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<title>InformSME - The latest news and information for small business / Published</title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME</link>
<description>InformSME - The latest news and information for small business  votes</description>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:27 EST</pubDate>
<language>en</language>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[IT efficiency paramount
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=IT-efficiency-paramount</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=IT-efficiency-paramount</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:27 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=IT-efficiency-paramount</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Research by Damovo UK shows that SMEs need help to cope with increasingly complex ICT challenges.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[UK manufacturing skill boost
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=UK-manufacturing-skill-boost</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=UK-manufacturing-skill-boost</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:27 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=UK-manufacturing-skill-boost</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Semta secures access to funding to boost skills in UK metals, mechanical and electric sectors.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[BT: Small businesses embrace social networking
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=BT-Small-businesses-embrace-social-networking</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=BT-Small-businesses-embrace-social-networking</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:27 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=BT-Small-businesses-embrace-social-networking</guid>
<description><![CDATA[UK small businesses increasingly turning to social networking as a marketing tool.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Pound Sterling could be at worst level
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Pound-Sterling-could-be-at-worst-level</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Pound-Sterling-could-be-at-worst-level</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:27 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Pound-Sterling-could-be-at-worst-level</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Credit Suisse (NYSE:CS) believe in the long term the Pound Sterling won&amp;#39;t get worse, and the dollar should strengthen.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Universities failing internet-minded students]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Universities-failing-internetminded-students</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Universities-failing-internetminded-students</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:21 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Universities-failing-internetminded-students</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Kudos to Bigmouthmedia for its campaign to raise awareness of digital marketing among students and graduates, who are apparently unaware that it is a career option.  	 The internet industry at large is very much a career option, and its a shame that universities and colleges arent doing more to promote digital as a serious alternative for marketing and business-orientated students, as well as the tech-minded (who are better catered for).<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Top 10 tips for retailers to combat the economic downturn]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Top-10-tips-retailers-to-combat-economic-downturn</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Top-10-tips-retailers-to-combat-economic-downturn</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:21 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Top-10-tips-retailers-to-combat-economic-downturn</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Despite the current economic climate, retailers should continue to explore investments in technologies that provide an enhanced customer experience, improved customer service and optimised operational efficiencies in order to improve their competitive position.   The tips that follow contain both short-term tactical opportunities to improve performance and increase efficiencies, as well as medium to longer term strategic choices that will deliver sustainable and incremental growth.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Could online ad spending drop by 40%?]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Could-online-spending-drop-by-40</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Could-online-spending-drop-by-40</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:18 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Marketing</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Could-online-spending-drop-by-40</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Nick Denton, the owner of the blog &quot; empire &quot;  Gawker Media , has  some advice  for ad-supported online businesses: prepare for the market to get much, much worse. <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[A beginner's guide to optimising video content]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=beginners-guide-to-optimising-video-content</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=beginners-guide-to-optimising-video-content</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:18 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Marketing</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=beginners-guide-to-optimising-video-content</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 It is becoming increasingly important to consider search engine optimisation (SEO) tactics when creating video or any non-text content. 	 	 As the web becomes an increasingly competitive marketplace, companies are striving to build dynamic, exciting,  thrilling  pages to capture their consumers' confidence.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Internet Start Ups Ripe
            ]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Internet-Start-Ups-Ripe</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Internet-Start-Ups-Ripe</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:11 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Technology in Business</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Internet-Start-Ups-Ripe</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Digg founder Kevin Rose on Friday shined light on a stormy economic landscape, saying the climate is right for launching Internet startups.  Difficulty getting financing means fewer competitors entering the market and that there will be more media attention focused on young technology firms, Rose told those gathered at a Web 2.0 Summit in San Francisco.   complete article<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[UK govt cuts web shoppers a break]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=UK-govt-cuts-web-shoppers-break</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=UK-govt-cuts-web-shoppers-break</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:05 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=UK-govt-cuts-web-shoppers-break</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Customs Duty threshold raised  The banks may be unwilling to pass on their tax breaks, but at least the Government has one for internet shoppers importing goodies from outside the EU.…<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Government to loan money direct to businesses]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Government-to-loan-money-direct-to-businesses</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Government-to-loan-money-direct-to-businesses</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:04 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Government-to-loan-money-direct-to-businesses</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The government will give loans to businesses via regional development agencies (RDAs), as banks are still not lending to companies, a report in the Times says.   According to the newspaper, agencies across the country will be able to issue loans of up to &amp;#163;250,000 to small companies.   The first such scheme has been approved by business secretary Lord Mandelson, who has allocated &amp;#163;4 million to Advantage West Midlands for it to pass on to local firms.   