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A few decades ago, thoughts about the future imagined flying cars, androids, space suits and intergalactic travel. Today, thanks to the rapid development of technology, many of these things have come true; others not, but perhaps we are not as far away from seeing them materialise as we think.Therefore, it can be said that the only constant is change itself. This also applies to the way you work and the tools with which we now have to undertake and conduct business. For example in recent years, new, more efficiently run office models arose. This was to assimilate all these changes to meet the needs of users who sought to maximise their performance and make use of available resources.Currently, the lines that are leading the way in working spaces are interdisciplinary collaboration, mobility, connectivity, sustainability and real-time response. Also, gone are the cables to connect to the Internet, the outdated furniture and equipment such as fax, to make way for wireless connections, ergonomic furniture and tablets from where you can conduct business accounting to installing videoconferences and design prototypes.

• First step: the design

Thinking of the future office, your mind travels to places like Google's corporate headquarters. There, employees have the flexibility to work in different areas, according to their personal taste and at their own pace. Although the concept sounds great, not all small businesses or start-ups have a place or budget to replicate the same practises. However, this is no excuse to not be part of the new trend of work.The main, but not exclusive basis should be the design. This refers to more than just furniture. The design of the physical space of every business is not limited to the aesthetics. It should be part of the branding. Positioning your brand is crucial for innovative companies and the design is a large part of a greater message, a constant reminder of who they are and what they represent.Moreover, space has the ability to stimulate conversation, cooperation and creativity. The first important concept in traditional office change came with the creation of the cubicles in 1967. The idea was to isolate workers and create fewer distractions, promoting a more practical, modular space. At that time, it was almost revolutionary, but today is somewhat outdated and limiting.Cubicles, as with many models to which we are accustomed to, are changing or disappearing. Hierarchies and confined spaces will soon be a part of the past. Companies are rethinking the way they grow a community and the context provided for interpersonal connections; the result can be seen in the design of space.Experts agree that transparency should be the key element that defines the new design of offices. For almost all sectors, (except traditional) formality is no longer a priority, which is reflected in the layout. By incorporating walls and glass doors and open spaces, used by any employee regardless of their position, barriers are broken and the flow of ideas is increased. Similarly, open minds are encouraged.This trend also extends to areas designed for customers such as reception or meeting rooms. The detachment between different areas within a company is long gone. Customers value the access to ideas; a traditional lobby evokes nothing.

• Culture Change

Business owners and entrepreneurs have a challenge and also an opportunity to improve their practices, achieve higher growth rates and even save money. For this, it is essential to keep in mind that the concept of the future office does not refer exclusively to the design of space or adding more gadgets as work tools or the latest technology.Yes, more and more companies, especially start-ups are more aware of the individual needs of their employees, because some people work best in private spaces, others prefer to live together and exchange ideas or those who work best when operating from home . An alternative to foster a collaborative work environment are centres of co-working. This is a group of people who do not necessarily work for the same company or project, but share the space, infrastructure and resources.On the other hand, there are virtual offices, which consist of business centres usually located in major corporate areas of cities. In return for a membership and a monthly payment (or contracted service), the user has sales management, package delivery management, a virtual receptionist and secretary, local phone number, mail forwarding address, access to a boardroom, among other features.

• Tailored solutions

Besides co-working spaces and virtual offices that can represent considerable savings in rent and equipment, entrepreneurs also have at their disposal a range of solutions designed to solve many of their basic needs for communication, administration, data storage in the cloud collection systems and mobile cards, among others. The good news is that these providers want their customers to maximise their time and resources, offering flexible schedules and options to order.Before deciding what services to hire, analyse what the requirements of your business are. For example, if you want to be in constant contact with your customers and suppliers, but it is not always possible to be aware of the phone, then perhaps hire a receptionist. This solution allows a fixed number, which can be answered from a landline, mobile and Skype. It operates through the purchase of credits according to user needs.Another key point is to have a permanent Internet connection. To do this, it is best to hire a mobile data plan that you can use on your laptop, tablet or smartphone. Also make use of cloud solutions to always have access to your information and used tools like Google Docs that give you the opportunity to work together remotely and in real time. Just remember to protect your computers with antivirus and firewalls.Also, caring for the environment is not a fad, but a fundamental part of any business strategy. Soon you will notice that in addition to reducing the impact on the planet, it is also a way to save money and attract more customers. Therefore, a good measure is to reduce the amount of paper you use. How to do this? Through the software PrintEco , the format of your impressions are more efficient. It even encourages the use of alternative means of transport such as cycling, installing racks in your workplace or, hires shipping services messaging through bikes.

