https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/feed Inspire2aspire, fresh ideas for growing responsible organisations delivered by bespoke coaching and consultancy. Thu, 25 Apr 2024 17:03:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/uploads/images/placeholder.jpg https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/feed https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/where-are-you-on-your-journey-to-changing-the-world Do you have an idea you keep thinking about? Has your organisation got into a rut and isn't achieving what you dreamed it would? Or do you just complain and believe the world is going to hell in a handcart? success changing lives https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/where-are-you-on-your-journey-to-changing-the-world Thu, 25 Apr 2024 17:03:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-useful-lessons-you-can-learn-from-dyno-rod-and-franchising I was sad to read Jim Zockoll's obituary in The Times a few weeks ago. He was the founder of Dyno-Rod and died on January 25, 2024, at the age of 93. Jim was a highly successful entrepreneur, constantly looking for new business opportunities. From him and Dyno-Rod, I gained invaluable insights into franchising and business in general, as well as some inspiration and examples of what to avoid. inspiration Franchising entrepreneur https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-useful-lessons-you-can-learn-from-dyno-rod-and-franchising Mon, 25 Mar 2024 16:20:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/social-enterprise-now-and-the-future Social Enterprises are part of the growing "social economy". The infographic below gives a snapshot of the state of the sector. You can get the full report Social Enterprise 2024 with more data and the priorities for the sector by emailing sarah@inspire2aspire.co.uk with Social Enterprise 2024 in the subject line. The report includes tips on how to capitalise on the trends identified. social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/social-enterprise-now-and-the-future Fri, 23 Feb 2024 20:38:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-communicating-effectively-enough Effective communication is the cornerstone of success in your personal and professional life. It's the foundation upon which everything else is built. communication stakeholders https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-communicating-effectively-enough Tue, 30 Jan 2024 16:12:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-power-we-all-have-and-a-seasonal-story As this year ends and we think about the future, I want to celebrate our power to change the world. Last night, I was at a walking nativity goals inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-power-we-all-have-and-a-seasonal-story Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:59:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/lets-make-sure-we-are-part-of-the-solution-not-the-problem The UK economy is not growing, and UK tax income needs to rise enough to provide the money required to support everything we need, such as the NHS, social care, housing, education, and addressing inequality. values environment charity corporate culture https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/lets-make-sure-we-are-part-of-the-solution-not-the-problem Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:27:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/being-human-not-corporate-the-road-to-success Last week, I did something for the first time: I went to a planning committee meeting. I didn’t have high expectations. I thought I would be bored and it was unclear how long I would be there so the parking cost was £10.50! So why did I go, and why am I writing about it? csr ROC winning by being good https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/being-human-not-corporate-the-road-to-success Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:02:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-can-you-thrive-in-adverse-conditions Two of my favourite things came together in the past week: creative strategy and gardening. strategy theory of change business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-can-you-thrive-in-adverse-conditions Thu, 28 Sept 2023 18:08:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-lessons-from-my-holidays It's almost the beginning of the new school year. I'd like to have a new pencil case and be able to write an essay for my teacher about what I did over the summer, so this is my equivalent. I suggest you do the same, as this renews my zest for what I do and lets me revisit what I have enjoyed and learned. collaboration marketing inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-lessons-from-my-holidays Thu, 31 Aug 2023 22:47:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/be-really-clear-about-what-you-offer How a clear Theory of Change is critical for success whatever type of organisation you are values charity socent business corporate culture https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/be-really-clear-about-what-you-offer Fri, 04 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-esg-and-five-reasons-it-matters-even-if-you-are-a-charity First, let me introduce you to ESG -if you want more detail, please email sarah@inspire2aspire.co.uk to get our ebook. ESG - the details and relevance to charities and social enterprises The term ESG was officially coined in 2004 with the publication of the UN Global Compact Initiative's "Who Cares Wins” report. But for me, I only heard the phrase when my next-door neighbour said it was her job to help companies calculate it for their cars! governance social impact charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-esg-and-five-reasons-it-matters-even-if-you-are-a-charity Mon, 31 Jul 2023 16:32:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-your-company-values-working Five easy questions to ask to establish if your company values are working values staff engagement https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-your-company-values-working Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-reasons-you-need-to-read-this I was excited to share what I have learnt just back from holiday. Still, I am saving it for another blog to instead excite you about governance and why it is critical whether you are a business, a charity or even a prime minister. I never thought I would write that sentence, but I hope my five examples from the last fortnight convince you. governance responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-reasons-you-need-to-read-this Tue, 27 Jun 2023 20:44:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-reasons-to-feel-good As Janice Turner wrote in The Times last month, "Lockdown turned us all into disster victims", and three years on, it seems like it has just been one thing after another. So here are three reasons to be cheerful: inspiration changing lives business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-reasons-to-feel-good Fri, 26 May 2023 12:44:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-asking-the-right-questions-to-get-you-the-best-results I was reading a good article in the Times yesterday about illegal immigrants. It made me think about how you can fail because the wrong people are asking the wrong questions. It suggested that immigration shouldn't be handled by the Home Office, who generally are about law and order and stopping things. growth staff engagement strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-asking-the-right-questions-to-get-you-the-best-results Tue, 25 Apr 2023 21:49:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-ways-to-encourage-people-to-buy-from-you-or-donate-if-you-are-a-charity In this final blog in the series about thriving in challenging times, I want to consider how you attract your share of the limited money people have available. changing lives success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-ways-to-encourage-people-to-buy-from-you-or-donate-if-you-are-a-charity Wed, 29 Mar 2023 16:59:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/thinking-outside-the-box-recession-threat-or-opportunity In this third blog about thriving in challenging times, whatever type of organisation you are, I want to think about what is the key to success in any organisation. Whether you are a one-woman band or a global corporation, a charity, social enterprise or business, the people involved are critical. charity success public sector socent business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/thinking-outside-the-box-recession-threat-or-opportunity Tue, 21 Feb 2023 17:52:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/unusual-partnerships-a-great-example-of-collaboration If you have ever watched one of those survival programmes, you can see that it can be tough to catch fish. So as with any problem, it is helpful to consider if working together would improve results. collaboration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/unusual-partnerships-a-great-example-of-collaboration Tue, 31 Jan 2023 15:11:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/recession-threat-or-opportunity-plan-for-success As promised, I am following up on my blog Recession: Threat or Opportunity. My focus this time is uncertainty and planning to be successful. business planning goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/recession-threat-or-opportunity-plan-for-success Thu, 29 Dec 2022 17:42:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/when-you-grow-up-do-you-want-to-be-a-business-a-social-enterprise-or-a-char What is the difference between a business that wants to change the world, a charity that wants to change the world and a social enterprise and who decides which is which? Easy in terms of the legal charity status - after that it gets complex. entrepreneur social enterprise public sector charity cic https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/when-you-grow-up-do-you-want-to-be-a-business-a-social-enterprise-or-a-char Thu, 08 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/recession-threat-or-opportunity Like me, you may get to the stage where you avoid the news because it always seems terrible. As the saying goes, "we're going to hell in a handcart!". But are we? business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/recession-threat-or-opportunity Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:23:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-idea-to-help-smaller-charities Charities rely on grants or people's donations. Since the first Charity Act in 1604, charities have been regulated to ensure people can trust they are using the money wisely and as intended. Complying with the law and the charity governance code and doing good work is challenging for small charities run totally by volunteers. charity governance code charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-idea-to-help-smaller-charities Wed, 26 Oct 2022 10:19:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/use-your-values-to-show-you-are-different Generally, people feel more comfortable dealing with people and organisations that share our view of the world, share our values; we can relax because we have common ground. values niche https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/use-your-values-to-show-you-are-different Thu, 20 Oct 2022 17:33:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-reasons-this-summer-was-memorable It feels like it has been a long summer of ups and downs, but I also think I have learnt a lot. values leadership https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-reasons-this-summer-was-memorable Thu, 22 Sept 2022 14:47:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/lessons-from-my-holiday I have recently had a rail holiday to Germany, which in many ways I enjoyed but, as with many of my trips abroad, also got me thinking. Here is what I found curious and thought-provoking: travel strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/lessons-from-my-holiday Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:20:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ideas-for-saving-money-and-increasing-income It's just over 40 years since inflation was at a similar level to today. I can't pretend to remember what people did then, but I have a few ideas about what you can do now if you feel you are drowning in the wave of inflation. https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ideas-for-saving-money-and-increasing-income