Gen Z business founders are launching UK businesses in record numbers, but many are falling into common traps: poor planning, cashflow mistakes, and pricing errors. This article explores the latest findings from the Markel Direct UK survey and outlines how UKBA advisors can offer tailored support to help young entrepreneurs turn ideas into impact.
Thames Valley
What If AI Doesn’t Get Much Better Than This?
AI progress may be slowing, but today’s tools still matter. This article explains why SMEs should ignore the hype and focus on purposeful adoption that improves customers, staff capacity and results.
“Orders Are Optional”: How SME Leaders Can Harness Generational Differences for Stronger Teams
Today’s SMEs often have four generations working together, and leaders can’t assume one style fits all. Generational differences can cause friction, but with emotional intelligence and conscious team design, they become strengths.
Where Technical Documents Meet Savile Row
Bespoke documentation boosts user satisfaction, reduces errors, and strengthens your product’s reputation. This article explores how tailoring content to each audience — and choosing the right medium — can make your manuals as effective as a Savile Row suit.
Stop Selling, Start Solving: How to Discover What Your Prospect Really Values
Most sales pitches fail because they jump to the solution before understanding the problem. This article explores how SMEs can improve conversion rates by uncovering what prospects truly value — through needs, desires, and wants.
When Bonuses Bite Back: How Poor Incentives Undermine Performance
When Bonuses Go Wrong: Smart Incentive Design for SME Success
Incentives are powerful but poorly designed ones can hurt more than help. From the infamous Cobra Effect to modern business backfires, this article explores how to build reward schemes that drive sustainable results, teamwork and performance. Essential reading for any SME leader designing bonus structures.
Unlocking Innovation Through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs)
KTPs offer a powerful way for UK businesses to innovate, bringing academic expertise and skilled graduates into real-world projects. But the process is complex. This article explains what KTPs offer, where the challenges lie and how experienced advisors help SMEs make the most of this strategic opportunity.
Time is just a wrapper. Why SME leaders should measure outcomes, not hours
Time is easy to track—but it’s not what drives success. This article explains why SME leaders must stop measuring effort and start demanding outcomes, especially when working with advisors or consultants. Results matter more than hours, and value is what counts.
What Google’s Decline Teaches SMEs About Choosing Digital Partners
Google’s fall from grace offers more than just tech gossip—it’s a warning for SME leaders who depend on big-name digital providers. This article unpacks Om Malik’s critique and explains why smaller, more responsive service partners may offer better long-term value.