Articles

From Founder-Led to Future-Ready Business

Insights from Working with Growing Businesses At CMC Business Advisers, we spend a lot of time working closely with founder-led businesses as they move through that £1m–£5m growth phase. Different sectors, different challenges on the surface, but there are some very consistent patterns that emerge. We wanted to share a few of those observations here, […]

When Busy Turns into Business Inertia 

Ever notice how a business can feel fine… and yet somehow, not really be going anywhere? That’s what we call business inertia. It doesn’t usually announce itself with a crisis, it sneaks in quietly when everything feels comfortable. Sales are steady, the team is busy, and nothing’s on fire. So decisions get parked. “I’ll deal with it later,” you think. But over time, that comfort starts […]

Decision Audit: Is Waiting Quietly Costing Your Business Its Future? 

At CMC, we talk to business owners every day who are feeling the pull of “Let’s just wait and see.”  It’s understandable. The economy feels unpredictable. Costs are rising. Customers are more cautious. But here’s the reality, when you delay key decisions, you’re rarely “keeping things the same”, you’re often losing ground. Opportunities pass by. […]

Stalling Business Decisions Is Quietly Costing Your Business Its Future

What Happens If You Wait? At CMC Business Advisers, we work with owner-managed businesses every day, and we’re hearing a familiar refrain right now: “Let’s just wait and see.” It’s understandable. The economic outlook feels uncertain. Costs are rising. Customers are cautious. But stalling business decisions in the hope that conditions will “settle down” often […]

Are You a Rural-Based Business? These 3 Challenges Might Be Holding You Back

A rural-based business has its fair share of perks, strong communities, beautiful surroundings, and often less competition. But it also comes with a unique set of challenges. At CMC, we work closely with rural-based SMEs across the UK, and we’re seeing three persistent challenges affecting non-agricultural businesses. Whether you’re running a manufacturer, service provider, trades […]

Why You Should Talk: 3 Good Reasons to Reconnect 

As a business owner, it’s easy to lean on email and social media to do the heavy lifting when it comes to communication. Quick. Efficient. Tidy. But it’s also very easy to hide behind a screen. And when it comes to building real connections, that can be a problem.  Over the years, I’ve seen so […]

Retail or Not, Every Business Needs a Contingency Plan

Let’s face it – running a business means rolling with the punches. But what happens when it’s more than just a slow day or a last-minute staff call-in? What if your systems go down, a supplier lets you down, or you’re suddenly locked out of your own premises?  If you’re in retail, you already know […]

Meet the People Behind CMC: Rupert Beazley & Richard Lloyd 

Running a business isn’t easy, especially in today’s uncertain climate. That’s why it helps to know the people behind the businesses you trust. At CMC, the driving force comes from two experienced and down-to-earth individuals who know exactly what it takes to lead, grow, and support successful companies.  Rupert Beazley and Richard Lloyd are the […]

Tariffs, Trade Wars, and UK Business: What You Need to Know Now

If you’re running a business right now, particularly in manufacturing, automotive, or consumer goods, you’ll be fully aware of the headlines. Donald Trump is back on the political scene in the US, and with him comes sweeping new tariffs on imports.  Even though these changes are happening thousands of miles away, they could have a […]

Navigating External Influences and Internal Controls: A Guide for SMEs 

Running a business isn’t for the faint-hearted. One minute, you’re riding high on a wave of customer orders, and the next, you’re hit by something completely out of your control. Whether it’s political shifts, supply chain headaches, or a sudden change in customer habits, it’s enough to keep any business owner on their toes. But […]

Strategies for SME Owners: Coping with Economic Uncertainty in 2025

Running a business, regardless of industry, always comes with its challenges. With 2025 bringing its own economic uncertainties, staying prepared and adaptable is crucial now more than ever. Whether it’s market fluctuations, unexpected obstacles, or opportunities for growth, having the right strategies in place can make all the difference. Within this article, I’ll be exploring […]

Is Your Mindset Holding Back Business Growth?

Is your business stuck in neutral, with low profits and stagnant growth? Have you pinpointed the cause? It’s easy to blame external factors like the economy, market conditions, or underperforming staff. But what if the real barrier to growth is closer to home – your mindset?  As an experienced business adviser, I’ve worked with countless […]

How to Measure Staff Productivity in the Services Sector 

Many of my clients, particularly in the service sector, have been facing a significant challenge: measuring staff productivity and output to ensure their teams are being utilised effectively. This issue has become even more pressing since the rise of remote working during the pandemic. The shift to work-from-home setups has made it harder to monitor […]

Good Governance – Why It’s Just as Important for Marketing and Digital Agencies 

When you hear the term “governance,” it’s easy to imagine boardrooms full of executives at massive corporations. But here’s the reality: good governance is just as vital for marketing and digital agencies as it is for industry giants. Governance for Marketing and Digital Agencies – What Does It Mean? Think of governance as the framework […]

What Is My Business Worth? A Practical Guide for SME Owners 

For many business owners, the question, “What is my business worth?” crops up frequently. It’s a natural query, but it’s often surprising how few SME owners have a clear answer. Compare it to knowing the value of your car or home—you likely have a solid figure in mind for those. However, when it comes to […]

2025 Budgeting Tips for SME Owners

As we approach the end of another financial year, business owners are busy planning for the year ahead. Whether your business runs on a financial or calendar year, one thing is certain – budgeting for 2025 is, or should be, top of mind. With the Autumn Budget 2024 introducing another layer of complexity, there are […]

When to Sell My Business Based on the 2024 Budget Changes 

At CMC Business Advisers, we understand that selling a business is a significant and often emotional decision for SME business owners. Drawing on our many years of experience, we’ve created this guide to help you navigate the recent 2024 budget changes and make the best choice for your unique situation. The options we outline here […]

Navigating Access to Finance for Small Businesses in the UK 

A Guide by CMC Business Advisers. For small businesses in the UK, securing the right type of finance can be one of the biggest challenges they face. Whether it’s raising capital for expansion, covering cash flow gaps, or investing in new equipment, having access to finance is crucial. Yet, many small firms still struggle to […]

The Connection Between Personal and Business Health 

As a business adviser and fitness coach passionate about wellbeing, I’ve observed a fascinating connection between personal and business health. Over the years of working with entrepreneurs, I’ve noticed how often the challenges in these two areas mirror each other.  While they may seem unrelated at first, the common threads—such as stress management, goal setting, […]

Meet Derek Allen – Original Founder and Trusted Adviser 

In our ongoing series introducing the faces behind CMC Business Advisers, we’re delighted to spotlight Derek Allen, one of the company’s original founders. With decades of experience, in this interview-style article Derek offers invaluable insights into his role and the services he provides to clients.  Q: How do you work with your clients? What does […]

Case Studies: A Year of Business Transformation

The past 12 months have been transformative for CMC Business Advisers, as we’ve worked alongside a diverse range of ambitious owners searching for business transformation. Below are key client case studies that highlight the impactful changes and outcomes we’ve been able to achieve, showcasing the role of our Business Adviser Jon Corns in driving success.  […]

Meet Jon Corns – Our Turnaround Specialist

At the heart of CMC’s success is our talented and diverse team. To give you a better sense of who we are, we’re launching a series of interview style ‘Team Spotlight’ articles. Today, we’re featuring Jon Corns, a dedicated business consultant who has been instrumental in driving growth in the East Midlands and Bedfordshire. Join us as we take a look […]

Business Exit Planning: A Crucial Step for Business Owners

Ever wondered what life after your business might look like?  It’s a question many entrepreneurs grapple with. Whether you’re eyeing retirement, considering family succession, or exploring a sale, a well-crafted exit plan is essential. Having been in the trenches of business ownership and consulting for years, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of exit planning ahead. […]

Cash is King, But Don’t Forget About Profits! 

