leicester business women newsletter may 2012

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“I am passionate about “I am passionate about “I am passionate about “I am passionate about making a difference to making a difference to making a difference to making a difference to others and the world others and the world others and the world others and the world

we live in.”we live in.”we live in.”we live in.” Rehana Sidat of Transparent Training Consultancy

Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Leicester Business Women Newsletter Newsletter Newsletter Newsletter

Leicester Business Women would like to welcome you to our May newsletter. Leicester Business Women has had a very busy May, we saw the end of another two training programmes and a busy schedule coaching sessions throughout the month, where with our support and guidance we saw our member’s motivation, confidence grow along with their business idea. Leicester Business Women are very excited to announce that we have now helped our 100th member successfully register their business and become a business women since the programme began!

We would like to say a huge Congratulations to all these 100 ladies and we wish you all the success!!! This is a great achievement for all the Leicester Business Women team and we are looking forward to helping plenty more ladies from Leicester follow their dreams to self employment and help change their lives!!! This months newsletter is bursting with more information, support and advice to help you further. With information on the Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and local celebrations, advice on marketing, social media, Employment Law and Leicester Business Women’s forthcoming training programme and networking events as well as advertisements from other organisation and our member’s. Leicester Business Women hopes you have a wonderful Bank Holiday break and enjoy the celebrations For further information about the Leicester Business Women programme please contact Nicole Hocking on 0116 251 8730 or view our website www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk

“The workshops have been amazing, they have changed my “The workshops have been amazing, they have changed my “The workshops have been amazing, they have changed my “The workshops have been amazing, they have changed my way of thinking on so many levels. I have met some truly way of thinking on so many levels. I have met some truly way of thinking on so many levels. I have met some truly way of thinking on so many levels. I have met some truly amazing people, who have given me so much inspiration.amazing people, who have given me so much inspiration.amazing people, who have given me so much inspiration.amazing people, who have given me so much inspiration. I can not praise highly enough the staff at LBW, their I can not praise highly enough the staff at LBW, their I can not praise highly enough the staff at LBW, their I can not praise highly enough the staff at LBW, their

enthusiasm and dedication is outstanding! enthusiasm and dedication is outstanding! enthusiasm and dedication is outstanding! enthusiasm and dedication is outstanding! Their knowledge in all subjects is excellent and is Their knowledge in all subjects is excellent and is Their knowledge in all subjects is excellent and is Their knowledge in all subjects is excellent and is delivered in a lively and engaging manner and delivered in a lively and engaging manner and delivered in a lively and engaging manner and delivered in a lively and engaging manner and

is backed by a wealth of experience.is backed by a wealth of experience.is backed by a wealth of experience.is backed by a wealth of experience. The ladies in my group were fantastic, so supportive and The ladies in my group were fantastic, so supportive and The ladies in my group were fantastic, so supportive and The ladies in my group were fantastic, so supportive and encouraging, ready to share and offer help and guidance. encouraging, ready to share and offer help and guidance. encouraging, ready to share and offer help and guidance. encouraging, ready to share and offer help and guidance.

They were people who had met and overcome some huge They were people who had met and overcome some huge They were people who had met and overcome some huge They were people who had met and overcome some huge challenges in their lives and I feelchallenges in their lives and I feelchallenges in their lives and I feelchallenges in their lives and I feel privilegedprivilegedprivilegedprivileged to have been able to have been able to have been able to have been able

to spend time with them. I have some very to spend time with them. I have some very to spend time with them. I have some very to spend time with them. I have some very special new friends.special new friends.special new friends.special new friends.

I feel more confident, focused and motivated I feel more confident, focused and motivated I feel more confident, focused and motivated I feel more confident, focused and motivated and my original small scale ideas are turning and my original small scale ideas are turning and my original small scale ideas are turning and my original small scale ideas are turning into much larger plans than I ever anticipated.into much larger plans than I ever anticipated.into much larger plans than I ever anticipated.into much larger plans than I ever anticipated. I have wanted to work for myself for so many I have wanted to work for myself for so many I have wanted to work for myself for so many I have wanted to work for myself for so many years, and have been lost in the wilderness, but now thanks years, and have been lost in the wilderness, but now thanks years, and have been lost in the wilderness, but now thanks years, and have been lost in the wilderness, but now thanks

to LBW I have a sat nav to my goal.”to LBW I have a sat nav to my goal.”to LBW I have a sat nav to my goal.”to LBW I have a sat nav to my goal.” Karen Sealey of Pure & Blessed Tarot

Leicester Business Women’s May Newsletter

Includes

**** Her Majesty The Queen's Diamond Jubilee

Leicester Business Women’s Training Programme

“Having My Big Business Pants On” by Sharon Roberts

Marketing

Case Study - Hannah Ingram & Leah Golde of Hi Fit

Leicester Business Women’s Forthcoming Networking Events

Using and Developing LinkedIn by Jim Hewitt

Leicester Business Women and Skills for Enterprise Website

How April 2012 Made A Difference

Are You In The Dark About Employment Law?

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Me by Hilary Holmes

Leicestershire Business Women Programme

We hope you enjoy We hope you enjoy We hope you enjoy We hope you enjoy

“I had high expectations of the workshops from the literature I received from you and from “I had high expectations of the workshops from the literature I received from you and from “I had high expectations of the workshops from the literature I received from you and from “I had high expectations of the workshops from the literature I received from you and from what I'd read in Leicester Link. what I'd read in Leicester Link. what I'd read in Leicester Link. what I'd read in Leicester Link. As I've said before, the workshops were high quality with a As I've said before, the workshops were high quality with a As I've said before, the workshops were high quality with a As I've said before, the workshops were high quality with a good mix of practical and knowledge based activities.good mix of practical and knowledge based activities.good mix of practical and knowledge based activities.good mix of practical and knowledge based activities. The pace was good and Lou quickly The pace was good and Lou quickly The pace was good and Lou quickly The pace was good and Lou quickly assessed the group and delivered content appropriate to our various experiences and needs.assessed the group and delivered content appropriate to our various experiences and needs.assessed the group and delivered content appropriate to our various experiences and needs.assessed the group and delivered content appropriate to our various experiences and needs.

