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Currently I’m trying to restrict myself to just FIVE of my own projects but that is not always possible:-
As an avid networker I believe that good networking is essential to every small business, and can be the basis of a continual stream of new referrals
However, I also recognise that networking is not the only answer and all small businesses need extra help in the form of training, coaching and mentoring. The evidence is very clear, that those who accept the need to improve their skills and knowledge tend to achieve much more, much quicker.
One of the things I believe is very important, which in most businesses seems to be ignored, is that we all need to identify our strengths and develop them. Many businesses to day focus their training on the weaknesses of the individual when they could really be benefiting in a huge way but focusing on their strengths.
Of course, we all have weaknesses, and they do need to be addressed but not at the expense of our strengths. The major issues appears to be that individuals do not actually know what their strengths are and believe because of what they do now, that that is their strength. Research has actually shown that most of us do not do the things that we are naturally strong at and often do not even know what are strengths really are.
Further research of over 2 million successful people carried out by Gallup over a number of years, seems to indicate that successful people are successful because they know their strengths and utilise them in what they do. A lesson to be learned here?
Another area I am really interested in is that of social enterprises. These are businesses that essentially are ‘not for profit’ but although they do make a profit on their activities they use that money, not for the benefit of shareholders, but to assist others who are in great need.
We hear about all the fine work that is being done in this area in third world countries, but surprising as it may seem, there is a huge requirement here in the UK for social funding. That may be to encourage young people who are experiencing difficulties, or older people to find employment or to utilise their skills. It may be something as simple as supporting someone who is ill and cannot get a state funded provision.
Social Enterprises are not charities, they produce products or services that are sold for a profit - and then use that money to support whatever causes they have adopted. It is said that nearly 5% of all businesses in the UK are in fact social enterprises.
Anyway, enough of that! Please enjoy the information on this site and if I can assist you in anyway, please feel free to contact me. All the businesses that are featured here I am working with and would recommend having had first hand experience of them all.
Best wishes
Jim Tuffin
P.S. If I can assist you in any way, please feel free to call or contact me and I’ll do my best to assist. Please feel free to pass my details onto other potential contacts.
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