What is a virtual office?

A virtual office is a space where you can conduct similar activities to those of a physical office. A virtual office often consists of a business mail forwarding address, telephone answering and modern meeting room space. The relationship between people is electronic, performing the work without being in a physical office. The work is done wherever and whenever the person may be connected to the network.Companies that use a virtual office are those seeking a low-risk solution as opposed to investing in a conventional office. Perhaps they want to try new products or service ideas, seek to establish a commercial presence in the place of establishment of the provider, improve their corporate image or seek business support services such as answering service, among others.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a virtual office?

As in all things, the virtual office is no exception and has advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into account when considering if it is a viable option to conduct your business and entrepreneurship from.

• The advantages of a virtual office

A virtual office has several advantages for a company. Among them are:-The savings for installation. Allow savings due to employees working from home.-Work will be more productive in times of contagious illness in the workplace that prevent the transfer of employees. The same applies for employees who would normally commute or use public transport in times of traffic jams, break downs or strikes. All these scenarios are averted because they will be working in their homes without being affected.-Benefits people with mobility difficulties, as they can perform work from the home.-Less installation cost. Companies do not have to have an office with as much space as some workers are elsewhere other than the main office. This reduces the cost of rent and expansion of a common office.-Less cost of equipment. The companies, instead of providing office equipment to each worker, can share much of the equipment.-Formal Network of communication. Because of the need to stay informed and receive instructions, companies are giving more attention to have a communication network, thereby leading to the development of better communication among workers.-Social Contribution. The virtual office allows companies to hire workers who otherwise would have no job opportunities, whether disabled, elderly or parents with young children. This also includes high-value employees geographically located away from the offices of the company.-The Virtual office provides a great opportunity to increase the activities of a company, and thus their productivity while reducing costs.

• The disadvantages of a virtual office

The virtual office also has disadvantages and it is important to know these to consider the risks:-A company that uses virtual office should make sure to provide its employees with the necessary for them to work from home tools. Also, it is important to have an efficient control from established offices and ensure closely monitored telephone calls of employees working remotely. It is important to maintain meetings in order to promote communication and motivation are conducted to carry out the activities.-Sensation of isolation. Having no contact continuously with the other employees of the company, means that they may lose the feeling of being part of a team.-Fear of job loss, decay in the mood, family tension. These disadvantages can bring related motivational and psychological aspects, which is why companies should pay special attention to both the stage of selecting candidates to work as teleworkers (workers in virtual offices), and to support activities, feedback, motivation and communication.

How do you work in a virtual office?

The way you work in a virtual office is very similar to that of a physical office. However, it is important to maintain the following activities:-You must have an address and in turn be responsible for the area, to report on this every day about what each person has worked on in the respective area to which they belong through an activity report.-To keep up with a selection of work and more importantly, meet the objectives and tasks set.-To be engaged in the work involving initiative.-To control the pace of work.-The worker must be connected wherever you are to maintain communication with the central office. In this mode it is known as telecommuting.-There's a person taking on the role of the correspondence, faxes, e-mails, phone calls and visits to call attention.

What characteristics should the personnel working in a virtual office have?

Some of the most important features that personnel working for a virtual office should be:-Responsibility and maturity-Ability to organise-To use initiative-Have a suitable atmosphere and work area at home-Professional temperament-Ability to communicate-Adaptability

What activities are most fit a virtual office?

The activities that most fit a virtual office are:-Sales-Consultancy-Accounting And billing-Software development- Computer Programming-Work Publishers-Journalism and advertising-Teaching and training-MarketingThe virtual office is a step ahead in the use of technology and is definitely an option for the future of business, an alternative for those who have to travel constantly to close agreements. As a result, work and communication becomes more effective.

The world's capital of technology start-ups teach that we must learn to rely on instinct.Successful executives are never guided by the interns. If you want to learn to be the best in a discipline, you must approach the experts. When it comes to successful business, connoisseurs are in the technology industry.The project has gained strength worldwide, but its centre of excellence remains, without doubt, in Silicon Valley. The capital of innovation with regards to investment start-ups created legendary companies such as Apple, Cisco, Facebook, Google, and Intel.Everyday companies like PayPal, Netflix, Uber, Tesla, and Airbnb challenge the status quo, transforming old industries and changing the lives of people in profound ways.If you are interested in establishing, growing, and running a start-up, the best advice you can take is to talk to experts. Here are some lessons to be gained from Silicon Valley.

