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How to start a small business and set it up for success
By Accountant Calgary
Starting a small business can be a rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and the right strategies to succeed. From creating a solid business plan to organizing finances and finding the right support, this guide will help you establish a foundation for a thriving business. For entrepreneurs in Calgary, key resources like reliable bookkeeping services can make a significant difference. Here’s how to start a small business and set it up for lasting success. Developing a business plan A clear, well-researched business plan serves as a roadmap for your business. It outlines your goals, target market, competitive advantage, and financial projections. This plan will also help attract investors or secure loans. To create an effective business plan: Define your mission and vision: Explain why your business exists and what you aim to achieve. Identify your target audience: Determine who your customers are and what problems your business will solve for them. Analyze competitors: Study your competitors to understand what they offer and find ways to differentiate your business. Set realistic financial projections: Estimate costs, revenue, and profits. This will give potential investors confidence in your business. Choosing a business structure Selecting the right business structure is essential, as it affects your taxes, liability, and daily operations. Common options include: Sole proprietorship: Simple to set up, with minimal paperwork, but offers no separation of personal and business liability. Partnership: Ideal for two or more owners, allowing shared responsibilities, but partners share liabilities. Corporation: Provides liability protection, but involves more paperwork and regulatory requirements. LLC (Limited Liability Company): Offers liability protection without the complexity of a corporation. Choose a structure that best suits your needs, and consult a legal professional to ensure compliance with Calgary’s business regulations. Securing funding Most small businesses require some level of funding to get started. Consider various financing options to find the best fit: Personal savings or family support: Often the first source of funding for many entrepreneurs. Business loans: Many banks offer small business loans with varying interest rates. Grants and government programs: Explore government grants and programs specifically designed to support small businesses in Calgary. Angel investors or venture capital: For businesses with high growth potential, attracting investors may be an option. Registering your business To operate legally, you’ll need to register your business. This process involves choosing a unique name, filing the necessary documents, and obtaining a business license in Calgary. You may also need specific permits depending on your industry. Completing these steps ensures that your business complies with all local regulations. Organizing your finances Managing finances effectively is crucial for any small business. Accurate bookkeeping keeps your business organized, tracks income and expenses, and prepares you for tax season. Many small businesses in Calgary choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to handle these responsibilities, allowing owners to focus on growth. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can provide: Accurate financial records: Professional bookkeepers help maintain up-to-date records, which is essential for financial health. Compliance with tax laws: Calgary’s best bookkeeping services are familiar with local tax regulations, ensuring that you file correctly and on time. Insights for decision-making: With accurate records, you can make informed decisions on budgeting, spending, and investments. Creating a strong brand identity Building a brand that resonates with your target audience is essential. Your brand identity includes your business name, logo, colors, and messaging, as well as the experience you offer customers. Developing a consistent brand identity sets you apart from competitors and builds trust with customers. Here are some steps to create a strong brand identity: Design a logo and visual theme: Choose a professional logo, color scheme, and design elements that reflect your brand’s personality. Develop a unique brand voice: Whether it’s friendly, professional, or playful, keep your brand voice consistent in all communications. Focus on customer experience: Aim to provide exceptional service that keeps customers coming back and sharing their positive experiences. Building an online presence In today’s digital world, an online presence is crucial for reaching potential customers. Start by creating a professional website where customers can learn more about your products or services. Next, consider establishing a presence on social media platforms that suit your audience. Key components of a strong online presence include: User-friendly website: Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and includes essential information about your business. Social media profiles: Engage with customers and share updates on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Google My Business: Setting up a Google My Business profile helps customers in Calgary find you more easily. Building a support network Running a small business can be challenging, and having a network of support is invaluable. Surround yourself with people who can provide advice, resources, and encouragement. Consider these ways to build a support network: Join local business associations: Groups like the Calgary Chamber of Commerce offer networking opportunities, resources, and workshops. Seek mentorship: Experienced business owners can offer guidance and insights that help you avoid common pitfalls. Hire professionals for specialized tasks: For financial and legal matters, work with professionals like accountants, lawyers, and bookkeepers. Tracking progress and making adjustments As your business grows, it’s essential to review your progress and adjust your strategies. Regularly assessing financial performance, customer feedback, and market trends can help you refine your approach and stay competitive. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can make tracking your financial performance much easier, giving you insight into profit margins, cash flow, and budgeting. Consider these strategies for tracking progress: Set measurable goals: Establish specific goals for growth, such as revenue targets or customer acquisition numbers. Analyze performance data: Use financial statements, sales reports, and customer feedback to assess performance. Stay flexible: Be willing to make changes to products, services, or marketing strategies if they aren’t meeting customer needs. Conclusion Starting a small business takes effort, planning, and ongoing management. By creating a solid business plan, organizing your finances, and developing a strong brand, you can set your business up for success. In Calgary, many new business owners choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to ensure accurate financial management and stay compliant with local regulations. Taking advantage of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can free up your time, allowing you to focus on growing your business and achieving long-term success. With dedication and the right strategies, your small business can thrive in today’s competitive market.
