Running a Business

This section takes you through every important aspect of how to run a successful business. It offers expert guides and advice articles on the key elements of business management such as employing staff, finding customers, marketing and sales, pricing, people management, office and home working, business technology and everything else an entrepreneur must tackle in order to succeed.

How to manage a business with a sibling

Michael Bruce outlines the key considerations to make when going into business with your brother or sister.

Business management

Employing & managing staff

Employee is not meeting criteria of role

Q: I have an employee who is currently in his probationary period, but is not showing signs of meeting the criteria of the role. Am I within my rights to terminate his contract if this continues?

Business Technology

Taking it to the next level: Remixing your digital presence

Stefano Maruzzi discusses the importance of your website sticking out from the pack.

Employing & managing staff

An employee is struggling with childcare

I have an employee who is struggling with childcare, but cannot afford to reduce her hours. Am I legally obliged to help with childcare costs or is there something else I can do to ease the situation?

Marketing

Conquering the small business hashtag: Twitter tips for SMEs

Here, Niall O'Loughlin discusses how to make the most of your brand identity on Twitter.

Legal advice

Employment rights for same-sex couples in a civil partnership

Alan Price examines the legal considerations employers need to be aware of in regard to the rights of same-sex couples.

Employing & managing staff

Staff members on sick leave and social media

I have an employee who is currently on sick leave from work, however I have noticed that they have been posting images of themselves going out on social media. How can I approach this situation?

Productivity Zone

Family businesses hailed as solution to productivity puzzle

Family businesses are part of the UK's answer to its 'productivity puzzle', the Bank of England's chief economist says.

Employing & managing staff

Staff members on sick leave and social media

I have an employee who is currently on sick leave from work, however I have noticed that they have been posting images of themselves going out on social media. How can I approach this situation?

Productivity Zone