Government ministers are urging money from the RDAs should only go to 'viable' companies which are going to be able to survive the economic downturn.   The newspaper reports ministers are encouraging other RDAs to apply for funds to be used in this way.   A total budget of &amp;#163;2 billion has been allocated to the agencies, for use around the country.   Business owners have also been asked by the government to provide information on how the credit crunch is affecting them and is seeking information from industry bodies like the Confederation of British Industry, the publication reports.   The Federation of Small Businesses has previously suggested the &amp;#163;4 billion from the European Investment Bank should be allocated to firms via RDAs.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Small firms 'must be in pre-Budget report']]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Small-firms-must-be-in-preBudget-report</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Small-firms-must-be-in-preBudget-report</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:04 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Small-firms-must-be-in-preBudget-report</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The pre-Budget report must give companies 'innovative and short-term' solutions for finance such as a &amp;#163;1 billion small business survival fund, an organisation has warned.  According to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), a fund should be created which would replace the small firms loan guarantee and get money directly to businesses, a move the organisation says is 'urgently needed'.  The FSB also says it is crucial that the government scraps the proposed increases in corporate tax in the report, which is due out on November 24th.  John Wright, national chairman of the organisation, says that the government should 'act immediately' to reduce the burden of tax on these businesses, as they need 'talk, not action'.  He states: 'The government must do everything it can to ensure small firms do not need to turn to alternative and expensive sources of finance.'  A recent survey from the organisation of 8,700 members found banks are one of the biggest barriers to growth, as they are not lending money.     <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bosses should help fight staff obesity]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Bosses-should-help-fight-staff-obesity</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Bosses-should-help-fight-staff-obesity</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:32:02 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Bosses-should-help-fight-staff-obesity</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Employers should help staff battle obesity with healthy eating options, as it will lead to a more productive workforce.   Dr Colin Waine, former chairman of the National Obesity Forum, says businesses which have a canteen or eating facilities should be offering low-fat food to aid their employees.   The expert adds that some employers can go further to reduce obesity and improve their company.   'By providing exercise facilities on site to increase levels of activity, the two things together would actually lead to a healthier work force which would have fewer absences,' he states.   Waine describes it as a 'win-win situation' as productivity levels will increase and so benefit the company.   Research from the British Heart Foundation predicts a quarter of all UK workers will not be able to fit into a conventional-sized office chair by 2010 due to increasing obesity.   The National Obesity Forum was set up in 2000 to increase awareness of the health implications of obesity.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[BT job cull shows downside of flexible staffing, but what about the upside?
]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=BT-job-cull-shows-downside-flexible-staffing-but-what-about-upside</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=BT-job-cull-shows-downside-flexible-staffing-but-what-about-upside</comments>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:31:12 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Contractors</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=BT-job-cull-shows-downside-flexible-staffing-but-what-about-upside</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The recent BT job cut announcement has highlighted the vulnerability of contractors during lean economic times, but this is also an example of the reality of how flexible freelancers need to be to survive.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Techcrunch: online ad growth grinds to a halt
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Techcrunch-online-growth-grinds-to-halt</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Techcrunch-online-growth-grinds-to-halt</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:37 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Techcrunch-online-growth-grinds-to-halt</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Revenues of major players in online advertising has not been immune to the credit crunch as spending drops.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
</item>

<item>
<title><![CDATA[Adding online chat to your website]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Adding-online-chat-to-your-website</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Adding-online-chat-to-your-website</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:27 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Adding-online-chat-to-your-website</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Community features, while not right for everyone, can be a useful way for many online publishers to create more loyalty amongst users and keep them hanging around longer.   While social networks and blogs are all the rage, one shouldn't forget about message boards and chat when considering community.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[E-consultancy reveals Innovation Awards shortlist]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Econsultancy-reveals-Innovation-Awards-shortlist</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Econsultancy-reveals-Innovation-Awards-shortlist</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:26 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Econsultancy-reveals-Innovation-Awards-shortlist</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 E-consultancys inaugural Innovation Awards attracted around 230 entries across 13 categories. We were truly delighted by the response, which included some fantastic submissions that highlight truly cutting-edge innovation.   After more than a week of heavy deliberation we can now announce the shortlist, as follows...<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Has YouTube discovered the solution to its monetization woes?]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Has-YouTube-discovered-solution-to-its-monetization-woes</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Has-YouTube-discovered-solution-to-its-monetization-woes</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:24 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Marketing</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Has-YouTube-discovered-solution-to-its-monetization-woes</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 		 		 	   	 Google's challenges in monetizing the world's most popular online video service, YouTube, are  well-known . <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Viral Conversations
            ]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Viral-Conversations</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Viral-Conversations</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:16 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Technology in Business</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Viral-Conversations</guid>
<description><![CDATA[A new service,  Viral Conversations  is available. The idea behind Viral Conversations is putting business owners who have a product or service, in touch with bloggers who are interested in reviewing it. The difference between this website and other website review services is Viral Conversations only deals with real world tangible products.  It is an interesting way to drum up buzz about your products.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Free to cheap sales opportunity?