Remember my previous article, ”The Cash Flow Conundrum”, where we tackled the tricky relationship between cash flow and profitability? Today, let’s flip the coin and examine why businesses stockpiling cash could be setting you up for trouble.

The Cash Flow Conundrum: Why Profitable Businesses Still Struggle

Have you ever felt this? Your business is profitable, things are going well, but keeping enough cash in the bank feels like a constant battle. You’re not alone. Many business owners I’ve worked with have grappled with the surprising disconnect between profit and cash flow, and here’s the secret….

How to Make Your Business Attractive to Buyers 

After successfully guiding one of my clients through preparing their business for acquisition, right through to the actual sale that happened in the last few days, got me thinking. If I were looking to get my business acquisition-ready, what would I like to know to help with the process? So, I thought I’d share a brief overview to help guide you in building value in your business and making it attractive to potential buyers.

Navigating the Challenges of a Family Business: Lessons from Experience

As a business adviser at CMC, I want to take a moment to reflect on my experiences over the years. In this article, I aim to share insights into some of the challenges small business owners face and the lessons I’ve learned through my own family business to help you identify and navigate these obstacles successfully. I hope you find this information useful.

Introducing Andra Cociu! The Newest Member of our Team! 

We’re thrilled to welcome Andra to CMC Business Advisers. Andra will be supporting business owners and senior management teams in the South Buckinghamshire and East Berkshire area, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to their success.

Thinking Business Acquisition?

For years I’ve been helping companies navigate the exciting, and sometimes complex, world of business acquisitions. Recently, I had the pleasure of guiding a client all the way through the process, from preparation to a successful sale that just finalised. This experience got me thinking: if I were on the selling side, what initial knowledge would be most valuable? 

The Value of Long-Term Partnerships 

Lately, I’ve been taking some time to reflect on the incredible journey I’ve had working alongside numerous businesses. My career as a business consultant has been a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs, and I’ve learned so much along the way. It’s been immensely rewarding to witness businesses find their footing again and embark on a journey towards stability and success.

Crafting an Optimal Customer Journey 

I recently sat down with a client to assess the progress they have made on launching a new product. It is technically better than what is currently in the market, but we are getting little traction with the marketing. The outcome of the session was a review of the customer journey, I have found that a visualisation of the journey helps ensure all angles are covered.

Secrets to Navigating Business Integration 

As someone who specialises in supporting businesses in the manufacturing industry, I’ve had the privilege of guiding numerous owners and leadership teams through the complex process of acquiring and integrating new businesses. Here, I’ll share insights into the planning and execution process for successful business integrations, covering key aspects that need consideration from the outset if you are going to get it right.

Methods for Effectively Navigating Leadership  

Having worked extensively as a business consultant within SME businesses, I’ve experienced the transformative power of leadership in building trust, motivation and sustainable growth.

Turning Exhaustion into Business Renewal 

As a business consultant, I often find myself at the intersection of ambition and reality. For example, recently two distinct businesses approached me with a common predicament – their owners wanted to sell up and move on. Overwhelmed with exhaustion, the businesses had become all-encompassing. The daily grind had consumed the owners lives leaving them with little time for life’s pleasures. They were ready for a change, and that’s where my journey with them began.

Improve your business through Employee Empowerment 

As someone who specialises in working closely with business owners of small and medium-sized companies, I’ve seen the transformative power of employee empowerment when it comes to enhancing operational efficiency. Most owners recognise the pivotal role that their team play in driving growth, innovation and sustainability, and that by adopting a culture of responsibility, innovation and continuous improvement, they can unlock the full potential of their workforce.

But how do you do this?

Two SME Strategies for Navigating Recession 

As a business consultant who has had the privilege of closely collaborating with many SME owners over the years, I understand the concerns and challenges that come with navigating a recession. With the recent confirmation of an economic downturn, albeit a relatively modest one, it’s crucial for business owners to proactively address the implications and adapt their strategies accordingly. The pressing question to ask yourself is: How will I navigate this economic slowdown?

Why Board Meetings are Important

As a forward-thinking entrepreneur dedicated to the success of my own business and those of my clients’, I strongly emphasise the crucial role board meetings play in shaping the direction and success of a company. In this article, I discuss why board meetings are indispensable for company growth, covering various factors including the significance of setting the tone, encouraging collaborative dialogue, reviewing performance metrics, allocating resources, identifying emerging trends and engaging external perspectives. Have a read as you may find a few nuggets of advice that can really help boost growth within your company.

5 ways to stay ahead of industry trends and changing markets

As a business owner, I understand first-hand the intricacies of company operations, with challenges ranging from fierce competition to evolving customer needs and technology. To thrive, it’s crucial for businesses to navigate these challenges effectively. In this blog, I share strategies employed in my own venture and my clients, offering insights to help you stay ahead of industry trends and effortlessly adapt to market shifts. I hope you find these strategies valuable.

Are You Playing at Business or Running a Business?  

As a business consultant working predominantly with small and medium-sized businesses, I’ve encountered a recurring theme that can either catapult a business to success or keep it stagnant – the fine line between “playing at business” and actually “running a business” with purpose and strategy.

Safeguarding Your Brand Reputation  

As a business consultant with a passion for guiding SMEs towards success, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a strong brand reputation. The way your brand is perceived can make or break your success. Yet many business owners still underestimate the impact that internal processes, staff interactions and other business elements can have on shaping this reputation. Let me give you an example of what I mean… 

Why Employee Training and Development is Important

In my role as a business consultant dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized businesses, I recognise the critical importance of investing in employee training and development within this dynamic business environment. Working closely with business owners and their teams, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact a thoughtfully designed training programme can have, not only on individual employees but also on the overall operational efficiency of the business. Let me take a moment to explain….

The Power of Customer-Centric Operations

One key strategy which we find significantly contributes to the growth of our SME clients’ is embracing customer-centric operations. At the heart of any business, customers have a substantial influence and aligning operations with their needs is the secret for sustained success.

In this article I will be taking a closer look at what this means, offering tips to help you integrate this into your processes.

A Guide to Optimising Workflow Processes

The journey of growth in a business is both exhilarating and challenging. In the pursuit of success, optimising workflow processes becomes paramount to enhance efficiency and ultimately boost profitability. To help you understand exactly what this means and what’s involved, I will be exploring key areas where businesses can streamline their workflow processes and the significance of process mapping as a powerful tool for understanding and improving operations – something I regularly work on with my clients.