Tue, 14 Jun 2022 18:07:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-reasons-a-coaching-session-might-be-what-you-need I've been coached and have also coached many people and continue to do so. These are the five powerful reasons to have a coaching session. coaching strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-reasons-a-coaching-session-might-be-what-you-need Tue, 17 May 2022 17:30:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-culture-going-wrong-impacts-success-and-may-cost-lives A toxic culture can be fatal and all-pervasive. Directly or indirectly, organisational culture can kill whether it is Boeing, Volkswagen, the police or an NHS maternity service. values ethical audit https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-culture-going-wrong-impacts-success-and-may-cost-lives Mon, 04 Apr 2022 17:13:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ten-potential-reasons-to-set-up-a-separate-trading-subsidiary I have been encouraging charities to think more entrepreneurially for over 30 years. If you generate income rather than rely on grants or donations, you have control of your destiny. collaboration charity social enterprise socent https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ten-potential-reasons-to-set-up-a-separate-trading-subsidiary Fri, 04 Mar 2022 18:58:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/good-charity-governance-the-highly-tuned-mechanisms-that-help-you-fulfil-your-purpose What is good charity governance? I struggle to define governance, and many other people are the same. It puts people off from thinking about it or what would make governance good. But the news this week about The Captain Tom Foundation and Kids Company and their governance issues highlights its importance governance charity governance code CIO https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/good-charity-governance-the-highly-tuned-mechanisms-that-help-you-fulfil-your-purpose Thu, 10 Feb 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/top-ten-tips-about-how-to-get-the-most-from-your-trustees A strong board of trustees is a powerful part of any successful charity. Here are ten tips based on my experience about how to get the most from your trustees. charity trustees https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/top-ten-tips-about-how-to-get-the-most-from-your-trustees Wed, 26 Jan 2022 15:19:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/key-to-your-charitys-success-in-2022-will-be-your-marketing The problem for most charities is that there is no traditional marketing department. You may have fundraisers or social media people, but rarely is there a marketing strategy specialist. https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/key-to-your-charitys-success-in-2022-will-be-your-marketing Tue, 04 Jan 2022 16:16:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-inspired-me-to-get-up-at-1am-to-write Sometimes a story and insights are so gripping you can't sleep. https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-inspired-me-to-get-up-at-1am-to-write Mon, 13 Dec 2021 12:31:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-you-might-consider-franchising-and-some-words-of-caution Franchising can be a potent operating model to grow businesses, social enterprises or charities. strategy Franchising https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-you-might-consider-franchising-and-some-words-of-caution Thu, 02 Dec 2021 17:42:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/4-tips-for-success Lay the foundations for success by standing out from the crowd. Here are four tips that are fundamental to success. niche vision values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/4-tips-for-success Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-want-more-money-for-your-charity-or-social-enterprise Yes? here are some things to think about. In my experience, people running a charity or social enterprise think first about changing the world for the better and then consider how they can get the money to do it. https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-want-more-money-for-your-charity-or-social-enterprise Sat, 30 Oct 2021 17:46:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seizing-opportunities The first step for many strategies is a SWOT analysis but where does it really get you? It's a roundabout, not a motorway and it attracts negative thoughts. strategy strategic development tools https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seizing-opportunities Thu, 23 Sept 2021 14:16:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/20-ways-to-use-a-free-retail-unit Lots of shops are now available for charities to use free of charge but don't just think charity shop, there are lots of other ways to use a retail space. charity ideas https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/20-ways-to-use-a-free-retail-unit Fri, 20 Aug 2021 17:10:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/every-day-is-a-school-day Learning is critical for on-going success and a fulfilled life. charity entrepreneur marketing social enterprise inspiration goal setting values strategic development responsible organisation charter coaching business planning collaboration innovation tools 21st century business business success csr socent growth aspiration local authority feasibility study creative think tank corporate culture vision https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/every-day-is-a-school-day Fri, 18 Jun 2021 18:22:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/celebrating-30-years-of-helping-responsible-organisations-win-by-being-good In May 1991 Sarah Brown set up her consultancy to help others be more successful and now she is celebrating 30 years of her own success. Here she tells you more. winning by being good https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/celebrating-30-years-of-helping-responsible-organisations-win-by-being-good Tue, 04 May 2021 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/10-reasons-why-every-charity-or-social-enterprise-needs-a-marketing-strateg A marketing strategy clearly explains how you as an organisation will reach your objectives. It translates your vision, mission, and goals into effective marketing initiatives that can be measured. charity socent marketing strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/10-reasons-why-every-charity-or-social-enterprise-needs-a-marketing-strateg Fri, 30 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/powerful-ways-to-help-people-to-understand-your-impact Share how you change the world to attract more support or customers. social impact changing lives https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/powerful-ways-to-help-people-to-understand-your-impact Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-leader-would-you-have-followed-scott-or-amundsen Leaders today are facing life-and-death choices during the Pandemic. A century ago, Scott and Amundsen also made decisions that impacted who lived and who died and how they did it providing some useful insights for leadership today. leadership winning by being good https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-leader-would-you-have-followed-scott-or-amundsen Mon, 22 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/digital-technology-demon-or-angel Is the rise of the internet a good or bad thing? Positive examples of how it is being used and how to get the most from it. charity pandemic strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/digital-technology-demon-or-angel Fri, 19 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-want-to-be-more-successful It could be that your structure is holding back your growth as a charity or social enterprise. Have you thought about what impact what you are and how you operate is having on your success? charity socent strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-want-to-be-more-successful Wed, 10 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspiring-and-creative-ways-to-get-through-the-pandemic Be inspired by eight examples of creative and successful organisations responding to the pandemic inspiration creative think tank https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspiring-and-creative-ways-to-get-through-the-pandemic Sat, 30 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-business-and-charities-need-each-other-in-2021 2020 has demonstrated how much we all rely on each other and a planet that works. People want the learning from the pandemic to be reflected in the post-covid world. The number 1 trend is Build back better. collaboration charity business socent https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-business-and-charities-need-each-other-in-2021 Tue, 19 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ten-top-psychology-tips-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals-in-2021 Tips on how to achieve what you want in 2021. goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ten-top-psychology-tips-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals-in-2021 Thu, 31 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-sort-of-innovative-growth-do-you-want-to-achieve-in-2021 How do you want to grow in 2021? Here are some ideas to inspire you. innovation growth https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-sort-of-innovative-growth-do-you-want-to-achieve-in-2021 Wed, 16 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/its-the-time-to-think-seriously-about-collaboration-here-are-three-reasons Covid 19 has put charities under stress and collaboration is a key strategy for success going forward collaboration charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/its-the-time-to-think-seriously-about-collaboration-here-are-three-reasons Thu, 03 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-assumptions-can-be-fatal Decisions made without full knowledge based on incomplete or inaccurate assumptions have cost the lives of the elderly during the pandemic and we can all learn from this. decision making https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-assumptions-can-be-fatal Thu, 26 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/could-you-save-time-and-money-by-changing-to-a-cio If you are a company limited by guarantee it might make sense to convert to being a CIO charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/could-you-save-time-and-money-by-changing-to-a-cio Fri, 13 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/using-collaboration-to-change-the-world Why collaboration is important, tips and an inspirational example collaboration success values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/using-collaboration-to-change-the-world Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/making-the-decisions-to-secure-your-future In these times of uncertainty making decisions can seem very hard and scary. Here are four simple steps to help. success decision making https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/making-the-decisions-to-secure-your-future Thu, 22 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-news-stories-to-make-you-happy In these times of doom here are five stories to inspire you inspiration innovation https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-news-stories-to-make-you-happy Tue, 29 Sept 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/join-the-debate-on-volunteering Covid 19 has affected volunteering radically and the wider impact on society and the many people who were volunteers may be catastrophic charity volunteering new normal https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/join-the-debate-on-volunteering Wed, 16 Sept 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-reflect-your-values-in-how-you-sell Whether you sell online or face to face your pricing and sales strategy is the most visible representation of your values. Get it right and you will sell more. sales values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-reflect-your-values-in-how-you-sell Fri, 28 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-how-to-go-from-really-average-to-best-in-the-world What we can all learn from Jimmy Anderson and his success inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-how-to-go-from-really-average-to-best-in-the-world Wed, 26 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/save-our-volunteers-the-hidden-health-threat-of-covid-19 A plea to protect the 19 million volunteers and everything they make