390 Professional Development courses in Cheltenham

How to protect your cash flow In the current economic climate more and more companies are finding that their customers are taking longer to pay - or are not even paying at all. As cash flow is key to the survival of any business, effective debt collection tactics are vital for all businesses. This workshop concentrates on the telephone skills and techniques you can use to achieve the most positive outcome in any debt collection situation - payment of money owed, as soon as possible, whilst keeping the collection cost as low as possible. The course will help you: Understand your debtors and communicate with them accordingly Develop a strategy for more effective debt collection Make every call count Handle difficult calls Reduce the amount of time you need to spend on chasing payment Increase your collection rates 1 The debt collection process Understanding the reasons behind payment default Looking at the debt situation from the customer's point of view Developing a strategy for effective debt collection 2 Advanced telephone communication skills Techniques for speaking to the person responsible for paying the debt How to gain the customer's trust when discussing debt Telephone collection skills best practice Key phrases that keep the conversation positive and open 3 Questioning and listening skills for gathering information Different types of question Using high-gain questions to uncover key information Active listening that will help you understand what customers are really saying Leading with examples and high-impact questions Summarising and restating 4 Overcoming objections and excuses Identifying objections Preparing suitable responses Probing objections and ways to overcome them 5 Gaining commitment and ending the call Learn how to negotiate an agreement to suit both parties Summarising actions for you and the customer Ending the call professionally 6 Dealing with difficult and challenging situations Understand different personality types The correct way to respond to an upset customer Ways to calm angry customers (and handle verbal attacks) 7 Action plans Course summary and presentation of action plans

This is not a single course but a set of menu options from which you can 'pick and mix' to create a draft programme yourself, as a discussion document which we can then fine-tune with you. For a day's training course, simply consider your objectives, select six hours' worth of modules and let us do the fine-tuning so that you get the best possible training result. Consider your objectives carefully for maximum benefit from the course. Is the training for new or experienced credit control staff? Are there specific issues to be addressed within your particular sector (eg, housing, education, utilities, etc)? Do your staff need to know more about the legal issues? Or would a practical demonstration of effective telephone tactics be more useful to them? Menu Rather than a generic course outline, the expert trainer has prepared a training 'menu' from which you can select those topics of most relevance to your organisation. We can then work with you to tailor a programme that will meet your specific objectives. Advanced credit control skills for supervisors - 1⁄2 day Basic legal overview: do's and don'ts of debt recovery - 2 hours Body language in the credit and debt sphere - 1⁄2 day County Court suing and enforcement - 1⁄2 day Credit checking and assessment - 1 hour Customer visits and 'face to face' debt recovery skills - 1⁄2 day Data Protection Act explained - 1⁄2 day Dealing with 'Caring Agencies' and third parties - 1 hour Debt counselling skills - 2 hours Elementary credit control skills for new staff - 1⁄2 day Granting credit and collecting debt in Europe - 1⁄2 day Identifying debtors by 'type' to handle them accurately - 1 hour Insolvency: Understanding bankruptcy / receivership / administration / winding-up / liquidation / CVAs and IVAs - 2 hours Late Payment of Commercial Debts Interest Act explained - 2 hours Liaison with sales and other departments for maximum credit effectiveness - 1 hour Suing in Scottish Courts (Small Claims and Summary Cause) - 1⁄2 day Telephone techniques for successful debt collection - 11⁄2 hours Terms and conditions of business with regard to credit and debt - 2 hours Tracing 'gone away' debtors (both corporate and individual) - 11⁄2 hours What to do if you/your organisation are sued - 1⁄2 day Other topics you might wish to consider could include: Assessment of new customers as debtor risks Attachment of Earnings Orders Bailiffs and how to make them work for you Benefit overpayments and how to recover them Cash flow problems (business) Charging Orders over property/assets Credit policy: how to write one Council and Local Authority debt recovery Consumer Credit Act debt issues Using debt collection agencies Director's or personal guarantees Domestic debt collection by telephone Exports (world-wide) and payment for Emergency debt recovery measures Education Sector debt recovery Forms used in credit control Factoring