Is The Right Time To Register Your Business

Leicester Business Women’s Forthcoming Training Programme

Our Members Experiences

Virtual Office

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

“I wanted to do a job which made a difference to society and that I found extremely “I wanted to do a job which made a difference to society and that I found extremely “I wanted to do a job which made a difference to society and that I found extremely “I wanted to do a job which made a difference to society and that I found extremely rewarding.rewarding.rewarding.rewarding. Now I make decisions on how many hours and days I work, and I can Now I make decisions on how many hours and days I work, and I can Now I make decisions on how many hours and days I work, and I can Now I make decisions on how many hours and days I work, and I can

fit this all in around my family commitments, and the beauty about fit this all in around my family commitments, and the beauty about fit this all in around my family commitments, and the beauty about fit this all in around my family commitments, and the beauty about this? .........this? .........this? .........this? ......... I am doing something I love, and I make the decisions. I am doing something I love, and I make the decisions. I am doing something I love, and I make the decisions. I am doing something I love, and I make the decisions.” ” ” ”

Bina Sitaram of Eco Kids

Keeping Going In Business

What’s the key to keeping motivated when setting up in business? How do you over come those lows? How do you keep going when new challenges and obstacles occur in your way? Well each person, business and situation are different. Regardless of this, getting motivated and on-track isn’t difficult. It’s staying that way that’s the trick. And when you’re struggling to “make it,” sometimes it’s even harder. You find yourself wandering, letting yourself get distracted, and wondering if it will ever improve but there are plenty of tips, hints and support Leicester Business Women can advise3.

So when times get hard3.

• Remember why you are doing this...whether you have had your business/business idea for a few months or a few years there was something (passion) that gave you the courage and strength to start your business to self employment. It may have been wanting to be your own boss, flexibility around your family, helping other or simply having a passion that you want to share with others you need to remember that reason and hold on to it!!!

• Share your problems3whether this is talking to a supportive friend, member of your family or to a mentor, share your thoughts. Ensure you only have people that will support you and belief in your, this is not a time to be around negative people.

• Make a plan...so you know what's next, what do you need to do now to improve the situation. Anyone you need to contact?

• Set small goals3setting big goals which may take time or even may fail to reach will be disheartening. Where as setting and reaching small achievable goals this is easier to see yours and yours business’s progress3just make sure there not to small, still need to challenge yourself.

• Believe in yourself3 “To succeed, we must first believe that we can”. Michael Korda

Hard Hitting tips for Business Success by Sharon Roberts, Managing Director of Vision Development Consultants

It always amazes me how many people say they don’t have the time to spend on business development, but yet spend so much time watching soaps or making excuses why things don’t get done. So what are you going to sacrifice to succeed in business?

1. Remind yourself why you are in business? What is your passion? What drives you? 2. Drive yourself more from your head and not from your heart, if you give away more than you

make, how will you survive in business? 3. Limit your free exchange of services. This could imply to other people that you don’t value

your knowledge and expertise. You didn’t pay for my service so you can’t complain. 4. Think how can I fail in business? Then come up with the solutions not to fail. 5. Stop making excuses and putting things off. Consider the question (What am I avoiding?)

And what are the consequences of this? 6. Being in business is about making money FULL STOP! And getting your customers to come

back again and again (building profitable relationships) 7. Know your costs and your business like the back of your hand. 8. Before you turn the key into your office, you should know how much your offices or shop

needs to take each day or at least each week. 9. Don’t wait for your well to go dry. Too many people in business wait until they are so

desperate for new customers; they forget to market themselves in the busy times. 10. Know your referral value: People who have been referred to you are more than happy to pay

the full price. ‘Collaborate to Accumulate’

Please visit Sharon’s website www.visionconsulttraining.com for more information on business development and the Facebook for daily tips and inspiration.

Forthcoming Networking Events

Wanting to meet others, share your business details and make contacts are all the correct reasons for attending Leicester Business Women’s networking events. These will give you the opportunity to receive further support and advice from the team but also gives you the chance to meet like minded women from Leicester, of who could be potential links or customers.