By the end of the workshops I felt I had the knowledge and skills to take the first steps By the end of the workshops I felt I had the knowledge and skills to take the first steps By the end of the workshops I felt I had the knowledge and skills to take the first steps By the end of the workshops I felt I had the knowledge and skills to take the first steps towards starting my own business.towards starting my own business.towards starting my own business.towards starting my own business. Including an HMRC session was very welcome and Including an HMRC session was very welcome and Including an HMRC session was very welcome and Including an HMRC session was very welcome and spurred me onto booking further workshops with them.spurred me onto booking further workshops with them.spurred me onto booking further workshops with them.spurred me onto booking further workshops with them. I also walked away knowing that I also walked away knowing that I also walked away knowing that I also walked away knowing that

wasn't the end.wasn't the end.wasn't the end.wasn't the end. The LBW 'after care' package is supportive and useful. The LBW 'after care' package is supportive and useful. The LBW 'after care' package is supportive and useful. The LBW 'after care' package is supportive and useful. Our group gelled well and I looked forward to each session.Our group gelled well and I looked forward to each session.Our group gelled well and I looked forward to each session.Our group gelled well and I looked forward to each session.

I made several women who I now call friends.”I made several women who I now call friends.”I made several women who I now call friends.”I made several women who I now call friends.” Anita Hall of Trinity Family Mediation

Her Majesty The Queen's Diamond Jubilee

This year marks 60 years of The Queen's reign, the Diamond Jubilee celebrations are taken place through out the country.

The Queen came to the throne on 6 February 1952 and her coronation took place on 2 June 1953. At the time of her birth, Princess Elizabeth stood third in line of succession to the throne after Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), and her father, The Duke of York. But it was not expected that her father would become King, or that she would become Queen.

In her years as Majesty the Queen, she has seen through some events which will always been remembered in time such as the stepping down of Winston Churchill in 1955, the JFK assassination in 1963, the first man on the moon in 1969, end of the Vietnam in 1975, fall of the Berlin wall in 1989 and obviously plenty more moments in history. The Queen is a mother to 4 and grandmother to 8, of whom two are our future Kings.

The Queen herself had already visited the city of Leicester back in February 2012 as part of her jubilee tour celebrations, with hundreds of people filling the streets to show their support and excitement for her Majesty the Queen visit.

This year we have an extra bank holiday, Tuesday 5th June to celebrate the Queens anniversary. All kinds of celebrations are being held, from street parties to fetes. What celebratory events will you be joining in or organising???

Leicester Business Women would like to do something to acknowledge the 60 years to the throne. So for every advert that is placed in our June newsletter we will donate 50% of the fee to the Royal National Institute of Blind People Charity, of which the Majesty the Queen is a patron.

Please help Leicester Business Women raise money!!!

Leicestershire’s Celebrations

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Festival at Central Park, Leicester. FREE admission. Saturday 2nd June 2012, 10.00am till 10.00pm Live Bands, local choirs and other entertainment, hand-made crafts and food stalls, vintage ice cream van, plant sales, gardeners ‘question time’ with local gardening experts, competitions for all ages, picnic in the park and a RAF Spitfire flypass. The church Bells will ring at 11.00am.

Knighton Community Jubilee Celebrations at Knighton Hall, 208 Knighton Road, Leicester, LE2 3TT £1.00 admission fee Saturday 2nd June 2012, 11.00am till 4.00pm Craft stalls, bouncy castle, refreshments, children’s games and activities. Design and make a crown to bring to the event,

Queen’s Jubilee Big Lunch Party at Ellis Park, Leicester Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5HH FREE admission. Monday 4th June 2012, 11.00am till 2.00pm Queen’s Jubilee fun for all ages including free food and entertainment for the whole community, children’s activities, brass band, bollywood dancing, games, crafts and knitting, scout’s campfire, children crown competition, Sunflower radio, morsbags and much more!!

Diamond Jubilee 'Music In The Park' at Wistow Hall, Leicestershire, LE8 0QF Adult £12.50 : 12-16yrs £5 : Under 12's Free, On the night £15.00 : FREE Parking Saturday 9th June 2012, 7.30pm - 10.30pm Bring your own picnic and enjoy a wonderful evening listening to music by Junction 21 (an 18 piece swing band) and the award winning all female brass band 'Boobs & Brass'. Followed by a fabulous firework display in front of Wistow Hall. Great night out for all ages. The concert is supporting LOROS (Hospice Care for Leicestershire & Rutland), Warning Zone (Leicestershire & Rutland Crimebeat Ltd), and the Breast Cancer Campaign.

For more events around Leicestershire see http://www.leics.gov.uk/index/leisure_tourism/whatson.htm/jubilee_events.htm

Belgrave Area TBC Belgrave Area TBC Belgrave Area TBC Belgrave Area TBC

Leicester Business Women’s Training Programme Leicester Business Women’s programme of training workshops are continuing throughout the year, providing women from Leicester the information and knowledge of key business elements which are important when starting up in business. Our workshops give our members the chance to work through areas such as marketing and finance with the support and encouragement of our very experienced trainers as well as other like minded women who are at the same stage, facing the same issues or fighting those same barriers that may be holding you back. Throughout the series of six workshops we will assist you on your journey to your goals and your dream of self employment while providing you with support and guidance with you motivation and confidence. Our next available programme of workshops are listed below

Don’t miss out on the FREE opportunity and call us today for further information and to book your first appointment with team.