1.Software is eating the world.

Marc Andreessen, co-founder of Netscape, said it best: the programs are transforming the competitive environment in almost every industry on the planet. The lesson for all to learn when managing start-up programs is to find a partner that you can program.

2.There are no working hours.

If you want to succeed as an entrepreneur, you must be prepared to be aware of your business 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This is the main reason why you should love what you do. Otherwise, you will not survive the brutal schedules, workloads, and the challenges of building a real business.

3.No man is alone.

Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak of Apple, Andy Grove and Gordon Moore of Intel—the world of technology is full of stories of powerful partners and large workgroups. The Solopreneurs rarely achieve the same level of success. You need to support and encourage your partners.

4.You cannot grow without capital.

A common mistake many start-ups and SMEs make is running out of cash. Like many companies, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Alibaba began with little money but soon needed investment to grow. Remember this equation: Passion + investment = start-up founders. Trying to grow your business without enough money, will quickly kill off your ambitions.

5.No one will do anything for you.

You may have a great idea but have zero chance of success unless you get up, get to work, and get your product into the hands of people.

6.The customer experience is sacred.

Consumer satisfaction generates commitment and traction. That is what prompted the growth of Tivo, Uber, and iPhone. It is also where many business opportunities arise. Mac became a successful product thanks to its graphical interface, and the Netscape browser is responsible for the initial success of the Internet.

7.Your first thought is not sacred.

Companies do not always achieve success with their first business idea. Twitter was invented as an alternative product of start-up Odeo. Furthermore, the market research of the internet was highly fragmented when Google decided to take a gamble on AdWords in October 2000. That was what gave them financial success, not the search engine itself.

8. Differentiate or Die.

There is a popular belief that it is easier to make quick business on the Internet with mobile platforms. Sure, the web has equalled the ground, but not just for you. It also improved the chances of other entrepreneurs, so the competition is brutal. Today more than ever, your product must be better than the other options on the market if you want to succeed.

9.Trust your instincts.

Every start-up should focus on one priority at a time. First is to demonstrate the concept, then launch the product, win the audience's attention, and begin to grow. Of course, you must raise capital on the fly, but you must also learn to focus and say no when necessary. That said, when the right opportunity arises, you should be able to recognise and to know how to say yes when necessary.How can you tell the difference between times when you have to slow down and when you must move forward? You have to learn to trust your gut. Behind the success of each start-up is a founding member or two who had the courage to face the unknown and take the leap. That is the essence of a Silicon Valley-style venture.

If you started a small business successfully and are looking for a significant increase in the number of customers or the amount of sales, it means you want to grow your business. There are many ways to do this, but choosing the right way to grow depends on the type of business, available resources, and how much money and time you are willing to invest. Check out the 8 strategies that follow.

1. Open another place

If you feel confident that the current point of sale is under control, consider expansion by opening a new location. Increase outlets and you will expand the number of places where you can sell your products. To increase sales points, you can open new stores or branches, make use of new brokers or dealers, or create new sales channels.

2. Offer your business as a franchise

The model franchise is one of the most successful ways to grow a business. Franchising is a way of doing business, through which a third party is given the right to use a trademark and operate a business. This system will allow you to grow without having to manage a new location. This will help you maximize the time you spend looking for new opportunities and improve your business.

3. Granting the license of your product

This can be an effective and low-cost growth, especially if you have a product or service trademark. Licensing is an agreement between a company that allows another use their trademarks, patents, technology and any other valuable properties. In return, you receive fees for sales of the products or services provided or sold under the license. To find a partner interested in your license, start by researching companies that offer products or services similar to yours.

4. Form an alliance or acquire another business

Two is always better than one. Investigate companies that are similar to yours, or that have deals that are complementary to yours, and consider the benefits of combining forces. Aligning with a type similar to yours can be a powerful way to rapidly expand your company. These partnerships could include agreements to combine resources (financial, human, or technological), functions (production processes or product distribution), share information like market knowledge , share distribution channels or outlets, or customers such as in the case of both companies have different types of products, but similar types of customers, and each company can complement each other’s products.