Unveiling Business Transformations

In the dynamic world of business, success isn’t a magic potion. It’s the result of strategic planning, effective leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement. At CMC, we take great pride in being the architects of success for our clients, and today, we’re showcasing the journey of one of our highly experienced business advisers, Jon Corns, to give you some insight into exactly what we do.

Choosing the Right Exit Strategy for Your Business

As an entrepreneur, I have poured my heart and soul into building my businesses. However, there comes a point in every entrepreneur’s journey when thoughts of transitioning away from the business arise, something I have helping numerous of my clients navigate.

Navigating Earn-Outs in SME Businesses

As someone who works closely with many SME business owners, I have experience first-hand the challenges they face through their business journeys. One that has cropped up recently, which I thought would be useful to share, is negotiating the challenges of business earn-outs.

How the ‘Quiet’ Robotic Revolution could Damage your Customer Relationships 

There is a growing groundswell of opposition to the way that businesses are quietly paying lip service to customer relations whilst installing systems that are infuriating to ordinary people and frustrating, because there seems to be no redress. Worse still, smaller businesses have followed this trend and there is a real risk that they could damage the customer goodwill upon which they depend.

Building a Strong Brand for Long-Term Success! 

If you are a small firm or a sole trader, you could be forgiven for thinking that branding is not for you. “Big names spend money on branding, small companies just get on with the job” is a typical response when I discuss branding with clients. 

Preparing yourself for selling your business 

The best-prepared and most successful business strategies can fail at the final hurdle if the seller has not thought about the aftermath. The stress of emotional wrench can nullify all the good work getting to a position of securing best value for all your hard work over the years.

Don’t Let Business Acquisition Offers Distract You

As a business owner, I know first-hand the irresistible allure of a business acquisition offers. It’s an incredible feeling to receive recognition for the hard work, dedication, and countless hours you’ve poured into building your company. The prospect of selling your business and reaping the rewards can be incredibly enticing. However, it’s crucial to approach these offers with a discerning eye and carefully evaluate their true value. Let me explain…

Embracing Business Opportunities Amidst Economic Challenges 

In the past few weeks, I have been moving house and it’s given me the opportunity to find out how small businesses are coping with current economic challenges. I have had several SMEs calling to examine some projects and provide quotes. Leaving aside any invidious comparisons about their professionalism, I was struck by one little nugget of POSITIVE information, which on the face of it may be dismissed as insignificant.

The Power of Goal Setting

Goal setting, is it one of your top priorities? If not, it should be as it’s a vital component to running a successful SME business. By setting clear and achievable goals, it allows you to effectively navigate the dynamic and competitive landscape, maximising your growth opportunities, and ensuring long-term success. Let me explain….

Preparing Your Business for Sale: Tips and Strategies

Selling a business can be a complex and challenging process, most owners of SMEs will only carry out a sale once in their career. It requires careful planning, thorough preparation, and great execution to ensure a successful sale.

How Technology can Enhance SME Contingency Plans

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, SMEs business owners face many challenges that can disrupt their operations including natural disasters and supply chain disruptions to cyber threats and economic downturns. To lessen the impact of such disruptions and ensure business continuity, as an SME business owner you need robust contingency plans. And in an increasingly digital world, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing these plans.

Contingency Planning: A Vital Tool for Addressing Supply Chain Disruptions

If you are a business owner, I’m sure you are only too aware of the significant impact supply chain disruptions can have on the operations and profitability of your business. Whether it’s a natural disaster, geopolitical tensions, or unforeseen market fluctuations, disruptions can lead to delays, increased costs, and customer dissatisfaction.

Supporting SMEs in the Face of Skills Shortages

When it comes to talent acquisition and skills shortages, we’re all aware of the challenges SMEs face at the moment, and this can have a significant impact on their growth potential. But what can you do about it? This articles explains more.

How to use customer feedback to improve your SME business

As an owner of a small / medium-sized business, it is essential to understand the value customer feedback brings. It can help you understand their needs and preferences, identify areas of improvement, and ultimately increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. So, for this reason, I thought it would be useful to explore this further along with ways you can use it to improve your SME business.

Strategies for scaling your business for long-term success

As a small business owner, you are always looking for ways to grow and expand your business. Scaling your business for long-term success can be challenging, but it is essential for sustained profitability and competitiveness in the market. To help guide your thinking, have a read of these strategies I collated together below. They could help you scale your SME business for long-term success.

How to deal with unexpected business setbacks

Business Advisers naturally talk about planning for growth…

However, when things go wrong, you need to react quickly to eliminate the impact of negative developments. Recent personal experiences (during a house move!) made me reflect on the importance of taking immediate action at the first sign of trouble. Within this blog I take a look at two examples, purely illustrative, pointing to the sort of quick action required in any emergency.

Tips for managing cash flow and staying financially healthy

Starting and running a business can be a challenging endeavour, especially when it comes to managing cash flow – something I come across time and again with my clients. Cash flow management is one of the critical aspects of any business, and it becomes even more crucial when growing an SME. Let me explain more…

Independent vs Franchised Consultancy Business 

Starting your own consultancy business can be a daunting task, with many challenges and uncertainties to navigate. While some people prefer the freedom and flexibility of going it alone, others may find the support and structure of a franchised consultancy business a better option. But which is the best for you?

Running a Consultancy Business  

A consultancy business can be an exciting and rewarding venture, but it’s not without its challenges. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for a while, there are a few things you should expect, a range of skills you’ll need to bring to the table, and different types of businesses you can work with. Within this article, I am going to explore this in more detail to help you gain a clearer understanding of exactly who and what it could entail.

Business Exit Planning 

Starting and growing a business is a significant achievement, and it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and passion to make it successful. However, there may come a time when business owners may need to consider leaving or selling their businesses. This could be due to many reasons such as retirement, illness, or a change in personal circumstances. Whatever the reason, exiting a business is a big decision that requires careful consideration, planning, and time. In this blog, I will discuss the various options available for exiting a business, the process involved, key considerations, and how long it is likely to take.

Why Engage External Business Support 

Small and medium-sized businesses form the backbone of most economies around the world. They contribute significantly to employment, innovation, and economic growth. However, starting and growing a business can be a challenging endeavor, and many business owners find it difficult to manage all aspects of their business. This is where external business support comes in.  

In this blog, I will explore the benefits of external business support for SME owners, what to expect, the business challenges they can help with, and how to find a good business adviser.

The Ins and Outs of Growing a Business 

Scaling up your business can be a daunting task, and many businesses fail to achieve sustainable growth. In this blog, I will explore the challenges of growth in SME businesses, the stages involved in growing a business, and how to implement business growth to encourage successful growth year on year.

What can SMEs expect in 2023

More importantly, what can they do about it?

In the first few weeks of January, I have had a chance to meet with many clients and business contacts. Here are my musings on the situation and some suggestions on how you can manage the challenges you may face in 2023.