of sales invoices Finance Sector debt recovery needs Third Party Debt Orders (Enforcement) Government departments (collection from) Harassment (what it is - and what it is not) Health sector debt recovery skills Hardship (members of the public) Insolvency and the Insolvency Act In-house collection agency (how to set up) Instalments: getting offers which are kept Judgment (explanation of types) Keeping customers while collecting the debt Late payment penalties and sanctions Letter writing for debt recovery Major companies as debtors Members of the public as debtors Monitoring of major debtors and risks Negotiation skills for debt recovery Old debts and how to collect them Out of hours telephone calls and visits Office of Fair Trading and collections Oral Examination (Enforcement) Pro-active telephone collection Parents of young debtors Partnerships as debtors Positive language in debt recovery Pre-litigation checking skills Power listening skills Questions to solicit information Retention of title and 'Romalpa' clauses Sale of Goods Act explained Salesmen and debt recovery Sheriffs to enforce your judgment Students as debtors Statutory demands for payment Small companies (collection from) Sundry debts (collection of) Terms and Conditions of Contract Tracing 'gone away' debtors The telephone bureau and credit control Taking away reasons not to pay Train the trainer skills Utility collection needs Visits for collection and recovery Warrant of execution (enforcement)

This course is designed specifically to help improve your collection rates. The UK's leading trainer in the subject uses practical examples and case studies to show how to use debt collection techniques that really work. This programme will help participants to: Understand debtors and communicate with them effectively Improve their telephone and writing skills Appreciate the key legal issues Track down 'gone-aways' Improve their collection rates 1 Giving credit and collecting debts The benefits when you get it right The cost of getting it wrong 2 Analysing yourself The importance of making the right 'first impression' Assessing your own personal communication style and how this affects your results How do you (or might you) look in the debtor's eyes? What would you like to change? 3 Analysing your debtors Types of debtorThe delaying debtorThe genuine debtorThe cashflow or hardship problem debtorThe ones who never intended to pay Spot the most common reasons and excuses for non-payment - and learn how to deal with them 4 Understanding debt recovery and the law Data protection issues County Court suing enforcement methods Human rights and debt recovery Retention of title matters 5 Telephone skills for debt recovery A 7-point plan which works every time Learning by example: listening to and analysing some pre-recorded (or live) collection callsWhat was done well?What should have been done differently?Did the collector recognise opportunities?Did the collector create opportunities where seemingly none existed?Did the collector negotiate well or not at all? 6 Writing skills for debt recovery Key phrases to avoid What to include A sample letter which gets results in over 90% of cases 7 Tracking down the 'gone aways' A unique debtor-tracing plan Why spend money on external tracers when you can find those 'gone away' debtors for yourself? 8 Course review The traps to avoid Key personal learning points

Overview of Telehandler Training Course Telehandler Training or Telehandler Courses is an essential program designed to equip operators with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and efficiently operate telehandlers. These versatile machines, commonly used in agriculture, construction, and warehousing, require precise handling due to their complex controls and varied load capacities. Our Telehandler Courses will help you achieve your goal to be a successful Telehandler Operator. The importance of comprehensive telehandler training cannot be overstated. It ensures that operators are well-versed in both the theoretical and practical aspects of handling these machines, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on the job. Moreover, proper Telehandler training aids in maximising the operational efficiency of telehandlers, which can contribute to the timely completion of projects and the effective management of resources. In various industries, telehandlers play a critical role in lifting and transporting heavy materials over obstacles and uneven terrain, making the Telehandler course crucial for anyone involved in operations that require heavy lifting and material handling. The Telehandler courses covers a range of topics, including safety regulations, operational techniques, maintenance basics, and troubleshooting common issues, ensuring that all participants are prepared to handle the demands of operating a telehandler in any setting. Booking the Telehandler Training couldn’t be easier. Book Now

The fundamental tool to identify waste, create effective process flow, reduce process cycle times, and implement process improvement.