5. Diversify

Diversification is an excellent strategy for growth, since it allows you to have multiple streams of income that can fill in the gaps of the season and increase sales and profit margins. These are some of the most common forms of diversification:

• Sell ​​complementary products or services
• Teaching on the subject in which you are an expert
• Import or export your products or those of others
• Being a speaker or columnist about your business

6. Address other markets or consumers

In your current market, you are doing well. Are there others? Probably. Use your imagination to determine what other markets or consumers could use your product. Addressing new types of consumers means redirecting your products or services so that they are aimed at different types of markets that they are already attending. It may be necessary to create new products or services, or simply adapt products you already have, so they can also meet the needs or desires of other types of consumers.

7. Seek external markets

To export, a distributor is needed in the foreign country so you can take your product and sell it in their domestic market. You can locate foreign distributors to find out if there is any foreign company in your own city or state with a representative in the United States. Another option is to look for customers who purchase from you directly, for it is the easiest way to create a website and promote your products online. Another way to start exporting is participating in international fairs.

8. Increase advertising

Investment in advertising is another way to grow a business that does not require spending much money. Besides making use of brochures, posters, and cards, participate in trade fairs or give gifts printed with your company name. Remember that the best advertising is word of mouth. A product or service of high quality and excellent customer service will ensure you are always recommended by your customers.Consider advertising on the Internet. Often, customers discover business through a search engine on the web. Make sure your company has a presence on the Internet to maximize their exposure.Our virtual office service can also help boost your business presence, our mail forwarding address in London is a great way of boosting your businesses image. Be sure to contact us if you would like to find out more.

Naturally, you put blood, sweat, and tears into running your business, but equal effort is needed when selling. Potential buyers do not come to your business just because you’ve put up a “For Sale” sign. If you plan on selling your business, be proactive by building a business plan that allows for both start-ups and existing businesses. Keep track of your finances, be objective, and act accordingly.

Follow these 10 steps to sell your business and provide a happy return

Have a clear reason to sell your business

If you've spent years building your business, earned millions of pounds, and want to enjoy your retirement, you're probably in a good position to sell. However, if you're in debt, running out of cash, or simply bored with your business, selling is not your only option. It is recommended that business owners also consider the following: to franchise, develop a society, merge with a similar company to go public, or to obtain a partial retirement.

Know your value

The valuation of your business is a difficult but necessary task when you decide to sell. There is no single formula to accurately determine the value of your business. However, do not judge the fairness of the appraisal based on what you think your business is worth. The value is based on criteria that can be quantified, not on personal calculation of the owner. To obtain an unbiased value, ask a third party specialist to make an evaluation.

Start with time

Selling a business takes several months, and that is if everything is in order. A great deal of planning will be involved in the process. Financial documents, such as a balance sheet and income statements, profitability, open lines of credit, and even personal problems affect both the viability of the sale and the price that the organisation will achieve in the market.

Consider hiring an agent

Some owners are reluctant to hire professional agents to facilitate the sale because they want to save 10% of these individual’s transaction fees. What they do not take into account is that the sales agents may add between 10% and 12% to the sale price. While small companies may be sold directly, some brokers have contacts with buyers that could accelerate the sale of your business or can develop a strategy to negotiate the deal. These agents are usually paid once the sale concludes.

Oversee the entire process

Meet the market. Even if you have an agent, it is important to know the recent sale prices of comparable companies. It controls whether your industry or the economy are about to fall or grow. The growth potential is key to potential buyers, who are interested in investing in an emerging market. Once you have a list of qualified buyers, you have to interview with each of them. Your interaction with potential customers will determine if your company sells.

Put your finances in order

You must have at least the last two years of your audited or reviewed financial statements and tax returns for review by the buyer. Update any pending issues with the lenders as if you hide problems or alter projections, this could affect the confidence of potential buyers. A murky financial picture of your business could ruin the agreement. Learn to set a fair price and keep an objective position at all times.

Respect confidentiality

Determine how your customers are affected. If you think you can lose many customers, you may not want to make the sale public, as it could negatively affect the transaction and the relationship with your team. You have to place the sale of your business in the market with strict confidentiality. If you are looking for a direct sale, advertise in local newspapers, business magazines, and guides to creatively market and focus on a defined group of potential customers.

Tailor your business plan

In this case, the business plan will be "your story," where you'll include the finances of your business, sales, industry projections, recent improvements, new opportunities, and other important aspects of your business. Have you had employees for 10 years? That is a useful sales tool.

Remain in business while preparing the sale

There is no reason to lower the blinds on your business without having secured financing. Take the opportunity to add value to the business. If you have rusty equipment, change it. Sell assets that do not generate income. Do what you need to increase the financial attractiveness of your assets. Selling your business can be an incentive to push harder in the last moments of the operation, which could increase sales, profits, and the selling price.