Think Small to Build Big….  

An approach small business owners should definitively consider if they want to build a strong team and successful business culture.

Within this article I reflect on lessons I have learnt from past success stories, including that of a well-known family run business very close to my heart. It looks at why business culture and communication methods are key to the success of any business and offers tips to help.

Managing your business through inflationary times

As a business owner you will be only too aware of the level of inflation we are currently all experiencing. So, with this in mind, I thought it would be helpful to provide some useful pointers to help you manage your business through inflationary times. Here are 7 key areas you should focus on:

New Business Ownership – My plans for taking CMC forward 

Since buying CMC in August, the last few months have been spent consolidating the business position and looking to create a solid platform for growth – something many of my clients want too! Which made me think, ‘if I share my journey, it could help other business owners’. So, I’ve decided to create a series of posts with tips and insight. This being the first…

Has your business hit a plateau? 

Are you unsure how to break out of it? Within this article we explore the symptoms of a business plateau, what to do about them and ways to develop a new mindset that will help you move forward.

How to attract a talented team into your small business

It is often said that a business’s most important asset is its people. So how come so little attention is paid to building a talented team when considering major strategic changes?

Within this article I explore this in more details and look at how to address the challenge of attracting a good, talented team. Read on to find out more.

A quick guide to contingency plans

Do you have a contingency plan for your business? If not, you should! In this article, Tony Maynard one of our experienced Business Advisers, explains the ins and outs of why it is so important for SMEs to have one.

Eight Aspects to Increase Business Value

It’s not just about a multiple of your earnings (EBITDA)…….

Many business owners just focus on the ‘numbers’ in terms of Turnover and a multiple of Earnings (3 to 6+ times) when trying to get an indicative value for their business.  However, there is so much more that should be taken into account when valuing their business.  This is especially the case when preparing for a business sale and looking to increase business value. 

Reimagine your business… now is a great time

As many businesses revisit their strategies to embrace a changing landscape, how is your plan coming along? It may seem a daunting task but here we outline 5 key questions to help you on your way.

Why Accountability Matters

The benefits of working with a Business Adviser or Coach are varied and very personal to each business and its leadership. It can be to fill a knowledge gap, to help with a skills gap, to bounce ideas and decision making off, to provide strategic input or to be a confident for example. But there is one crucial thing they do bring, accountability!

Five Tips for Overcoming Supply Chain Challenges

Following several disruptions during the past few years, Brexit, Covid 19 pandemic and currently the conflict in Ukraine, the traditional supply chains based on just in time instant availability and ultra-low margins are no longer viable. The future of supply chains will be based around increased flexibility, reliability, and resilience. Here are some tips to help.

Now IS the right time to engage a Business Adviser

During challenging times, many business owners struggle alone to navigate obstacles that stand in their way. Often making poor, detrimental decisions that are completely avoidable with the right support and guidance. Here are 9 reasons why a business adviser could be great for your company right now!

5 questions to ask if you’re selling your company

If you are thinking of selling your company in the next few years, this article highlights some key questions to ask yourself. The answers will help you prepare your business ready for sale, which in turn will help maximise your return.

Managing Volatility in Business

Is managing your business operations during volatile times causing you concern? If so, and you’re looking for ways to help you take control and remain strong, this checklist offers practical advice and some key pointers.

Simple Steps for Increasing Business Profitability

Struggling with low profitability in your company? Searching for ways to make improvements? Outlined within this article are 4 simple tips for increasing business profitability. And they’re straightforward solutions!

Family Succession: How to beat the odds

Is family succession on your business agenda? If so, have a read of this article where we take a closer look at what family succession actually means, why you should plan ahead and act now, along with 6 steps to ensure a successful transition.

What to consider when hiring a business adviser

Thinking of engaging with a business adviser for your business? Unsure where to start? Here we explore what to expect, whether the timing is right, how to find the right one for you, as well as a checklist of questions for you to ask.

UK SMEs Plan with Confidence in 2022

Feeling confident about the success of your business in 2022? This article explains why many business owner are feeling positive and how they are planning ahead for the unforeseen.

How to revive your stagnant business

Is your business stuck on a treadmill racing to keep up with the competition? Are business sales flatlining with no sight of improvement? Maybe it’s time to relaunch your business and do things differently. Here’s how one creative company turned it around.

5 common business problems – Employee Engagement

Is employee engagement a concern for your business? In part 3 of this unique series of articles addressing 5 common problems SMEs face, Jon Corns takes a closer look at the people dimension, focusing on key ingredients for business success, warning signs and remedies.

The 5 common business problems – Sales

Would you like to gain more sales for your business? In part 2 of this unique series of articles addressing 5 common business problems SMEs face, Jon Corns walks you through a 6-step framework that could help.

Seven ways to overcome your skills shortages

Acquiring talent and placing candidates in the right positions can be challenging for most companies, particularly during a skills shortage. Sound familiar? If so, here are 7 things you can do to help overcome this problem.

Top tips for returning to work after COVID-19

As we transition out of lockdown, returning to work may be challenging for both the employer and their staff. To help, here are some top tips including communicating, preparing and listening which could smooth the way.

Ten Tips for Successful Succession Planning

Is retirement and succession planning on your business agenda? A key consideration for all business owners nowadays, here are 10 points to help guide your thinking when planning for your own future and that of your employees.

Supply Chain Opportunities for SMEs

With SMEs being the backbone of the UK economy and the continued challenges we face with our supply chains, in this blog we explore ways business owners can take control now to help avoid any future disruptions.

The 5 common business problems – Growing and scaling a business

Are you a business owner looking to grow and scale your business? If so, this article which is part 1 in a series of 5, explores the ins and outs of exactly what growing and scaling a business means. Have a read.

As a Business Owner how do I motivate my staff?

How do I motivate my staff? In this blog we look at research on staff motivation and scaling the business while maintaining motivation of staff.

Business Health Checklist – Improve your business worth

How do you make your business more attractive to potential buyers? If you’re thinking of selling your business, take a look at this Business Health Checklist to help you focus on key areas that will enhance its appeal.

Is your small business coming or going since lockdown?

Is your business anticipating a speedy recovery as lockdown lifts? Don’t get caught short as many have done following previous economic downturns, use this simple checklist to help you avoid the common pitfalls.

Are you and your business ready for your retirement?

Are you financially and personally ready to retire from your business? Unsure? Many business owners often underestimate what is involved when planning to leave their business. To help, here we highlight some key questions to help guide your thinking.

Are you a business baby boomer reluctant to plan your exit?

Do you have a plan for leaving your business? The sooner you start thinking about how and when you wish to depart the better. It will give you time to prepare your business, increase its value and reap the rewards you deserve from all your hard work. Here’s how to get started with exit planning.

How companies can onboard new staff and create lasting impressions remotely

Gone are the days when eyes were on new recruits to prove their worth. Today, it’s an even split with employers having to deliver lasting impressions and an instant feel of being part of a team – all being done remotely. To help, here’s a 9-step onboarding framework.