Call us on 0116 251 8730 or email [email protected]

Date Time Venue Workshop

18.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

Belgrave Children’s

Centre

Now Is The Time

21.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)


Centre

Your Passion Plan

26.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)


Centre

Your Financial Planning

28.06.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)


Centre

Motivate Yourself

03.07.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)


Centre

Your Style, Your Selling, Your Brand

05.07.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)


Centre

Influence Your World

Date Time Venue Workshop

04.09.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

TBC Now Is The

Time

06.09.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

TBC Your Passion

Plan

11.09.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

TBC Your Financial

Planning

13.09.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

TBC Motivate Yourself

18.09.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

TBC Your Style,

Your Selling, Your Brand

20.09.2012 9.15am—2.30pm (to start 9.30am)

TBC Influence Your

World

“I found the workshops really useful in helping me to focus on my business idea “I found the workshops really useful in helping me to focus on my business idea “I found the workshops really useful in helping me to focus on my business idea “I found the workshops really useful in helping me to focus on my business idea in a more positive way. I have kept in touch with the ladies from the course and it's in a more positive way. I have kept in touch with the ladies from the course and it's in a more positive way. I have kept in touch with the ladies from the course and it's in a more positive way. I have kept in touch with the ladies from the course and it's

great to see how they are progressing.great to see how they are progressing.great to see how they are progressing.great to see how they are progressing. Lou made the workshops fun and interesting, they were very interactive and not Lou made the workshops fun and interesting, they were very interactive and not Lou made the workshops fun and interesting, they were very interactive and not Lou made the workshops fun and interesting, they were very interactive and not

just her talking at us.”just her talking at us.”just her talking at us.”just her talking at us.” Fiona Hutchinson

“I think they were extremely useful and definitely boosted my confidence and self “I think they were extremely useful and definitely boosted my confidence and self “I think they were extremely useful and definitely boosted my confidence and self “I think they were extremely useful and definitely boosted my confidence and self belief. The programme opened my eyes to some of the pitfalls in setting up your belief. The programme opened my eyes to some of the pitfalls in setting up your belief. The programme opened my eyes to some of the pitfalls in setting up your belief. The programme opened my eyes to some of the pitfalls in setting up your own business and also provided some useful information on practical things like own business and also provided some useful information on practical things like own business and also provided some useful information on practical things like own business and also provided some useful information on practical things like dealing with finances and marketing but also social things like the importance of dealing with finances and marketing but also social things like the importance of dealing with finances and marketing but also social things like the importance of dealing with finances and marketing but also social things like the importance of

networking, setting boundaries when you work from home, and over coming networking, setting boundaries when you work from home, and over coming networking, setting boundaries when you work from home, and over coming networking, setting boundaries when you work from home, and over coming isolation. I am so gladisolation. I am so gladisolation. I am so gladisolation. I am so glad I did the course because it gave me a good grounding andI did the course because it gave me a good grounding andI did the course because it gave me a good grounding andI did the course because it gave me a good grounding and I I I I

feel I am part of a much wider network of really inspiring women.”feel I am part of a much wider network of really inspiring women.”feel I am part of a much wider network of really inspiring women.”feel I am part of a much wider network of really inspiring women.” Gail Pringle

Are you working and interested in our next evening/weekend workshops? If so, register your interest now!!! Limited places available.

“Having My Big Business Pants On”

A day in the life of Sharon Roberts MD Vision Development Consultants Ltd.

www.visionconsulttraining.com

So hold onto your BIG BUSINES PANTS Here we go! Sometime ago I was heavily involved in the media discussing professional development. I sat on the famous sofa with Richard and Judy and met very famous people who I would normally only see on the T.V. However (with 1 or 2 Jaffa cakes in my hand and a mug of tea in the other hand, ok then you can see through me, yes! It would turn into a whole box of Jaffa cakes. mmmmm Jaffa cakes, focus Sharon focus and this is what I did) I decided to sacrifice the media work to concentrate on developing my training company into an International Training Consultancy, which I did. However I have decided to step back into the land of the media and this ‘A day in the land of my Big Business Pants’ is a part of that; so here we go and fingers crossed xxxxxxxxxSSSS Monday eve / Tuesday am: Check my presentation for my speaking gig at the Belfry Hotel tomorrow - “Developing profitable Partnerships” Decided that I hated it! So I scrapped it and started again, so now I’m feeling like a vampire and it looks like the sun is rising in the east, so it’s time to go to bed. Tuesday 6.00am: Oh the alarm clock must be lying it can’t be time to get up already.. mmm secret thought do I have time to shave my legs? Maybe not, must find thick black tights to cover the rainforest on my legs then!!!. 6.30am: Walk the dog and try to pretend to look all sophisticated while you follow him around with the lovely floral bags - wooo then back home to fresh coffee and a shower not at the same time of course. 7.30am: Strategic handbag planning. Business cards - check! Business Brochure’s - check, presentation resource’s - check and of course the most important thing, lipstick - check and now it’s time to meet the team and the camera guys at the office. 8.00am: The vision crew are ready to rock and roll! And all squashed into Adam’s car and then the panic sets in OMG! I forgot to have breakfast, so now we all start to look for food to feed me, and I’m amazed how much food Antony from Push Media has in his bag and without any hesitation I agree to eat his large cookie and let him keep his BLT sandwich for later. 8.45am: Arrive at the venue and secretly thinking don’t let Antony out of my sight just in case there not serving breakfast! 9.00am: Am greeted by the lovely Broxtowe Women’s Network group www.broxtowte.gov.uk/business and long time friend Carol Parkinson, who organised the speakers and workshops for the event. 9.30am Sound and film check and then of course think what the hell am I doing here. So then I remind myself that I’ve got my BIG Business Pants on, pull them up and get on with the day ahead. 10.00am-11.30am: Delivered a fantastic presentation on “Developing Profitable Relationships” and a great workshop on “Finding your formula for success” also promoted our high profile clients to the audience. 11.30am: Go to ladies only to be followed by someone who wants to pitch their ideas to you, while you’re in the toilet, please don’t get me wrong, I’m all for being alert to business opportunities, but for future reference I like peeing in peace. Comfort Break and time to look for Antony to make it into a BLT sandwich Break and remind myself that my next strategic handbag planning must include some kind of cake in it or maybe a healthier option. 12.00pm–12.45pm Get told off, in a nice way by the camera guy for not staying where X marks the spot! Note to self must not run around like a tellytubbie, while presenting.