		]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Free-to-cheap-sales-opportunity</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Free-to-cheap-sales-opportunity</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:15 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Free-to-cheap-sales-opportunity</guid>
<description><![CDATA[If you sell weapons, pornography, drugs, products sourced from illegal logging, products derived from endangered species or that exploit the environment and its inhabitants, then you might not be very interested in this blog post.However if you are interested in connecting with, and selling to, a growing community that prefers to benefit the environment and [...]<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Enterprise Week 2008 - why lessons in enterprise are worth the risk
		]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Enterprise-Week-2008-why-lessons-in-enterprise-are-worth-risk</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Enterprise-Week-2008-why-lessons-in-enterprise-are-worth-risk</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:15 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Enterprise-Week-2008-why-lessons-in-enterprise-are-worth-risk</guid>
<description><![CDATA[As global economies teeter on the edge, Alex Bellinger argues that Enterprise Week is vital to help educate new generations about valuing and managing risk better.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Beat the recession with 10 new marketing activities
		]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Beat-recession-with-10-new-marketing-activities</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Beat-recession-with-10-new-marketing-activities</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:05 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Marketing / PR</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Beat-recession-with-10-new-marketing-activities</guid>
<description><![CDATA[When the economy turns bad, many established companies will not be able to react as quickly as leaner, smaller operations. Here are ten suggested new marketing activities to help you stay one step ahead of your competitors.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Govt cuts web shoppers a break]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Govt-cuts-web-shoppers-break</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Govt-cuts-web-shoppers-break</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:05 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Govt-cuts-web-shoppers-break</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Customs Duty threshold raised  The banks may be unwilling to pass on their tax breaks, but at least the Government has one for internet shoppers importing goodies from outside the EU.…<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Social networking marketing 'is a risk']]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Social-networking-marketing-is-risk</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Social-networking-marketing-is-risk</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:04 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Social-networking-marketing-is-risk</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Using direct marketing through social networking sites is a risk as it cannot be controlled in the same way as other forms of marketing, according to an expert.   Mike Hare, research director at DataTalk Research Limited, a statistical consultancy group, says the potential for negative publicity is equal to that of positive promotion.   He states that as the entire audience can communicate with each other, a negative message can be spread very quickly among individuals, faster than the firm can remedy it.   'No other media gives the target audience that potential,' Hare adds.   'Every other medium you can choose to use as a marketing channel you can virtually control the positioning of adverts in print media, the timing of adverts on broadcast media [and] ... the date mail is dropped,' Hare states.   He adds that there have been some very successful examples of using social networking sites, but there have also been some calamitous ones.   A recent report from Nielsen Online found social networking and blogging sites have seen the biggest increase in use of all internet sites, seeing a rise of 1.3 million minutes in the last year.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bosses 'need to tackle stress']]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Bosses-need-to-tackle-stress</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Bosses-need-to-tackle-stress</comments>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:30:02 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Bosses-need-to-tackle-stress</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Company bosses need to identify stress in staff early and ensure they are tackling it before it becomes a more serious problem, an expert advises.   System Concepts, an ergonomics consultancy, says there is a trend of stress not being treated sympathetically, leading to people remaining silent about their problems.   Tom Stewart, joint managing director of the company, says: 'There is a tendency for the people who are really suffering to keep quiet and then you don't spot them until it's too late.'   He states management should be 'vigilant' to the signs of stress as it is more effective to spot it early on and 'nip it in the bud'.   Stewart also notes that if the situation gets worse and an employee is off work with stress it puts more strain on other workers, potentially leading to further incidents of illness.   The issue of stress is particularly important in the current economic climate, as a recent poll of 2,000 workers from the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts found two-thirds of people feel insecure about their job.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Sterling tumble update
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Sterling-tumble-update</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Sterling-tumble-update</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:29 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Sterling-tumble-update</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The pound is at a record low against the Euro, increasing the woes to UK small business.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Starting up as the economy goes down