Overview Internal auditing is an independent and objective activity to evaluate an organisation's internal operations. You'll learn how to initiate an audit, prepare and conduct audit activities, compile and distribute audit reports and complete follow-up activities. It is very important for the organisation to have a smooth flow of accounting as it plays a very important role in the development of the organisation. Financial Managers or any person who deals with Accounts need to see that the company accounts are very updated and are free from any risks that can become a problem during the time of Auditing.  Objectives   By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Efficiently dealing with senior leaders with confidence Effective Contribution and Strategically Analysing and Auditing towards business success Analysing and Evaluating as an effective internal audit leader How to manage key relationships with the audit committee Practical methods for managing the audit committee and senior management Describing the significance to help maximize the contribution to their organization

Using an excavator as a crane is a common practice in certain construction and lifting operations. Using the digger as a crane requires appropriate training and skills However, it’s important to note that excavators are primarily designed for digging and earthmoving, not lifting. Using an Excavator as a Crane involves some inherent risks, and it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines and manufacturer recommendations. To book the NPORS Excavator as a Crane training or test please contact us to schedule your Training Here are some general considerations and steps you might take when using an excavator as a crane: 1. Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications for the specific excavator model you are using. Manufacturers provide load charts and other essential information to ensure safe operation. 2. Understand Load Capacities: Know the lifting capacities of your excavator at various boom lengths and angles. Exceeding these capacities can lead to instability and accidents. 3. Use Proper Attachments: If your excavator is equipped with a lifting attachment, make sure it is designed and rated for lifting operations. Using inappropriate attachments can compromise safety. 4. Stabilise the Excavator: Ensure that the excavator is on stable ground. Extend the outriggers or stabilisers to provide additional support and prevent tipping. 5. Inspect the Excavator: Regularly inspect the excavator for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Pay particular attention to the boom, hydraulics, and other critical components. 6. Position the Excavator: Position the excavator in a way that allows for a stable lifting operation. Avoid working on slopes or uneven surfaces. 7. Rigging and Lifting Techniques: Use proper rigging techniques, and ensure that the load is properly secured. Lift the load smoothly and avoid sudden movements. 8. Maintain Clear Communication: Establish clear communication between the operator and any ground personnel involved in the lifting operation. Use hand signals or radios to coordinate movements. 9. Avoid Exceeding Reach Limits: Do not exceed the excavator’s reach limits. Lifting loads beyond the recommended reach can lead to instability. 10. Training and Certification: Ensure that operators are properly trained and certified for lifting operations. Holding the NPORS Excavator As A Crane bolt on is essential for lifting operations Operating an excavator as a crane requires specific skills and knowledge. 11. Weather Conditions: Consider weather conditions, especially wind speeds, as they can affect the stability of the excavator during lifting operations. Always prioritise safety when using equipment for tasks it wasn’t originally designed for. If the lifting requirements are frequent or extensive, it may be more appropriate to use a dedicated crane with the necessary capacity and features. Remember, safety is paramount in any construction or lifting operation. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is Excavator As A Crane Training, and why is it necessary? Excavator As A Crane Training provides individuals with the skills and knowledge required to safely and effectively use excavators for lifting operations. Although excavators are primarily designed for digging and earthmoving, this training ensures operators can perform lifting tasks safely, minimizing risks and accidents on job sites. 2. Who should undergo Excavator As A Crane Training? This training is essential for anyone involved in using excavators for lifting operations, including machine operators, construction workers, and site supervisors. Proper training ensures that individuals understand equipment operation procedures, load capacities, and safety protocols. 3. What topics are covered in Excavator As A Crane Training programs? Training programs cover a range of topics, including: Manufacturer guidelines and load charts Understanding load capacities at various boom lengths and angles Proper use of lifting attachments Excavator stabilization techniques Rigging and lifting techniques Positioning and communication strategies Safety procedures and weather considerations Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment 4. Is Excavator As A Crane Training mandatory in certain industries? While not legally mandated in all areas, many employers in the construction and lifting industries require operators to undergo training as part of their occupational health and safety policies. Compliance with excavator as a crane training requirements helps prevent accidents and ensures regulatory compliance. 5. Where can I find reputable Excavator As A Crane Training courses? Reputable Excavator As A Crane Training Courses are offered by various institutions, including industry associations, equipment manufacturers, and specialized training providers like Vally Plant Training. It is important to choose a program that offers accredited certification and covers relevant industry standards and best practices.

