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Introduction   One of the most important things for a small business is to have the right software in place. Buying software is no longer as simple as it used to be. As well as the standard option of simply purchasing a computer with the software pre-loaded, there are also many other software types available.…

Introduction   Queries and complaints are a reality in any business. A well handled query is a great step toward increasing business, just as a well handled complaint can prevent you from losing business. It costs five times as much to gain a new client as it does to retain an existing one. Professionalism and…

Introduction   Trading entities need to be aware of legislative environment, which imposes restrictions both on them in their individual capacities and on the entities they represent when promoting goods and services.   Fair Trading Act   The Fair Trading Act aims to ensure that the market for selling is an informed one. The Act…

Introduction   Think about whether you wish to include provisions for a trial or probation period in the employment agreement for this position. The Employment Relations Act 2000 contains provisions for both ‘trial’ and ‘probationary’ periods for new employees. It is important that the employer and employee are clear about what provision applies to them.…

Introduction The purpose of good induction is so that the new employee starts to see how things work in the firm and where they fit in, meaning they are integrated well into your team. Sometimes firms make the mistake of not inducting new employees. In these instances, the employee may be left to their own…

Introduction Our typical SME business clients can be largely unaware of the responsibilities and therefore risks of being a Company Director. In addition, these clients rarely receive any form of formal training in these areas and can be ignorant of the benefits of conducting effective monthly board meetings. Add to that the fact that many…

Introduction Interviews are best regarded as mutual exchanges of information rather than inquisitions. Remember that you are selling your firm to the potential employee as much as they are selling themselves to you. You need to find out whether the person would make a good addition to your team. They want to find out whether…

Introduction To dismiss someone, employers must have a significant reason for the dismissal and also dismiss the worker using a fair and proper process. Even if you have a good reason for dismissing someone, if you do not follow the correct procedures, you may be found to have unjustifiably dismissed that employee. The employee may…

Planning During the planning and preparation phase of your recruitment exercise, when you undertake a position analysis and identify the skills required to do the job, consider whether you will want to use skills testing at some stage of the recruitment process. Where it’s relevant to the position, we recommend that you carry out skills…

Introduction   A robust and detailed client database is an important tool for any business. There are many types of databases that a business may use depending on the type of business and the computer applications available.   Contents   This guide contains the following topics: Database basics Types of database What to record Maintenance…

Introduction   Good systems are key in the successful day-to-day operation of businesses. Having robust systems in place makes it easier for a business to expand or set up multiple locations. It also makes it easier for a business owner to work on, rather than in, their business.   Contents   This guide contains the…

Legal status and requirements Under the Employment Relations Act (ERA) you must supply a written agreement to your new employee and they must sign it to indicate acceptance of your terms and conditions of employment. Until it is signed, it remains a draft Employment Agreement. The employer signs it before sending it out with a…