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Starting-up-as-economy-goes-down</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Starting-up-as-economy-goes-down</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:29 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Starting-up-as-economy-goes-down</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Market conditions are volatile and companies are laying off workers - it would appear that this is not the economic...<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[How SMEs can minimise print wastage
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=How-SMEs-can-minimise-print-wastage</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=How-SMEs-can-minimise-print-wastage</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:29 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=How-SMEs-can-minimise-print-wastage</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Instead of turning a blind eye to printing costs companies should engage a reseller who can carry out a print...<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[The average wage
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=average-wage</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=average-wage</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:29 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=average-wage</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ONS: Mens, earnings were &amp;pound;521, up 4.6 per cent, compared with &amp;pound;412 for women, up 4.4 per cent.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[The Web Week in Review]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Web-Week-in-Review-28</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Web-Week-in-Review-28</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:23 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Web-Week-in-Review-28</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Few things are certain in today's crazy world but the weekend is one of them. So without further ado, here's this week's The Web Week in Review. <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Six WordPress ad-related plugins]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Six-WordPress-related-plugins</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Six-WordPress-related-plugins</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:20 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Marketing</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Six-WordPress-related-plugins</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Monetizing a blog can be hard. If you're using WordPress, eliminate some of the time you're probably spending managing your ads so that you can focus on producing great content and finding ways to better monetize that content.   Here are 6 WordPress plugins to help you do just that.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Sun Microsystems axes 6,000 staff, digs PR hole, jumps in]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Sun-Microsystems-axes-6000-staff-digs-PR-hole-jumps-in</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Sun-Microsystems-axes-6000-staff-digs-PR-hole-jumps-in</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:15 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Marketing / PR</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Sun-Microsystems-axes-6000-staff-digs-PR-hole-jumps-in</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ 	 Is the press release terminally ill? After seeing how Sun Microsystems announced a batch of layoffs Im starting to think that it might be.   Sun has axed up to 6,000 of its workforce, or as much as 18% of total headcount, as part of a plan to reduce annual costs by $800m.  Given the economic climate this is understandable, but rather than being upfront about it Sun has chosen to bury the bad news among marketese and feelgood sloganeering.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[What might the Pre-Budget Report 2008 bring for small businesses
		]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=What-might-PreBudget-Report-2008-bring-small-businesses</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=What-might-PreBudget-Report-2008-bring-small-businesses</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:06 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Taxation News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=What-might-PreBudget-Report-2008-bring-small-businesses</guid>
<description><![CDATA[With Alistair Darling set to make his second Pre-Budget Report to Parliament on 24 November, what might he have in store for small businesses.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[MoD seeks 'budding Qs' in SME engagement push]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=MoD-seeks-budding-Qs-in-SME-engagement-push</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=MoD-seeks-budding-Qs-in-SME-engagement-push</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:03 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=MoD-seeks-budding-Qs-in-SME-engagement-push</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Pops open  porkbarrel  small tin of spam  The UK Ministry of Defence says it is keen to hear from &quot;budding Qs who think they could supply the armed forces of the future with high-tech gadgets and gizmos&quot;. To that end, the MoD has organised an &quot;innovation day&quot; at Glasgow University.…   <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA['Ditch tax increase' for small firms]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Ditch-tax-increase-small-firms</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Ditch-tax-increase-small-firms</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:02 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Ditch-tax-increase-small-firms</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Chancellor Alistair Darling has been urged to halt a planned tax increase for small businesses, which is due to come in on April 1st next year.   A rise will see firms with profits of up to &amp;#163;300,000 paying 22 per cent tax, rather than the current rate of 21 per cent, in a move which will make the government &amp;#163;450 million a year.   However, now Alistair Darling is being urged to scrap the plans, as some fear it may be the difference between some companies surviving and going under.   Stephen Alambritis, chief spokesman for the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), says the timing of the increase could not be worse.   'We cannot see how the government can say they want to do all they can to support small businesses, but hike taxes at the same time,' he states.   