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Show all 10426Managing Neurodivergence in the Workplace
By Emergent Learning
As workplaces seek to become more deliberate in enabling inclusivity, managers play a vital role in shaping environments where neurodivergent team members can succeed.
IT Cyber Security Engineer – Job Ready Programme Enrol in Our IT Cyber Security Engineer – Job Ready Programme with Career Support! Gain access to 3,000+ online courses and earn Free Certificates to showcase your skills and boost your career potential. Step into the high-demand world of cyber security with a comprehensive programme designed for the UK job market. Master critical areas like penetration testing, secure cloud architecture, AI-powered threat detection, and GDPR compliance—skills that can lead to roles earning up to £95,000 a year. As UK businesses face £27 billion in cybercrime losses annually, the demand for skilled IT Cyber Security Engineers has never been greater. Whether you're changing careers or upskilling, this course equips you with in-demand expertise in threat intelligence, cryptography, and secure coding. Become the digital defence every company needs. Start your journey toward a resilient and rewarding career in cyber security today. Professional Diploma in IT Cyber Security Engineer – 25 Core Courses – Course 01: Cyber Security Online Course: DOSS and DDOS – Course 02: Cyber Security Training: Incident Handling & Response – Course 03: Security Threat Management – Course 04: Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) – Course 05: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Course 06: CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP) – Course 07: Computer Network Security Complete Training – Course 08: CyberSec First Responder: Threat Detection and Response [QLS Level 7] – Course 09: Bash Scripting and Shell Programming for Beginners – Course 10: Ethical Hacking Masterclass – Course 11: CompTIA PenTest+ Ethical Hacking Course – Course 12: BlackArch Linux: Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing – Course 13: Ultimate Linux Security and Hardening Training – Course 14: The Complete Python Hacking Course: Beginner to Advanced! – Course 15: SQL Database Basics – Course 16: CompTIA Network+ Certification (N10-008) – Course 17: CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Course – Course 18: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Course – Course 19: CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601) – Course 20: CompTIA Cloud+ CV0-002 Course – Course 21: Cisco CCENT/CCNA Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 – Course 22: Cisco CCNA Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2) Training – Course 23: Cisco ASA Firewall Training with Step-by-Step Lab Workbook – Course 24: FortiGate Firewall Training Step-by-Step Lab Workbook – Course 25: Palo Alto Firewall Training with Step-by-Step Lab Workbook Job Readiness & Career Development Training (Complementary) – Course 01: Career Development Training – Course 02: Effective CV Writing – Course 03: CV Writing and Interview Tricks – Course 04: Ace the Interview – Interview Prep That Makes a Difference – Course 05: Job Search Skills – Course 06: Effective Communication Skills for Professionals – Course 07: Boost Your Confidence, Assertiveness – Course 08: Body Language Secrets – Course 09: Coaching and Mentoring – Course 10: Presentation Skills – Present like a Pro – Course 11: Public Speaking Course – Course 12: Project Management Training – Course 13: Leadership & Management – Course 14: Negotiation and Agreement Training – Course 15: Workplace Equality & Diversity – Course 16: Professional Development and Personal Well-being – Course 17: Emotional Intelligence and Human Behaviour – Course 18: Time Management: Step By Step Training – Course 19: Cross-Cultural Awareness – Course 20: Productivity Boosting – Course 21: Critical Thinking & Problem Solving – Course 22: Perfect LinkedIn Profile Creation – Course 23: Resume Writing Skills & Job Search With LinkedIn – Course 24: Email Writing – Course 25: Learn Microsoft Word, PowerPoint & Outlook In 90 Minutes!
