Business First RSS Feed http://www.businessfirstonline.co.uk en-us Business First Thu, 29 Jul 10 10:37:58 +0000 Rycoweb CMS http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/inspiring_the_future_workforce-f210.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/inspiring_the_future_workforce-f210.html by John McCann, Chief Executive, UTV Media plc http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_schoolboy_takes_on_gaming_industry-f209.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_schoolboy_takes_on_gaming_industry-f209.html Game launched in July already a hit with 10,000 users http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/vodafone_mobile_clicks_2010-f208.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/vodafone_mobile_clicks_2010-f208.html Mobile internet start-ups given chance to represent UK in international competition http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/commentary_on_ni_economy_launched-f206.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/commentary_on_ni_economy_launched-f206.html Arlene Foster has launched a revised Economic Commentary by DETI. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cai_biggest_accountancy_body-f205.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cai_biggest_accountancy_body-f205.html Chartered Accountants Ireland is the fastest growing accountancy body in UK http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_cautious_about_internet-f204.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_cautious_about_internet-f204.html OFCOM research released http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/its_w5_this_summer-f203.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/its_w5_this_summer-f203.html W5's summer schedule http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/iht_freeze__tax_rise-f202.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/iht_freeze__tax_rise-f202.html Stephen Hill comments on 'stealth tax' http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/staycations_on_the_rise_in_ni-f201.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/staycations_on_the_rise_in_ni-f201.html NITB launches £1.4m summer campaign http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/windy_city_blog-f200.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/windy_city_blog-f200.html Chris Johnson from MCE Public Relations in Chicago http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/work_is_good_for_you-f199.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/work_is_good_for_you-f199.html Coming to work is good for your waistline http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/unemployment_rate_up_to_69-f198.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/unemployment_rate_up_to_69-f198.html Latest Labour Market figures released http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/foster_ready_to_do_business_in_us-f197.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/foster_ready_to_do_business_in_us-f197.html Arlene Foster for US to build links http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/profits_or_principles-f196.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/profits_or_principles-f196.html by Claire Geddis, partner with S Hill & Co Investment Advisors http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/workplace_mental_wellbeing-f195.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/workplace_mental_wellbeing-f195.html by Linda Murphy HSENI http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_has_role_at_london_2012_olympics_chief-f194.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_has_role_at_london_2012_olympics_chief-f194.html Get involved says Olympic chief http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/re-adjusting_to_realities_-f193.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/re-adjusting_to_realities_-f193.html Belfast’s eHealth Week starts on June 13th. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/belfast_to_work_with_nyc-f192.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/belfast_to_work_with_nyc-f192.html Belfast’s leaders to seek greater collaboration with New York http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/join_bothar_on_a_trek_across_sligo-f191.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/join_bothar_on_a_trek_across_sligo-f191.html Sligo – Lakes and Mountains Trek,19th – 21st August 2010 http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/belfast_harbour_sounds_positive_note_on_economy-f190.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/belfast_harbour_sounds_positive_note_on_economy-f190.html 2009 Annual Report Published http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/boi_q1_house_price_survey-f189.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/boi_q1_house_price_survey-f189.html Average price of a property has risen to over £169,000 http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/18000_young_people_suicidal_princes_trust-f188.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/18000_young_people_suicidal_princes_trust-f188.html Prince’s Trust in Northern Ireland launches manifesto http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/stacey_bags_top_apprentice_award-f186.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/stacey_bags_top_apprentice_award-f186.html Stacey Sharples is NIs Apprentice of the Year http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/conservative_liberal_democrat_agreement_in_full-f185.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/conservative_liberal_democrat_agreement_in_full-f185.html The coalition agreement has themes of freedom, fairness and responsibility. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/dont_leave_home_without_your_plane_facts-f184.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/dont_leave_home_without_your_plane_facts-f184.html Know your rights before boarding http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/is_nama_a_threat_to_your_business-f183.