This programme has a simple objective: to help a sales team create and implementa comprehensive account development plan. If you want to earn strategic partner or preferred supplier status with your clients and customers then you need to add value to their business, consistently, and you can only do this if you have a plan - a key account management plan. This programme will help participants: Discover opportunities - through a deeper understanding of the customer's business Develop partnership - through a better 'value proposition' for the customer Increase repeat business - based on higher customer satisfaction Improve synergy - by getting everyone to 'sing from the same hymn sheet' Develop a collaborative account plan - validated by the customer and their own management Secure resources - management will align resources to execute soundly based account plans Win an increased share of 'customer wallet' - through systematic account development 1 The six principles of strategic account development Introduction to the PROFIT account development model:- Performance- Relationships- Objectives and goals- Feedback- Integration- Teamwork Practical account development strategies: overview and case studies 2 Performance Use practical tools to help you manage and measure account performance and success Design and build a monthly account dashboard for all sizes of account Prioritise and manage accounts and customers pro-actively and successfully, using proven planning tools Develop a cross-selling strategy to integrate products or solutions into the customer's business as closely as possible 3 Relationships How to build and manage key relationships within an account Qualifying and managing key influencers accurately Producing a 'relationship matrix' for each account quickly and easily Approaching and developing new contacts strategically Tools and techniques for successful tracking of contacts and call-backs Developing a coach or advocate in every customer organisation pro-actively 4 Objectives and goals Where are you now? - how to establish your competitive position within an account Know how to set, monitor and track key objectives for accounts over the short, medium and long term Selling against the competition - developing both long- and short-term sales strategies 5 Feedback - building loyal and satisfied customers The correct way to manage customer expectations and create listening loops within an account How to monitor and track your customer's perception and satisfaction with your organisation Building a personalised satisfaction matrix for each account Customer review meetings - best practice in building loyalty by regular joint planning events Understanding the concept of long-term customer value and the importance of adapting a customer-focused attitude 6 Integration How to integrate your products or solutions with the customer's business needs and processes Spot and react to early warning signals that may cause an account's loyalty to fade, reduce revenue or switch to a competitor Developing a loyalty strategy for key accounts or groups of smaller accounts Getting your message and strategy across to C-level contacts 7 Teamwork Working with others to achieve your account goals Gaining internal commitment from your organisation Managing and working with a virtual team Creating cross-departmental communication loops 8 Putting it all together Personal account reviews Personal learning summary and action plans

NPORS Cat And Genny Training or Cable Avoidance Training Prioritising the safety of underground utilities in construction and excavation projects is essential, necessitating comprehensive Cat and Genny training. In these sessions, workers receive education on operating Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT) and Signal Generators (Genny), Cat and Genny. The Cat and Genny use electromagnetic signals to detect buried cables and pipes before digging commences. Through comprehensive Cat and Genny training, workers become proficient in using CAT and Genny equipment, enabling them to accurately map out the locations of underground infrastructure. This proactive approach not only enhances on-site safety but also contributes to efficient project management by minimising the risk of accidental damage and costly delays. The aim of the NPORS Cat & Genny Training is to Provide training in Cable Avoidance and Service Location (Cat and Genny).The Cat and Genny Course is designed for any person working on the roads, setting out before a build, surveying and any others who may be excavating an area where pipes or cables may be buried underground. Price Match Promise Book with Confidence at Vally Plant Training At Vally Plant Training, we guarantee unbeatable value with our Price Match Promise. When you choose us for your Cat and Genny Course, you can book with confidence, knowing