The Small Business Toolkit
The Small Business Toolkit is a published book that normally resells for £16.95 but you can access it for free above and read online or download as a PDF. It is a collection of articles for the small business owner – to help improve and enhance the success of any small business looking to grow.
This book intends to provide a reference across all pillars of business:
Strategy ~ Finance ~ Sales ~ Marketing ~ Operations ~ Resources ~ Personal
....to help small businesses be better at what they do and not make the same mistakes that a lot of other businesses make. It’s aimed at any small business owner who doesn’t have all the answers to be successful. So that’s you and every other business owner - right?
With over 230 pages, this book has the following content with each chapter being written by a local business owner; recognised as an expert in their field:
Section 1 - Strategy
- Creating a strategy for your business
- Setting up your business for exit
Section 2 - Finance
- Managing cash flow in your business
- Essential tips for credit control
- Raising finance - different sources of funding
- Reducing costs in your business
- Tax Planning in its simplest form
- Money matters for business and life
Section 3 - Sales
- Understanding the basics of sales
- Closing the deal
Section 4 - Marketing
- How to put together a marketing strategy
- Harness the power of your network
- The importance of a CRM system and how to choose one
- Designing the perfect marketing material
- Is branding important for your business?
- Is social media worth it?
- Getting the most out of your website
- Writing winning words for your website
- Choosing the right print partner - what to consider
Section 5 - Operations & Resources
- Managing your data effectively
- The basics of IT security
- Outsourcing - yes or no?
- How can software improve your efficiency and performance?
- Protecting you and your business
Section 6 - Personal
- Managing your stress and anxiety
- Goal setting (and achieving) – the key to success in business
One of my favourite networking events. Good people, fun but structured meetings with useful connections being made, 1-2-1s, and a member presentation. No pressure and no scoresheets, but of course you get out what you put in and it’s all about relationship building. The additional member benefits over and above the networking itself is where the gold is.
Steven Mather - Nexa Law
The networking sessions are always very lively and enjoyable, and I have found many of the additional training sessions invaluable. By far the biggest benefit for me however, is the feeling of community. I really enjoy coming together with others in similar situations and having the opportunity to broaden my business network. Most importantly, no matter how much life gets in the way of me being able to attend meetings, I’ve always been warmly welcomed back into the fold and almost forgotten I was ever away!
Nicola Hawkins - My Aide
I started my own HR business about 5 years ago and have been a member of The Business Community for almost the same length of time. Not only have I gained business from networking with the group but I've also found like-minded and supportive business owners who are always willing to listen and offer their advice. It is great value for money and I'd highly recommend giving it a go.
Sue Pardy - face2faceHR
I've been part of this business networking group since first stepping out into business on my own in 2016. It has been a fabulous group to be part of not just because of the referrals I've had but also because of the fantastic support you get from the other members. Highly recommended.
Russell Parker - QRB Management Consulants