Ready for a new supply chain opportunity?

With the pandemic and Brexit impacting our supply chains, here we take a closer look and what it means for businesses in general and why it brings a unique opportunity for SMEs.

Succession Planning!

What does succession planning mean to you? Unsure? This blog takes a closer from a small business owners’ perspective, explaining why it’s never too early to start planning. It also includes a process and key questions to help guide your thinking.

What business growth strategy to employ?

As we wait for lockdown to end, are you planning ahead to ensure successful business growth strategy? If not, maybe it’s worth identifying NOW which slice of the pie you’re going to focus on so you stay ahead of the game. Here’s how.

Realise the Full Value of your Business with Exit Planning

Are you thinking of leaving your business within the next few years? Do you have an exit plan in place to ensure a smooth transition and rewarding outcome? This blog highlights some key pointers to help guide you through the process.

How ready are you for recovery?

As we enter a third lockdown, how are you going to ensure your business is ready when restrictions are lifted again? Here are 5 obstacles to watch out for that will help you stay ahead of the game.

Metrics that Matter

Measuring business performance is not easy but it’s a crucial part of running a successful business. This blog takes a closer look at what you should measure and how you can do it.

Practice with Purpose

Do you know what your business purpose is? A well-defined, communicated purpose ensures people gravitate towards you. You’ll gain an engaged workforce with shared values and loyal customers. Here’s why…

How to improve your chances of a successful exit

Thinking of selling your business? Do you have an exit strategy to ensure your success? Many business owners make mistakes when selling their business – no surprise since many have not sold a business before. To help, here’s a 10-point checklist to improve your chances. 

Planning for the unforeseen!

Is your business prepared for the unforeseen? During these unusual times we have all realised that we cannot plan for every eventuality, but we can help by being prepared. In this blog we explain why it’s so important to have a contingency and exit strategy in place and the benefits they bring. 

Adopting a purpose-driven strategy

What’s the purpose of your business? Unsure? Maybe it’s time to adopt a purpose-driven approach! In this blog we explore how to do this and the benefits it will bring.

Stand out amongst your peers, have an Exit Strategy in place

Do you have an exit strategy for your business? Do you understand the benefits it can bring? Having a strategy in place doesn’t mean you are looking to leave or sell your business right now, it’s about preparing it for when you’re ready. This blog explains more.

Make a plan – The next few months could be crucial

You’ve survived the last few months, but it’s not business as normal. So where do you go from here? Within this blog we highlight 3 simple questions. The answers will help guide you going forward – it’s all in the planning!

Hope for the best, plan ahead for the worst

With Covid-19 and Bexit being so prevalent right now, it’s difficult to gauge what information is useful for SMEs and how best to use it. Within this blog we highlight best and worst-case scenarios with some pointers on how to prepare.

Cash is King – Especially Now!

With many businesses in survival mode at the moment, taking control of your cash is key. But, how do you go about it and what should you be aware of to ensure you prosper? From forecasting to scenario planning and making tough decisions, here’s some great advice.

Can technology save Small and Medium Enterprises?

Thinking about adopting new technology to survive today’s challenges? With a 75% increase in online grocery sales and 1.6 million new digital shoppers in May, it’s definitely worth considering. Within this blog you will find some useful pointers to help create your digital enterprise.

Contingency Planning for Retailers and Hospitality Businesses

Business continuity management or contingency planning is about the management of risks which could damage your business temporarily or could result in its failure. These risks can arrive suddenly such as through a storm or burglary, be part of a gradually worsening situation such as unexpected long term road works outside your business or a […]

Easing out of lockdown – 3 good reasons you should pick up the phone:

Is social media or email your main approach to communication right now? If so, you could be missing the mark. Now is not the time to hide behind your screen, instead you should be picking up the phone to your employees, customers and suppliers. Here’s why.

How to develop a start-up mindset, again…

As we start to see the return of economic activity in the UK, what does this mean for SMEs? Within this blog we share some insight from our clients including managing the furlough effect, developing different plans and strategies and adopting a start-up mindset. What are your experiences?

Leadership in turbulent times

Are you struggling to navigate your SME business through this fast-changing environment? You’re not alone! Within this blog are five practical suggestions to help you be a good leader including looking after employees, managing cash flow and planning recovery actions.

Are you ready for life after COVID-19?

Are you thinking that life and business will go back to what is was a few months ago once this pandemic passes?  Are you just waiting for the ‘all clear’? Or are you preparing for a ‘new normal? Are you ready for life after COVID-19? Some short and sharp lessons that we, as small business […]

Why (and how) Should I Value my Business?

Most business owners only value their business when they are thinking of selling their business. This short blog argues that a business valuation should be done throughout the life of a business. This will help guide the owner to focus on the broader issues that drive the business valuation as well as building a business […]

How can an exit strategy benefit your future?

Like many business owners, you have devoted immeasurable amount of work and resources on developing your business. When you are busy with every day operations, it’s difficult to find the time to think about your exit strategy or retirement plan. Developing an achievable exit strategy is an essential task and too few owners give it proper consideration. An […]

Are Technology Service SME’s in a Growth Trap?

The UK attracted more venture capital investments than any other European country in 2018 (Source: TechNation 2018). Scaleups in the London area delivered 56% annual growth rates, the fastest in the world. Yet, a study by CMC Business Advisers, of 117 businesses within a 50-mile radius of London, each with annual revenues less than £10m […]

3 Secrets to Buying a Marketing Agency

The marketing agency sector is fast-paced and exciting. If you’re in this sector, you may be looking to expand your business. One way to do this is to buy another marketing agency and absorb it into your operations. When you are looking for the right business to buy, you need to be clear about your […]

Sales strategy for growth

In my post last year, ‘Not all growth is equal’ I discussed the options for business growth. Comments from readers led me to look at sales strategy for growth.  Whether you choose new products to existing clients, product expansion, or new clients with existing products, market expansion, you will need a sales strategy. Establish your […]

Managing risks of an SME business

Ah, risk! That unsavoury word that conjures both clear and muddy impressions in the minds of a business owner. Risk is an integral part of our personal lives. Almost every activity of our daily living has inherent risk – driving, eating, giving birth. However, we have built mechanisms, through safety procedures or self-control, trained medical […]

Are growth and profitability of a business linked?

Growing profitably is the holy grail of good management. Research has consistently shown that as companies grow their revenues, they become more profitable, on average. Businesses with 50 or more employees typically generate 6x more net income than smaller firms. This begets the question – what links growth with profitability?

6 Challenges Facing Small Businesses in 2019

As a business owner operating a small business, you will know how time consuming and stressful it can be to  grow during changing times. With 2019 set to be another challenging year for small businesses with particular focus on Brexit, managing volatility and facing challenges will be a skill all business leaders need to nurture. The comforting […]

Commercial Credit score, how it affects your access to finance

Your commercial credit score could be one way in which lenders and other companies you do business with assess your financial stability and set payment terms for you. Your commercial credit report says a lot about your business, determining how you appear to other companies and could be a deciding factor in whether or not […]

When Should You Think About Selling Your Business?