Check out one of our previous events on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MAVM-HLMZ0

See below Leicester Business Women forthcoming FREE networking events, list of dates, times and topics which we be cover by the team while giving you the chance to network with each other

**** ♦ Wednesday 25th April 2012 from 10.00am till 1.00pm

HMRC workshop. Registering your business Bartering and Negotiations—A How To Session

Delivered by HMRC & Jim Hewitt

This event will include a presentation delivered by the HMRC who will be advising on aspects of business start up such as the process of registering your business, information and advice on TAX and VAT, which record you

should be keeping etc plus a chance to get any answers to any questions or queries you may have.

♦ Wednesday 20th June 2012 from 9.30am - 1.00pm

Finance Refresher and HMRC Delivered by Jim Hewitt and HMRC

A review of the financials, and a chance to share understanding and practise the skills. Elements such as sensible pricing for your products or services, forecasting your profit, calculations and formulas for the frightened, a practical look at book keeping systems – keeping track of your

income and expenditure plus a chance to get any answers to any questions or queries you may have.

♦ Wednesday 25th July 2012 from 5.30pm till 8.30pm

Planning for Christmas Events Delivered by Lou Gimson

We all know Christmas comes around far to quick!!! This event will ensure your business is ready, help you be ahead of your competitors and that your business don’t miss out -planning is the key!! Lou is here to help with advice and support, she will go through a number of key points that you should be considering and helping you

plan your ideas and marketing for the run up to Christmas.

♦ Wednesday 22nd August 2012 from 10.00am - 1.00pm

Marketing and planning - what’s your strategy Delivered by Lou Gimson and Leicester Business Women ambassador

How do you market your business? Does your business stand out from the crowd? Does your business get seen by your target market?

Come to this event to through some ideas about with Lou and other Leicester Business Women members...get creative with your thoughts!!

****

Refreshments and lunch will be provided

Call Leicester Business Women today to book you place on 0116 251 8730

Spring Jobs to do in the Garden

Spring is most definitely in the air. Trees are bursting into bloom, and flowers are beginning to push their way out of the earth. Give your garden a good spring clean ready for your plants to burst into growth.

General Tidy - Rake up any winter debris and leaf from the borders, containers and lawns. Obtain a spring fresh appearance! Weeding - Weeds are already emerging in your garden. Stay on top of them before they start to get on top of your plants. They are a lot more manageable whilst in their youth. Damp soil makes it much easier to pull young weed seedlings. Pruning - New growth will now start to appear on shrubs and herbaceous perennials. If you have overgrown deciduous shrubs, renovate them by pruning old and dead branches out. Pruning rejuvenates, reshapes and encourages new growth, invigorating the shrub. Prune spring flowering shrubs after they have finished flowering as the flower buds are already set. Perennials -Trim back and tidy herbaceous perennials from last year if not already done. Evergreen or semi evergreen perennials can be cut back to remove scruffy foliage to encourage new fresh growth. Containers - If you want to add extra colour for the patio or garden, add some fresh flowering and structural interest with hanging baskets, window boxes & containers. Lawn - Give the lawn a mow & apply a lawn weed & feed. Gap fillers - Spring is a great time to add plants like grasses & herbaceous perennials to fill those gaps in your garden that would otherwise remain bare. Groundcover & herbaceous plants also act as a natural weed deterrent.

Mulching and Edging - Add the finishing touch by mulching your borders. It looks good, feeds the soil, and

smothers the weeds! A nice clean edge makes the garden look crisp fresh and raring to go!

