Branding can help small businesses stand out from the competition and gain customer loyalty – but only if it is effective. Businesses with brands that are confused, outdated or simply not appealing to the eye can hurt a business’s reputation and even repel customers. Businesses suffering from a branding problem may need to look at…
It can be difficult for small businesses to grow their customer base beyond the realms of the local community. Generating new business, however, is fundamental to business success, no matter how challenging it may seem. Here are three ideas small businesses can do to help keep their local customer base strong, while at the same…
Customer complaints are an inevitable part of running a business. Managing customer complaints helps to retain existing customers and improve overall customer service. It is crucial to deal with complaints in an appropriate manner as poorly handled complaints can see customers withdraw their business and encourage others to do so too. Here are four tips…
A well-designed office space is an effective yet inexpensive way to increase productivity levels and improve employee engagement. Healthy office environments are centered around communication, interaction and flexibility between all staff. Here are a few ways to boost your office space to maximise productivity: LightingWorkplace daylight, outdoor views and a view of the surrounding area…
Entrepreneurs are particularly independent. No matter how risky starting a business seems, for entrepreneurs, it is the route to the pursuit of happiness.However, while some started their companies to be independent, many may have lost that freedom along the way. If you allowed yourself to become subject to the petty demands of your business, it…
With entrepreneurship becoming an increasingly popular career choice, it comes as no surprise that there is now a strong demand for startup related advice. However, entrepreneurs should remain vigilant when seeking advice. Not all advice is correct or well informed; more often than not it can be completely irrelevant or downright wrong. Entrepreneurs need to…
A comprehensive returns policy is imperative for every e-commerce business. It is not only good practice, but it provides customers with confidence and demonstrates your business’ commitment to customer service. A solid returns policy will ensure the returns process is professional, reduce the time and money spent on returns and keep your customers satisfied. Here…
Quite often, being too slow to name bullying behaviours that pose health and safety risks in the workplace can cost businesses millions of dollars each year through lost productivity. Workplace bullying is repeated unreasonable behaviour directed towards a staff member or a group of workers that puts their health and safety at risk. Instances of…
Quite often, an employee’s level of satisfaction can be traced back to his or her leaders. Indeed, research shows that only 49 per cent of employees trust their senior managers. As all leaders should know, trust goes hand in hand with credibility. Credibility is something that all leaders must aspire to obtain, as it positions…
LinkedIn is usually the most important social media platform for B2B marketing which can also be a valuable way to recruit and network. It is also a great educational resource, as small business owners and entrepreneurs can learn from interacting with other business owners. Like all social media sites, LinkedIn is a pretty crowded platform,…