happen charity social impact volunteering https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/save-our-volunteers-the-hidden-health-threat-of-covid-19 Tue, 11 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/strategic-thinking-for-charities-and-social-enterprises-in-the-pandemic Three areas to consider as you develop a strategy and prepare for the risks of the new normal. charity socent strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/strategic-thinking-for-charities-and-social-enterprises-in-the-pandemic Wed, 29 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-get-new-customers How to get new customers as we come out of lockdown marketing sales https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-get-new-customers Fri, 24 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/too-much-useless-information We want to supply useful information during the Pandemic so help us to get it right pandemic inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/too-much-useless-information Tue, 14 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-guide-to-how-different-legal-structures-can-do-good-infographic Interesting facts and how each legal structure can do good. charity social enterprise 21st century business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-guide-to-how-different-legal-structures-can-do-good-infographic Sat, 11 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-tips-to-help-you-avoid-destroying-your-organisation-as-you-come-out-o Beware that by focusing on survival you may destroy the essence of your organisation corporate culture values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-tips-to-help-you-avoid-destroying-your-organisation-as-you-come-out-o Sat, 27 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/innovation-its-challenges-and-how-to-choose-what-to-progress Innovation is critical to success in the current environment, but it's not easy so think before you start how it fits with your organisation innovation https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/innovation-its-challenges-and-how-to-choose-what-to-progress Wed, 17 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/want-a-change-should-you-become-a-charity-or-social-enterprise If you are very focused on changing the world and less focused on money maybe a business is not right for you charity socent cic https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/want-a-change-should-you-become-a-charity-or-social-enterprise Tue, 09 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-importance-of-a-marketing-strategy You need a marketing strategy or you will waste money on tactics that aren't thought through tools creative think tank marketing strategic development https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-importance-of-a-marketing-strategy Wed, 03 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-ideas-for-creating-the-best-new-normal-for-you Every organisation will need to respond to the pandemic so you might as well take the opportunity to improve what you do ideas strategy innovation pricing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-ideas-for-creating-the-best-new-normal-for-you Fri, 29 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-relevance-of-the-dominic-cummings-story-to-anyone-who-runs-an-organisat Every organisation needs a culture where its values are followed instinctively, it is not enough to rely on rules because rules do not cover every eventuality & can result in behaviour people find ‘unfair’ particularly if the values are not ranked. values corporate culture https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-relevance-of-the-dominic-cummings-story-to-anyone-who-runs-an-organisat Tue, 26 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-your-why--why-you-are-different-from-the-rest What is your why? Why you are different from the rest? Get this clear and you’ll stand out from the crowd whatever you are doing. You’ll have found your niche, your USP, your competitive advantage which will be critical in the months to come. niche marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-your-why--why-you-are-different-from-the-rest Thu, 07 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-seizing-the-opportunity-to-get-your-organisation-fitter Your organisation could be part of the new world after the pandemic that does things in a better way, so make sure your don't miss this opportunity charity business success social entrepreneur https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-seizing-the-opportunity-to-get-your-organisation-fitter Tue, 28 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/free-ways-to-give-and-raise-money-as-you-shop-from-home At no cost to you, your on-line supermarket shop or video download can raise funds for a charity you support, so why wouldn't you do it? charity fundraising income https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/free-ways-to-give-and-raise-money-as-you-shop-from-home Mon, 06 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/use-coronavirus-to-be-better-prepared There are three simple steps you can take to prepare for the impact of Coronavirus on your organisation strategic development business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/use-coronavirus-to-be-better-prepared Sat, 29 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-produce-a-business-plan-that-can-really-create-success-for-you Template business plans are not the answer for a business plan that you can really use to take your organisation forward, this blog will give you a strategy for producing a business plan that really reflects what you need business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-produce-a-business-plan-that-can-really-create-success-for-you Wed, 01 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-breeding-scapegoats-why-you-need-a-culture-of-pioneer-learning Looking for scapegoats rather than learning when things go wrong can have serious consequences for business responsible organisation charter corporate culture https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-breeding-scapegoats-why-you-need-a-culture-of-pioneer-learning Sat, 02 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-novel-way-to-highlight-charity-issues “The Long Call” the latest novel by Ann Cleeves raises many important issues that charities face. Learn more... charity values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-novel-way-to-highlight-charity-issues Thu, 10 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seven-issues-to-consider-if-you-want-to-earn-money-as-a-charity If you want to move from funding and donations to generating income then there are seven key issues and risks to consider charity social enterprise feasibility study https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seven-issues-to-consider-if-you-want-to-earn-money-as-a-charity Wed, 11 Sept 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-stuck-in-a-goldfish-bowl-of-limitations-or-swimming-in-an-ocean-of We can all change the world but we need to be open to the opportunities and not scared inspiration changing lives https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-stuck-in-a-goldfish-bowl-of-limitations-or-swimming-in-an-ocean-of Fri, 16 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-public-bodies-can-do-to-avoid-something-like-the-nottinghamshire-child Corporate culture is critical if the vulnerable are to be protected in cases like these responsible organisation charter winning by being good https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-public-bodies-can-do-to-avoid-something-like-the-nottinghamshire-child Wed, 31 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-brief-history-of-modern-management-thinking Here is a quick video look at the last 150 years of management thinking from time and motion to triple bottom line and beyond responsible organisation charter strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-brief-history-of-modern-management-thinking Sat, 29 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-a-social-entrepreneur What makes a social entrepreneur and are you one? An inspirational case study of one world leading organisation set up by a social entrepreneur responsible organisation charter social entrepreneur collaboration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-a-social-entrepreneur Thu, 06 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-mortality-of-corporate-values Shareholders are now suing Boeing for not upholding their values, and Boeing is losing a $1 billion a month, a clear illustration of why upholding values is critical to business success values corporate culture https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-mortality-of-corporate-values Fri, 17 May 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-reasons-any-charity-should-develop-partnerships Collaboration and partnerships are the way for charities to be more successful. These five reasons show how collaboration charity social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-reasons-any-charity-should-develop-partnerships Thu, 16 May 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-much-would-you-increase-your-success-if-you-joined-the-circular-economy The climate crisis is an opportunity to be creative and find new ways of working innovation sustainable profit https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-much-would-you-increase-your-success-if-you-joined-the-circular-economy Tue, 30 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/technology-v-people-playing-to-their-strengths It's great when technology enhances the experience but there needs to be some commonsense used to ensure it doesn't undermine good well proven practise innovation values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/technology-v-people-playing-to-their-strengths Wed, 13 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-sector-is-now-the-exemplar-of-being-responsible Public distrust and scandals are now linked to every sector from politics to business to charities, we all need to be addressing how to act from responsibly if society is to thrive charity responsible organisation charter inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-sector-is-now-the-exemplar-of-being-responsible Tue, 19 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/does-the-end-justify-the-means-in-your-organisation A report this month identifies that Oxfam was more concerned about what it was doing and achieving than how it achieved it and that is how its safeguarding was undermined. This is a threat to any organisation that doesn't apply its values rigorously and consistently. values vision charity social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/does-the-end-justify-the-means-in-your-organisation Mon, 21 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-scared-or-excited-by-2019 We are in a better position now than at any time to change the world for the good but not if we live in fear. We need to use our resources and focus on the positive to make 2019 a great year. changing lives values charity 21st century business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-scared-or-excited-by-2019 Mon, 31 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/can-you-feel-the-christmas-spirit-all-year Giving at Christmas makes us feel good. We give presents and time and generally focus on the better parts of human nature. But you can get the same feeling all year long ... volunteering changing lives https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/can-you-feel-the-christmas-spirit-all-year Fri, 21 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/does-a-niche-always-give-you-success The interesting story of the Maglev in Shanghai and how a USP is different from a niche. Plus learn about the characteristics of a successful niche. niche niche market business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/does-a-niche-always-give-you-success Tue, 27 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/niches-from-amazon-to-artistic-cvs Nine examples of niche businesses from the huge to the small which could be run from your bedroom. niche marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/niches-from-amazon-to-artistic-cvs Wed, 24 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-a-male-or-female-peacock-in-your-marketing Do you stand out and display who you really are in your marketing or blend into the background? marketing niche strategic development