It’s natural to become attached to a business, especially if you have built it from the ground up and even if it is not doing well. Experts advise, however, that business owners should have an exit strategy in place as early as possible. Here are a few reasons that it might be time to start […]

5 reasons why a business owner needs an exit strategy

Building a business is undoubtedly a tough job. Of course, most of the owner’s energies go into the day to day issues, winning customers, driving/directing the team and generally firefighting! So, thinking about an exit strategy is never on the owner’s top list of immediate priorities. However, there are many good reasons why the owner […]

It’s good to talk – A simple guide to communication for small businesses

Talking about communication, or lack of it, I was once the Non Executive Director of a small company and observed a silent row developing between MD and Technical Director – by email… Because the two men were only a few feet and one partition away from each other, and I was fifteen miles away, I […]

How to Make Selling Your Business Easy

When you begin to think about selling your business, it can seem like a daunting undertaking. This is not only because it means parting with something you’ve built from the ground up, but also because of the complicated process involved. However, if you follow this advice, it may take time, but it doesn’t have to […]

Why do a contingency plan?

Business gurus always say that every business requires a contingency plan that anticipates all life’s little uncertainties. All too often, the listener nods sagely… But if such advice is being properly followed by most, how come so many businesses fall by the wayside when the going gets tough? The answer, sadly, is that many business […]

Growth options – not all growth is equal

Most small companies have plans to grow their business and increase sales and profits. However, there are several growth options that could be followed. The method a company uses to expand its business is largely driven by its financial situation, the competition and even government regulation. Some common growth strategies in business include market penetration, […]

The white-knuckle ride of controlling rapid growth

When a small business goes through a period of rapid growth, it can be feel like it is out of control and unless handled well can lead to serious problems.  It can deter you from taking your business to the next level. The five cornerstones to manage when growing your business are: Money Financing the […]

5 Reasons Entrepreneurs Need an Exit Strategy

Entrepreneurs typically think of themselves as starters or creators. It’s in their blood to take an idea and turn it into something really exciting. This is great; it’s what makes entrepreneurs such a special breed. However, this desire to be at the forefront often takes the focus away from the end, which in a business […]

6 Challenges Facing Small Businesses in 2018

Any business owner operating a small business, knows how time consuming, difficult and stressful it can be to grow in changing times. With 2018 set to be another challenging year for small businesses, managing volatility and facing challenges will be a skill all business leaders need to nurture. The comforting aspect is you’re not alone. Other […]

Are you managing your business?

or is the business managing you? Most business owners believe that they are managing their business well, and many are. But it is all too easy for ‘the boss’ to feel that, so long as he is giving the orders, he knows what is going on and all will be well…Until things start to go […]

12 key tips to aid entrepreneurial long term success

As an aspiring entrepreneur the thought of starting up your new business is exciting, challenging and, nerve racking.  You have the perfect business idea. You have identified a gap in the market, you have the skills and passion to differentiate yourselves from others. Now what? The mechanics of setting up a business are fairly straightforward […]

Too busy operating your business to even think about growing your business?

Growing your business? When talking to owners of established small and medium sized businesses, I have found one issue to be remarkably common: Owner-managers having to focus on the day to day running of the business to such an extent that thinking about managing and growing your business is neglected. Why is this problem so prevalent? The recent economic […]

Don’t try to sell your business on your own! Get the right team

Time and again, business owners will say that they don’t want to spend more than they have to when selling their business. Business advisers are seen as a costly, necessary evil, and they will do anything to cut those costs with a ‘spot of DIY’. They should ask themselves: How often do you sell your […]

Valuing your Business -what are the basics

Valuing your business can be done at a very simple level following the principles below. Ultimately the price will be what a buyer wants to pay, but this often follows a set formula:- Business value = profit times a multiple That’s the easy bit, the question is how these two components are calculated. Profit in […]

Do Less Achieve More

“The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say ‘no’ to almost everything”  Warren Buffett I was having one of those ‘informal’ coaching sessions, read ‘down the pub’, with a neighbour who runs his own business. He was complaining of being no further on with his business than when […]

Exit plans – what are the options?

At CMC we are absolutely convinced that all business owners should have an exit plan and in so doing, the owner will need to consider all of the options that are open to him. If you want to know why exit plan is essential, please read this earlier blog. This blog looks at the various […]

Do small firms need a brand?

If you are a small firm or a sole trader, you could be forgiven for thinking that branding is not for you. “Big names spend money on branding, small companies just get on with the job” is a typical response when I discuss branding with clients, in this post I aim to answer the question […]

Value Proposition take 2: How to create the ideal value proposition

Following on from my earlier blog on the subject of value propositions, here I take a look at what makes a good value proposition, remember, your value proposition is the number one thing that determines whether people will bother reading more about your products or engaging with your business. How to craft your ideal value […]

What is your value proposition?

Your value proposition is the number one thing that determines whether people will bother reading more about your products or engaging with your business. The less well known your company is, the better value proposition you need. When reviewing marketing plans with my clients, the main conclusion was that missing or poor value propositions is one […]

Marketing strategy can prime your business for growth

Having a solid marketing strategy is critical for success. All too often great ideas fail because they’ve been marketed to the wrong people at the wrong time, or too much investment has been piled into an area with a low rate of return. With that in mind, here are five sure-fire ways to avoid the […]

Will my firm benefit from an apprentice?

Many of our clients ask, how will my firm benefit from an apprentice? The Government has promised 3 million new apprenticeships by 2020, funded by the recently introduced apprenticeship levy. Employers today are waking up to the benefits of apprenticeships. This can either be employing a new member of staff as an apprentice or encouraging […]

Are you approaching employing people in the right way?

Thinking about employing people? One of the most difficult steps in starting up and growing a small business is the taking-on of employees.  Just thinking about who to take on and recruit can seem very daunting, after all they are going to be working with you for the ‘duration’, you will want to trust them, […]

How to profit from profitability

Sounds odd, doesn’t it? But it’s amazing that business owners sometimes do not know what profit is. And how crucial is that in attaining your Business Plan objectives? Much has been written on the subject, but they tend to plunge into technical accounting terms all too quickly. We hope to clarify more within this blog. […]

Ten ways to ensure your family business does not implode from family matters

There are plenty of advantages to family businesses. They tend to be financially conservative by nature, and focus on slow and steady growth; they are capable of reacting quickly and making prompt decisions as well as having the advantage of a long term perspective. However there are pitfalls, and if not addressed could end up […]

Sales lessons companies learn the hard way

For most companies, if you’re not out selling, you’re probably not winning. Unfortunately, selling successfully to other businesses is often easier than it looks. There are several sales lessons or hard truths companies are likely to encounter at some part of the sales cycle. Here are five of the most important  sales lessons… Selling cost […]

Advantages of Business Budgeting – Part 2 Strategy then budget

Your strategy must led the business budgeting process In my first post on business budgeting I discussed the advantages of a collaborative approach setting out your budgeting process. I know from personal experience that a lot of staff in many companies view a budget as a bother rather than as a useful tool. If this is […]