1.00pm: Very excited its lunch time! So many goodies at the Belfry and I decide to ask for a bigger plate and yes I go back for seconds. 1.30pm ish: Quick debrief with the camera guy and discuss who they will be filming and interviewing in the afternoon. Afternoon session: Private coaching with some of the ladies at the conference and feeling very inspired by how much, strength, courage and focus they have within themselves, they just don’t see it sometimes. 3.30pm: What an incredible day!! It comes to a close only the vision team are so fantastic they wait for nearly an hour while I give extra coaching to other business women. 4.15pm ish: We thank everyone for their hard-work and I agree to be featured in the business magazine Affari. 4.30pm: Back to Adams car with laptops, business trolley’s, Business Banners, camera’s tripods & very tired feet. I need to kill the cave woman who invented high heels! 5.00pm: We run into the office and dump all the vision accessories on the floor and think we’ll sort it all out tomorrow! Only the team forget to tell me they’ve got tomorrow off!! Sneaky or very tactical. 5.15pm: Take the Vision team to the pub and meet-up with the other consultants that have been delivering financial leadership across the city and reflect on the great day we’ve all had. 5.30pm - Onwards: Take an international call and agree to endorse a USA client’s book and feeling very flattered to be asked! Wow! And here’s the Sacrifice: I should or could be at Martial Arts, but for me, my work life balance is saying thank you to a great team and not just leaving them on the doorstep and besides I’ve not shaved my legs so I’ll give martial arts a miss for this evening!

Developing profitable relationships top 3 tips

Who do you need to contact to drive your business forward? Are you open and alert to new opportunities?

What do you need to sacrifice to grow?

“Your business idea is only as good as your determination”

Sharon Roberts is one of Leicester Business Women’s advisors

“Super, supportive, very empowering”“Super, supportive, very empowering”“Super, supportive, very empowering”“Super, supportive, very empowering” Ranjana Kotecha

“Really appreciated all the comments and advice”“Really appreciated all the comments and advice”“Really appreciated all the comments and advice”“Really appreciated all the comments and advice” Hema Morzaria

“Thanks for the fantastic support and guidance”“Thanks for the fantastic support and guidance”“Thanks for the fantastic support and guidance”“Thanks for the fantastic support and guidance” Hannah Ingram

To receive her support and guidance, book an appointment with Sharon Roberts today. Please call the Leicester Business Women team on 0116 251 8730

Marketing is a vital tool when in business. Getting your name, logo and your company information out to the public can be challenging. But are you targeting your campaign to the right audience for your business? What age, gender, occupancy etc is your product or service aimed at, is this who you’re marketing to? For example: if your business is aimed at mothers and children, are you advertising with business cards and leaflets at places such as nurseries/playgroup/ schools or mothering shops/beauticians/hairdressers etc? Are you using the right tools? Are you featuring in the right publications? Marketing can be expensive especially if you don’t get all this right. Have you thought about the ways of promoting your business that are for FREE? The biggie at the moment is social media such as Facebook and Twitter, by blogging and posting your business information you can reach hundreds of people. Leicester Business Women are also thinking of ways to help you advertise your products or services: • Facebook - Leicester Business Women has

a group and page - dedicated to keeping ladies up to date with the programmes Information, events, hints an tips but this also gives you a chance to advertise your company on our pages to whilst networking too!

Join our facebook group -

www.facebook.com/#!/groups/386715381358641/Like our facebook page -

www.facebook.com/#!/leicesterbusinesswomen • Display board - Leicester Business Women

has a display at our offices Skills for Enterprise, where you can leave your business cards and leaflets.

• Leicester Business Women’s web portal -

this website is dedicated to help our members with the latest information relative to business start up, create your own page, blog and inform us of any events your holding.

• Your Materials - Leicester Business Women attends regular events across Leicester through out the year, if we have your business cards and leaflets we will be able to take these with us to exhibit on our stand etcS

Leicester Business Women wants to make your

advertising easier and would love to help as much as we can. So next time you’re in town, drop your

business cards or leaflets to our Team at Skills for Enterprise

Marketing

Hannah Ingram & Leah Golde of Hi Fit

Hi Fit is a holistic approach to fitness, with effective 30 minute classes that are simple and have been designed with a fresh approach to fitness; catering for today's busy lifestyle and offering a range of express, 30 minute sessions, which allow you to work your full body quickly but efficiently, providing you with a great workout, after which you can get back to your day.

Leah and Hannah started their business Hi Fit together after meeting on the Leicester Business Women programme and finding that they got on really well and could combine their ideas into one. Having planned the business idea and testing it a number of times, they officially launched Hi Fit in January 2012. This made perfect

sense as many women look to get healthy and fitter at the start of the New Year. “To help people get the best “To help people get the best “To help people get the best “To help people get the best from themselves and their bodies. We saw a link between fun exercise and mental health, so we want to from themselves and their bodies. We saw a link between fun exercise and mental health, so we want to from themselves and their bodies. We saw a link between fun exercise and mental health, so we want to from themselves and their bodies. We saw a link between fun exercise and mental health, so we want to use our classes to help people manage the way they think and feel about themselves and their lives.”use our classes to help people manage the way they think and feel about themselves and their lives.”use our classes to help people manage the way they think and feel about themselves and their lives.”use our classes to help people manage the way they think and feel about themselves and their lives.”

