Essex was chosen to launch the regional programme of the Real Life Entrepreneur Campaign with the event being held at the Weston Business Centre at Takeley on Tuesday 01 November 2011.

The Beermat Entrepreneur Michael Southon was the key speaker at this event which had 184 people booking to attend and an exciting programme of speakers.

Michael is author of The Beermat Entrepreneur series of books as well as a columnist on the Financial Times and a successful Business Mentor.

He is a Visiting Fellow in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at London South Bank University and has made frequent appearances on television and radio.

During his presentation, which can be downloaded here,  he:

• shared the secrets of sales success to attract more customers and increase sales per person
• helped people to be more creative and entrepreneurial in both small and large organisations
• helped people to be more effective at sales, especially non-salespeople
  

Above all, Mike reminded everyone that business should be fun. Everyone should enjoy their work, and feel they have a real sense of purpose.

The presentation as interactive including with Essex FSB Chairman, Iain Wicks.

Other speakers on the programme included:

1. Steve Venables of the FSB Pension Scheme explaining the new Pensions Legislation which requries every business with one or more employee to launch a Pension Scheme with up to eight per cent contributions - the FSB has a low cost solution for YOUR business. Download the presentation here.
2. Nicola Morris of FSB Tax and Legal Services explaining how HMRC is targeting small businesses to help boost Government income and how they can minimise YOUR risk of a hefty bill for extra tax. Download the presentation here.
3. Gary Harris of FSB Card Processing Services explaining the new deal they are offering to reduce the cost of processing credit and debit cards including how to transfer from your existing processing provider. Download the presentation here.
   

 PLUS attendees were able to:

• Find out the latest news and offers from the FSB
• Network with fellow businesses from across the M11 Corridor and beyond
• Browse the information stands in the exhibition including:
  • NWES Enterprise Agency and Harlow Enterprise Hub
  • BDS Business Development Services Enterprise Agency
  • West Essex Alliance - the local delivery arm of the South East Local Enterprise Partnership
  • Personal Trainer Iain Wicks to take your blood pressure and keep you fit for business
  • University of Essex Business Hub

Comments from attendees

Just a quick note to congratulate you and the FSB team for an excellent evening, and to thank you for the opportunity to listen to some excellent++ presentations. I must say that I nearly used up all my note paper on pensions alone!!
I do know how difficult it is to organise this type of event, and the planning and delivery was superb.
Well done!!

Russell G Everard
Business Development Manager
Business Development Services (N/W Essex) Limited