Written by: Lucy Turner professional gardens & horticultural services www.green-space.tv

“Leicester Business Women have played an integral part in the set“Leicester Business Women have played an integral part in the set“Leicester Business Women have played an integral part in the set“Leicester Business Women have played an integral part in the set----up of my company, up of my company, up of my company, up of my company, green:space. Leicester Business Women services have offered one to one mentoring and green:space. Leicester Business Women services have offered one to one mentoring and green:space. Leicester Business Women services have offered one to one mentoring and green:space. Leicester Business Women services have offered one to one mentoring and

invaluable networkinginvaluable networkinginvaluable networkinginvaluable networking opportunitiesopportunitiesopportunitiesopportunities that have introduced me to local business. LBW also that have introduced me to local business. LBW also that have introduced me to local business. LBW also that have introduced me to local business. LBW also highlight events and seminarshighlight events and seminarshighlight events and seminarshighlight events and seminars availableavailableavailableavailable on a regular basis that on a regular basis that on a regular basis that on a regular basis that

engage in business growth and development opportunitiesengage in business growth and development opportunitiesengage in business growth and development opportunitiesengage in business growth and development opportunities to attend courses has enabled me to get to attend courses has enabled me to get to attend courses has enabled me to get to attend courses has enabled me to get a further understanding of the process of business set up and a variety of tools will enable me to a further understanding of the process of business set up and a variety of tools will enable me to a further understanding of the process of business set up and a variety of tools will enable me to a further understanding of the process of business set up and a variety of tools will enable me to

grow my business green:space.grow my business green:space.grow my business green:space.grow my business green:space. The team are friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful; I have felt supported and The team are friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful; I have felt supported and The team are friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful; I have felt supported and The team are friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful; I have felt supported and

encouraged by Leicester Business Women.”encouraged by Leicester Business Women.”encouraged by Leicester Business Women.”encouraged by Leicester Business Women.” Lucy Turner

Louise Cox - Who Is Loving You Louise has always enjoyed helping people and decided to turn her passion into a business when she began her coaching course 5 years ago. She had previously experienced how coaching helps people and has been interested ever since. In addition, Louise is also currently studying psychology as she is fascinated by how the human mind works and develops.

Since then, Louise began her relationship and life coaching business in October 2011 and

became self employed, she says, “I love the fact that I enjoy what I do. Helping people “I love the fact that I enjoy what I do. Helping people “I love the fact that I enjoy what I do. Helping people “I love the fact that I enjoy what I do. Helping people does not feel like work. I am a visual person and for me it is about seeing the rewards, I visualise it like does not feel like work. I am a visual person and for me it is about seeing the rewards, I visualise it like does not feel like work. I am a visual person and for me it is about seeing the rewards, I visualise it like does not feel like work. I am a visual person and for me it is about seeing the rewards, I visualise it like this; people come to me with various life struggles and leave more clear minded and content this; people come to me with various life struggles and leave more clear minded and content this; people come to me with various life struggles and leave more clear minded and content this; people come to me with various life struggles and leave more clear minded and content –––– it’s like it’s like it’s like it’s like a chrysalis struggling to grow but leaves like a butterfly! No amount of money can buy that feeling a chrysalis struggling to grow but leaves like a butterfly! No amount of money can buy that feeling a chrysalis struggling to grow but leaves like a butterfly! No amount of money can buy that feeling a chrysalis struggling to grow but leaves like a butterfly! No amount of money can buy that feeling knowing that you have helped make a difference in people’s lives.”knowing that you have helped make a difference in people’s lives.”knowing that you have helped make a difference in people’s lives.”knowing that you have helped make a difference in people’s lives.”

Louise experienced all the common fears that I guess most new entrepreneurs would experience like, is this going to work? Where is the time? What if it fails? I also worked full time and had to reduce my hours meaning less of a guaranteed cash flow coming in. All these worries and doubts began to make Louise feel a little anxious and scared, that she did not have enough time or money. However, this did not deter Louise from her goal as it was

something she very passionately wanted to do, “, “, “, “so I just kept focused on my goal and I would break so I just kept focused on my goal and I would break so I just kept focused on my goal and I would break so I just kept focused on my goal and I would break everything down into baby steps.”everything down into baby steps.”everything down into baby steps.”everything down into baby steps.”

As there has been so much to do, Louise found it a struggle to fit everything in, but she used her coaching skills and surrounded myself with positive influences to ease off the pressure and just concentrate on what was in front of her.