So, what was their reason for starting this? Both Leah and Hannah found out this concept was not currently available and believe in their idea and wanted to see it become a reality. The great thing

about being self employed is, “the freedom to express who you truly are. It is great to “the freedom to express who you truly are. It is great to “the freedom to express who you truly are. It is great to “the freedom to express who you truly are. It is great to have the freedom to make decisions on the direction of your work and by having have the freedom to make decisions on the direction of your work and by having have the freedom to make decisions on the direction of your work and by having have the freedom to make decisions on the direction of your work and by having your own business you control the service and offering to the client.” your own business you control the service and offering to the client.” your own business you control the service and offering to the client.” your own business you control the service and offering to the client.” Luckily for the

girls, the business was fairly straightforward to set up, with the only obstacle to overcome in searching for venues and getting good time slots, especially for a new class which was not as popular as the more mainstream classes such as Zumba which Leah and Hannah found took priority. However, this did not deter the girls and in fact made them more determined and re consider their classes to make sure it was developing all the time.

Both Leah and Hannah are very passionate about health and well being, and this is extremely important when

looking to start your own business. “We had to continue to walk our talk as this is what we preach to our “We had to continue to walk our talk as this is what we preach to our “We had to continue to walk our talk as this is what we preach to our “We had to continue to walk our talk as this is what we preach to our clients on a day to day basis. The key to life is balance and if we can manage and maintain it then clients on a day to day basis. The key to life is balance and if we can manage and maintain it then clients on a day to day basis. The key to life is balance and if we can manage and maintain it then clients on a day to day basis. The key to life is balance and if we can manage and maintain it then everything runs more smoothly anyway. So it’s worth it in the long run.”everything runs more smoothly anyway. So it’s worth it in the long run.”everything runs more smoothly anyway. So it’s worth it in the long run.”everything runs more smoothly anyway. So it’s worth it in the long run.” Also, in order to develop them

further, both Leah and Hannah says, “I find it really helpful to speak to a coach at times. Although you “I find it really helpful to speak to a coach at times. Although you “I find it really helpful to speak to a coach at times. Although you “I find it really helpful to speak to a coach at times. Although you sometimes know the answer to your concerns, you need someone to give you a nudge in the right sometimes know the answer to your concerns, you need someone to give you a nudge in the right sometimes know the answer to your concerns, you need someone to give you a nudge in the right sometimes know the answer to your concerns, you need someone to give you a nudge in the right direction. We also have the benefit of being a partnership and the support we are able to provide each direction. We also have the benefit of being a partnership and the support we are able to provide each direction. We also have the benefit of being a partnership and the support we are able to provide each direction. We also have the benefit of being a partnership and the support we are able to provide each other is invaluable.”other is invaluable.”other is invaluable.”other is invaluable.”

Like many women, Leah found that childcare was a large barrier, but she wanted to start her own business to work around her children and knows this is a priority therefore, never compromises her children when they need her.

The best way to do this she adds, “be clear as to what your priorities are, and put first things first.”“be clear as to what your priorities are, and put first things first.”“be clear as to what your priorities are, and put first things first.”“be clear as to what your priorities are, and put first things first.”

Both girls have learnt through the programme that once they have made a commitment to change if you discipline yourself and make the effort for over 30 days it becomes a habit part of the way you are. Leah and Hannah have

made use of all the support that Leicester Business Women provide and say it is, “Fantastic and Brilliant! “Fantastic and Brilliant! “Fantastic and Brilliant! “Fantastic and Brilliant! And the support has been amazingly useful”And the support has been amazingly useful”And the support has been amazingly useful”And the support has been amazingly useful”

Looking back, Leah would say that, “If I knew how easy it was to register and get started I “If I knew how easy it was to register and get started I “If I knew how easy it was to register and get started I “If I knew how easy it was to register and get started I would have done it sooner, it's important to get the timing right and cease the would have done it sooner, it's important to get the timing right and cease the would have done it sooner, it's important to get the timing right and cease the would have done it sooner, it's important to get the timing right and cease the opportunities as they arise.”opportunities as they arise.”opportunities as they arise.”opportunities as they arise.”

“I quickly realised the reality that everything takes effort the more you put in the more “I quickly realised the reality that everything takes effort the more you put in the more “I quickly realised the reality that everything takes effort the more you put in the more “I quickly realised the reality that everything takes effort the more you put in the more you get back, prepare yourself for that and that's why it so important not just to do it you get back, prepare yourself for that and that's why it so important not just to do it you get back, prepare yourself for that and that's why it so important not just to do it you get back, prepare yourself for that and that's why it so important not just to do it for the money you need to love your work that you do that's what gets me through the for the money you need to love your work that you do that's what gets me through the for the money you need to love your work that you do that's what gets me through the for the money you need to love your work that you do that's what gets me through the tough times.”tough times.”tough times.”tough times.”

And their three key pieces of advice would you give to other women wishing to set up a business:

Work on yourself more than your business, try to find a balance in your life, good diet, exercise, relaxation and leisure time is important too. Keep your mind, body and spirit healthy.

Leicester Business Women’s Forthcoming Networking Events Leicester Business Women has an excellent programme of networking events coming up, all aimed at helping our members further. With a wide range of topics from finance, marketing, social media and planning ahead these events will also give you the opportunity to meet like minded women from Leicester all of whom are in the same boat - either wanting to start or have successfully registered their business.