Transition plans

Many owners are focused on selling and neglect the process of transition that will happen after the deal. Some buyers insist that the former owner remain there for some time to participate in the ownership and management transition.

The UK has a lot of competition in every type of industry. Keeping it in mind, it`s very important to make sure that your company stands out from the copycats and corporate wannabes. But how can you achieve this? The most important thing about brand recognition is content. What are you producing which no one else is? Perhaps you are offering excellent industry insights via company blog, or amazing original graphics and images on the website. Such content draws customers like bees to honey. You have to simultaneously think about how the content which you are creating is protected. After all, what can stop the competitors form copy pasting your content on their website? In this battle of defending your content, the ultimate weapon is copyright protection. But what is copyright protection? And, how it works?

What is copyright protection?

We will cover the basics first. The UK Government says that, copyright is a type of intellectual property protection which automatically applies to the original and creative work from the moment of its creation by a collective or any individual.Unlike trademarks, designs and patents, there is no specific requirement to register or apply for copyright protection. It should also be noted that there is no need of marking original work with copyright symbol in order to protect it. This is because protection in the form of Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 is already available.Having said that, you may find it worthwhile to register the work, in case you have suspicion that someone may try to use your work or claim to it to be their content. As long as you are able to give irrefutable evidence of you being the lawful owner, infringement claims can be easy to resolve resulting in better protection for you work.Any work which has copyright protection should not be performed, distributed, copied or used by anyone other than the owner. Doing so will have legal repercussions. The protection also makes sure that the works are not adapted or replicated – nor are they put on internet without explicit permission of the creator.

What does copyright protect?

Following different types of works are protected by the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988:

• Original literary works – these include song lyrics, manuscripts, articles and manuals.
• Original non-literary works – these include computer software, computer programs, and web content and data bases.
• Works of Art - like design and architecture, photographs, paintings, diagrams, illustrations, logos, cartography and technical drawings.
• Music and sound recordings.
• Dramatic works like dance and plays.
• Television and film recordings.
• Cable programs and Broadcasts.
• Typography of any published literary, musical and dramatic work.

Even if one of your works fit snugly in one of the mentioned categories, it is important to point out that several exemption rules which relate to copyright protection exist.

What are the items exempt from copyright protection?

UK Government issued comprehensive new guidelines which outlined the situations in which it is ok to use someone else`s work. These guidelines were issued in October 2014. According to the lawmakers, the following are usually considered to be exempt from copyright protection:

• Personal copies with purpose of private use: Modernization of copyright act has resulted in allowing the people to make some private copies of different media which they had bought. Copies may be made for different purposes like keeping a backup or format shifting. This means that consumers have the right to transfer their personal CDs into the mp3 player, and copyright law will not be violated.
• Quotation: Law provides freedom for people to quote other peoples work. But it has to look reasonable and fair. Also full attribution should be given. Such replication will not break the law.
• Private Study and Research: It is allowed for individuals to copy films, broadcasts and sound recording for research without getting the permission from holder of copyright.
• Data-mining and Text: Changes in copyright law have resulted in individuals being enabled to copy items for purpose of analysis on computer. The exemption is only applicable for non-commercial purposes.
• Caricature, pastiche or parody: A limited and reasonable use of creative work is allowed for entertainment purposes. A good example can be, use of several lines from a song in its parody sketch. It will not violate the copyright law.
• Training or education: Teachers can use content by displaying or copying, for the purposes of education.
• Preservation and Archiving: Recently law was changed in order to make it easy for the libraries, museums and archives to preserve collections. They can copy all the creative works which they have in their collection, with the goal of preserving it for future.
• Accessible formats for disabled individuals: Many changes have been made in order to provide access to disabled individuals. They are allowed making one copy of the copyright works for personal use by a disabled person. It is also allowed for charities to make copies for disabled people.
• Public administration: It is permitted for the public bodies to share online some third party materials which have copyright protection. The most common item will usually be information which is sent by a business for purposes of maintaining a public register.

You can read the UK Government`s complete briefing on exemptions related to copyright, in order to be sure regarding use of your work under mentioned circumstances.

How long does copyright protection last?

There is a different duration of protection for different types of work. It also depends on the date of creation of work.