Louise personal barriers included whether she would be good enough to make a real change and difference in people’s lives, but she knew it was only natural for these types of thoughts to occur, and also knew through her

coaching that we are always in control of our thoughts. She says ““““once you learn to overcome fears, you lead once you learn to overcome fears, you lead once you learn to overcome fears, you lead once you learn to overcome fears, you lead a new way of life and can handle negativity and stop it in its tracks… I have never looked back.”a new way of life and can handle negativity and stop it in its tracks… I have never looked back.”a new way of life and can handle negativity and stop it in its tracks… I have never looked back.”a new way of life and can handle negativity and stop it in its tracks… I have never looked back.”

Louise had attended the Leicester Business Women training programme, networking events and HMRC events.

“Leicester Business Women has been a fantastic support and I doubt I would have had the courage to “Leicester Business Women has been a fantastic support and I doubt I would have had the courage to “Leicester Business Women has been a fantastic support and I doubt I would have had the courage to “Leicester Business Women has been a fantastic support and I doubt I would have had the courage to setup my business if I had not attended the training workshops. The trainer and Coach Lou Gimson setup my business if I had not attended the training workshops. The trainer and Coach Lou Gimson setup my business if I had not attended the training workshops. The trainer and Coach Lou Gimson setup my business if I had not attended the training workshops. The trainer and Coach Lou Gimson who led the course, was truly inspirational and her training was exemplary. The group I attended with who led the course, was truly inspirational and her training was exemplary. The group I attended with who led the course, was truly inspirational and her training was exemplary. The group I attended with who led the course, was truly inspirational and her training was exemplary. The group I attended with all agreed that we were motivated and inspired by Lou.”all agreed that we were motivated and inspired by Lou.”all agreed that we were motivated and inspired by Lou.”all agreed that we were motivated and inspired by Lou.”

She feels that the Leicester Business Women programme has been fantastic for networking events and HMRC information, and they are always on the ball with updating on offers, events, website advice, etc.

“I thank Leicester Business Women as I not only found their training informative but they have “I thank Leicester Business Women as I not only found their training informative but they have “I thank Leicester Business Women as I not only found their training informative but they have “I thank Leicester Business Women as I not only found their training informative but they have proved to be a pillar of support during the inception of business and are only a call away to assist.”proved to be a pillar of support during the inception of business and are only a call away to assist.”proved to be a pillar of support during the inception of business and are only a call away to assist.”proved to be a pillar of support during the inception of business and are only a call away to assist.”

And it is the following statement that would’ve made the most difference to Louise when she was setting up:

“It is ok to see yourself as a business women even at the early stages when you do not feel you have “It is ok to see yourself as a business women even at the early stages when you do not feel you have “It is ok to see yourself as a business women even at the early stages when you do not feel you have “It is ok to see yourself as a business women even at the early stages when you do not feel you have everything set up right yet. It’s all about talking to people about your business and realising that everything set up right yet. It’s all about talking to people about your business and realising that everything set up right yet. It’s all about talking to people about your business and realising that everything set up right yet. It’s all about talking to people about your business and realising that

every person you talk to could be a potential client or know somebody every person you talk to could be a potential client or know somebody every person you talk to could be a potential client or know somebody every person you talk to could be a potential client or know somebody who is in need of your service.”who is in need of your service.”who is in need of your service.”who is in need of your service.”

And Louise’s three key pieces of advice would you give to other women wishing to set up a business?

1 - Do your homework early on- who is your potential market? How will you reach that market? Is your branding reaching that group? Who can help you who has been there and done it? If something is not your strong point, find someone with whom it is.

2 - Contact Leicester Business Women! Get as much advice and support as you can.

3 - Learn from mistakes – in my eyes, there is no such thing as mistakes they are learning curves and we all go through them and it’s making you a better business women. We all need to progress and this is just part of it.

Are you linked to LinkedIn?