Chat, mingle and share your passion with others...

Check out one of our previous events on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MAVM-HLMZ0

****

♦ Thursday 28th June 2012 from 9.30am - 1.00pm

Finance Refresher and HMRC Delivered by Jim Hewitt and HMRC

A review of the financials, and a chance to share understanding and practise the skills. Elements such as sensible pricing for your products or services, forecasting your profit,

calculations and formulas for the frightened, a practical look at book keeping systems – keeping track of your income and expenditure plus a chance to get any answers to any questions or queries you may have.

♦ Wednesday 25th July 2012 from 5.30pm till 8.30pm

Planning for Christmas Events Delivered by Lou Gimson

We all know Christmas comes around far to quick!!! This event will ensure your business is ready, help you be ahead of your competitors and that your business don’t miss out - planning is the key!! Lou is here to help with advice and support, she will go through a number of key points that you should be considering and helping you

plan your ideas and marketing for the run up to Christmas.

♦ Wednesday 22nd August 2012 from 10.00am - 1.00pm

Marketing and planning - what’s your strategy Delivered by Lou Gimson and Leicester Business Women ambassador

How do you market your business? Does your business stand out from the crowd? Does your business get seen by your target market?

Come to this event to through some ideas about with Lou and other Leicester Business Women members...get creative with your thoughts!!

♦ Wednesday 19th September 2012 from 5.30pm – 8.30pm

Finance Refresher and HMRC Delivered by Jim Hewitt and HMRC

A review of the financials, and a chance to share understanding and practise the skills. Elements such as sensible pricing for your products or services, forecasting your profit,

calculations and formulas for the frightened, a practical look at book keeping systems – keeping track of your income and expenditure plus a chance to get any answers to any questions or queries you may have.

♦ Wednesday 17th October 2012 from 10.00am – 1.00pm

Social Media - a basic lesson Delivered by Leicester Business Women

Help, support and advice to ensure you make the most of the FREE opportunities Social media can offer you and your business. Advice on

marketing, networking and blogging etc.

Refreshments and lunch will be provided

Call Leicester Business Women today to book you place on 0116 251 8730

Mediation ............ a better way

The common sense The common sense The common sense The common sense

approach to resolving approach to resolving approach to resolving approach to resolving

child issueschild issueschild issueschild issues

Separation and divorce is a painful and difficult time of change for all the

family, children included. We’re here to assist when family relationships

break down and, help you to make the best decisions for

your children.

Trinity Family Mediation are specialists in:

• Child centred issues including contact arrangements between

parents, grandparents and other family members

• Child issues arising from relationship or civil partnership

problems

• Direct child consultation if appropriate

Mediation is suitable for married or unmarried parties. The process

is taken at your pace. You make the decisions about what is right for

you/your children. Mediation is less acrimonious than court

proceedings

All children want to communicate. They want to communicate about the little things in their lives. They may find it harder to communicate about the big things in their lives but they almost always have something to say. Baroness Hale of Richmond, Justice of the Supreme Court ‘Can you hear me your Honour’ (2012) January Family law

Private Clients Only

MIAMs MIAMs MIAMs MIAMs

undertakenundertakenundertakenundertaken

For further information please contact Anita Hall on 07827321005

or visit www.trinityfamilymediation.co.uk

www.trinityfamilymediation.blogspot.co.uk

Using and Developing LinkedIn

Your LinkedIn Profile will need plenty of relevant information about you. In the Experience section you can add details of relevant employment (Add a position). As you add each one, you will record the Company

Name; if the company has already been recorded on LinkedIn, you can select it from the list that appears as you type. Next, record your job Title or Position, the Location of the organisation and then the time period (month and year for start and end). If it is a current position, tick the box marked I currently work here. Add a little description about the job and close by clicking onto the Save Changes button. You may wish to add relevant details of Education and Qualifications too. If you have a good website, you can add a link to it in the Additional Information section of the Profile. Click on the

word Add, next to Websites. Next, click on the down arrow to the right of the first Choose . . . box. You can select Company Website, then type in the url of your website. If you would like to see the name of your company instead of “Company Website”, select Other and enter the company name. Finish by clicking on Save the Changes.

Once you have registered on LinkedIn, you will want to expand your list of contacts. Look to the right of your name, at the top of your LinkedIn page, and click onto Add Connections. LinkedIn can search your web email contacts from several web email addresses, including Hotmail, Yahoo mail and Gmail. Enter your Web Email address and click onto the Continue button. Details of any of your contacts who are on LinkedIn will be shown. Select the contacts you would like to link with then click on the Add Connections button to send an invitation to connect. You will then see a list of contacts who are not on LinkedIn, whom you can invite to join and connect if you wish. Once your invited connections have agreed to accept your invitation, you will receive an email and they will appear in your list of Contacts. Any updates posted by your contacts will appear on your LinkedIn Home page, under the All Updates section, as in the example shown below.

You can view your contact’s own contacts by viewing their Profile; use your mouse to click on their name at the top of their updates (blue font). Alternatively, click on the Contacts tab to find and select their name.

It is worth asking your LinkedIn contacts for a recommendation if you have had dealings with them.

Recommendations received will appear on your profile, so they are visible to people who find you on

LinkedIn. To request a recommendation, click onto the Profile tab and select Recommendations. There are

three recommendation tabs: click onto the Request Recommendations tab. You have to select the job you

want a recommendation for and the connection to ask, before drafting a message. You will check

recommendations received before accepting them to appear on your Profile; only display the positive ones

that are relevant.