• Artistic works: Artistic, literary, musical and dramatic works enjoy protection of 70 years after death of creator or author.
• Sound recordings: They are protected for 50 years after creation.
• Broadcasts: They have a protection of 50 years after the first broadcast.
• Films: Movies and films have a protection of 70 years after the last death of the author of screenplay, author of dialogue, composer of music made for the film or the principal director.
• Typographical arrangements: Such content has a protection of 25 years after the initial publication

Is copyright protected worldwide?

Different countries have different types of copyright laws. However, a minimum level of protection exists as a result international conventions like the Berne convention. The owners of intellectual property in any of the countries which are party to Bern Convention enjoy the same protection and rights which are agreed in the convention. The owners also enjoy the protection offered by the laws of the individual countries.

How can I stop people from using my work?

You, yourself are responsible for defending the copyright infringement of your materials. You can take some steps, if you believe that someone is using your work without your permission. First, thing you should do is to check if the person or organization who is using your content has the license to do so, or if they have applied for the license. You can check this on the official license register of the Government. It contains all the creative works which are orphaned, meaning their owners could not be identified. It often happens that people apply for the license, if they want to use a protected work, but they are unable to find the copyright holder.In case there is an application for your work:

• You can seek to have the application stopped.
• You can claim to get license fee which was paid.

If the work is not on register, you should contact the individual who is using the content and tell him that the work is your property. You can tell them to stop the use, or provide them with written permission for the use of work. You can take legal action in case they don`t stop using your work despite your disapproval.

Can I license or sell my copyright?

Being owner of the copyright, you are entitled to license the use of your work. You also have the right to sell or transfer the copyright to anyone else. You will be required to register the work with some licensing body before being able to license it to allow someone else using it.The licensing body will be collecting the royalties on your behalf and you will be able to control how the work is used. In case you want to sell or transfer your copyright, you should make a document which will serve as evidence of the transfer or sale.

Can I copyright a company name?

No, unfortunately names cannot be copyright protected. However, you may be able to copyright a design or an artistic logo which has your companies name on it. The ideal way to protect the name of your business is to get it incorporated as a limited company with the Companies House. It will prevent people from registering a company with that name. You may also protect your companies name by getting it registered as trademark.

Every organisation needs a leader and each leader has their own style of management. What defines leadership? We all have in mind the qualities and skills needed to be a leader and are almost always rigged to a particular style of exercise that encompasses leadership. Among the most repeated include communication skills to convey confidence, determination, commitment, proximity, passion or responsibility.

Negative leadership styles

Ultimately, each leader has to find their own style a - the key in any case goes through to find a style that works best for you. However, the five that follow are generally those that do not succeed.

Micromanagement

It is easy to fall into micromanagement, a style that is characterised by absolute control of what happens in your work environment. It is something to be avoided because it means extra pressure for the employee, a cut in their autonomy, is against empowerment and a very inefficient method of facing major tasks.The problem with micromanagement is that it is not always easy to distinguish the line between what is active and helpful support and what is not. However, there are other signs that will help you realise whether or not you're a micromanager:

• You have difficulty delegating tasks, even in people who you consider competent
• You indulge in additional projects and agree to perform tasks that cannot be developed
• Lose time correcting small mistakes and lose the overview of the project
• You are on your employees backs and want to know what they do at all times

If you see yourself reflected in these attitudes, not sporadically, but overall, maybe you should review your management style.

The absolutist

A leader is responsible for setting the course of the ship and the direction to be taken by the team, but should also be open to proposals from the pack. A common mistake is to fall into a kind of absolutism, in which the vision and direction are Law.Authority is required in the company because it creates respect in the workplace, but it should never come at the expense of silencing the rest of the employees. The leader will always have the last word, but it should address the proposals of the group to make them see that their opinion matters and make them feel part of the company, increasing their productivity.In any case, it is impossible for one person to control everything that happens in the company. In this sense, there is nothing worse than making a decision on an issue that is unknown.

The softest

On the opposite side we find leaders that are too lax, that do not establish rules or supervision. They may struggle in making sure that everyone works in the same direction and that the company communicates the goals accordingly. Without this direction, a team can have great ideas, but nothing on which to align, consolidate and unify them under one criterion.Flexibility is important in the business, but everything has its limits.

The "I can do it all"

In this case we find a variant of micromanagement, only aggravated also because the leader will want to take care of all tasks. One of the first things you should do is learn to delegate leaders.The advantages of not doing everything on your own are obvious: you release workload to the team and you make sure that everything is done as you intended. However, if you want to go further, you will also let others take responsibility to grow as a team. Remember, the more you work with other people, the further you`ll grow in these environments.