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/is_nama_a_threat_to_your_business-f183.html asks Bro McFerran, President Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/world_cup_absence_guidance_-f182.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/world_cup_absence_guidance_-f182.html World Cup absence guidance to boost motivation http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_workers_least_likely_to_want_management_responsibilities-f181.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_workers_least_likely_to_want_management_responsibilities-f181.html Of workers in Belfast reluctant to take on management roles, 40% report not wanting responsibility as the reason http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/make_your_business_a_volunteer_magnet-f180.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/make_your_business_a_volunteer_magnet-f180.html by Brian Ambrose, chief executive, George Best Belfast City Airport http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/time_for_action_on_economy-f179.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/time_for_action_on_economy-f179.html Chamber focus Executive on economy http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/job_stress_caused_sight_loss-f178.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/job_stress_caused_sight_loss-f178.html It hasn’t always been a piece of cake for Belfast business woman Julie Collins. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/major_advance_in_bowel_cancer_screening-f177.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/major_advance_in_bowel_cancer_screening-f177.html Study shows 5 minue scan can save lives. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/intertrade_forum_on_economy-f176.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/intertrade_forum_on_economy-f176.html InterTradeIreland’s 2nd International Forum Focuses on Economic Recovery http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/is_the_fit_note_fit-f175.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/is_the_fit_note_fit-f175.html Is fit note a good replacement for the sick line, asks Orlagh O’Neill, Partner, Employment http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bullying_the_unacceptable_face_of_business-f174.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bullying_the_unacceptable_face_of_business-f174.html by Anne Kelly, director of Staff Assure http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/labour_results_commentary-f173.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/labour_results_commentary-f173.html How the election could affect job prospects http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/skoda_superb_tdi_170_well_named-f172.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/skoda_superb_tdi_170_well_named-f172.html Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/balmoral_show_-f171.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/balmoral_show_-f171.html Ducks,food & dancing dogs http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/businesses_can_help_stem_in_just_5_days-f170.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/businesses_can_help_stem_in_just_5_days-f170.html Business in the Community delivers STEM Teacher Placement Programme http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bt_appoints_new_ceo-f169.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bt_appoints_new_ceo-f169.html Graham Sutherland  succeeds Chris Clark. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/initial_analysis_of_budget_2010_-f168.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/initial_analysis_of_budget_2010_-f168.html By Alan Bridle Head of Economics Bank of Ireland Northern Ireland http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/banks_are_key_to_local_growth-f167.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/banks_are_key_to_local_growth-f167.html Comment from Neal Lucas. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/2010_is_moment_of_truth-f166.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/2010_is_moment_of_truth-f166.html Is recovery sustainable, asks McGowan. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_lags_in_economic_prep-f165.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_lags_in_economic_prep-f165.html Concerning report from Grant Thornton http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/pr_-f164.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/pr_-f164.html Many firms have had to cut their marketing budgets to help weather the recession. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_advisory_committee_of_nama-f163.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_advisory_committee_of_nama-f163.html The Business Alliance welcomes NAMA progress. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/executive_search_-f162.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/executive_search_-f162.html Neal Lucas, MD of Neal Lucas Recruitment, considers the benefits. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/tradelinks_secures_-f161.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/tradelinks_secures_-f161.html Project to help realise untapped potential. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/action_men_required-f160.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/action_men_required-f160.html Take action: Prostate Cancer Week 8 - 11 March http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/turning_waste_into_money-f159.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/turning_waste_into_money-f159.html Envirogreen Recycling  is urging Irish companies to re -evaluate their waste costs. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bubblebum_-_the_child_mover-f158.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bubblebum_-_the_child_mover-f158.html Local entrepreneur launches inflatible car seat. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/taxsmart_-f156.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/taxsmart_-f156.html Bus commuters to benefit from savings with annual bus travel card http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/to_shred_or_not_to_shred-f155.