Essex Business Forum

Starting a new business can be a daunting task, particularly if you have to do everything yourself and you can spend a substantial amount of time finding and approaching lots of different people.

Question – Would it help you if you could be introduced to all of the professions and services that you will require through one source.
If your answer is yes then please read on.

What should I do First?

My recommendation is that you speak to Jason Nortey of Barclays Bank and Paul Booth of Booth and Co Accountants ,both are based within close proximity of each other in Brentwood and they can talk to you about your business ideas and then help you form your company and banking arrangements.

Once they understand your business they will be able to recommend you to other members that will be able to offer free help and advice that will help you to get your business off on a firm footing. There is of course no obligation to use the services but we have found that this has already worked extremely well for several local businesses.  We have all worked together for several years and each member compliments the services of the others, we recognise the importance of customer service and cementing relationships. I know from experience that I can rely on any of the other members that I introduce to my clients to deliver the same standard of service that I myself provide.

For example Paul and Jason can introduce you to Aidan Squire and Terry Maylin of TM Law who are both experienced solicitors and can explain to you the Legal Formalities that you need to consider.

Kevin Radford of RMK Insurance will explain to you the insurance risks you face and help you choose a package of covers that meet your start up requirements . Kevin deals with General Insurance and so it would also be worth speaking to Howard Bullock of Clear Financial who will offer advice on how to protect the most vital Asset of your business – YOU.

Suzanne Riches can explain to you your obligations under Health and Safety at work and assist you in drafting the documents that you will require.

How can I attract customers?

In the current climate you need to have an identity and Scott Griffiths of Eseyo and Dawn Ribnell of Dawn Associates can help you with your website and a marketing strategy that works for you. The fact that you are reading this article is testament at just how good they are at making this work.

They are backed up by David Plumley of Integrate Networks who can help you to put together an  IT solution that you will need now and that is capable of expansion as your business expands.

There are many other services that The Essex Business Forum  can provide for you including bookkeeping from Kim Douglas at Redwood Clarke and secretarial services from Tina Walker at Liberty VA services.

Another way of attracting customers is to join the Essex Business Forum where you will have 30 + member actively seeking business leads for you.

If you would like to know more or wish to discuss this article then please feel free to contact me or  any member of the board.

The Essex Business Forum wish you every success with your new venture.

Article written by Kevin Radford (Membership Director) 07771 891875 or Kevin@rmkltd.co.uk