This is an International Driver CPC - 7hours course - Rules of the Road & Customer Service and it is suitable for LGV & PCV and will cover: Requirements, Speed Limits, SMART Motorways, Highway Code, Road Signs, Bridge Strikes, Mobile Phones, Sat-Navs, Traffic Accident Procedures, Company & Driver Image, Who Customers Are and What They Want, Communication Skills, Giving Good Customer Service. All courses start at 07:45 hrs and finish at 15:45 hrs All courses are 8 hours long with included 2 breaks of 15 minutes and a lunch break of 30 minutes. Approval: This course is registered with JAUPT as approved for Driver CPC qualification. Course Approval Number: ICRS24736/475. On completion of the course, all attendees will receive a certificate of attendance. Please note repeat courses are not accepted by DVSA and by joining this course you confirm that you are aware of the modules covered by you and certify that, if you have covered these before you are happy to repeat the modules due to needing further education on the subject.
The UK's first and only Level 4 qualification in Phlebotomy (equivalent to Ireland Level 6) FDSc (Foundation Degree Level) qualification Nationally Recognised certificate Dually accredited: Open College Network and CPD Covers both aspirated and evacuated systems Covers specialised blood collection systems & methods Classroom or Virtual Classroom learning options Comprehensive Training Kit is provided when booking our Virtual Classroom option (yours to keep) Complete your training from beginner to advanced level This course either follows on from our Introduction to Phlebotomy Course or can be combined with our introductory course as part of a course package (see below) Available to candidates who have completed (or are currently enrolled to complete) our Introduction to Phlebotomy Course or have previous phlebotomy practical experience.
Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) treatments Nationally Recognised Qualification No previous experience or qualifications needed Open College Network Accreditation Level 4 (as required for minimally invasive procedures) Covers standards set by HEE Employed (salon) or Self-Employed opportunities Basic understanding of English language required OPEN TO ALL APPLICANTS
Assisting patients at the end of their life's journey ... Nationally Recognised Qualifications Accredited OCN Credit4Learning - Level 3 Accredited CPD (The CPD Certification Service) Expand your horizons to include this specialised area of caring Comprehensively covers end of life and terminal patient care skills Includes support and reference material to download and keep No previous experience or qualification needed Download a certificate on completion of your online course
Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) 5 day course
By SMC Safety Solutions
This five-day course is a must for anyone who is considering or already working in a role with site manager responsibilities. This course covers all relevant legislation affecting safe working in the building, construction, and civil engineering industries. It is endorsed by Build UK as the standard training for all construction managers. Aims To give a clear understanding of health, safety, welfare, and environmental legislation that affects your management role. It highlights the need for risk assessment in the workplace, the implementation of the necessary control measures and adequate communication to sustain a health and safety culture within the workforce. Course Content To give a clear understanding of health, safety, welfare, and environmental legislation that affects your management role. It highlights the need for risk assessment in the workplace, the implementation of the necessary control measures and adequate communication to sustain a health and safety culture within the workforce. Course Content • Health, safety, welfare and environmental legislation affecting your daily work • New guidance and industry best practice • Duties and responsibilities with regards to health, safety, welfare, and the environment • Safe working Prerequisites This course is for you if you’re considering, or already have management responsibilities for planning, organising, monitoring, controlling and administering groups of staff e.g. site manager. Assessment At the end of this course, all delegates will have a clear understanding of controlling health and safety on site from a manager’s role. Certificate The certification for this course is valid for 5 years and is endorsed by Build UK as a standard training for all site managers. To remain certified in this area, you will need to take a refresher course before the expiry date on your certificate, otherwise the full course will need to be retaken. Instructions Please note all online Site Management Safety Training Scheme courses with the venue “Online” will be delivered by a tutor over a video call. This training will be delivered and assessed in English language; therefore, a good standard is required to complete the course. Further attendee information will be sent in a separate email, please check your inbox.
Want to get started in healthcare? A beginner's course and first step onto the healthcare career ladder Nationally Recognised Qualification Accredited with Open College Network OCN Credit4Learning Level Three Certificate (advanced) Ideal for healthcare assistants / carer positions Essential home practical caring skills Comprehensively covers fundamental care skills Includes support and reference material to keep Easy to follow and fun to learn Ideal for freelancer carers No previous experience or qualification needed Download a certificate on completion of your online course OPEN TO ALL APPLICANTS
Boost your Confidence and Tackle Imposter Mindset
By Samina Arshad
Travel and Parking arrangements: Paid parking is available (attendees are responsible for paying parking fees) From New St Station, follow signs to Moor St station. When you get to Moor St, go down the hill to the side of the station towards the multi-storey car park. At the car park, go left under the railway bridge. Immediately after the railway bridge turn right onto Shaw's passage, which is quite short. We're on the corner at the end of Shaws Passage - walk round the corner onto Allison Street and past the Cafe to the full glass door with the Birmingham Friends of the Earth hanging sign.