How to get full business selling value

Much has been written about business and exit planning – but business selling is like selling a house. You don’t have much experience and can go horribly wrong as a result. You improve your prospects when you ‘know the ropes’ and are being well-advised. ‘Maynard’s three immutable laws of Business Selling’ You won’t find them […]

Advantages of business budgeting

All organisations need a financial blueprint to help them manage their revenues and costs on a continuing basis, and most companies prepare some form of a plan that covers their next financial year. Many employees, even those in finance, often view the budgeting process as a chore that gets in the way of them doing […]

A Family Affair: Ensuring Successful Succession

A Family Affair – Hand Over Amongst the most significant challenges in the lifetime of any business is when the baton is passed from the current leader to their successor. Succession naturally comes with complications and an inevitable, but hopefully temporary, sense of instability for all parties.  Employees, current management, previous management, buyers, suppliers and […]

Get the best value for your business

To achieve the best value for your business, focus on what the buyer is looking for Let’s start with the assumption that you look for a trade buyer, i.e. someone in your industry, rather than a private equity house for example, because a trade buyer will almost certainly pay best value for your business. This […]

Is Your Business “Fit for Sale”?

When planning to sell your business, you need to make sure it is ready to sell, if you want to maximise the sale proceeds. You have probably worked for years to build the business, so take the necessary time to make sure that you prepare the business to be in the best possible shape. The […]

3 Simple Things to Remember when Looking for Investors

The preparation of an effective business plan that is designed to appeal to investors is vital in securing those first meetings that enable investors to have confidence in you and your business. If it is well crafted it will attract investors into more discussion. But if there is something even slightly wrong, the investors will […]

Overcoming the Blockage to Selling

A number of owner managed businesses that we work with are run by people who have received little or no sales training and have very limited sales experience. They don’t like sales – they don’t trust sales – they just get on with it the best they can. For some it doesn’t hinder them but […]

How Effective Change Management will Result in Success

Adopting Change Management Processes in your Business Plan Post-Brexit blues Those small business owners who coped well during the last recession could be excused for believing that it was just a question of getting back to the status quo. However… …many have had a rude awakening after the Brexit referendum. Even before this, their markets […]

How Confident Leadership Will Enable Your Business to Succeed

‘Leading from the front’ All too often business owners/managers believe that strong, confident leadership is all about projecting personal ego and controlling all aspects of the business. But as the business grows it is essential to develop a confident management team that demonstrates professionalism to a growing customer base. Morale can be sapped at a […]

EU Referendum – Managing Overseas Customer’s Expectations

EU Referendum – Working with Overseas Customers We’re in the final week before the referendum on whether or not Britain will remain a member of the European Union and the result is still far from predictable. Some of my clients have reported that their overseas customers are understandably concerned, hesitating to place orders and expressing […]

Stop doing their job and get on with your own!

We are pleased to introduce our guest blogger Kate Mercer, co-founder of Leaders Lab and author of ‘A Buzz in the Building – how to build and lead a brilliant organisation’.  Kate has a wealth of experience in leadership and offers some top tips to help align and motivate your team. As a business leader […]

Guest Blog: Improving Cash Flow & How Invoice Finance can help

We are very pleased to introduce our guest blogger, Helena Cairns from Calverton Finance, who gives some valuable tips on improving cash flow and explains how invoice finance can help. Improving Cash Flow and How Invoice Finance can help In recent times many businesses are not able to build up sufficient reserves to overcome short […]

Working Capital – why is it so important?

Working Capital – what is it? Working capital is essentially the cash (liquidity) that you will need to run the business. It is important to understand as it is the life-blood of the company, particularly during the start-up phase; and during a [rapid] growth phase of the business, as more liquidity is likely to be […]

How to manage cash flow through difficult times

Watch your cash flow at all times – good and bad Every business will experience tough times. Small businesses are especially vulnerable because their management resources are usually thin, and they lack the tools to predict difficulties, and identify available remedies. It is important to try to look ahead and see the ‘potholes’. What if […]

Control your Social Media, or, how not to let it control you!

Social media has become a core marketing tool in just a few years. It allows even the smallest business to interact with a wider world, creating a dynamic online presence with real customer engagement. Consumer and business customers alike increasingly expect to find your firm on the main social networks. In the instant world in […]

A Small Business Guide to the Do’s and Dont’s of Branding

The noisy marketplace For us as consumers, the brand name is like a calling card; a badge of instant recognition. It says a lot about who you are, what you do, and why your business is so special. Some examples I just had a look around my local marketplace in Wallingford: Some good ones: Pizza […]

Non-financial reward ideas to help motivate your staff

In my previous blog I reviewed the principle that money is a very important motivator, but not necessarily the prime motivator. Non-financial rewards can be more efficient than cash and create higher impact on people’s motivation. Creating the right culture and environment can be very effective. Many small businesses are unable to finance reward schemes […]

Should I motivate my staff with financial or non financial rewards?

Do financial rewards motivate staff? The plain truth is that we all need money to cover our basic needs – research in this area is long established. But money, while an important motivator, is not the prime motivator as we discussed in my previous blog ‘As a business owner how do I motivate my staff’. Non Financial […]

Guest Blog: The Recruitment Plan for Small Businesses

We are very pleased to introduce this months guest blogger, Jayne Johnson from Better People, who gives suggestions on what owners should include in their recruitment plan to help the growth of their business. How to recruit the right people for your small business When you are faced with having to recruit for your own […]

Strategic recruitment for business growth

Right person, Right place, Right job, Right time Faced with a fast-changing market, it is easy to regard a replacement strategy as a recruitment strategy. But it is an easy option that ignores the challenges and opportunities ahead. All too often, the question of replacing team members is seen as just a case of ‘same again’. […]

The Managing Director’s role – how does it evolve?

As a business evolves, the managing director’s role also needs to evolve. Getting this right is one of the most important factors in the successful growth of a business. The skills, capabilities and focus that are needed in the early stages of a business have to change as the business matures and moves on to […]

Can you spot the difference between urgent and important?

“What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important.” Dwight. D. Eisenhower The Difference Between Urgent and Important Urgent means that a task requires immediate attention. These are the to-do’s that shout “Now!” Urgent tasks put us in a reactive mode, which really helps when being chased by a saber-toothed tiger! […]

Have you got a Shareholder’s Agreement?

Have you got a Shareholder’s Agreement? One of the important questions I ask at the first meeting with a new client, assuming that there is more than one shareholder, is if they have a Shareholder’s Agreement.  Over the past year I have seen too many disagreements arise, where had there been a shareholders agreement been […]

Keep Control of Your Business – It’s all in the numbers!

I was with a potential client first week back to work in January, they were certain that the business was failing, and the imminent end of the lease on the premises would be a convenient time to wind-up the business.  This decision was based upon emotion, and the natural reflective mood of the New Year. […]

Common Q&A’s about Selling

Q: My business has survived the recession, I am now looking to grow my business to take advantage of the economic upturn. What areas do I need to focus on? The easiest route to growth is all about sales, or business development as some firms refer to it. Here are three opportunities that most firms […]

Preparing a business for sale – what needs to be done?