https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-a-male-or-female-peacock-in-your-marketing Wed, 17 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/pricing-strategies-art-science-or-manipulation How people respond to different prices and why we pay more marketing pricing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/pricing-strategies-art-science-or-manipulation Tue, 02 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-nike-a-really-ethical-company-or-just-using-a-great-marketing-strategy Nike is celebrating the 30th anniversary of “Just do it” with a controversial promotional campaign. Has it worked and are they really ethical? values marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-nike-a-really-ethical-company-or-just-using-a-great-marketing-strategy Tue, 11 Sept 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/can-you-guess-vws-values-from-the-way-they-act VW is trying to address its corporate culture through its “cultural heritage” programme as part of the TRANSFORM 2025+ strategy but do their values really translate into behaviours? leadership business success corporate culture https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/can-you-guess-vws-values-from-the-way-they-act Fri, 24 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/were-all-responsible-if-we-want-a-great-britain From responsible business to charities, social enterprises and individuals, the government's new Civil Society Strategy wants us all to get involved. Here is a summary of the main strands of the Strategy plus access to a responsible organisation blueprint. collaboration responsible organisation charter charity socent https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/were-all-responsible-if-we-want-a-great-britain Thu, 09 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/stakeholder-mapping-or-who-do-you-really-need-to-talk-to Are you talking to everyone that you need to? And how do you decide what to say and how to do it and how often? communication leadership marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/stakeholder-mapping-or-who-do-you-really-need-to-talk-to Tue, 31 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/your-marketing-isnt-working-as-well-as-you-want-for-you-so-do-you-just-need So your website doesn’t work as you want it to and you even think you might need a new logo so do you just jump in and get these sorted to save time or think about wider marketing issues? - READ ON to find out marketing strategy business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/your-marketing-isnt-working-as-well-as-you-want-for-you-so-do-you-just-need Wed, 04 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-buck-stops-with-trustees-3-ways-to-avoid-disaster As a Sheffield and South Yorkshire charity announces its sudden closure what trustees can do to avoid the unexpected in their own charities charity responsible organisation charter trustees values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-buck-stops-with-trustees-3-ways-to-avoid-disaster Thu, 17 May 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/yorkshire-really-is-the-best-county-to-do-business-in As we celebrate Yorkshire Day today let's step into the future to understand why Yorkshire is the best place for business in the 21st century when sustainable business success is based on more than profit innovation inspiration coaching https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/yorkshire-really-is-the-best-county-to-do-business-in Wed, 09 May 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-what-is-working Good leaders are action focused and have a sense of urgency, but it is critical that they have clear goals, track and measure the results achieved to ensure the action will take them forward. goal setting focus on action leadership https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-what-is-working Tue, 08 May 2018 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-one-page-business-plan-do-you-prefer Often a one page business plan is enough but do you want creativity or a formal layout? business planning inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-one-page-business-plan-do-you-prefer Tue, 20 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-a-wheel-became-a-roc-to-support-you-in-achieving-your-business-goals A diagnostic tool the ROC which can be a strong foundation for any organisation responsible organisation charter 21st century business winning by being good https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-a-wheel-became-a-roc-to-support-you-in-achieving-your-business-goals Wed, 28 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-truth-about-charities-betraying-our-trust Are we unrealistic expecting charities like Oxfam to be perfect when they are so large or is it more that they don't handle negative events well that is the problem? charity social enterprise values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-truth-about-charities-betraying-our-trust Tue, 13 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/have-you-got-too-many-ideas-and-options Choosing the right way forward can feel hard but there are some things you can do to help with the decision making coaching goal setting strategic development decision making https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/have-you-got-too-many-ideas-and-options Wed, 31 Jan 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/if-you-want-2018-to-be-a-successful-year-read-this The four steps to translating your goals into successful results coaching goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/if-you-want-2018-to-be-a-successful-year-read-this Sun, 31 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/new-opportunities-the-first-charity-raises-money-from-a-share-issue How Hastings Pier Charity has got 3000+ people from the local community to buy shares in their award winning pier redevelopment charity funding and investment community shares https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/new-opportunities-the-first-charity-raises-money-from-a-share-issue Thu, 30 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-running-a-business-easier-than-driving Why is it that we know we need a driving expert to teach us to drive but don't think we need a business adviser or coach when we want to learn to run our own business? coaching business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-running-a-business-easier-than-driving Thu, 14 Sept 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-want-to-run-a-good-company Do you think business is about more than making money? What do you think makes a company good? Here are some of my ideas but I'd love to hear from you growth business success responsible organisation charter csr https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-want-to-run-a-good-company Thu, 10 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-ways-to-stop-wasting-money-on-advertising If you are frustrated that your advertising and marketing isn't working these 5 tips will help marketing investment sustainable profit https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-ways-to-stop-wasting-money-on-advertising Mon, 31 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-create-a-business-full-of-super-heroes A business for success needs a corporate culture which creates super heroes that over achieve for customers and the team corporate culture values business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-create-a-business-full-of-super-heroes Tue, 27 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-would-you-do-it-for-free Strong businesses are built on strong relationships and they require trust. Giving rather than constantly seeking to get will pay dividends in the long run. relationships trust https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-would-you-do-it-for-free Thu, 18 May 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-secret-to-success-great-leadership Success depends on knowing where you are going and how you will get there and that is the role of the leader vision values action leadership https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-secret-to-success-great-leadership Thu, 04 May 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-values-are-the-key-foundation-of-a-strong-corporate-culture A strong corporate culture is critical to on-going business success and values are critical to developing and maintaining such a culture corporate culture values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-values-are-the-key-foundation-of-a-strong-corporate-culture Tue, 11 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/did-you-take-more-care-naming-your-baby-than-naming-your-business Naming a business needs as much care as naming a baby and getting it wrong can be expensive marketing corporate personality https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/did-you-take-more-care-naming-your-baby-than-naming-your-business Thu, 30 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seeing-opportunities-rather-than-problems The inspirational Nan Lian garden in Hong Kong shows that even in the middle of dual carriageways you can create beauty and calm if you see the opportunity rather than the problem. inspiration innovation travel https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seeing-opportunities-rather-than-problems Tue, 14 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/when-a-loyalty-card-backfires How a simple marketing promotion can actually act as a disincentive but done well can increase custom social enterprise marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/when-a-loyalty-card-backfires Fri, 03 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-have-fun-improve-your-workplace-and-change-lives How singing can help everyone have better lives, improve organisations and maybe be a new twist on how charities and businesses could work together csr team working https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-have-fun-improve-your-workplace-and-change-lives Tue, 21 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/would-your-business-do-this A company shows its values by how it treats individuals and this story of a young man with autism and how Asda has changed his life is more inspirational than many CSR reports csr values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/would-your-business-do-this Tue, 14 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/9-steps-to-achieving-your-goals-in-2017 How to turn vision and goals into action and results with nine easy steps action coaching goals https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/9-steps-to-achieving-your-goals-in-2017 Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/creating-an-inspirational-vision-to-drive-you-forward-in-2017 How to create an inspirational vision vision leadership https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/creating-an-inspirational-vision-to-drive-you-forward-in-2017 Sat, 17 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/diversification-is-money-reason-enough Particularly in rural areas businesses and farmers are looking to diversify but are the economic arguments enough even with the latest announcements in the Autumn statement? rural diversification passion https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/diversification-is-money-reason-enough Thu, 24 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-even-a-visit-to-the-hairdressers-can-be-stressful Even running a hairdressers raise all sorts of issues that need to be considered as part of being a Responsible Organisation environment sustainable profit responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-even-a-visit-to-the-hairdressers-can-be-stressful Mon, 21 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/using-your-values-and-vision-to-help-you-through-difficult-times How having an inspirational vision and strong values can help when people are worried about change such as the aftermath of the Trump election vision values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/using-your-values-and-vision-to-help-you-through-difficult-times Tue, 15 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-reasons-you-need-to-think-about-your-marketing-now Brexit and the following economic fluctuations means that everyone needs to consider the impact on their organisation in terms of costs and opportunities to generate new business entrepreneur marketing