Making apprenticeships work in SMEs

Holts Academy has published a free guide for businesses who consider launching an apprenticeship programme – and it's free to download.
Why and when you should consider exiting your business

Tom Phipps, a director at Livingstone London, considers the best reasons and timings for moving on.
Why your staff can never be your friends

Why is it a bad idea to be friends with staff, asks Lee Duncan.
Writing is simple. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words.

It’s something that we all learn at school and, at one level, it’s a pretty easy skill, says Charlie Laidlaw.
EORI Numbers: The Ultimate Guide

Since the finalisation of Brexit, rules for trade between Great Britain and the European Union have changed. As of 1 January 2021 all businesses based in Great Britain need an EORI number to import and export goods from or to the EU. If your trade business is just starting out, then getting your head around […]
Workplace innovation: Unlocking the power of introverts

Even Honest Abe was an introvert and look how that helped a once-fledging nation innovate! Here’s how to unlock the power of introverts in your company to boost innovation.
Advantages and disadvantages of digital communications in the workplace

Communicating in the workplace is no longer a simple task. Years ago it couldn’t have been easier – if you wanted to talk to someone or get something done, then you would just pick up the phone. There’s now a plethora of tech-based options, but you needn’t be a slave to them.
Ten common team challenges and how to overcome them

Working in a team often comes with challenges, but how you overcome them is the most important thing. We’ve highlighted 10 of the most common challenges of teamwork, and what you can do to overcome them.
How to draft a consultancy agreement

Employing consultants and self-employed people can be tricky business. Here's an expert guide to make sure your consultancy agreement is fair and legal.
7 golden principles of good management practice

The government estimates that employers pay an annual bill of around £9bn per year in sick pay and associated costs. In today’s economic climate, it is more important than ever to cultivate a happy and in turn a healthy workforce.
Five key elements of public relations

So often when starting a new business relationship, our first challenge is to explain what Public Relations actually is and why it is important.
Staff Appraisal Template – Getting The Best From Your Team

Whichever side of the table we find ourselves, we rarely bound enthusiastically into the room for a staff appraisal. A little reticence is perfectly natural. But a staff appraisal is an important opportunity to have a constructive, two-way conversation that benefits all involved.