that we will not be beaten on price. If you find a lower price for the same NPORS Cat And Genny Course, we’ll match it—ensuring you receive top-quality training at the best possible rate. Your skills, our commitment—always at the best price. CAT & GENNY Training is designed for construction professionals and workers involved in excavation who need to operate Cable Avoidance Tools and Signal Generators. This training is ideal for individuals who have prior experience in excavation but require formal instruction on the safe and effective use of these specific tools to prevent accidental damage to underground services. Participants should have a basic understanding of excavation work, and if unsure of their eligibility for this advanced training, are encouraged to contact our training coordinators for more information. The CAT & GENNY training program is divided into two main sections: a theoretical module and a practical application module. The theory part covers the principles of operation, safety procedures, and risk assessment associated with underground utility detection. The practical module provides hands-on experience with both the Cable Avoidance Tool and Signal Generator, emphasising field techniques and problem-solving. Upon completion of the Cat And Genny course, participants will receive comprehensive revision materials to reinforce key concepts covered during the training. Introduction to CAT and Genny Training CAT and Genny , also referred to as CAT & Genny or CAT and Genny Training, are essential tools used in the construction and utility sectors to help locate and avoid underground cables and pipes during excavation works. CAT, which stands for Cable Avoidance Tool, is designed to detect signals naturally emitted by metallic services like electrical cables. Meanwhile, the Genny, short for Signal Generator, is used alongside the CAT to apply a signal to underground utilities that do not naturally emit detectable signals, such as telecoms or fibre . Understanding how to operate these tools is crucial for anyone involved in excavation. Proper use of CAT and Genny can prevent costly and dangerous errors, such as accidentally cutting through power lines or water pipes. The training not only focuses on how to use these devices effectively but also covers the best practices for scanning different types of terrain and interpreting the signals received. This ensures that workers can conduct their tasks safely and efficiently, minimising the risk of disruption and damage to underground services. What Is CAT and Genny Training? CAT and Genny Training provides comprehensive instruction on using Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT) and Signal Generators (Genny) to locate underground utilities safely. This training is critical to reduce the risk of accidentally striking underground assets during excavation, which can lead to severe safety hazards and financial losses. What Does Our CAT and Genny Training Course Cover? Our CAT and Genny Training Course covers: Basics of operating CAT and Genny equipment: Understanding the device controls, functions, and proper handling. Detection techniques: Learning how to detect different types of services, including electric, gas, and water. Practical applications: Hands-on training with both simulated and live environments to practice safe scanning and detection. Safety protocols: Emphasising safety procedures to prevent injuries and accidents. Legal compliance: Overview of health and safety regulations related to excavation work. Who Needs CAT and Genny Training? CAT and Genny Training is essential for anyone involved in excavation and groundworks. This includes utility workers, construction workers, civil engineers, site managers, and anyone else who may need to locate underground utilities as part of their job. The Cat And Genny Course is crucial for preventing damage to underground infrastructure like gas, water, telecoms and electrical lines, which can result in costly repairs and dangerous accidents. Do You Need to Be Trained to Use a CAT Scanner? Yes, training is highly recommended to use a CAT scanner effectively and safely. While not legally mandatory, proper training ensures that operators can accurately interpret the scanner’s signals and avoid potential hazards when working near underground utilities. Specialised Genny Tool Training Course Overview: The Genny Course is designed specifically to train users on the effective operation of the Genny tool, a crucial component of the CAT and Genny system used for detecting underground utilities. Key Learning Outcomes: → Understanding Genny Signals: Participants will learn how different signals can be applied and traced using the Genny, improving their ability to detect non-metallic utilities such as plastic water pipes. → Optimising Signal Strength: Training includes adjusting