Where are you in terms of online social networking? Are you on Facebook? Do you tweet on Twitter? And what about LinkedIn? Have you signed up and joined the 135 million members? You don’t have to pay to join LinkedIn, though if you wish to, you can have a premium account. A free account will be all you need to become a member of LinkedIn. Once you are online with LinkedIn, you can use it to network with friends, colleagues, partners, potential clients and potential employers.

How do I join? Simply go to www.linkedin.com and type in your name, email address and password. Don’t try to hide behind a false name on LinkedIn; the aim is to be known and to make real links with people. The next step will be to create your profile, entering your employment status, country, postal code, company name and job title. Don’t worry – the Post Code is not made public, only your region. You can develop your profile further once you are registered and LinkedIn will prompt you to complete 100% of all the suggestions. This is not essential.

You should add a good photograph of yourself, ideally a head and shoulders shot. If you are looking for anonymity, don’t join Linked.

What is very important on your LinkedIn profile is your Summary. Plan this carefully as the appropriate use of the relevant keywords will help people to find you on a Google search. Ideally your summary should not exceed 3 paragraphs. Make sure that it is free of spelling errors and easy to read and understand. Try searching on Google for the kind of keywords you would use in your profile. Check out the links you find to LinkedIn profiles and look closely at the summary information on the profiles you find. These will probably give you some ideas. You should add relevant information about previous jobs and experience, ensuring that you include anything that will enhance the image presented to visitors to your profile.

The next step is to add connections; you will be invited to enter email addresses of people you would like to connect to. It is worth checking if any of your current contacts are on LinkedIn. You can invite individuals to link with you on LinkedIn, though you can’t force them to do so. It is advisable to issue invitations to others on an individual basis, with an invitation in which you use your own words, rather than the preset message which is impersonal. You will need to indicate if the connection is a colleague, a classmate, a friend, you’ve done business together, or Other. You may be prompted to give their email address. Adding connections is the way to build up your network, and it can take time to build up a good network of connections. In time it will pay off as part of your online marketing strategy.

More LinkedIn information to follow in the next newsletter.

By Leicester Business Women’s advisor Jim Hewitt

Registering your business is a legal requirement and is a MUST once your business starts promoting your product / service or begins trading. If you have a business card, leaflets or other marketing materials including a website or facebook page, you are in fact promoting your business and, therefore need to register it with the HMRC as soon as possible. After all you wouldn’t be advertising yourself / your business if you wasn’t ready for clients / customers33 Registering as a sole trader is quite straightforward. you need to contact HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs) either by telephone where a member of the team will go through the process with you or via their website www.hmrc.gov.uk where you can also find all the information you need to register and further information concerning TAX & VAT, contact numbers etc. If you want to register as a Limited Company you need to contact Companies House either by telephone where you can go through the process with a member of their team or via the website www.companieshouse.gov.uk where you can also check that your chosen companies name is free to use for your business.

How you went about registering? “I went on the HMRC website and followed the instructions”

How long did it take? “Completing the form took about an hour, including double checking details. Once I’d

sent it off it took about 7 – 10 days “

How do you feel now that your have a registered business? “Fine – pleased that I did it as I feel it gives

me more credibility and also means I can use my accountant to sort out the technical details re tax payments

etc”

Sue Grogan – Director of Joined-Up Working Leicestershire A little word of advice from Leicester Business Women, whether you think your business is big or small, whether your business is a shop or simply baking from home – if you are receiving an income from your business it is trading! It is an offence to trade and not have registered with the HMRC and when caught peo-ple do receive a heavy fine! Don’t be one of these people. If you would like further support with registering your business please give Leicester Business Women a call on 0116 251 8730 to make and a one to one appointment with our experienced advisors.

LBE12 - 11th October 2012 , King Power Stadium 9.30 - 4.30

The Leicester Business Event can help find the answer to finding new business, by opening the door of opportunity for

you - you know that 70% of all new business comes from Networking and Face to Face Contact.

Why Exhibit? - * Sell Your Product * Face to Face Contact * Proactive Promotion * Find New Customers

Why Visit? - * Find New Suppliers * Expand Your Network * Advice For Start-ups *Business Information and its FREE!