business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-reasons-you-need-to-think-about-your-marketing-now Wed, 26 Oct 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-yorkshire-business-doomed Research indicates that except for London, UK Cities are performing badly - what can we do? 21st century business profit https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-yorkshire-business-doomed Wed, 05 Oct 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/advice-to-businesses-whose-staff-dont-seem-to-fulfil-their-potential Why some businesses are frustrated with their staff and how to get the workforce of your dreams 21st century business staff engagement https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/advice-to-businesses-whose-staff-dont-seem-to-fulfil-their-potential Mon, 19 Sept 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/six-strategic-lessons-we-can-all-learn-from-the-olympics Beyond working harder, training longer and investing more, there are important lessons we can all learn from the Olympics which can help us all achieve more changing lives business success csr https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/six-strategic-lessons-we-can-all-learn-from-the-olympics Wed, 17 Aug 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/not-all-innovation-is-good The internet of things can be very powerful until it fails innovation marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/not-all-innovation-is-good Tue, 02 Aug 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-sustainable-profit In the current turmoil and uncertainty it is critical to think about how to stay financially secure and minimise your risks sustainable profit business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-sustainable-profit Wed, 29 Jun 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/creating-a-winning-team-for-euro-2016 Teams can only win if they know their objectives and each person knows their role. staff engagement team working goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/creating-a-winning-team-for-euro-2016 Thu, 09 Jun 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/values-can-make-you-more-profitable Having values that are understood and translated into action can increase profits by 147% and lots of companies recognise that they have a problem values 21st century business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/values-can-make-you-more-profitable Tue, 31 May 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-tips-on-getting-the-website-of-your-dreams Five tips based on our experience to help you through the process of finding and working with a web designer marketing goal setting strategy https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-tips-on-getting-the-website-of-your-dreams Wed, 27 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/innovation-15-examples-of-bad-ideas-or-mistakes innovation is about trying new things and being open minded, otherwise a lot of great ideas would have been thrown away as mistakes or discarded as they weren't what the person intended innovation https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/innovation-15-examples-of-bad-ideas-or-mistakes Fri, 15 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-april-fools-joke-ethical-business Was this another BBC April Fools Joke - a business employing ex offenders to cut keys and stopping managers from giving orders? 21st century business responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-april-fools-joke-ethical-business Fri, 01 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-top-dangers-to-avoid-when-naming-in-your-business Naming is all about business strategy, getting it right is critical for success. marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/five-top-dangers-to-avoid-when-naming-in-your-business Thu, 24 Mar 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/infographic-what-to-look-for-in-your-business-coach A summary of the top five things to look for in a good business coach. coaching https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/infographic-what-to-look-for-in-your-business-coach Tue, 01 Mar 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-of-these-five-trends-can-you-use-to-grow Research into consumer trends in retailing can be relevant to any organisation thinking about how to innovate and shows it is not just about money. innovation https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/which-of-these-five-trends-can-you-use-to-grow Mon, 08 Feb 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-power-of-working-together-and-thinking-differently An inspirational story of a business with strong values helping the homeless and in part an example of how collaboration particularly between sectors can create success for all and help change the world, charity collaboration responsible organisation charter csr https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-power-of-working-together-and-thinking-differently Thu, 04 Feb 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-science-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals-in-2016 How the latest science research can help you achieve your new year’s resolutions so that you make 2016 your best year ever and how coaching can make it even better. goal setting coaching https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-science-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals-in-2016 Sun, 10 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-it-pays-to-be-patient-in-networking Networking at all levels is critical if you are to succeed but building relationships rarely happens over night so you need to be patient marketing entrepreneur sales https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-it-pays-to-be-patient-in-networking Mon, 12 Oct 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/i-factor-1 Inspirational people and companies we have noticed over the last seven days i factor inspiration leadership https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/i-factor-1 Mon, 28 Sept 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seven-reasons-to-be-good-in-businessinfographic Being ethical is not only moral but makes financial sense. profit growth responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seven-reasons-to-be-good-in-businessinfographic Fri, 25 Sept 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-ethical-business-is-no-longer-something-to-nice-to-do-but-not-for-us Why being ethical is no longer an optional extra. 21st century business growth responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-ethical-business-is-no-longer-something-to-nice-to-do-but-not-for-us Wed, 23 Sept 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/6-steps-to-successful-growth The six steps an organisation needs to take to develop a successful strategy with an infographic strategic development goal setting growth https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/6-steps-to-successful-growth Mon, 21 Sept 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-no-one-talks-about-exhibiting-anymore-and-54-ways-to-prove-them-wrong How to make exhibitions work for you marketing goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-no-one-talks-about-exhibiting-anymore-and-54-ways-to-prove-them-wrong Fri, 28 Aug 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-kids-company-should-make-you-question-everything Running any type of organisation in the 21st century is complex. It's not just enough to focus on money if you're a business or changing the world if you're a charity, for sustainable success you have to think across all the elements of the organisation charity csr responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-kids-company-should-make-you-question-everything Thu, 20 Aug 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-stop-people-turning-off-when-they-hear-what-you-do How a lift statement or elevator pitch can increase the interest you get from people you meet, and simple steps to create one sales marketing niche market https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-stop-people-turning-off-when-they-hear-what-you-do Tue, 04 Aug 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-treating-staff-well-could-solve-the-uks-productivity-crisis UK productivity is low and there is good reason to believe it is because only 27% of the UK workforce feels highly engaged at work. This blog explains the financial reasons to engage staff and gives examples of how to do it. 21st century business team working staff engagement https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-treating-staff-well-could-solve-the-uks-productivity-crisis Fri, 17 Jul 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-let-the-facts-get-in-the-way-of-a-good-story Media stories and the facts are not always the same. charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-let-the-facts-get-in-the-way-of-a-good-story Wed, 27 May 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-if-your-fundraising-is-undermining-your-charity Charity fundraising is coming under scrutiny as a 92 year old woman commits suicide and her family blame the begging letters from charities charity values responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-if-your-fundraising-is-undermining-your-charity Mon, 18 May 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-compelling-reasons-why-the-wheel-of-success-runs-faster-when-you-commit-t It’s no longer enough to do CSR and hope your charity donations will make people think you are a good business – there are compelling reasons why visions, values, innovation, treating people well and thinking about the impact of what you do will make you more successful. csr responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/5-compelling-reasons-why-the-wheel-of-success-runs-faster-when-you-commit-t Fri, 08 May 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-what-first-impressions-you-are-making It is easy to unintentionally make a bad first impression if you don't behave in an ethical way values 21st century business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-what-first-impressions-you-are-making Fri, 24 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/have-you-really-visualised-your-goals-to-inspire-people-or-have-you-just-se A new financial year means new goals and new inspiration. Have you got them in place? Or have you just set some financial goals? social impact success responsible organisation charter https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/have-you-really-visualised-your-goals-to-inspire-people-or-have-you-just-se Fri, 17 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-reasons-to-do-good-in-a-business An interesting example of how doing good can be profitable even for the smallest business changing lives business success niche market csr https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/three-reasons-to-do-good-in-a-business Fri, 10 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/new-niche-market-for-tesco Tesco identify new niche market by targeting shorter shoppers and improve margins by being able to have higher shelving niche market marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/new-niche-market-for-tesco Wed, 01 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/getting-better-at-sales-and-growth-by-collaboration-are-the-priorities-for The results of our business growth survey shows that most people have a simple view of growth - sell more. business growth marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/getting-better-at-sales-and-growth-by-collaboration-are-the-priorities-for Mon, 23 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/using-emotion-to-increase-your-sales Emotional selling comes more naturally to many business owners. sales training sales business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/using-emotion-to-increase-your-sales Fri, 20 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-a-clear-purpose-can-even-create-success-in-a-difficult-market The importance of knowing why you are in business if you are to be successful and create a successful niche market strategy innovation vision niche https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-a-clear-purpose-can-even-create-success-in-a-difficult-market Wed, 11 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/fourteen-potential-reasons-you-might-attend-an-exhibition Success at an exhibition like anything else requires clear objectives and strategy and then taking