Preparing a business for sale will get it into the best possible shape for an eventual sale and will help a business owner to maximise the proceeds. This isn’t about window dressing, but making sure that the business has reached its true potential and will stand the scrutiny from potential buyers. Some golden rules for […]

Factors to boost business value

We all need to plan for the future — whether you want to sell your business next year or in 10 years. The value of your company will be partly determined by your industry. For example, cloud-based software companies are generally worth a lot more than printing companies these days. However, when we analyse businesses in […]

Common Q&A’s for Start-up Businesses

Q: I am thinking about starting a business, what do I need to consider? Starting a new business is both exciting and daunting, in our experience the considerations prior to start can be split into three key areas: What What problem is your business going to solve for your customers? How is your business going […]

Common Business Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When running or starting a business there are numerous mistakes you can make that can impact on your cash flow, motivation of staff, happiness of you and your team and your customers perception of your business. Here are a few to avoid. 1. Not acting on changes to your market This could be new competitors, […]

What would happen to your business if you become seriously ill?

Could your business cope if you are seriously ill? Have you ever thought what would happen to your business if, for whatever reason, you were forced to be absent through being seriously ill for a period of time? The consequences of a long term absence can be alarming, especially for those who have a: small ‘life-style’ businesses […]

Exhibiting Success – Let’s do business

I recently exhibited at a local trade show, run by the local Chamber of Commerce, Let’s do business was a great opportunity to meet potential clients and to re-connect with past contacts. Trade shows are hard work but done well, they can deliver substantial rewards. Here are my tips to help you maximise your return […]

Director’s responsibility, a practical guide.

You’ve made the decision and jumped ship, you are your own boss, the company is all set and you are flying.  Exactly what was all that stuff about director’s responsibility that your accountant talked about… I do not aim to scare you off but being a director of a UK company comes with some heavy responsibilities. […]

Change is Essential for a Successful Business Growth Strategy

Do you want to grow your business and expand into new markets? What should you think about before committing to a strategy for successful business growth?

The Difference between Overselling and Overtrading

Many businesses are now seeing economic recovery take root, but this is by no means good news for all. If a small business has cut back on everything during a recession, it can experience sever problems when things start to pick up. This is why many businesses fail when you would have thought that all […]

Three Simple Things to Remember When Looking for Investors

The preparation of an effective business plan that is designed to appeal to investors is vital in securing those first meetings that enable investors to have confidence in you and your business. If it is well crafted it will attract investors into more discussion. But if there is something even slightly wrong, the investors will […]

Raising finance – Where to start

When you are faced with raising finance for your business, be open-minded and think laterally about the sources of finance you consider. You could get funding from a combination of sources – selling shares, debt, grants and subsidies. Generally speaking, the overall structure should be designed such that the business can service any debt repayments […]

Crowdfunding leads the way for Small Business Funding

I am currently working with a small start-up firm, they are self-funded to date and have been looking at traditional forms of small business funding, banks, loans etc. They have plans to expand the business to a national level, needing only a modest level of funding these usual routes have proved impossible or expensive. We […]

Lead nurturing can develop a great ROI

Lead nurturing can take many forms in the age of social and mass media and telemarketing is right there on the front line. Often called inside sales, speaking to customers after they have engaged through other channels and assessing when they are ready to speak to sales. A well-executed telemarketing approach as part of a […]

New Year, New Broom? New Opportunities!

Time for a business review? The start of a New Year is often seen as a time of new beginnings or a chance to sweep away the old and start afresh. This applies as much to business as your personal aspirations and if you have your own business the two are entwined. If you are […]

Increase Profit with Good Customer Service

Customer service has always been at the forefront of everything I do. When most people think about it, their first thoughts are of the service they recently received in a store or restaurant, or perhaps the often bad service they get on the phone to their bank or utility provider- if they can get through […]

Are you micromanaging your employees and hindering growth?

When you have started your company from scratch and have perhaps struggled to get it to where it is, it is often hard to let go. After all, it’s your baby and you know it better than anyone and you know how to make it succeed….. The hardest part of growing a business is to […]

Late payments are killing cash flow in small firms

In a recent survey, Satago Ltd asked 400 firms for the most common excuse they heard for late payment of invoices. “The cheque is in the post” did not actually feature – a sure sign of the death of the cheque perhaps, however they did compile a list of the top excuses for late payment. […]

Exit and Succession Planning

“Affairs are easier of entrance than of exit; and it is but common prudence to see our way out before we venture in.”  Aesop Author 620 – 560 BC Having established a solid business, which still has plenty of potential to grow further, how and when should you implement strategies for grooming the business for […]

Families! The trials and tribulations of succession

You have run your company successfully for years and have decided you want it to stay in the family so you’ve asked one of your children to join next month…… So many family businesses make an assumption that because they have run it successfully for years and it’s their company, whatever they do will work […]

Progressing your business growth programme to success

There are some very good government programmes in place for helping small businesses to grow, however, if not followed through properly; they can leave the business owner(s) with a list of things to do without fully understanding how to do them or even, after a while, wondering if they are still relevant. We have recently […]

Is your business investment ready?

Firstly we must ask ourselves what is ‘Investment Readiness’? A simple definition: – “Providing sufficient information, credibility and trust to an investor to motivate them to invest in your firm.” However before going outside your firm for money – you should make sure the funding you need is not already available within the firm. You […]

Back to the future – how community spirit will add value to your business

We recently ran some articles on the importance of succession planning to add value and to protect against the impact of serious physical health decline of its owners. But what about that other key aspect of corporate wellbeing – the sense of community spirit? As mentioned recently, my family originated and developed a strong confectionery […]

Extending your Brand or Product to Create Growth and Exit Value

Large corporates have always been good at adding new products to their offer and in the last 20 years or so have embraced brand extensions to add further  growth and value to their company. Smaller SME’s have only more recently become adept at furthering their value this way and there are still untapped opportunities for […]

How can Elmer Wheeler help me sell my business?

Helping you sell your business In the 1930’s Time Magazine suggested that Elmer Wheeler was the most successful salesman in the world, a big claim, but one that had more than a grain of credibility. But can he help me sell my business? Who is Elmer Wheeler Perhaps Elmer’s best know saying was “Don’t sell […]

Grow your start up business

As an owner of a start up business starting to grow, what would it feel like to work with your local CMC Partner? Well, let’s start with what it doesn’t feel like. We will not want to collect a lorry load of financial data – most small businesses that we start working with are desperately short of the right information. The […]

How do you scale your business profitably?

As a business grows and expands so does its associated needs. These needs have to be managed correctly to achieve long term success. Our top tip for you to remember is your business will not be able to grow successfully by doing everything yourself. You are not a superhero, no matter how much you wish […]

Why have an exit strategy?

If you are thinking of selling your business it is essential to give some thought to your exit strategy and how you plan the get the most from your business when you come to sell it.