the Genny’s signal strength to suit various soil conditions and utility types, ensuring clearer and more accurate detections. Practical Applications: → Hands-on Practice: Extensive field practice sessions are included to give participants real-world experience in using the Genny effectively. →Troubleshooting Common Issues: Learners will be taught how to troubleshoot common operational issues to minimise downtime and enhance field productivity. Advanced Techniques: → Using Genny with CAT4: Instructions on how to integrate Genny use with the CAT4 detector for enhanced detection capabilities. → Interpreting and Mapping: Skills in interpreting the Genny’s output and using integrated mapping tools for accurate utility mapping. Safety Protocols: → Safe Operation Practices: Emphasis on safety measures to prevent accidents during the use of high-frequency signals. → Maintenance and Daily Checks: Training on regular maintenance routines and daily checks to keep the Genny in optimal working condition. Certification: → Qualification and Certification: Upon completion of the course, participants receive a certification that validates their proficiency in using the Genny tool according to industry standards. Scanning Techniques with CAT and Genny General Scanning Techniques: → Sweeping Motion: Always use a slow, steady sweeping motion with the CAT device. Begin scanning at least a few meters away from the expected area of the utilities to avoid missing any signals. → Directional Scans: Perform scans in multiple directions — both parallel and perpendicular to the expected direction of the utility lines to ensure thorough coverage. → Depth Perception: Adjust the depth settings based on preliminary scans to get an accurate depth estimate of buried utilities. Specific Use of Genny: → Direct Connection: When available, use the direct connection method with the Genny to induce a precise signal into a specific utility line. This is particularly useful in crowded areas with multiple utility lines. → Induction Mode: Use the Genny’s induction mode when direct connections are not possible. Ensure the Genny is placed on the ground vertically for optimal signal transmission. How to Use the CAT and Genny to Find Hidden Wires and Pipes Getting Ready: Check the Tools: Make sure the CAT and Genny are ready to use and have full batteries. Set Up the Genny: Pick the right sound for the Genny to use so it can find wires or pipes under the ground. If you can, connect the Genny to the pipe or wire with a special wire. Using the Genny: Stand it on the Ground: Put the Genny on the ground where you think there might be something hidden. Turn it on to send a beep into the ground. Connect it for Better Finding: Sometimes, you connect the Genny to something like a pipe for a clearer beep. Using the CAT: Start with Power Mode: Turn on the CAT and use the power mode to find beeps from wires that are on. Try Radio Mode: Next, switch to radio mode to hear beeps from metal things like pipes. Finally, Use Genny Signal Mode: Use this mode to hear the special beeps from your Genny to find hidden stuff like plastic pipes. How to Look Properly: Move Slowly: Walk slowly with the CAT over the area. If you move too fast, you might miss some beeps. Check in a Cross Pattern: First walk in one direction and then the other direction to make sure you cover all the area. Understanding What You Hear: Listen to the Beeps: A loud beep means you are close to a wire or pipe. If the beep sounds the same as you move, it probably means you found a wire or pipe. Staying Safe: Look Before You Dig: Always check by looking in the hole to make sure what the CAT and Genny found before you start digging. Keep the Tools Working Well: Make sure your tools are working right by checking them often. 500 mm from utilities; Always use insulated digging tools when close to underground utilities Frequently Asked Questions On Cat & Genny Training What is CAT and Genny training? CAT and Genny training provides instruction on how to use Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT) and Signal Generators (Genny) effectively to detect underground utilities and avoid accidental strikes during excavation. The training covers operational techniques, safety procedures, and the correct interpretation of the equipment’s signals. Why is CAT and Genny training important for construction workers? This Cat And Genny Course is crucial for safety and efficiency on construction sites. It helps workers avoid costly damages to underground utilities such as water pipes, electricity cables, and communication lines, which can lead to severe consequences including service outages, legal liabilities, and endangerment of worker and public safety. 