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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

Using consultants - checklist

Using a consultant can be a great way to get a project rolling or to bring in expert help. We explain how to get the best from your consultant.

  • Define the project and the result you are aiming for; confirm how this will contribute to your overall business objectives.
  • Consider whether you have (or should acquire) the in-house skills to carry out part or all of the project.
  • Discuss the project with relevant employees; ask for suggestions and get their agreement to involving a consultant.
  • Ask your local business support organisation, trade association or relevant body to recommend a list of suitable consultants with experience of similar projects.
  • Choose a suitably skilled and experienced consultant from your shortlist and ask for a preliminary proposal based on your brief. Amend the brief to incorporate any valid suggestions.
  • Clarify roles and responsibilities for the consultant, employees and any other contractors involved.
  • Identify key objectives; aim for specific, measurable targets but leave room for the consultant to suggest alternatives.
  • Prepare an outline brief summarising the project, objectives, budget, timescales and in-house resources available to the consultant.
  • Clarify any constraints on the consultant: for example, budget, restrictions on disclosing confidential information or contacting customers.
  • Agree a project schedule, including project completion and interim milestones; negotiate exit clauses for sub-standard performance.
  • Negotiate fees; consider success fees or a fixed fee and clarify exactly how fees will be earned, when they will become payable and how any expenses will be handled.
  • Brief employees involved in the project; ensure they fulfil their responsibilities to maximise the consultant's effectiveness.
  • Provide access to any necessary in-house information and resources.
  • Maintain regular contact with the consultant; look for evidence of the work, monitor costs and review the project at each milestone.
  • Watch for warning signs of any problems: for example, sub-standard work, missed deadlines or poor communication from the consultant, or low morale among the project team.
  • Check that objectives have been met to the agreed standards before signing off any work or overall project completion.

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