action. strategic development goal setting marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/fourteen-potential-reasons-you-might-attend-an-exhibition Thu, 19 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/making-networking-work-for-you A mindmap that summarises how to make the most from the 4N networking group. marketing entrepreneur tools https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/making-networking-work-for-you Mon, 02 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/can-we-learn-anything-from-the-tesco-story Tesco is in the wars but every company can learn from the issues it faces. When the focus in a business is just profit then the values and vision that should be the core of the company can get ignored. values 21st century business vision https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/can-we-learn-anything-from-the-tesco-story Wed, 21 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/everyone-deserves-a-happy-christmas An inspirational charity changing lives all the year charity inspiration changing lives https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/everyone-deserves-a-happy-christmas Thu, 18 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-we-can-learn-from-a-simple-idea By thinking differently about problems a health care company has come up with simple but life changing ideas that are really inspirational inspiration strategic development 21st century business values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-we-can-learn-from-a-simple-idea Mon, 10 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-you-need-to-rank-your-values-to-radically-change-your-business Having and knowing your values is just the start, you need to identify what is the single must do values business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-you-need-to-rank-your-values-to-radically-change-your-business Wed, 22 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-law-of-unintended-consequences-fighting-to-save-rotherham How protesters can threaten a town's businesses. community stakeholders rotherham https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-law-of-unintended-consequences-fighting-to-save-rotherham Mon, 13 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-seven-top-mistakes-that-a-business-owner-should-avoid-if-they-want-to-a The seven top mistakes that can be fatal to business success business business success https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-seven-top-mistakes-that-a-business-owner-should-avoid-if-they-want-to-a Fri, 03 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/volunteering-good-for-the-country-good-for-business-good-for-people-and-goo Some inspirational facts about volunteering and measuring its impact and how new ways of volunteering are developing charity csr social impact https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/volunteering-good-for-the-country-good-for-business-good-for-people-and-goo Fri, 26 Sept 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-the-moral-of-the-story-relationships-are-a-critical-part-of-success Why good relationships are critical to business success even if you have a profitable business model. success relationships https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-is-the-moral-of-the-story-relationships-are-a-critical-part-of-success Fri, 19 Sept 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-how-you-get-sales Every business needs a sales funnel and needs to understand how it works. Modern technology can help but only if you have a clear strategy and method. entrepreneur marketing tools sales https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-know-how-you-get-sales Wed, 10 Sept 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-economic-development-only-about-the-economy Success in the 21st century cannot only be measured in money even if it is economic development 21st century business success niche https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-economic-development-only-about-the-economy Tue, 02 Sept 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-can-business-learn-from-sport Successful sports people use coaches not only as they are getting started but to refine their skills when they are winning so that they keep ahead. coaching entrepreneur https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-can-business-learn-from-sport Tue, 26 Aug 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-community-shares-the-right-answer-for-you This infographic maps the issues to consider if you are thinking about whether a community share issue might be a good way of raising investment for your social enterprise or a community resource. socent community shares https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-community-shares-the-right-answer-for-you Wed, 13 Aug 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-shared-values-either-realistic-or-achievable A company with shared values will act consistently and be more successful. action values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-shared-values-either-realistic-or-achievable Tue, 24 Jun 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/collaboration-is-the-key-to-future-success-in-business Collaboration is team working for businesses and just like a strong team can achieve so much more than the individuals working alone so can a strong collaboration entrepreneur collaboration business https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/collaboration-is-the-key-to-future-success-in-business Tue, 27 May 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ethical-innovations-that-changed-the-world Innovation is what has made us successful as humans from the wheel to the microchip - here is an infographic about ethical innovation innovation inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/ethical-innovations-that-changed-the-world Thu, 15 May 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-first-impression-do-you-make First impressions are critical and include everything from how you stand to your business card - are you making the best first impression? innovation focus on action https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-first-impression-do-you-make Tue, 13 May 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-waiting-for-the-cow-to-come-to-you As the old saying says "If you want milk, don't sit on a stool in the middle of a field in the hope that the cow will back up to you" - you need to take action inspiration action https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-waiting-for-the-cow-to-come-to-you Thu, 24 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/change-lives-through-an-inspirational-story Charities need to create Inspirational stories about how they change lives charity inspiration marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/change-lives-through-an-inspirational-story Wed, 09 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/being-bullied-by-a-big-brand The dangers of forcing your service on a 'customer' entrepreneur values marketing vision focus on action https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/being-bullied-by-a-big-brand Tue, 01 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/getting-creative-to-generate-new-enthusiasm-and-inspiration Developing exciting ideas for new projects can be really inspirational when an organisation is feeling under stress charity innovation inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/getting-creative-to-generate-new-enthusiasm-and-inspiration Tue, 25 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/does-the-face-you-show-as-a-business-depend-on-who-you-meet Successful businesses and social enterprises are built on consistency, does the face you show as a business depend on who you meet? entrepreneur social enterprise corporate personality https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/does-the-face-you-show-as-a-business-depend-on-who-you-meet Tue, 18 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/changing-beliefs-to-empower-people However much you help people, their beliefs may stop them taking advantage of opportunities - they need to believe that they are people who can.... collaboration charity inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/changing-beliefs-to-empower-people Mon, 10 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-listen-enough The days of the hard sell are dead. Successful sales is about listening to customers and helping them understand how you meet their needs entrepreneur sales communication https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/do-you-listen-enough Tue, 04 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/starting-on-the-journey-to-income-generation Moving from a culture of donations and grants to earning income can be a big step for some charities and for some it seems impossible but there are lots of different routes and you can start with small steps charity social enterprise marketing local authority https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/starting-on-the-journey-to-income-generation Mon, 24 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-supporting-your-local-community-can-increase-your-success-at-winning-bu The Social Value Act is based on the principle that value is not just about price, and organisations that meet the wider needs of the community should be rewarded. entrepreneur social enterprise local authority public sector https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-supporting-your-local-community-can-increase-your-success-at-winning-bu Mon, 17 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-measuring-your-social-impact-effectively Effectively measuring social impact is critical for any charity or social enterprise that wants to prosper - are you telling a good story? charity social enterprise inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-measuring-your-social-impact-effectively Mon, 10 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-solving-the-right-problem Successful innovation i.e. innovation that has an impact depends on creating a solution to a problem that people perceive and then ensuring that they know about your solution. For organisations working with people who have a different view of the world this can be a challenge. innovation charity social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-solving-the-right-problem Mon, 27 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-marry-community-need-and-viability-using-novel-ways-of-working The days of a simple solution to local provision have gone as the "Rethinking Parks" fund has identified. Councils need to think about innovation and collaboration to maintain services let alone improve them local authority rethinking parks feasibility study https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-marry-community-need-and-viability-using-novel-ways-of-working Mon, 20 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-going-to-ride-the-wave-as-confidence-returns-to-the-economy This is the time of year when we all set resolutions, give up drinking, lose weight, change our lives. It is also the time to have at least some simple resolutions for your business or organisation. The blog includes a tool to set some really simple goals for your business and your personal life and looks in more detail at goalsetting and the strategies which will help you achieve them. goal setting entrepreneur strategic development business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-going-to-ride-the-wave-as-confidence-returns-to-the-economy Mon, 06 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/happy-new-year BE INSPIRED It's a new year, a new day, a new page, a new story. Live this story and don't let pages from the past ruin this new beginning inspiration goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/happy-new-year Mon, 30 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/7-marketing-tips-from-father-christmas The marketing lessons we can learn from Father Christmas - an exclusive interview revealed what he has learnt over the centuries marketing entrepreneur csr collaboration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/7-marketing-tips-from-father-christmas Tue, 17 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-we-can-learn-from-south-africa The focus in South Africa is on creating sustainable jobs rather than giving charity, this should be the emphasis in the UK. Creating meaningful work changes communities much more