Written by Leicester Business Women’s advisor Jim Hewitt

Leicester Business Women and Skills for Enterprise Website

Both Leicester Business Women’s and Skills for Enterprise’s website are a useful tool of information. Leicester Business Women’s web portal had been design not only to provide relevant and useful business information, but also a chance for our members to blog, advertise and most of all to network

amongst like minded women. We keep our website updated with our training programme and our networking event dates plus listing other event by other companies / organisations that may be of use to ladies wanting to start up in business or have already become self employed. This part of the Leicester Business Women website also gives you a chance to advertise your business events, so this could be your launch party, workshops or just generally an event you may hold. (Also let us know if

you see an event that you think other like minded women may benefit from) Our Latest News section is to keep you up to date and for to inform you of any thing that may be of some use when either start up and when you have registered your business, with information on possible promotion opportunities for example with BBC Radio Leicester, information on market stalls, case studies of our members, our monthly newsletter, tips, hints, information on other organisations and lots more - worth keeping on eye on!!! We have also good links with the HMRC and will be supporting them in their new online E Learning Tool. This will be an ideal way to work your way through starting up your own business, taking into account key factors and a checklist so that you do not miss anything off. It will also be tailored to different sectors which again will help you with that all important information. Here are a few links to our resources pages written by our advisors and trainers: Multi-tasking for Women: Home vs. Work http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/resources-advice/satrting-a-business/starting-up/178-multi-tasking-for-women-home-vs-work-.html Reasons Why You May Not Be Attracting All The Clients You Want! http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/resources-advice/satrting-a-business/starting-up/150-reasons-why-you-may-not-be-attracting-all-the-clients-you-want-.html The Importance of Market Research http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/resources-advice/satrting-a-business/starting-up/177-the-importance-of-market-research.html How to Help Your Business Survive in Tough Economic Times http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/resources-advice/satrting-a-business/starting-up/166-how-to-help-your-business-survive-in-tough-economic-times.html Check Leicester Business Women’s website out today: www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk Skills for Enterprise’s website can access you on information when starting up in business and information on a wide range of online courses such as ECDL, food hygiene, customer service, sales and marketing and relevant information on such things as employment law. Wanting to grow your business then check out our website for information on the packages Skills for Enterprise has to offer on virtual office and room hire. Check out Skills for Enteprise’s website today: www.skillsforenterprise.co.uk

Hey Ladies,

The summer is finally here and it's time for your sandals and summer dresses, so I've put a couple of special offers together to help you look and feel good in the sunshine.

The Summer Glow!

Full Aromatherapy Body Massage plus Aroma Facial - £25

Aroma Spray Tan and Aroma Pedicure - £25

Bring a friend and get 2 Aroma Spray Tans - £30 Usually £20 per person

Dad's Day Off

Father's Day - Deep tissue full body massage - £20

Gift Vouchers also available.

Book Now!! Offer ends June 30th 2012

t: 07905 568 283 e: www.insideoutholistichealthandbeauty.co.uk

find us on facebook http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.142154122515412.29453.142153939182097&type=3

How April 2012 Made A Difference April has been a incredible month for members of the Leicester Business Women Project...

Bali Sangha Jenkins has been extremely busy with her art exhibiting at Leicester’s New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, entitled Let the Music do the Painting. With this Bali was also featured on BBC Radio Leicester and in the Leicester Mercury. See Bali’s article by clicking on the link below: http://www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/Classical-music-inspires-painter-s-brush/story-16040683-detail/story.html

Jacqueline Flanagan also had a press release with the Leicester Mercury’s Business Magazine after successfully registered her business ’Be clutter free with me’ in April. Read Jacqueline's article:

Agrena Mushonga had an interview on air with BBC Radio Leicester to publicise the book launch of her latest book ‘Stories from Africa’. Listen to Agrena’s interview by clicking on the link below: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/p00r7pj3 (Agrena features around half 7pm after the traffic update)

Holding events, being featured in newspapers and being aired on radio are all great ways of publicising your work and new adventures. A huge well done to you ladies!!!

I wonder what May 2012 has to hold for Leicester Business Women members, if there's anything you would like to share please let us know and we will be

happy to let our members know

“In April 2012, one year on from registering as self-employed, my business was featured in the Leicester Mercury Business section. What an

achievement! It was great to have some recognition for all the hard work I've put in, it was a moment to stand back and look at how much I've achieved - so much more than I could have imagined this time last year!” Hannah Myatt of Doe Demure

“Registering my business in April was incredibly liberating! I have gone round and round in circles and felt stress and frustration at not having an outlet for the work that I know I want to do. Now I write my own rules. I have gone from hanging my head like a kicked puppy to

like best in show at Crufts!! I am proud of my work, and that now - I can work how I want to, where I wants to and with how I want to.” Karen Sealey or Pure & Blessed Tarot

“I started using a Website-builder by "Webeden.co.uk" to market my business online in April 2012. That is why April was fantastic for me. I am very proud of myself, even in awe. Boosted my confidence no end in that area. Webeden" is very easy to use. I also completed LBW workshops in April too. And met group of fabulously amazing women and a great coach too. Learned so much it was brilliant! I am glad my cousin urged me to make the call.” Nzinga Wenham of Zinganics

LBE 12LBE 12LBE 12LBE 12 Leicester Business Event is back for a sixth successive year on 11th October at the King Power Stadium, we are pleased to announce that for the second year running, the Federation of Small Businesses will play a key part in the exhibition as one of the LBE12 sponsors. Organised by Hi 2 Events, the event is the region’s premier business to business Trade Show and provides decision makers in the midlands region with inspiration, advice and networking opportunities. The event offers the ideal platform for showcasing new products and services, as well as hearing from entertaining and motivational speakers who will provide advice on a range of business issues. Exhibitors and visitors will also be given the opportunity to pick up vital business tips in the workshops and networking sessions, which will run throughout the exhibition. To register for the event or to book an exhibition stand please visit www.leicesterbusinessevents.co.uk or call 0116 240 2330 or email [email protected]

