Category: Business News

Sustainability remains a key area of focus for businesses and governments around the world. However, driving a more sustainable approach to business is not just something that large corporations do. Small to medium-sized businesses can also contribute to a sustainable future through energy efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable sourcing, community engagement, and transparent communication.

Although they have been around for a while, podcasts remain very popular, and businesses can utilise them as an effective marketing tool. The conversational nature of podcasts is their primary strength, and a branded podcast is the perfect opportunity to show the human side of a business–the behind-the-scenes and imperfect cuts of content and the people who make the brand.

Situational leadership is a flexible and adaptive approach to managing teams, emphasising that there is no single best way to lead a team of people. The situational leadership model argues that effective leadership depends on the specific situation and the needs of the individuals involved. Leaders must adjust their style based on the maturity, competence, and motivation of their team members, as well as the nature of the task at hand.

Aligning your team with your firm’s strategy is essential for achieving organisational goals and ensuring cohesive execution. The process begins with clear communication. The management team needs to be able to articulate the strategy in a way that is understandable and relevant to each team member. This involves breaking down complex strategic goals into specific, actionable tasks that align with individual roles within the organisation.

Every successful business begins with a compelling idea, but not all ideas translate into viable businesses. Whether you are thinking about setting up in business or looking at a new idea to expand your existing business, evaluating a business idea is a crucial first step that can save time, money, and effort.

The Office of National Statistics has reported that inflation for July has risen to 2.2%. This is the first rise of 2024 after inflation fell during the early part of the year and then settled at 2% for May and June. A rise was expected because energy prices are now falling by less than they were doing a year ago.

Many families are considering the next steps for their school-leaving children. If your child plans to continue in approved education or training, it’s important to extend your Child Benefit claim before 31 August to avoid missing out on financial support. Child Benefit can continue if your child, aged 16 to 19, is enrolled in full-time non-advanced education or approved unpaid training.

The Information Commissioner’s Office has launched a new tool that can help small businesses create a bespoke privacy notice that protects people’s information rights.
By law, businesses must explain why it holds people’s information and what it does with it. This allows customers, suppliers, staff and volunteers to know what will be done with their personal information.

As a pensioner you were likely dismayed to learn that Winter Fuel Payments are now being restricted to those who are on benefits and Pension Credit. The Winter Fuel Payment is a key benefit to help with increased heating costs during winter that was previously paid to all pensioners. However, with recent changes, the payment is now means-tested and linked to eligibility for Pension Credit.

A small business from Barnsley, Slime Party UK, has successfully secured government-backed financing, enabling it to significantly expand its operations, create new jobs, and develop new product lines. This success story provides a valuable blueprint for other small businesses seeking to grow, especially those looking to enter or expand in export markets.