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/to_shred_or_not_to_shred-f155.html Now is the time to clear out your file storage room http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_enterprises_beat_a_path_to_barcelona_-f154.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ni_enterprises_beat_a_path_to_barcelona_-f154.html From David Brunnen of Groupe Intellex - our man on the ground at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/iod_annual_dinner-f153.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/iod_annual_dinner-f153.html Business must look to self as well as government http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/-f152.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/-f152.html John Mulholland Motors Ltd secures £2.5million deal with Value Cabs http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/nicc_notes_from_the_sdlp_party_conference-f151.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/nicc_notes_from_the_sdlp_party_conference-f151.html Ann McGregor addresses the SDLP Conference http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/10_smart_ways_to_grow_your_business_in_a_lean_year-f150.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/10_smart_ways_to_grow_your_business_in_a_lean_year-f150.html IoD guide to preparing for upturn http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/shelter_box_update-f149.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/shelter_box_update-f149.html Community groups and Rotary Clubs working hard. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/30_public_sector_payments_late-f148.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/30_public_sector_payments_late-f148.html Government fails to pay on time, FSB report shows http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/it_takes_two_for_a_great_menu-f147.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/it_takes_two_for_a_great_menu-f147.html Gavin Walker visits me:nu restaurant – one of Belfast's unsung culinary delights. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/all-ireland_marketing_awards-f146.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/all-ireland_marketing_awards-f146.html Last call to enter Ireland's biggest marketing awards. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/chamber_cautious_about_2010-f145.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/chamber_cautious_about_2010-f145.html Challenges facing economy, despite end of recession http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/2010_-f144.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/2010_-f144.html Northern Ireland SMEs Encouraged to Make Tomorrow’s Leaders and Managers http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/volunteering_saints_needed_by_bitc-f143.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/volunteering_saints_needed_by_bitc-f143.html Is volunteering part of your year? http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cheap_and_cheerful_-_ibis_belfast-f142.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cheap_and_cheerful_-_ibis_belfast-f142.html Gavin Walker reviews the Ibis city centre hotel, Belfast Gavin Walker reviews the Ibis city centre hotel, BelfastGavin Walker visits the Ibis city centre hotel, Belfast http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/come_on_belfast_sport_relief_2010_has_arrived-f141.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/come_on_belfast_sport_relief_2010_has_arrived-f141.html Sport Relief is back – and it’s coming to Belfast! http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_entrepreneurs-f140.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_entrepreneurs-f140.html The Entrepreneurs Manifesto is a public declaration http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/how_to_handle_tax_deadline-f139.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/how_to_handle_tax_deadline-f139.html Jan 31 is deadline for Self-Assessment tax return. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/economic_difficulties_into_2011_say_chartered_accountants-f138.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/economic_difficulties_into_2011_say_chartered_accountants-f138.html Access to business finance and public sector expenditure are key challenges for the year ahead says survey says Chartered Accountants Ulster Society http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mountain_high_for_igeneration-f137.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mountain_high_for_igeneration-f137.html Ten Alps Vision launches in Northern Ireland http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/2010_economic_-f135.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/2010_economic_-f135.html by Alan Bridle, Head of Economics and Research at Bank of Ireland (NI) http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/its_about_the_whole_you-f134.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/its_about_the_whole_you-f134.html Mental, physical &spiritual healings are powerful when together. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/tis_the_season_to_be_careful-f133.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/tis_the_season_to_be_careful-f133.html It seems that bad behaviour at the office party is predictable. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/dublin_chamber_on_roi_budget-f132.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/dublin_chamber_on_roi_budget-f132.html Excise Reduction Passes the ‘Newry Test’ http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/full_local_pbr_review-f131.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/full_local_pbr_review-f131.html Comments from IoD, FSB, CBI, BCC etc. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/recession_is_over-f130.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/recession_is_over-f130.html Northern Ireland’s economy is no longer in recession and positive economic growth is set to return before the end of the year, Northern Bank economist Angela McGowan confirmed today. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/marketers_confident-f129.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/marketers_confident-f129.html Marketers expect both their own business and the UK economy to improve. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/national_training_awards_2010_information_seminars__-f128.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/national_training_awards_2010_information_seminars__-f128.html The National Training Awards (NTA) are the UK’s most prestigious training awards http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_moneymen_are_back_to_property-f127.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_moneymen_are_back_to_property-f127.html Wealthy investors call bottom of the market with show of faith in property http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/rapid_response_northern_ireland-f126.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/rapid_response_northern_ireland-f126.html Rapid Response Northern Ireland (RRNI) Team available. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/why_the_9_to_5_is_pants-f125.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/why_the_9_to_5_is_pants-f125.html Spending eight hours at one thing? Can't be done. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/10_ways_for_businesses_to_address_climate_change-f124.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/10_ways_for_businesses_to_address_climate_change-f124.html Why is climate change an issue for business? http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/is_your_document_disposal_safe-f123.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/is_your_document_disposal_safe-f123.html Philip Bain, ShredBank exposes the myth http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/an_employer-f122.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/an_employer-f122.html The Bridge to Employment programme provides assistance to inward investment companies and local companies who are taking on new staff. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/free_support_service_to_help_women_into_business-f121.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/free_support_service_to_help_women_into_business-f121.html Women in Northern Ireland thinking about going into business can access free support through a new website http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/doing_business_in_europe_just_got_easier-f120.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/doing_business_in_europe_just_got_easier-f120.html EU Services Directive makes EU business easy http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/apprenticeships_-f119.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/apprenticeships_-f119.html Department for Employment and Learning’s ApprenticeshipsNI programme http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/what_do_diamonds_captivity_and_firewalking_have_to_do_with_business_success-f118.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/what_do_diamonds_captivity_and_firewalking_have_to_do_with_business_success-f118.html  Results Coach, Bryan Dunlop describes why he uses the fire walking metaphor in his seminars http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/child_neglect_is_rising_in_ni-f117.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/child_neglect_is_rising_in_ni-f117.html bflonline charity: Action for Children http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/are_we_in_for_a_water_crunch-f116.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/are_we_in_for_a_water_crunch-f116.html Envirowise advises NI business. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/buck_the_trend_breakfast-f115.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/buck_the_trend_breakfast-f115.html Video from Manleys recent business breakfast http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/gorgeous_golf_-f114.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/gorgeous_golf_-f114.html Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent tells us why he loves the VW Golf GTI http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/branson_on_business_marketing_in_tough_times-f113.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/branson_on_business_marketing_in_tough_times-f113.html Video feature with Richard Branson http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/how_to_create_a_great_workforce-f112.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/how_to_create_a_great_workforce-f112.html A video feature with Cath Bailey, European Head of HR for Kellogg’s. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cloud_computing_-_is_it_for_you-f110.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cloud_computing_-_is_it_for_you-f110.html Dell discusses the benefits of cloud computing. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/are_you_breaching_the_data_protection_act-f109.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/are_you_breaching_the_data_protection_act-f109.html Breda Corish, Head of Market Development for the ICT and Electronics sectors at BSI says that many SMEs are unwittingly breaching the Data Protection Act, http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/take_advantage_of_recession_says_manley-f108.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/take_advantage_of_recession_says_manley-f108.html Manley and Smyth encourage businesses to Buck the Trend. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/northern_ireland_screen_commission_seeks_new_vice-chair-f107.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/northern_ireland_screen_commission_seeks_new_vice-chair-f107.html Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister Nelson McCausland has announced that he is seeking a Vice-Chair to the Northern Ireland Screen Commission. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/uk_economy_recovering_quicker_than_expected-f106.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/uk_economy_recovering_quicker_than_expected-f106.html Barclays economist in Belfast. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/resting_at__the_foot_of_the_mournes-f105.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/resting_at__the_foot_of_the_mournes-f105.html Gavin Walker visits the Slieve Donard Hotel. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/first_trust_bank_predicts_return_to_positive_economic_growth_in_2010-f104.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/first_trust_bank_predicts_return_to_positive_economic_growth_in_2010-f104.html But Northern Ireland lagging behind Scotland in response to global downturn. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cbi_controversial_he_ideas-f103.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/cbi_controversial_he_ideas-f103.html CBI Task Force calls for far-reaching changes to maintain quality http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bro_mcferran_on_the_economy-f102.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/bro_mcferran_on_the_economy-f102.html by Bro McFerran, president of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/executive_seat_please-f100.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/executive_seat_please-f100.html Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent  reviews the new Seat Exeo http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mcgimpsey_update_on_swine_flu-f99.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mcgimpsey_update_on_swine_flu-f99.html Statement to the Assembly by Health Minister Michael McGimpsey on swine flu http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/change_the_present_change_a_future-f98.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/change_the_present_change_a_future-f98.html Oxfam Ireland Unwrapped to pass 100,000 alternative gifts http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_face_behind_the_fitzwilliam_hotel-f97.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_face_behind_the_fitzwilliam_hotel-f97.html Gavin Walker talks with June Burgess http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_essence_of_leadership-f96.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_essence_of_leadership-f96.html by Bob Barbour, chief executive, Centre for Competitiveness http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/executive_pay_guidelines-f95.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/executive_pay_guidelines-f95.html The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has launched a set of general principles on executive pay. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/can_charisma_be_taught-f94.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/can_charisma_be_taught-f94.html Catherine Doherty, director, Fields of Learning Ltd and John Thompson, Senior lecturer, Ulster Business School, University of Ulster tackle charisma in leadership. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/swine_flu_your_rights_and_responsibilities-f93.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/swine_flu_your_rights_and_responsibilities-f93.html Hardly a day passes now without the mention of the continuing spread of swine flu hitting the headlines. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/nestling_in_the_arms_of_the_sugar_loaf-f92.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/nestling_in_the_arms_of_the_sugar_loaf-f92.html Gavin Walker visits the exquisite Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt Hotel in Wicklow http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/businesses_failing_to_meet_fleet_duty_of_care_obligations-f91.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/businesses_failing_to_meet_fleet_duty_of_care_obligations-f91.html We reveal what the law states and how to effectively fulfil the legal requirements http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mamma_mia_it-f90.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mamma_mia_it-f90.html by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/thirty_four_years_not_out_-_the_vw_golf-f89.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/thirty_four_years_not_out_-_the_vw_golf-f89.html by Ian Beasant, motoring correspondent http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/911_carrera_4s_-_it_has_to_be_a_porsche-f88.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/911_carrera_4s_-_it_has_to_be_a_porsche-f88.html by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/intertradeireland_host_high_level_economic_forum_-f87.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/intertradeireland_host_high_level_economic_forum_-f87.html Over 120 leading Irish and international economists, economic commentators and senior policy makers from Ireland and Northern Ireland took part in the first high level North South economic forum in Dublin recently. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mcginnis_announces_skills_group-f86.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/mcginnis_announces_skills_group-f86.html A new independent advisory group to help ensure that Northern Ireland businesses have the talent to compete in global markets and deliver faster economic growth, has been announced by Bill McGinnis. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/baby_audi_cabriolet_-f85.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/baby_audi_cabriolet_-f85.html by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/all-island_wind_energy-f84.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/all-island_wind_energy-f84.html The Northern Ireland (NI) and Republic of Ireland (RoI) wind energy sector has the potential to attract over €14 billion of investment according to a major Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) report. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/top_five_tips_for_harnessing_twitter_for_brands-f83.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/top_five_tips_for_harnessing_twitter_for_brands-f83.html You can't visit a website or turn a page, digital or otherwise, without reading about it. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/move_up_a_gear-f82.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/move_up_a_gear-f82.html In this article Bill Manson suggests that even in these difficult times firms need to consider if it is now time to. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/you-f81.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/you-f81.html with Lisa Bryson, associate, Carson McDowell It will not come as a surprise to anyone reading this article that the ‘Sir Alan Sugar approach’ to ending the employment relationship is far from the appropriate manner of dismissing someone, boardroom or otherwise. (Click on the link below to comment on this issue) http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/matrix_of_business_support-f80.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/matrix_of_business_support-f80.html During 2009 DETI has been compiling a matrix of the different types of financial support that have been made available to Northern Ireland SME’s in order to help them through difficulties arising from the economic downturn. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/economy_flat_until_2010-f79.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/economy_flat_until_2010-f79.html Mike Smith, Head of the School of Economics, University of Ulster has predicted that the Northern Ireland economy will remain fairly flat during 2009 before returning to moderate growth in 2010 http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/crisis_equals_opportunity-f78.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/crisis_equals_opportunity-f78.html Brian Cummings from Belfast based Private Equity Firm, Enterprise Equity, suggests that the current economic environment provides transformational opportunities for entrepreneurial businesses - and Private Equity has the funds to make it happen. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/vodafone_to_redefine_the_mobile_internet_experience_-f77.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/vodafone_to_redefine_the_mobile_internet_experience_-f77.html Vodafone is to stimulate a new generation of mobile internet applications by providing internet-service developers with a single point of access to Vodafone’s global customer base. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/what_is_reputation_management-f76.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/what_is_reputation_management-f76.html Vistage International, the world’s leading organisation for CEOs, recently held one of its regular meetings in Belfast. Edmund Johnston, group chairman for Northern Ireland invited Tessa Hood, an international consultant and lecturer on (personal) reputation management to be the main speaker at the event. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/contract_hire_vs_purchase-f75.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/contract_hire_vs_purchase-f75.html The tax changes have had a significant impact on the after-tax cost of funding company cars and the difference between contract hire versus ownership, says Philip Miley of Fleet Financial. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/leading_in_difficult_times-f74.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/leading_in_difficult_times-f74.html by Alastair Hamilton, chief executive, Invest NI When my appointment to Invest NI was announced, I knew that I would be joining the agency in difficult times – times that will challenge us all, but which also present great opportunities. My intention had been to take a few days to meet as many of the team as possible, and to get an initial feel for the challenges and opportunities. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/budget_about_crisis_management-f73.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/budget_about_crisis_management-f73.html by Bro McFerran, president, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce The Budget was not just an exercise in crisis management it was also essentially based on a high risk bet that the beleaguered UK economy will return to growth early in 2010. Unveiled on the day that joblessness here reached six per cent, one thing that can be said about the Budget is that it is unlikely to stem the hemorrhage in employment anytime soon. The best that we can hope for is that the efforts to stimulate the economy will slow the job losses down. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/credit_uncrunched-f72.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/credit_uncrunched-f72.html Energy Efficiency has never been so important for businesses in Northern Ireland, and the Carbon Trust offers organisations an invaluable service in helping decrease their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/do_you_have_the_right_attitude-f71.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/do_you_have_the_right_attitude-f71.html by Bryan Dunlop Bryan Dunlop, a highly successful sales trainer and motivational coach introduces Business First readers to some of the thinking which has produced impressive results all over the UK and to his unique firewalking challenge. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/so_you_have_made_people_redundant_what_next__-f70.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/so_you_have_made_people_redundant_what_next__-f70.html by Bill Manson, director Podiem Ltd In this article Bill outlines his experiences dealing with the people who are still ‘with you’ – or are they? http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/budget_2009_-_help_or_hindrance_to_business-f69.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/budget_2009_-_help_or_hindrance_to_business-f69.html Full report on the 2009 Budget from Grant Thornton. Scroll down to see how the Budget affected: Taxation of foreign profits - start dates announced Temporary return of first year allowances Another year to carry losses back Tipping the cashflow scales Carbon-based company cars Further obligations for internal company accountants Preferring to be part of a group? A simple option for VAT on property 2010 - a big year for football and VAT Connected companies' loans Developments on the green horizon Foreign denominated losses Gambling with the rules Rates and limits HMRC becomes more powerful http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/private_investment_in_culture-f68.