I have been a member of the FSB for approximately eight years. The FSB is a not for profit organisation which was started back in the 1970’s in order to assist small businesses in the running of their business. As a sole trader I joined the FSB for three main reasons. Firstly, as a right of membership I had both financial assistance and cover if I was investigated by the Inland Revenue for either a Full or an Aspect enquiry. The FSB has fifty barristers and accountants who are specialised in this field and employment law. Should I have need of this service, the FSB liase with my accountant, pay my accountant for the work he would do, and consult with the Inland Revenue on my behalf. At the end of this process, which may take over a year, the FSB accountants usually manage to get any tax owing to the Inland Revenue greatly reduced from the original amount requested and, in some cases have managed to get a refund. If I had to pay my accountant to do this work, the average cost is £2000-£5000. Although I am not registered for VAT or PAYE if I had an investigation for either of these I would also be covered through my membership. Secondly, if I am called for jury service the FSB will give me £100 per day up to a maximum of £1000. These days anyone can be called for jury service, being self employed does not allow you to refuse jury service.

The third reason I joined the FSB was to take advantage of one of the FSB partner benefits, free banking. Free banking is with the Co-operative bank. The Co-op bank use post offices and I can nominate several post offices to use. I bank as many cheques as I wish, write as many cheques as I need, have as many Direct Debits and Standing Orders, internet access and there is no charge. The only restriction is cash. If I have to bank more than £4000 per month, I pay 40 pence per £100. I have never paid this charge. (As long as it is documented there is no reason why you cannot pay yourself in cash). I also receive interest on my credit balance and have a loyalty bonus of £25 every year. In addition, I have a fee-free overdraft facility. The Co-op is also well known for being a highly ethical society. I know some banks give free banking when you first start up in business, but when the free period is over the charges can be a substantial sum. There are many more benefits and advantages to being a member of the FSB. As well as my own business I advise people on membership of the FSB. If you would like more information, please contact me on 07720328418 or look at the website www.fsb.org.uk. Written by Hilary Holmes

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Me


As you are aware and as this newsletter shows the Leicester Business Women has been a huge success, with plenty of stories to tell of women from Leicester who we have helped and supported to start their own businesses and become self employed. Well Skills for Enterprise are now pleased to introduce our new programme for county residents


This excellent new programme has been designed to support your lifestyle incorporating your business into it. This is a four day programme created to get your business up and running! The Leicestershire Business Women programme will cover the following areas:

• Raising your confidence and motivational levels

• The practicalities of business start up

• Developing your focus and determination,

• Working with our team you will develop the action points that you need to start your business confidently

• Become a more confident you - able to approach others and talk about your business confidently

Most importantly, we will support you in getting your business started and put you on the path to a more confident and motivated you.

Here’s a little more about the skills you will be learning:

Day 1 Look at which is the right business structure for you Focus on your vision for the future Put you fears behind you Start putting a plan into place to get started Increase your self confidence

Day 2 Incorporate a whole life plan for you business Develop precise vision for what you want to achieve Begin working towards your business plan Develop tools and techniques towards a plan to suit your audience

Day 3 Develop better understanding of key financial terms Understand and develop your cash flow forecasts, helping you to ascertain when you peak periods will be and what you will be doing in your down time Gain confidence in finance for business Begin preparing yourself for success Work out what your break even point is Also focusing on your profit and loss and calculating your profit margin and mark up

Day 4 How to gain your customers and keep them loyal Begin working towards a details and effective marketing strategy Find out what you are really selling and what does this mean for marketing?

That’s not all we will also be offering you the opportunity to have a one to one business advice appointment with Lou Gimson,

author of the world wide selling book: Making It, Women Entrepreneurs Reveal Their Secrets Of Success

Want to find out more? Contact us today on 0116 251 8730 or email [email protected]

leicesterShire

businesswomen

“Lou was really motivating and it has “Lou was really motivating and it has “Lou was really motivating and it has “Lou was really motivating and it has really helped me. Made me more really helped me. Made me more really helped me. Made me more really helped me. Made me more confident about going ahead confident about going ahead confident about going ahead confident about going ahead

with new business”with new business”with new business”with new business” Bhanu Mistry

“Excellent one to one with Lou Gimson, “Excellent one to one with Lou Gimson, “Excellent one to one with Lou Gimson, “Excellent one to one with Lou Gimson, always achieve a lot in these sessions”always achieve a lot in these sessions”always achieve a lot in these sessions”always achieve a lot in these sessions”

Sarah Johnson of Dancefit Studio

Want to see you business here?

This exciting newsletter will give you the opportunity to advertise and promote directly to our database, all are female and based in Leicester / Leicestershire.

In addition, we have a large partner database who will also receive the newsletter.

Our next edition will be in June, does your business have any special offers / deal or information to share?

Are you holding or attending any events that you think business ladies in

Leicester / Leicestershire may benefit from?

If so, let us know!!

How would you rate Leicester Business Women’s newsletter?

Is there anything you would you like to see featured in our next newsletter? What would you like more / less of?

Leicester Business Women would like to make our newsletters as informative and

exciting to all our members and ladies in Leicester so we would love your feedback.

Contact Leicester Business Women today on 0116 251 8730

If you missed our February, March or April newsletters check them out!

http://www.leicesterbusinesswomen.co.uk/news/800-february-newsletter.html

http://issuu.com/leicesterbusinesswomen/docs/leicester_business_women_newsletter_march_2012_edi

http://issuu.com/leicesterbusinesswomen/docs/

leicester_business_women_newsletter_april_2012_edi

Bursting with relevant business information such as marketing, finance, hints and tips on motivation and confidence as well as information on our FREE Business Lounge,

virtual office service, forthcoming training workshops, networking events, adverts from our members and plenty more!!!