For the past 6 months or so now we have traded a 1.3400 to 1.3800 range in EURUSD. That was up until yesterday when the Euro surged higher against the US dollar as the ECB somewhat surprised some market participants by holding interest rates steady. This was followed up by a relatively up beat press conference. EURUSD moved from 1.3740 to 1.3870 in subsequent trading and now that we have […]
The all-island business monitor report for the final quarter of 2013, which was released this week by InterTradeIreland, has conveyed one of the most positive pictures of the economy since the recession began. However, there continues to be real concerns over increasing costs, particularly energy expenditure, that can be a serious barrier to recovery for many firms. More businesses are growing Over the last few quarters we have seen a […]
As a small business owner, the world of business insurance may seem like a complex, technical realm. However businesses need protection against a vast number of objects – stock, business assets, employees and a ream of others – so it’s worth investing the time to research what types of insurance are useful or even compulsory. Here’s a quick guide to three of the foremost types of business insurance that small business […]
Given the GUBU events of the last two weeks, here’s a bit of direct advice for the defenders of peace in this country. I strongly suggest that Patrick Lencioni’s book, the Five Dysfunctions of a Team becomes compulsory reading in the following organisations: Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) Department of Justice (yes, Mr, Shatter, I mean YOU) Garda Síochána Given that they’re all such busy people, I’ll make it even […]
Sam’s Pantry was born out of a mothers frustration and inspired by one little boy who loves cake. Take a moment and close your eyes Imagine it is your 3rd birthday, everyone is singing Happy Birthday, and you make a wish and blow out your candles. Imagine if that wish was a simple as – please let me be able to eat my birthday cake! Having been diagnosed with a […]
Online marketers are finding it hard to keep up with the recent updates on Google’s Penguin algorithm. For this reason, new online marketing campaigns are being devised by focusing more on content rather than unsavory linking practices. If your website gets knocked down into the search engine oblivion, it becomes almost impossible for your users to reach your business website. On the other hand, the content of your marketing campaign […]
Entering a foreign market can be one of the most exciting stages in the development of your business. Selling your product to a foreign market will mean many fresh challenges as well the opportunity to significantly grow your business. Operating in a foreign country can also diversify your business so that you are no longer exposed to the risk of a single market. Researching Potential Markets Before you commit to […]
Event planning can transform even the toughest organiser into a quivering wreck, such is the stress involved in successful business event management. Regardless attendees heading to a networking event, business meeting or trade show still expect a unique, positive experience from the event and it can be an effective way for businesses to create relationships, follow up leads and make sales. As a result, it’s integral the event manager has the […]
Expanding your company by targeting overseas sales is a fantastic way of developing a business. However, export success certainly won’t happen overnight and there are many potential hazards out there that need to be overcome before success is achieved. Marketing your business, product or service is crucial to your success. Prior to launching anything internationally, you need to sit down and plan, plan and plan some more. So here are […]
Watching the ever-popular SME, or small-medium-sized enterprise grow throughout the EU market has never been easier. In terms of its strictest definition—which deals with the number of employees and end of year balance sheet totals for the enterprises—SMEs make up more than 90% of the total market. But, how effective are these enterprises in relation to their budgets? Cost Benefit Analysis for an SME can seem complex; however, a few […]
The value of the Irish public sector procurement market in 2013 was €12 Billion. It is the single biggest market opportunity for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). By exposing some of the trends within public sector procurement, we hope to demystify the process for the many SMEs who at present do not see this as a viable option for their business and increase participation amongst SMEs and positively impact the […]
No matter how small or large one’s business is, a major concern will be that of acquiring a good office. It determines how comfortable you and your clients are, and this could widely influence your business. The tips are essential for all, especially the ones who are renting for the very first time. Going through and understanding the points will help make improved decisions and therefore, better results. Therefore, it […]
Discovering that the security of your computer network has been compromised can be nothing short of terrifying and can cause strained relationships between business, their customers, and their vendors. From valuable internal intellectual property and trade secrets to sensitive financial data belonging to your customers and vendors, a security breach can expose your business to incredible levels of risk. This short post aims to give you actionable steps to take […]
Every business owner knows the importance of advertising and marketing their small business, but your budget is the largest factor in how little or much you promote your business. So here are some quick low cost ways to promote your small business. With a few pointers, you will be able to promote your business without breaking the bank. Since there are so many choices for high speed internet providers and […]
As part of the “A head for business” events across the island of Ireland, we asked people to submit their number one business tip for success and growth. It is a very long list. A few tips came back on a regular basis. Work hard. Passion. Do your research. Self belief. Customer focus. Go online. Thanks to all that participated. There are some real gems. Here is the full list. […]
