Avoid setbacks for your business.* Management Today suggested several ‘rules’ a
long time ago.
Beware of success, it stimulates laziness. Never do things because that’s how you do them. Invite frank criticism from customers and staff. Fear every new entrant to your market. Allow time to reheal before another upheaval. State the destination often. Be afraid, but don’t show it. Face the truth, and share it. If times change, change leaders.
From tenth to fifth.
The UK rose from tenth to fifth place in the Forbes annual list of the best countries for business. Kurt Badenhausen, Forbes’ senior editor, said this was due to ‘improved scores on corruption, tax burden and monetary freedom, as well as a stronger stock market.’ Separately, Bloomberg reports that Lloyds Bank’s December business confidence index has rallied to reach its highest level since March. Meanwhile, James Sproule, Institute of Directors’ (IoD) chief economist, said, ‘London will remain Europe’s financial centre,’ adding, ‘UK employment law is undoubtedly more amenable to the rapid hiring and shedding of labour . . .’. He also said that the English language and legal system are generally an important part of the UK’s attractiveness . . . .
2017 and government.
The signs are that distrust of politicians and the ‘elite’ will continue to increase. The newly-elected mayors and local politics in this country offer opportunities for national political parties to connect with the electorate. For the Conservatives, there is a chance to show their relevance and value to urban voters, such as the West Midlands. Labour’s mayors can demonstrate delivery of reorganisation grounded in local priorities, rather than political ideology. Throughout this year, the nature of work will continue to change. This will impact upon people and places in many ways.
By standing still?
The Resolution Foundation says its research reveals the average earnings for self-employed workers in 2014/15 were lower than twenty years ago. It adds that although this group of workers grew by 45% between 1994/95 and 2015, weekly average payments have fallen by £60. The Foundation claims the financial crisis which started in 2008 and the amended nature of self-employment has led to the lower rewards.
More shifts.
This country decided in a referendum to leave the European Union. This came as a surprise, even to some people who voted for the exit. Elections in France, Germany and Italy will either emphasise or contradict the rising tide of populism and shape the future of Western Europe.
Sounds right.
‘The war against intelligence is always waged in the name of common sense.’ Roland Barthes, (1915 – 1980). French philosopher, linguist and critic.
Hope it’s sooner.
‘I don’t know how long a child will remain utterly static in front of the television, but my guess is that it could be well into their 30s.’ A A Gill, (1954 – 2016). British writer and columnist.