News & Views

The latest information regarding Steer Your Business activities as well as small business articles of interest.

Hannah Jane Dobbie

Non-compliance with stricter tipping laws could lead to fines 

Hospitality and service businesses could face fines and employment tribunal claims if they fail to comply with the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, which requires employers to pass on all qualifying tips, gratuities, and service charges to workers without deductions.  The Act affects more than two million workers across restaurants, bars, retail, hairdressing, taxi […]

News and Views

 Who’s Steering the Ship If You’re Not There?

As business owners, we are used to planning ahead. We forecast revenue, build contingency plans, review contracts, and protect our assets. But there’s one area many entrepreneurs quietly avoid…what happens to the business, and to our families, if we are suddenly unable to steer the ship ourselves? Estate planning is not simply about “writing a […]

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Crafting Your Compass: A Practical Guide to Strategic Planning for UK SMEs

Why Every UK SME Needs a Strategic Plan Starting and growing a business is an adventure, but even the best adventurers need a map. For UK SMEs, a strategic plan isn’t a luxury; it’s your essential compass, guiding you through market shifts, competition, and growth opportunities. Many entrepreneurs feel daunted by the term, associating it […]

News and Views

Why Busy Business Owners Stay Stuck 

And what actually moves you forward.   Most business owners I meet are not lazy.  They are not unmotivated.  They are not short on ideas.  They are busy.  Very busy.  Yet despite long hours, full diaries, and constant activity, many feel stuck. Revenue plateaus. Decisions feel harder. Progress slows, even though effort keeps increasing.  This is […]

News and Views

Escaping from Nightmares 

Ethan sat up in a cold sweat.  His heart was pounding. He was panting in fright.   He could hear the cruel mocking voices of his senior colleagues ringing in his ears.   Were all his dreams to be shattered by these fears? Would he ever get the qualifications and position that he had worked so hard […]

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Voice AI and the Rise of the AI Agent in Modern Business 

Voice AI has moved far beyond novelty. What was once clunky, robotic and frustrating has evolved into something genuinely transformative for businesses of all sizes. Today’s Voice AI agents can hold natural conversations, understand intent, take action and operate as a reliable extension of a business team.  At its core, Voice AI refers to artificial […]