than any hand out could. charity social enterprise entrepreneur https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-we-can-learn-from-south-africa Tue, 10 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/marketing-is-your-mousetrap-good-enough Many times people are criticised for believing that if you build a better mousetrap people will come, when that is just not true. But the reverse is also not true ie you do need a product or service that works and adds benefits or all your marketing will be wasted marketing entrepreneur social enterprise strategic development creative think tank https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/marketing-is-your-mousetrap-good-enough Mon, 04 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/winning-by-doing-good How changing the world and success can coincide even in a simple business like mending shoes csr family business entrepreneur charity social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/winning-by-doing-good Tue, 29 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/getting-the-most-from-community-buildings It used to be a self evident truth that having a building was a good thing for a charity or community. However as our focus finder tool (c) illustrates things have changed as overheads have risen and occupancy rates have fallen. charity social enterprise community interest company https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/getting-the-most-from-community-buildings Mon, 21 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-did-edison-light-the-world-a-little-known-fact-and-a-huge-goal Thomas Edison set the goal of lighting the world so he not only had to invent a great light bulb but he had to ensure there would be electricity to power it. goal setting entrepreneur inspiration aspiration charity social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-did-edison-light-the-world-a-little-known-fact-and-a-huge-goal Fri, 11 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/who-would-have-thought-that-a-little-blog-about-what-is-a-social-enterprise As a consultant that specialises in social enterprise about a month ago I wrote a blog about the differences between business, charity and social enterprise. It has prompted some really interesting debate in LinkedIn groups particularly in the Charity UK and the Big Society groups where there have been over 50 comments. One of the most succinct responses was the first from Lucy Haughey, Director & Founder at The PlanB Partnership charity social enterprise entrepreneur community interest company https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/who-would-have-thought-that-a-little-blog-about-what-is-a-social-enterprise Mon, 07 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/paper-post-tweet-email-which-gets-the-most-attention If you sometimes feel that choosing a communications route is like a complex game of paper,scissors stone, you are not alone. Last week we were at the National Entrepreneurs Convention in Birmingham and much of the event was focused on choosing the best way to build relationships and communicate effectively. entrepreneur goal setting marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/paper-post-tweet-email-which-gets-the-most-attention Mon, 30 Sept 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-win-friends-and-influence-people Stakeholder management seems to be more and more critical as society becomes more and more over communicated. Recently in very different circumstances it has become clear that many organisations have not worked out who they really need to communicate with, what they want to achieve and hence what they want to say. charity social enterprise strategic development marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-win-friends-and-influence-people Mon, 23 Sept 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-the-route-to-success-finding-your-passion-and-following-it Are you doing what you are passionate about? Seeing young people at the beginning of their career finding their passion and realising work can be fun is inspirational. entrepreneur social enterprise inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-the-route-to-success-finding-your-passion-and-following-it Sun, 15 Sept 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/when-you-grow-up-do-you-want-to-be-a-business-a-social-enterprise-or-a-char-2 What is the difference between a business that wants to change the world, a charity that wants to change the world and a social enterprise and who decides which is which? Easy in terms of the legal charity status - after that it gets complex. entrepreneur social enterprise public sector charity cic CIO https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/when-you-grow-up-do-you-want-to-be-a-business-a-social-enterprise-or-a-char-2 Fri, 06 Sept 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-makes-a-business-successful Success goes far beyond the brand image, marketing hype and social media position. To be successful, a company, charity or social enterprise must be solid with a clear vision and values. entrepreneur sellability https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/what-makes-a-business-successful Mon, 02 Sept 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/charities-at-risk The recent publicity about charity executive salaries, the high profile TV ads and the plethora of charity shops in every high street are giving a distorted view of how the majority of small and medium sized charities operate charity business planning strategic development https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/charities-at-risk Tue, 27 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/family-run-business-challenge-or-opportunity As the number of family businesses increase it is critical you get the business fundamentals right or both home and business can come under threat entrepreneur family business values https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/family-run-business-challenge-or-opportunity Fri, 16 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-going-on-holiday-will-there-be-a-business-to-come-back-to Are you the type of business owner that can never go on holiday or let go if you do? entrepreneur tools time management solopreneur https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/are-you-going-on-holiday-will-there-be-a-business-to-come-back-to Mon, 12 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-digital-revolution-a-triumph-or-a-threat-to-the-most-disadvantaged Most people access the web everyday often away from home or the office. Where does this leave the poorest and most disadvantaged in our society? charity social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-digital-revolution-a-triumph-or-a-threat-to-the-most-disadvantaged Mon, 12 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/team-development-what-we-can-learn-from-sport As the start of the new football season approaches and the transfer season is in full swing, what will make the difference between the successful and the unsuccessful team? entrepreneur tools team https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/team-development-what-we-can-learn-from-sport Wed, 31 Jul 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/showing-people-can-change-the-power-of-nature-and-belief This month I have come across inspirational examples of heroin addicts and ex-offenders who are being changed by opportunities to be in the natural world. inspiration socent charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/showing-people-can-change-the-power-of-nature-and-belief Mon, 22 Jul 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-seeing-believing The power of the brand. Once people have a belief then it can be very hard to shift so it is critical to protect your brand by acting consistently at all times and being true to your values. I think many people will be surprised about where this picture was taken - I hope I am wrong. marketing inspiration local authority strategic development https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/is-seeing-believing Tue, 16 Jul 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-change-the-world-with-marketing-not-charity An inspirational story of how understanding a market others might ignore can work for a company and change the lives of the poor. And also a surprising statistic about the biggest selling mobile phone. entrepreneur charity social enterprise marketing inspiration collaboration focus on action https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-to-change-the-world-with-marketing-not-charity Fri, 05 Jul 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/better-decision-making We make decisions every minute of every day even if the decision is to keep doing what we are doing but scarily too many decisions can work out wrong. Based on Decisive by Chip and Dan Heath I've developed a tool "The Decision Improver"(c) to help you make better decisions. Firstly be aware that it is rare a decision should be whether or not - widen your options, then test your assumptions, reduce the emotion, get your distance and then prepare to be wrong in either direction - overly successful or failing. entrepreneur charity goal setting social enterprise strategic development inspiration business planning action decision making https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/better-decision-making Tue, 25 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/focus-on-action Action without focus is what the headless chicken is famous for, focus and goals linked to action make you unstoppable entrepreneur goal setting social enterprise inspiration tools aspiration action https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/focus-on-action Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-understanding-people-is-critical-to-business-success If we don't understand how and why people change then how can we attract new customers? I've just finished reading Switch by Chip and Dan Heath it was great, with some really powerful examples of how to help people change, make decisions and bring about change in organisations or even countries. entrepreneur goal setting social enterprise strategic development marketing inspiration aspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-understanding-people-is-critical-to-business-success Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-three-ways-to-grow-your-organisation There are only three ways to grow your organisation: organically but this takes time and money; mergers or acquisitions but this is high risk and difficult; collaboration and partnering which can be quick and effective if done right collaboration goal setting strategic development entrepreneur charity social enterprise community interest company https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-three-ways-to-grow-your-organisation Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/community-interest-companies-are-they-coming-of-age Community Interest Companies are in the news doing all sorts of things in all sorts of places. Its encouraging social enterprises are becoming so newsworthy if people understand that CICs are social enterprises that is charity social enterprise funding and investment community interest company cic https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/community-interest-companies-are-they-coming-of-age Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/u-mix-opening-a-day-of-social-enterprise-in-practise-and-theory Having been involved with U-Mix project supporting with funding bids, business planning and the practical development it was great and quite emotional to see it open today. The event was well supported reflecting the mix of people that have helped to make it successful and a credit to FURD who organised it. Before that I was at the Working Capital Conference which had some interesting comments from the head of Bid Society Capital. charity social enterprise business planning strategic development inspiration collaboration local authority public sector https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/u-mix-opening-a-day-of-social-enterprise-in-practise-and-theory Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/something-you-might-need-to-do-immediately-about-the-budget-and-its-not-abo If you tender for public sector business or plan to, or get a grant as a charity then you need to think about your allowance for inflation in salaries plus updating your forecasts from April 2014 to