Need some help? Here’s a round up of top tips for bosses in the county for Small Business Advice Week.

Always have a plan

Darren Rigden, partner at Crowe Clark Whitehill, Maidstone, said: “Ensure you have a good business plan which you revisit and update regularly. Make sure you appoint advisers you trust. Cutting corners at an early stage is likely to cost the company much more in the future. Above all enjoy your business and your enthusiasm will help it succeed.”

Nick Fairweather, chief executive at Fairweathers Solicitors, Whitstable, said: “I’ve never been a huge fan of business gurus but a quote from the late Sir John Harvey-Jones has always stuck with me. He said the great thing about those who don’t plan is that failure comes as such a complete surprise. Always plan ahead meticulously and never stop considering how you might do things better.”

Be motivated

Nick Baster, managing director at Logic PM, Maidstone, said: “I’ve always tried to believe in what I am doing. If you have belief, you will have passion and passion is what keeps you working towards your goal. Whatever you want in life can be achieved by hard work, determination, a bit of luck and believing you will get there. As the film director Samuel Goldwyn said: ‘The harder I work, the luckier I get’.”

Sonja Wood, director of EcoSan, Ashford, said: “As a service driven company our main priority is customer satisfaction. The customer is king. Every business makes mistakes – we are all human. The key thing is how reactive and responsive you are to the problem. Don’t shy away from complaints – deal with them as quickly as possible.”

Do your research

Jan Post, founder of RIFT Group, Ashford, said: “Expect to live and breathe your business to get it started but don’t rush ahead without considering whether people actually want your product or service. The business might be your dream but you need to ensure there’s a market for what you’re offering. Simple market research is inexpensive and will help shape your business plan.”

Location, location, location

William Hinckley, partner at BTF Partnership, Ashford, said: “Choosing the right location can be vital to the success of the business. You will need to decide whether to buy or lease commercial property. Buying can be a good investment but are you sure you want to tie up your capital? Also, be prepared to make a quick decision. Good properties are in short supply.”

Look after the important stuff

Catherine Daw, employment partner at Brachers, Maidstone, said: “SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) can reduce the risk of claims against them by disgruntled staff if they have some straightforward HR contracts and policies. Documentation is key – a basic written contract and handbook will help. These need to be updated regularly, particularly when people change jobs.”

Ian Gregory, marketing manager at MPW Insurance Brokers, Ashford, said: “Insurance premiums vary depending on your trade or profession. To receive the best advice, we would always recommend discussing your needs with an independent broker. Of course, the cost of insurance is an important factor but if the cover is not suitable or robust enough, then it is not money well spent.”

Ian Wilkinson, managing director at Absols Complete IT Solutions, Maidstone, said: “Your data is your business. Make sure it is protected with anti-virus software and backed up at all times with copies held off-site. It’s vital to have all the protection in place to ensure a smooth, safe and effective running of your business. Your clients need to know their information is safe.”

Manage your money

James Beatton, partner at Cripps, Tunbridge Wells, said: “The biggest issue I see with small businesses is they don’t spend enough time managing their finances. They put lots of effort into winning contracts and doing the work but then don’t give sufficient attention to being paid. It’s all very well being busy but if you can’t collect what you’re owed then you are wasting your time.”

Tracy Ewen, managing director at IGF Invoice Finance, Paddock Wood, said: “SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) owners need to be fully aware of what type of funding is appropriate for their business. Understanding the different sources of finance available will help give many small firms the cash needed to develop and grow.”

Try to be a people person

Ella Brocklebank, business development manager at Woodley Coles, Sandwich, said: “Control the controllables, keep overheads low, spend wisely and, above all, nurture your people – they’re your greatest business asset. When you’re smaller you have to work harder as you don’t have a big brand to fall back on. You have to get out there and meet people.”

Anna Stone, leasing director at Discovery Park, Sandwich, said: “Word of mouth can be the best PR for your business. If potential customers have you front-of-mind as the go-to business for your particular service, you’re well on your way to staying the distance. Think how you can work with others to get results. Shared ideas lead to better products and services.”