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/private_investment_in_culture-f68.html by Mary Trainor, director Arts & Business Northern Ireland As with all economies, the cultural economy is subject to peaks and troughs but this does not diminish its importance to our economy as a whole, especially at a time of recession. The latest report examining the scale of private investment in the UK has just been published by Arts & Business (A&B) and analyses investment by artform, nation and region. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/budget_round-up_with_grant_thornton-f67.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/budget_round-up_with_grant_thornton-f67.html A round-up of how the Budget will affect your business. Please scroll down to see the reaction from the organisation of your choice. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/this_ain-f66.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/this_ain-f66.html by Ian Beasant, motoring correspondent Jaguar’s have always held a place close to my heart. I think it's because the first sight of a E-Type Jaguar made such an impression on me as boy that my interest and love for cars was made forever. Jaguar has come through some mixed periods in its history and has had many different owners from British Leyland to Ford and now the giant Indian company, TATA. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_all_round_supercar-f63.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_all_round_supercar-f63.html by Ian Beasant, motoring correspondent An Audi A6 as a supercar? Are you mad, I hear you say? Maybe I am, but after having spent a week with one I came to the conclusion that it just about ticked all the boxes for a car in this segment of the market. Not only that the more I drove it the more I wanted to, it’s addictive! http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_corporate_debtor_survival_guide-f62.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/the_corporate_debtor_survival_guide-f62.html by Dawn McKnight, associate, Corporate and Commercial Law, Carson McDowell. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/will_your_business_survive_2010-f61.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/will_your_business_survive_2010-f61.html by Bob Barbour, chief executive, Centre for Competitiveness http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ready_for_sustainable_opportunities-f60.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/ready_for_sustainable_opportunities-f60.html Olive Hill, Invest Northern Ireland’s director of Technology and Process Development, outlines the emerging commercial opportunities presented by sustainable energy Recent Assembly debates on climate change, the one hour power-down by many local businesses in support of Earth Hour on 28 March, and even predictions that summer temperatures in Belfast could hit 32 degrees by 2080, show beyond doubt that interest in sustainable energies is coming to the fore. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/make_mine_munich-f59.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/make_mine_munich-f59.html by George Hamilton, Business First editor at large Life’s full of surprises. Here I am, standing in the middle of Munich, the third biggest city in Germany, surrounded by Teutonic architecture and probably the wealthiest – and certainly best fed – Germans in the country and how does a local describe her home town?: “Cosy”. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/advertising_in_a_downturn_-f58.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/advertising_in_a_downturn_-f58.html Siobhan McKeown, director of client services at ASG, one of Northern Ireland’s most respected marketing service providers, discusses the most profitable marketing response for businesses operating in the current economic downturn.   http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/be_aware_of_fraudsters_in_recession-f57.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/be_aware_of_fraudsters_in_recession-f57.html with Simon Bevan, BDO Stoy Hayward Total reported fraud in the UK stood at £1.19bn for 2008 up 14 per cent on 2007’s figure of £1.04bn according to BDO Stoy Hayward’s annual FraudTrack report. The majority of fraud remains in London and the South East [£745m – 63 per cent] with 14 per cent in the Midlands and 11 per cent in the North East and the remaining 12 per cent across NW, Scotland, West Country, East Anglia, Wales and NI. The reported fraud figure in Northern Ireland dropped from £6.9m in 2007 to £1.7m in 2008. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/responsibility_in_recession_-_how_to_restructure_or_downsize-f56.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/responsibility_in_recession_-_how_to_restructure_or_downsize-f56.html by John Heaslip, chief executive, Business in the Community.   Times are tough for some local firms and difficult decisions may lie ahead.  Downsizing may loom on the horizon, so is there a 'best way' of doing it – particularly if it’s the first time your business has suffered a downturn?  As the UK's leading authority on corporate social responsibility, Business in the Community argues there definitely is. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/tensions_build_as_elections_loom-f55.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/tensions_build_as_elections_loom-f55.html by Quintin Oliver, Stratagem   The New Year celebrations are now a distant memory and the festive spirit of good-will has long since evaporated among local politicians as the parties gear up for the European elections at the start of the summer and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment’s latest Quarterly Economic Review prompts Arlene Foster to warn that there are “more challenging times ahead.” While the title of my January article- “All change for 2009?”