reflect the new Employment Allowance public sector business planning social enterprise local authority tendering sme social investment charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/something-you-might-need-to-do-immediately-about-the-budget-and-its-not-abo Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/3-things-young-people-want Researching with young people last week their top 3 requests were somewhere safe and interesting to be to keep them off the streets, activities for them not shared with adults, and active and interesting stuff to do not just hanging around. charity tools goal setting creative think tank aspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/3-things-young-people-want Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-unexpected-tale Inspiration can happen at the most unexpected moments, listening to a tale about a rich Chinese man on holiday has had a lasting impact. aspiration inspiration goal setting travel https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-unexpected-tale Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/two-high-profile-examples-of-charity-and-business-collaborating Charities and businesses can both profit from working together and getting in the Christmas spirit charity entrepreneur marketing csr https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/two-high-profile-examples-of-charity-and-business-collaborating Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-five-top-risks-for-a-charity-becoming-a-social-enterprise Any charity moving to income generation needs to be aware of the dangers - here are our five top risks from our experience of 2 decades working with social enterprises social enterprise charity marketing feasibility study business planning strategic development goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-five-top-risks-for-a-charity-becoming-a-social-enterprise Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-coaching-keeps-you-motivated-on-the-roller-coaster-of-life Some weeks give me a chance to benefit from my coaching and keep on going. “Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” Edison coaching entrepreneur inspiration https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/how-coaching-keeps-you-motivated-on-the-roller-coaster-of-life Sun, 04 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/creating-successful-charity-partnerships-for-new-funding With the new Advice Services Transition fund being launched, even more charities will be considering how they can work in partnership. In my experience if you don't have strong strategic input in the beginning you can waste months in fruitless talks charity strategic development collaboration local authority https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/creating-successful-charity-partnerships-for-new-funding Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-opportunity-to-learn-how-to-build-more-legs-for-your-marketing-platform More businesses will be getting together to inspire each other on the 12th November. They'll also be listening to me speak about how to develop a strong marketing platform without spending a fortune marketing entrepreneur inspiration aspiration strategic development mihm https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/an-opportunity-to-learn-how-to-build-more-legs-for-your-marketing-platform Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/make-it-happen-monday-happened Make It Happen Monday launched in South Yorkshire and everyone went away inspired and energised, with clear actions to take their businesses forward. inspiration goal setting aspiration marketing mihm https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/make-it-happen-monday-happened Mon, 08 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/make-it-happen-monday A great new monthly session to get a new infusion of energy and ideas. Every 2nd Monday of the Month we will be holding a Make It Happen session for 3 hours in Sheffield to let people share ideas, learn from others and get inspired. entrepreneur social enterprise goal setting inspiration coaching mihm https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/make-it-happen-monday Wed, 12 Sept 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/first-seminar-for-investment-and-contract-readiness-has-a-sweet-ending People found our first seminar to let organisations know the detail about investment and contract readiness so informative that we expect to schedule more. With a mix of specialist advisers and charities the seminar focused on how the fund could help improve the success of social ventures by building their capacity and providing tailored support. charity social enterprise investment contract readiness https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/first-seminar-for-investment-and-contract-readiness-has-a-sweet-ending Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/being-positive As bad news takes the headlines after the Olympics I've just been inspired by a great play about how one man changed the lives of so many inspiration aspiration goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/being-positive Sat, 18 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspiring-a-generation-should-it-read-generations Thinking about what you want to achieve when you come up with a marketing slogan, what is really the end result you desire, is it really only young people we want to be inspired by the Olympics? I think that would be a missed opportunity. inspiration marketing https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspiring-a-generation-should-it-read-generations Thu, 02 Aug 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/who-is-going-to-inspire-us-the-most-over-the-next-17-days-getting-high-on-n The Olympics is about inspiration, each time it is held the individual stories are what make it special, so it would be great to discover who inspires people this time inspiration aspiration goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/who-is-going-to-inspire-us-the-most-over-the-next-17-days-getting-high-on-n Fri, 27 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/finally-eating-that-frog In time management and goal setting Brian Tracy's Eat that Frog is both simple and compelling and I've finally managed to eat a rather large one in the form of a mammoth business plan of almost 30,000 words business planning strategic development time management socent https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/finally-eating-that-frog Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/first-application-sent-in-for-the-investment-and-contract-readiness After just a week we're really pleased we've already been able to get an application into the contract and readiness fund. A social enterprise with lots of potential and no time or resource to pursue their ideas. social enterprise strategic development funding and investment charity feasibility study business planning collaboration investment contract readiness https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/first-application-sent-in-for-the-investment-and-contract-readiness Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/investment-and-contract-readiness-accredited-support-provider Approved as one of the first accredited support providers for charities and social enterprises wanting to be investment and contract ready charity social enterprise business planning feasibility study creative think tank funding and investment investment contract readiness https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/investment-and-contract-readiness-accredited-support-provider Mon, 09 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/scary-facts-about-teams-think-football The results of a poll of employees show that very few are clear about the vision and objectives of their organisation and their role - like only 2 football players in a team knowing which is their goal entrepreneur coaching charity local authority goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/scary-facts-about-teams-think-football Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspiration-from-jci The 2012 JCI European conference in Germany was both fun and inspirational and JCI UK won the award for most enthusiastic delegation entrepreneur goal setting charity csr social enterprise https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspiration-from-jci Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/tools-to-help-charities-survive-the-recession Sarah Brown from inspire2aspire has worked with charities facing funding crises since the early 1990s and has developed a set of unique tools to help identify ways that charities can attract more money but chasing money while ignoring values will lead to failure she warns. creative think tank tools charity goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/tools-to-help-charities-survive-the-recession Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/dealing-with-an-uncertain-future-the-role-of-business-planning Sarah Brown, explains the importance of business planning for charities. Originally published in Charity Times. business planning charity funding and investment https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/dealing-with-an-uncertain-future-the-role-of-business-planning Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-league-of-their-own-for-top-business-consultants Inspirational business consultants Bob and Sarah Brown know the importance of teamwork which is why they’re sponsoring this year’s South Yorkshire Mixed Rounders leagues. csr https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/a-league-of-their-own-for-top-business-consultants Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-charities-should-value-marketing As I sit on a delayed train coming back from London where I am currently acting as marketing and communications director on an interim basis for a large third sector organisation I find myself asking why don’t charities value marketing. marketing social enterprise charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-charities-should-value-marketing Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seven-rules-for-success-based-on-20-years-of-experience Seven rules for success in business learned from the first 20 years of experience entrepreneur marketing charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/seven-rules-for-success-based-on-20-years-of-experience Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/who-controls-your-business Time management and controlling the calls on your time is a critical skill for business owners entrepreneur time management tools https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/who-controls-your-business Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-collaboration-optimiser The Collaboration Optimiser(c) can save months of wasted time on discussions that are going nowhere tools entrepreneur collaboration time management marketing exit strategies https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/the-collaboration-optimiser Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspirational-young-people entrepreneur csr charity https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/inspirational-young-people Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/passion-and-success What drives successful people? exit strategies entrepreneur goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/passion-and-success Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0000 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-did-you-go-into-business Remember your passion that got you into business and use this time when you should be planning for the new financial year to revisit it. Even if your business plan is just a simple short document it will help keep you focused and help with fulfilling your original dream. entrepreneur coaching goal setting business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/why-did-you-go-into-business Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/achieving-your-aspirations Remembering why you are in business. entrepreneur coaching goal setting https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/achieving-your-aspirations Tue, 28 Sept 2010 00:00:00 +0100 https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/exit-planning The importance of exit strategies and the benefits of exit plans. exit strategies entrepreneur coaching business planning https://inspire2aspire.co.uk/blog/exit-planning Tue, 28 Sept 2010 00:00:00 +0100