More PR, more advertising, more direct mail means that the Leicester Business Event will attract more visitors. More

visitors mean more new contacts, which means more new business for YOU!

Make sure you are maximising your potential by exhibiting at the Leicester Business Event.

Book before 31st March and Save 10% on the Early Bird booking price, for more information visit

www.leicesterbusinessevents.co.uk or call Elaine on 0116 240 2330 or email elaine@hi2events.co.uk

When is the right time to register your business

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

Dispute Resolution Dispute Resolution Dispute Resolution Dispute Resolution

Through Mediated Through Mediated Through Mediated Through Mediated

SettlementsSettlementsSettlementsSettlements

A mediation service to assist when family relationships break down

• For married or unmarried parties

• Pre, during or post separation or divorce

• Arising from relationship or civil partnership problems

• Involving family disputes

• Concerning child-centred disputes including those involving

grandparents or other family members

• A mediator will help you to make your own decisions about

managing legal, financial and separation issues

• The process is taken at your pace

• You make the decisions about what is right for you/your family

• Mediation is a less acrimonious and a more cost effective method

of resolving disputes than court proceedings

The average total cost for divorce proceedings is in the region of £14,000 (The Independent January 16th 2012). Trinity Family Mediation’s total costs are currently unlikely to exceed £1,200 - 1,400 per person and may be less.

For further information please contact Anita Hall on 07827321005

Private Clients Only

Pre Pre Pre Pre ----Litigation MIAMs Litigation MIAMs Litigation MIAMs Litigation MIAMs

undertakenundertakenundertakenundertaken

Saffron Saffron Saffron Saffron BelgraveBelgraveBelgraveBelgrave Date Time Venue Workshop

18.04.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Linwood Centre

Now Is The Time

20.04.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Linwood Centre

Your Passion Plan

27.04.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Linwood Centre

Your Financial Planning

02.05.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Linwood Centre

Motivate Yourself

04.05.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Linwood Centre

Your Style, Your Selling, Your Brand

09.05.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Linwood Centre

Influence Your World

Training Programme Leicester Business Women’s training programme of workshops which cover all elements of business start up such as the legalities, marketing, finance as well as motivation and confidence skills are still available for women for Leicester who are wishing to follow their dreams of self employment or wanting to turn a hobby into a business We have ladies joining our project with a range of wonderful business ideas come to see us, all wanting to become self employed for their own reasons, some which include: • I want flexibility around my children and family • I want to be my own boss and be the one to make the decisions • I would actually like to enjoy what I do on a daily basis • I’m struggling to get employment • I want to share my passion with others • I work part time and would like to earn a little from my hobby in my spare time

Are you in a situation where any of these sound familiar? Do you have a hobby or a skill that you would like to share and earn from? Do any of your family and friends ever say “ever thought of having your own business?” if this is the case contact the Leicester Business Women team today, as well as our excellent programme of workshops we have experienced advisors who are you are able to meet on a one to one basis to discuss your business ideas, go through you business plan, make a marketing strategy and talk through any concerns or worries that you may have. Our next available programme of workshops are listed below

“I met so many lovely people in the same situation that I was in and by meeting “I met so many lovely people in the same situation that I was in and by meeting “I met so many lovely people in the same situation that I was in and by meeting “I met so many lovely people in the same situation that I was in and by meeting the trainers and advisors who have given me so much support and belief the trainers and advisors who have given me so much support and belief the trainers and advisors who have given me so much support and belief the trainers and advisors who have given me so much support and belief

that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I feel that after completing the that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I feel that after completing the that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I feel that after completing the that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I feel that after completing the course I am a changed person, I am so much more positive but it is course I am a changed person, I am so much more positive but it is course I am a changed person, I am so much more positive but it is course I am a changed person, I am so much more positive but it is

still work in progress. I really view the world differently now, tend to see still work in progress. I really view the world differently now, tend to see still work in progress. I really view the world differently now, tend to see still work in progress. I really view the world differently now, tend to see opportunities rather than problems.” opportunities rather than problems.” opportunities rather than problems.” opportunities rather than problems.” Liz Knight of Holistic Massage Therapy

Don’t miss out on the FREE opportunity and call us today for further information and to book your first appointment with team.