- mightn’t win any prizes for originality, this year does present opportunities for victory and some potential changes, on the European stage at least. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/your_castle_awaits-f54.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/your_castle_awaits-f54.html Gavin Walker visits the recently opened, five-star, Solis, Lough Eske Castle Hotel, Donegal Town. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/90_years_of_creativity-f53.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/90_years_of_creativity-f53.html by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent   Citroen is celebrating its 90th birthday this year. Throughout all those years, there is on thing for certain: Citroen has always been, and continues to be, a very creative company. Their cars are always that wee bit different from the normal, and in many ways always a little bit quirky, which I like. It makes them interesting. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/lough_erne_golf_resort-f52.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/lough_erne_golf_resort-f52.html 5 stars, 600 acres, 120 rooms, 18 championship holes, 1 wholly-authentic Thai spa ....and a chocolate afternoon tea. Gavin Walker visits the unique Lough Erne Golf Resort http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/qashqai2_-f51.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/qashqai2_-f51.html by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent   With all that is going in the world, and with so many opinions floating about and experts being offered up by the bagful. If you are going to change your car should you get a bigger one? a smaller one? diesel or petrol? The questions go on forever. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/heaven_by_the_lake-f50.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/heaven_by_the_lake-f50.html Gavin Walker visits the haven that is Harvey's Point Hotel, Country Donegal, AA Hotel of the Year 2008   Every hotel has a story. Some are haunted, others have been handed down through generations of families steeped in hospitality. But perhaps the story of Harvey's Point is one of the most engaging – certainly one of the most romantic. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/all_steering_laguna-f49.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/all_steering_laguna-f49.html by Ian Beasant, Business First motoring correspondent   It’s hard to believe that the Renault Laguna has been around since 1994! In that time it has won touring car races and in Northern Ireland has consistently been a top performer in the sales charts. Well how about a Renault Laguna with a 180 BHP diesel engine, six-speed gearbox that will travel from 0-60 in 8.7 seconds will take you all the way to 137mph and will also do – most importantly – 44 miles per gallon? Now that sounds interesting and add to that four-wheel steering and a GT badge it just gets better. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/reasons_customers_dont_purchase_from_you-f47.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/reasons_customers_dont_purchase_from_you-f47.html by Michael Maguire, regional director of the Chartered Institute of Marketing Well we are a few months into the New Year and I am wondering how you are all getting on! For obvious reasons many businesses will have been hit hard recently, but there are other reasons you might not be doing well, and its only showing now because the economy is being knocked rigid http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/financing_local_business_in_the_credit_crunch-f46.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/financing_local_business_in_the_credit_crunch-f46.html by Gerry McGinn, board member, Invest Northern Ireland " Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it," wrote George Santayana, the Spanish-born American author. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/what_if_your_clients_are_going_into_administration-f45.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/what_if_your_clients_are_going_into_administration-f45.html by Leeanne Whaley, associate, corporate and commercial, Carson McDowell We’ve all seen the news - hardly a day goes past without another company hitting the headlines for having appointed an administrator. However, what is the effect on your business if the company in administration is one of your customers? http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/recessionary_tax_planning-f44.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/recessionary_tax_planning-f44.html by Clifford Rodgers, tax partner at Baker Tilly Mooney Moore Tax planning takes on fresh significance in times of financial uncertainty. While individuals and businesses continue to keep an eye on medium and long-term planning, for many, cashflow management becomes the priority. The tax authorities are doing their bit to help by making it easier to pay tax over a longer period of time, but even that brings headaches in terms of the administration required to agree a simple payment pattern. http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/crisis_and_opportunity-f43.html http://businessfirstonline.co.uk/features/crisis_and_opportunity-f43.html by Bob Barbour, chief executive, Centre for Competitiveness On January 7th 2009 the Czech Presidency of the EU and the European Commission launched the European year of Creativity and Innovation. At the same time, governments and businesses were struggling to come to terms with the global economic meltdown driven by greed and a lack of transparency. As a consequence, businesses face challenging economic circumstances as well as great opportunities. Navigating through the current economic storm in search of these opportunities will be possible as long as we set our sails to arrive at the new world destination. This is a race in which everyone in Northern Ireland is involved -  government, business and voluntary sectors - as we jockey for pole position when the recovery begins.