Expert Commentary

Why You Need to be on Google+

Posted on April 08, 2013

The biggest problem I have with Google+ is that hardly anyone I know uses it, yet in March it was reported that are now 343 million active Google+ users. This is about a third of the number that use Facebook and Google+ is currently growing at many times the rate of its rival. Facebook's first mover advantage is starting to weaken in the face of competition from a much better product. The received wisdom of large portions of the media is that Google+ is a failure. This myth continues even though it has become the second largest social media platform! (1). What commentators have failed to highlight is that Google+ is not really Google's version of Facebook – actually the clue is in the name, Google 'Plus'. With no offence intended to the great city of Hull, Facebook is like Hull – no one goes to Hull unless you planned to go to Hull. On the other hand, Google+ is more like London – you go the...

Setting up a Cafe – What you Might Need...

Posted on March 08, 2013

Some of the crew at The Workplace Depot regularly frequent the cafés of Bingham for our injection of caffeine to help us through the day! Whilst sitting in one the cafés, Matt, Jess, Sean Paul and myself had once again run out of anything interesting to say, so we set to thinking about how many products around us could be supplied by our company – this will be useful when Sean Paul opens his café in Newark. Safety and first aid It was quite easy to see some of the items that The Workplace Depot could supply – things like first aid kits and fire extinguishers by definition must be highly visible. Even more obvious than these were the sign-age; signs for things like fire exits, fire blanket, fire alarms, no smoking, first aid, no exit etc. Although not on display, there is the requirement for temporary signs, e.g. wet floor and other janitorial signs warning of cleaning in progress or slippery surfaces etc. We decided that for the full range of our Rubberm...

Safety Equipment and Procedures for your Workplace at Christmas

Posted on December 13, 2012

During the hectic Christmas season, one of the last things on most office workers mind is safety. But safety issues are no reason to become the Grinch! There are some procedures and safety equipment that can help with holiday office safety. If these suggestions are followed, the office can be a safe and merry environment that employees will enjoy. One of the most dangerous decorations during Christmas time is those fabulous twinkling lights. Each year, there are many fires due to lights that either short out or are too close to flammable materials. There are several ways to safely use Christmas lights in an office setting. Here are some of the hazards and possible solutions that can be easily and cheaply implemented: 1) Cords creating trip hazards – Use painters tape or choose lights with battery packs instead of plug-in strands. 2) Arcing from electric cords – Inspect cords for any breaks prior to use. If the set is very old, discard and replace. 3) Fire fro...

The Essential Guide to Scaffolding, Sheeting and Netting

Posted on December 03, 2012

Those who work in the construction industry may be very aware of scaffolding, sheeting and netting, including their benefits and purposes. If you are beginning a construction project and are unsure on the right type of scaffolding or scaffold protection then this essential guide will make your choices more informed and easier. Scaffolding – What is it and when do you need it? Scaffolding is actually defined as a temporary structure in itself. Put up by professionals you will find that scaffolding can come in various different materials such as metal and even wood. For example, in Asia they are very fond of using bamboo scaffolding on their buildings whereas in the UK metal pipes or tubes are used instead. Tubes, couplers and boards will make up the key components of scaffolding. ...

Four Essentials to Ensure the Perfect Business Meeting

Posted on November 05, 2012

Business in General If attending or conducting a business meeting there are many things to consider. What is the aim of the meeting? Who will be there? What input is expected from participants? Everyone has attended a meeting where you leave and feel nothing has been achieved or thoroughly discussed. So what key points should be considered to make the perfect business meeting? Communication For a successful meeting, communication is important from all participants. Not just verbal communication but areas of communication such as active listening. For a conversation to achieve a positive output, active listening is essential. Whether chairing the meeting or there as a participant, try not to let the conversation run off with a select few. If this happens, a true perspective of what attendees are trying to achieve will not come across, therefore leaving the meeting in tatters. As an individual, be firm in what you are saying, straight to the point statements which...

The Importance of Storage Solutions - Guest Post

Posted on October 22, 2012

Space is at a premium these days so getting the right storage solutions is imperative. With a growing population and a national shortage of property and office space, if you want space you are going to have to pay for it. Depending on your current life or business situation, you might not necessarily be able to afford acres and acres of room to live or work in. All of this means that we have had to learn to be very economical with the space we do have. Make do with what you've got For first time buyers or those just setting up their own business, it is not always possible to afford buildings with lots of room. The chances are that you will be in a small flat or house for the first few years. Small office premises are also common for new companies until they have been able to establish themselves in the market place and grow the company. So, what can be done in the interim period to make the most of space? This is...

Setting up a Distribution Warehouse for a Small Business

Posted on July 25, 2012

One of the problems for successful start-ups is where to store everything! If you're using drop-shippers you run the risk of poor service, failure to fulfil orders and having to respond to angry and disappointed customers. So if you want better control of your stock and already have an over-flowing garage or storeroom, then it's probably time to consider upping your game and setting up a your own warehouse. Here are a few things to consider when looking at a premises, although this is no substitute for seeking specialist advice. Layout and planning For a distribution warehouse to be able to efficiently fulfil orders in a timely manner, a proper layout and product flow diagram is required. You should measure and then make a scaled drawing so that you can get an accurate feel for where things need to go. Ensure you show the location of all doors, pedestrian exits, windows, sprinklers and electrical sockets. The receiving and shipping areas of the warehouse...