3. How Long Is the Certification Valid? The certification received after completing CAT and Genny Training is generally valid for three to five years. After this period, a refresher course is recommended to keep up with new technologies and changing safety regulations. 4. Is CAT and Genny training required by law in the UK? While not specifically mandated by law, CAT and Genny training is strongly recommended under the UK Health and Safety Executive guidelines (HSE) to meet the legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act. It is considered best practice for anyone involved in excavation works. Cat & Genny Training Available 7 days a week to suit your business requirements. VPT have a team of friendly and approachable instructors, who have a wealth of knowledge of cable avoidance and the construction industry We have our own training centre conveniently located close to the M5 junction 9, In Tewkesbury. With its own purpose-built practical training area to simulate an actual working environment for the cat & genny course. Our Cable Avoidance training and test packages are priced to be competitive. Discounts are available for multiple bookings We can send a fully qualified NPORS cat & genny Tester to your site nationwide, to reduce the amount of time away from work Our more courses: Polish your abilities with our dedicated Lift Supervision Training, Slinger Signaller Training, Telehandler Training, Cat & Genny Training, Plant Loader Securer, Ride-On Road Roller, Abrasive Wheel Training, Lorry Loader Training and Scissor Lift Training sessions. Learn the safe and effective operation of these vital machines, crucial for construction and maintenance tasks. Elevate your skills and career prospects by enrolling in our comprehensive courses today.

The need for key staff to have commercial skills is paramount, as the public sector is increasingly opened up as a commercial market, in which organisations compete against each other and the private sector for contracts. Generating additional income and being commercially aware is vital for this to be a success, and is what many public sector organisations are looking to do. This programme will help you: See commercial awareness as not just another skill-set, but as a different mind-set Use a variety of tried-and-tested commercial, analytical decision-making techniques and tools Define your commercial objectives Develop a strategic focus Start looking at service clients as market segments Analyse, in a competitive context, your service offering Plan a commercial strategy, prepare for its implementation and see it through to execution 1 What is commercial thinking? Understand what it means to be a commercial thinker Identifying commercial opportunities often involves not only a different skill set but also a different mindset; looking at the services that you provide 2 Defining strategic commercial objectives Defining your key commercial objectives Prioritising your strategic objectives Two key strategic planning tools:Resource and Competency MatrixPESTLE How to apply these tools to your particular situation 3 Developing a strategic focus Decision-making on how to compete in the markets identified by your strategic objectives requires a strategic focus Developing strategic focus A tool for helping you to make those decisions: using the Ansoff Matrix 4 Defining customer targets How to think more commercially by understanding who all your customers are and how they differ from each other how to apply the principles to your areas to identify the type of customers you have and their key characteristics - Customer segmentation Who are your customers? How do their needs vary? - Scenarios 5 The competitive market place Understanding the competitive forces at play Different types of competition Analysing your competitive environment using Porter's 5 Forces model 6 Meeting stakeholder expectations Two simple models to help you identify the key stakeholders who could influence your commercial environment How to use your stakeholders to help you achieve your commercial objectives 7 Implementation - systems, structures and processes Effective commercial activity involves working with others to implement ideas and strategies What do you need to have in place before you implement your commercial strategy? How to health-check your organisation prior to implementation using the McKinsey 7S framework 8 Implementation - people and culture A good commercial strategy only works if the people involved buy in to the ideas and if the culture of the organisation is conducive to the effective implementation How the latest thinking in behavioural economics can help you develop your culture and people to work commercially 9 Tools and checklists Be more commercial within your sphere of influence using a commercial checklist to help you Using the checklist as a benchmark against the most commercially aware organisations Using the checklist as a health check - both corporately and individually