The rigidity

Consistency in itself is positive, but taken so far can be very harmful for the company and for your development as a leader. One of the most common mistakes is often to draw a mental picture of the way forward and stick to it no matter what, through thick and thin, regardless of your surroundings. This is a recipe for disaster.A good leader must be able to understand that their management style must adapt to new situations and environments.You can read more on our business blog for more helpful articles, if you found this a good read you can read more in our "tips and advice" section.

Business consultancy is a global phenomenon, but a lack of understanding of online technologies could be holding some consultants back. How can business leaders use the internet to share their knowledge effectively with an international audience?Business knowledge can of course be shared through e-books, on websites, or in pre-recorded online videos or courses. However, online tuition defined as synchronous (live) tuition provided by a human tutor over the internet to one or more students is another option.Insights into using the online medium for business consultancy can come from the world of private tuition. A recent survey by The Tutor Pages of around 400 tutors found that online tuition was a highly appropriate medium for adult learners: that improved learning was more likely among adults compared to children, and that it was easier to establish rapport online with adults. Moreover, the tutors surveyed reported that they were experiencing higher demand for tuition among adult learners.

What does online tuition involve?

Online tuition usually involves text chat, audio or video (for example through Skype). It can also involve:

• an online whiteboard (an online workspace where text, graphs and images can be shared in real time). Examples: Scribblar, Google Docs
• video conferencing (which combines video and/or audio chat, screen-sharing, file sharing, session recording and online whiteboards). Examples: Gotomeeting, Webex
• a virtual classroom (similar to video conferencing, but with an education focus). Examples: WizIQ, Blackboard Collaborate
• online tuition agencies (which charge commission for sourcing students and providing a virtual classroom). Example: Tutorhub, MyTutorWeb
• online payment technology. Example: Paypal
• asynchronous elements (such as emailing or sending back completed assignments)

The simplicity of online tuition

One of the surprising findings of The Tutor Pages` survey was just how simple online tuition can be. Most tutors (over 80%) were using the video technology Skype, no doubt because it is a quality product, it is free to use, and a communication tool which most people are familiar with. Payment was also extremely simple for most tutors: the vast majority were using either bank transfer or Paypal.

Benefits and challenges

Online tuition is of course not the same as imparting knowledge face-to-face. However, there are a number of obvious advantages. With no need to travel, it is not only more convenient than in-person tuition, it is less expensive. Tutors also report that it is a more flexible option sessions can be shorter and more frequent, for example and it is perhaps the greener option too.There are particular challenges, however, with online learning. Most obviously, it is harder to build rapport online. In face-to-face encounters, we instinctively pick up on non-verbal cues such as body language, posture, facial expression and tone of voice. Detecting and responding to these cues is indeed harder online. Some tutors also report that interacting online is more intense or concentrated, and that more preparation is required. Finally, there are the technological issues associated with online learning, such as connection problems or broadband speeds.

Future outlook

As technology improves and more and more people get used to the idea of online learning sharing expertise of all kinds through online tuition will increase. Many of those who already tutor online are convinced of its benefits, and many more are willing to try it to further their tutoring or consultancy businesses.To read The Tutor Pages survey report on online tuition in full, visit www.thetutorpages.com/online-tuition

It was in the summer of 2014 when the Internet users around the world suddenly realised that their data online were not immune to risks. Risque photos of Rihanna, Kate Upton, Selena Gomez, Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lawrence, Emma Watson, Kirsten Dunst and other celebrities, began to circulate through the network completely unopposed. Taking advantage of a hole in the security system of Apple passwords, the hackers had gained access to private files stored in the Cupertino company iCloud service, to seize and disseminate such images on the Internet.It was not the first time. In 2011 Scarlett Johansson was thrust in the worldwide media about selfies that had been done in her bathroom. It was by no means the only case. Just a month and a half later the same thing happened again: More stolen public photos emerged from the "cloud" of celebrities. In total sixty were affected, according to the list published by Daily Dot.The fact is that this has cast doubt on the safety of the service from Apple, although there were those who insinuated it was all a publicity stunt. Either way, we now know for sure that if we decide to have the cloud, we have to take security measures to prevent our sensitive data (bank account number, private email, phone numbers etc.) ending up in the hands of digital criminals.But is it possible to protect a hack? Before this is answered, we have to take a step back, because it can be dangerous to take things for granted. When a file is put on the net, there are certain issues that must be considered. A huge number of people use the cloud to store their files - in 2012, 86% of companies used it, according to a study by VB News - and had access to them at any time, without overloading their hard disk.This is an amazing system, especially if we consider that the cloud services usually provide sufficient protection. Whenever you deliver a document or a photo to iCloud, to the Drive or Dropbox, however, we must note that we are raising our data to a server, i.e. a computer. Unfortunately, security systems are not insurmountable, and the criminals are always on the lookout, prepared to take advantage of minor faults.How to protect yourself, then? Is it possible to prevent the risk of someone else taking your documents? The obligatory premise is that nobody and nothing can be absolutely sure if you surf the net, although we can do something to minimise risks. Here are some simple rules that let you gain a level of digital security.

