Many jobs for contractors require security clearance. In this blog we will consider the different types of security clearance and how a contractor can obtain them. What is a contractor? A contractor is essentially someone who performs work for a business or organisation on a contractual basis. Contractors often work on a self-employed basis, either…
Is it possible for a sole trader to take on employees? In this blog we are going to discuss this question, and also cover employment law, contractors, freelancers and limited companies. When a business expands, it is often necessary to take on members of staff to cope with the additional workload. Although limited companies routinely…
In certain circumstances, larger companies and those with a progressive outlook will issue shares to employees as part of a benefits package. Setting up employee share schemes can be mutually beneficial to both companies and employees in terms of tax savings opportunities, attracting and retaining the very best talent, and creating a happy and productive…
Each year thousands of businesses are asked to complete business surveys for the Office for National Statistics. Similar to jury service, being selected to take part in a survey is relatively random and complying with the request is a legal requirement. So what is the ONS and what is the purpose of their business surveys?…
Setting up an online business in the UK is an increasingly popular option for both start-ups and established ‘bricks-and-mortar’ retailers. With more consumers than ever before now choosing to shop online, the UK has the largest e-commerce market in Europe and the third largest in the world. The Coronavirus crisis has further accelerated the shift…
This blog is part of our ongoing series: If you’re starting a new business – here’s how NOT to fail. After reading about why your company needs a business landline telephone number (and why you should never be the one who answers it), be sure to check out the rest of our series, in which…
If you’re a current business owner or you are interested in starting a new venture, chances are you want to make sure your business does not fail. Forming a company, creating new products or services, bringing them to market, and sharing your skills with the world is an incredible experience. But unfortunately, finding business success…
Forming a new company is incredibly exciting and can offer an extraordinary world of opportunity you never knew existed. But how can you make sure your business does not fail? The difference between success and failure for a new business often boils down to perception. How your company is regarded by potential customers or clients,…
If you have a registered office and/or service address with Rapid Formations, then we’ve got big news about exciting improvements we’re making to the way we handle your government mail. On 24 April 2018, Rapid Formations will be introducing a brand-new Digital Mailroom – and we think you’re going to love it. How does our…
Over the course of the past decade, sustainability has become a crucial aspect of the industry. Businesses of all shapes and sizes are constantly assessing the ways in which their trading activity impacts the world around them, and are altering their practices accordingly in order to be more environmentally-friendly. But when you’re first starting out…
There is no legal requirement to take out any kind of business insurance when you set up a UK limited company. However, you must be adequately insured if you employ people other than yourself and family members, you own commercial premises, operate company vehicles, are part of a recognised profession, your business activities present a…
The vast majority of first-time entrepreneurs underestimate the unyielding power of branding. They do so at their own peril. Branding cannot be treated in the same way as marketing or advertising. But what exactly is branding and why is it so important? According to the American Marketing Association (AMA), a brand can be defined as…