The FSB has previously stated that small businesses are being overlooked by the government and the &amp;#163;4 billion of funding from the European Investment Banks needs to reach the firms rapidly.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Tackle late payments, say businesses]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Tackle-late-payments-say-businesses</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Tackle-late-payments-say-businesses</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:02 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Tackle-late-payments-say-businesses</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Customers settling bills within 20 days would aid small business, with a poll of company owners thinking it would be more beneficial than increased lending from banks.   A survey from the UK Business Forums found 40 per cent of small firms think faster payments would aid their company the most, while only eight per cent think increased lending from banks would be most beneficial.   Dan Martin, administrator for UK Business Forums, says it is 'interesting' amid talk of lending from banks that company owners just want the money which is owed to them.   'The government's pledge for public sector departments to pay small businesses within ten days is welcome but that action needs to be extended to the private sector and big businesses in particular,' he adds.   In addition, 18 per cent of respondents want a cut to small firm's corporation tax and 13 per cent think less red tape for the company would be most preferential.   Credit control experts Graydon UK recently said it would be difficult for the government to stick to its pledge to pay within ten days as many firms currently rate it as a slow payer.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Work bullying 'could get worse']]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Work-bullying-could-get-worse</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Work-bullying-could-get-worse</comments>
<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:24:02 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Work-bullying-could-get-worse</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Nine in ten people think they are a victim of workplace bullying, with one organisation warning this could get worse in the credit crunch.   A survey of 10,000 people from the Andrea Adams Trust, a charity which focuses on problems and conflict in employment, found 92 per cent feel they are victim to taunts and intimidation in their office.   The research also found 56 per cent think bullying is a big problem in their workplace and almost half say their manager bullies them.   It is backed up by a poll from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) which says the practice costs &amp;#163;13.75 billion a year and not enough is being done by UK employers.   Lyn Witheridge, chief executive of the Andrea Adams Trust, says: 'The economic downturn puts workers under greater strain than ever before. Everyone seems to be fighting for their jobs.    'There is a very danger that incidences of bullying in the workplace will hugely increase because of this.'   Jo Causon from the CMI says the need to perform well in jobs at the moment 'should not be seen as an excuse to bully'.   She states the key to solving the problem is 'strong but fair leadership' which will help motivate staff and keep workplaces productive.      <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Pound continues weak run
			]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Pound-continues-weak-run</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Pound-continues-weak-run</comments>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:22:22 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Pound-continues-weak-run</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Sterling continues to weaken against the Euro providing a new headache to UK SMEs.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[And now for the good business news …
		]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=now--good-business-news-</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=now--good-business-news-</comments>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:22:09 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business Advice</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=now--good-business-news-</guid>
<description><![CDATA[We're all getting sick of the doom and gloom, so Gill Millington takes a look at some silver linings to offer us a glimmer of hope and humour.<br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA['Spouse power' gives businesses &amp;#38;amp;#163;72bn boost]]></title>
<link>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Spouse-power-gives-businesses-38amp16372bn-boost</link>
<comments>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Spouse-power-gives-businesses-38amp16372bn-boost</comments>
<pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:22:03 EST</pubDate>
<dc:creator></dc:creator>
<category>Business News</category>
<guid>http://smewiki.jsn-server4.com/InformSME/story.php?title=Spouse-power-gives-businesses-38amp16372bn-boost</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Partners of small to medium-sized business owners are contributing 230 million unpaid hours each year, helping these firms stay profitable, new research has found.  A survey by Bibby Financial found over two-thirds of company owners' spouses regularly do some unpaid work for the business, while 20 per cent work for five days or more a week with no salary.  Bibby Financial states in the current economic climate these free workers are responsible for keeping many firms running.  Edward Rimmer, chief executive of Bibby Financial Services for UK and Ireland, says: 'These 'unseen heroes' are, more often than not, unpaid, keep their heads down and regularly clock up considerable amounts of time to guarantee their partner's business is a success.'  He adds that setting up a business requires 'stamina, perseverance and sheer hard work', in addition to an understanding partner.  Spouses are often responsible for the business beginning, with almost a quarter saying the idea behind the company was theirs or came from discussion with family and friends.  A number of partners do get paid for their work, with 34 per cent saying they now have a salary from their husband or wife's company.  The organisation reported recently that over one million hours are lost by businesses each year in making travel plans or being late for meetings.     <br/><br/>0 Vote(s) ]]></description>
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