Encrypt your files

Rule number one - cloud security: Always protect your data using complex passwords, as these are difficult to guess. If your data storage service offers authentication options, use it; if it has two-factor authentication, even better. If you have available locally encryption, please use it.

If you do not want to share it ... do not put it up!

Rule number two - ask yourself before you save a file to the cloud: If it was a paper document, would you give it to a stranger, or in an envelope? If the answer is "no", you know what you have to do with the pin of the bank account, for example. Be extra vigilant about what you are releasing into the cloud, just in case and if it is too sensitive, then perhaps it isn`t the best idea sharing it.

Always close your session

The third and last part relates to your behaviour when you turn off the computer. It is not enough to close the browser, because the session can remain open for the next user to view. You have to log out using the "Exit", "close" or "logout" buttons, especially if used on a shared computer, and in this specific case, it is better to clear the cache and chronology too.

The current market scenario is moving at a rapid pace and requires businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to have an impressive capacity for innovation and adaptation. If they merge these elements, their stay in the market will be virtually guaranteed; if they fail the mission, then failure is imminent.In a process like this, the human factor plays a key role because their skills, talent and willingness depend on corporate development.SME`s require passionate, committed and staff that are willing to work together to hold a world full of opportunities, where technology has become a detonator of new success stories.Therefore, the strategic thinking of SMEs must not only concentrate on operating the business and the consolidation of a sound financial structure, but also in attracting talent that will match your needs and goals.

Analysts assert that SMEs should consider the following topics:

1. Structuring systems with full awareness. These economic units have to define the structures and systems that enable them to fulfil their goals. From them, they must guide their search for talent.2. Create job profiles. The SMEs have to identify the characteristics, knowledge and attitudes that every area of the business demands. For example, look for staff to monitor and manage corporate finance; talent to ensure technological efficiency of the company or to develop marketing activities.3. Make a market survey on wages. The SME must identify what type of salary offered by their rivals. Based on that information, they should create competitive wage plans.4. Think about professional development programs. It is essential that SMEs develop programs such as these so that their partners can grow and move up.5. Find ideal candidates. Getting the best talent is the next step. To achieve this, SMEs have to prepare thoroughly their interviews and get the information they need about the tastes, experience and attitude of the candidates.6. Provide a great welcome. After weighing up the interviews and references of the applicants, and chosen your new employees, the task of SMEs is to give an excellent welcome. This includes giving a good induction process, where new workers are familiar with the productive activities and corporate business image.

Strategies for retaining talent in SMEs

Due to the corporate inexperience of SMEs, the learning curve to grow and the economic challenges they face in their first years of life will test their ability to deliver high-quality jobs and retain their talent.HR specialists explain that, despite the difficulties, SMEs have other alternatives to keep their employees build lasting relationships with them and keep the evolution process of corporate assets; all this without large cash charges.Among the options available to SMEs to retain their talent and provide a sense of belonging include the following:1. Personal Recognition. Experts in coaching and human development indicate that to communicate the value of their team`s work will directly affect their mood and conviction to achieve objectives. For employees, it is constructive and encouraging that they really matter to their leaders.2. Rewards. SMEs can also endorse its commitment to its employees through small actions such as the allocation of free afternoons, the realisation of recreation, outdoor work and so on.3. Training programs. Investment in the personal and professional growth of the human factor is an excellent mechanism for them to be loyal and increase productivity.Training solutions, both onsite and virtual, have adapted to the needs of SMEs, making them both affordable and practical.4. Relaxation of time schedules. Today, employees look comprehensively to balance their personal life with work, a trend that SMEs cannot underestimate. These economic units should analyse the qualities of its employees and the significance of their activities; they can perform management schedules that are mutually beneficial.