But it doesn’t snow in China (or does it??)

I was chilling (no pun intended) watching the winter Olympics when I had a sudden realisation – it doesn’t snow in China, does it?  I checked with hubby who told me that they are using fake snow for the Games. My interest was piqued so I started reading up in it.  The decision to hold […]

Word of the Day

I have to talk about Wordle – it was all over the news earlier this month as the owner sold the rights to The New York Times.  Now, I had not played it before but after reading about the phenomenon it had become I gave it a go.  And yes it is addictive as everyone […]

No more tears…

Have you heard the one about the onions that don’t make you cry? Sunions® have made their way over from the US and are now being stocked in Waitrose.     They are being positioned as a ‘game-changer’ – perfect for those with sensitive eyes as well as cooking in the kitchen with children. The downside is […]

Our reputation on social media

It is very easy these days to share a bad experience on social media or one of the many review sites.  But is it fair to do this to a small business without giving then the chance to rectify the mistake? Another facebook post last week on our local community page showed a picture of […]

Who is your supporting cast?

I have recently binge watched Derry Girls and loved it.  As an ensemble piece the five main characters are all well cast and have great chemistry.  However my favourite character is the head nun, Sister Michael.  Her little quips and facial gestures are delightfully funny. This made me think about the importance of having a […]

Why you should review your strategy

WHAT IS STRATEGY? A strategy is simply a plan of how you are going to win – in whatever field/industry you are playing in. Winning will mean different things to different business owners.  It may mean being the biggest, taking market share from your competitors.  It may mean being profitable and sustainable to give you […]

The secret world of biscuits

Did anyone watch the C4 programme about biscuits?   I caught up with this programme last night and I found it fascinating hearing the ex Executives from the big brands talk about their experience and the rivarly between them. It was similar the previous week with crisps – and how Walkers came to dominate the market. […]

Winning business models

As many of you will know I talk about the business model canvas A LOT! That is because it is really important that you (a) understand your business model and (b) are aware of the potential threats and risks to your business model – both internal and external. Covid has obviously has a huge impact […]

How to Listen

I used to think I was a good listener – however after spending a year studying a counselling qualification I soon realised I was in fact a bad listener!  My brain was far too busy formulating my response and I was eager to say my piece – I was not 100% being there for the […]

Anyone for tennis?

I will be glued to Wimbledon for the next two weeks. As a tennis player in my youth I have played a lot of matches in my time. Some I won, and some I lost. I would often play tactically but rarely, if ever, had a strategy. I knew my own strengths, but did not […]