Call us on 0116 251 8730 or email nicole.hocking@skillsforenterprise.co.uk

Date Time Venue Workshop

19.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave TBC

Now Is The Time

21.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave TBC

Your Passion Plan

26.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave TBC

Your Financial Planning

28.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave TBC

Motivate Yourself

03.07.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave TBC

Your Style, Your Selling, Your Brand

05.07.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave TBC

Influence Your World

Our members experiences

Now is the Time: “I was given the opportunity right at the beginning to clarify my business idea through a brief introduction of it to the group. I struggled to distil what my business was which took me by surprise. This workshop forced me

to think what I would say to others who asked me' what do you do for a living?” Anita Hall

Your Passion Plan “I think that this was my favourite workshop. I have my plan up in

my study and use it to motivate me” Anita Hall

Your Financial Planning “This session was invaluable. It was the reality check. I was able to think about the slump times and to plan for them. Since starting my business I realise how important this workshop was. I had to project my annual turnover to open a business account and I used the work I had done in the workshop. By carrying out this task, I am aware that I am on track in earnings and this prevents me from getting upset about how much I'm

actually earning (or not!)” Anita Hall

Motivate Yourself. “Give clear messages to those around you, be direct. Recognise the importance of choosing positive people to

surround you. Bring your family with you. I am so pleased that I’ve been able to involve my husband and daughter. They did not ‘get it’ at first but then I started to ask them for specific support using the skills I know they have. My husband is good with figures, my

daughter has very good admin skills. My dog Toby, is very good at giving comfort at any time of the day or night!” Cathy Harrell

Your Style, Your Selling, Your Brand

“My favourite workshop was 'Your Style Your Selling Your Brand' as it helped me to think about what I've got to offer that my competitors don't, it helped me to figure out

why my business was unique” Hannah Myatt

Influence Your World “This workshop speaks my language. The important thing for me was that someone else was there supporting me and saying ‘Yes, this applies to you Cathy’. Sometimes we do not use the skills and strategies for our-

selves that we advise others to use!!! That was true for me” Cathy Harrell

Testimonials

“Jim was very good receptive and helped us all relax. I enjoyed the session so much and I’m confident that I have received some good tips to go away with” Pauline Waweru

“It was nice to be among other women with similar issues” Gail Pringle

“Dreams can come true” Priti Choonilal

“I enjoyed the chance to learn from other people's experiences and knowledge” Nicola Ward

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.

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 April, 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 January or February newsletters check out our website!

http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/news/774-january-newsletter.html

http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/news/800-february-newsletter.html

Full of information on our business lounge facilities, social media, financial planning, hot desking, market stalls, tips on pricing your

product/service, confidence and much much more!!!

“I have just printed off and read through the February Newsletter. I agree with “I have just printed off and read through the February Newsletter. I agree with “I have just printed off and read through the February Newsletter. I agree with “I have just printed off and read through the February Newsletter. I agree with Lou’s comment; your Newsletter is excellent. It is bright, colourful, informative, Lou’s comment; your Newsletter is excellent. It is bright, colourful, informative, Lou’s comment; your Newsletter is excellent. It is bright, colourful, informative, Lou’s comment; your Newsletter is excellent. It is bright, colourful, informative, interesting and packed with motivational quotes and tips. I have forwarded a copy interesting and packed with motivational quotes and tips. I have forwarded a copy interesting and packed with motivational quotes and tips. I have forwarded a copy interesting and packed with motivational quotes and tips. I have forwarded a copy

to a colleague, Sue Walters who was really impressed with the to a colleague, Sue Walters who was really impressed with the to a colleague, Sue Walters who was really impressed with the to a colleague, Sue Walters who was really impressed with the January edition.January edition.January edition.January edition. Well done, Nicole!”Well done, Nicole!”Well done, Nicole!”Well done, Nicole!”

Jim Hewitt