Category: Business

How to Get Business Insurance and Bonding?

6 March 2023

•

5 mins read

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My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Running your business comes with many rewards, but there are also plenty of risks to be aware of too. However, there are solutions available that reduce the financial risk and ensure your business can continue should the unexpected happen.

Two of those solutions are business insurance and bonding. Below, we’ll take a look at how to get business insurance and bonding, why you may need them, and what sort of businesses should consider having them in place.

What is bonding for small businesses?

One of the most common bonds for small businesses is a surety bond.

Surety bonds are put in place by small business owners to protect the business and its customers. While they’re not a legal requirement, a surety bond may be necessary in order to conduct certain types of business, acquire a licence, or join associations.

If you’re a small business, particularly one that is new and hasn’t yet built a reputation, it can be difficult finding customers. Surety bonds are a way of reassuring potential customers that you’re an honest business that is willing to uphold its duties. If you have a surety bond in place, and your business does encounter an issue that leads to you being unable to fulfil your obligations, then the customer can file a claim to recover their losses. This way, the surety bond reimburses the customer and not your business, which could potentially save you from an expensive and time-consuming legal issue.

Some businesses may require you to have a bond in place before they agree to work with you. This isn’t because of a lack of trust, but to protect their financial interests should the unexpected happen.

Other types of bonds

As well as a surety bond, which applies to a wide range of businesses, there are other bonds that are specific to certain industries.

A licence bond or permit bond – required in order to be granted a licence or undertake a specific type of work. It guarantees the holder will comply with the laws and regulations required to undertake the work.
A performance bond or contract bond – a type of surety bond in construction used to ensure work is completed to a satisfactory standard.
Bid bond – used to protect a customer to ensure a company fulfils work following a successful bidding process.
Payment bond – this protects all third parties involved in a project to ensure they receive payment.
Supply bond – ensures all materials and supplies are fulfilled.
Maintenance bond – protects the customer after the work has been completed.
James Bond – a spy for the British secret service.

What are the differences between bonds and insurance?

A bond covers your customers, rather than your business. However, by extension, this covers your business as it ensures you don’t lose money in the event your business finds itself in a position where it can’t fulfil a contract. A bond helps establish your business as one that’s trustworthy and credible and makes you a more appealing choice for potential customers.

Insurance offers a far more comprehensive level of protection. Depending on the policy and the level of cover, insurance protects your business from loss and damage, as well as in the event a claim is made by a customer or member of the public.

Does your business need to be bonded, insured or both?

There’s only one type of insurance your business is required to have by law, which is employers’ liability insurance if you have more than one director, or any number of employees or volunteers working for you.

All other types of insurance aren’t a legal necessity – but are something you’re advised to have to cover you in the event a claim is raised. Without the relevant insurance in place, your business could face lengthy and expensive legal battles that can potentially cost millions.

For many businesses, bonds may also not be required. However, in certain industries, they are, such as businesses in finance, construction and maintenance.

Having both insurance and bonds in place covers your business for a wide range of scenarios, decreasing the risk that your business (and your customers) will take a heavy financial hit should something go wrong. It also increases confidence in your business and showcases to potential customers that you’re trustworthy and legitimate.

When bonding insurance might be right for you

As we’ve already highlighted, in certain industries it may be required that your business has the relevant bonding insurance in place in order to be able to operate. This includes businesses such as:

Carpenters
Contractors
Construction companies
Cleaners and janitors
Electricians
Estate agents
Financial services
Handyman services
Home inspectors
HVAC installers
Insurance brokers
Notaries public
Painters and decorators
Plumbers
Roofers
Tax services

Even if your business isn’t part of the above industries, bonding insurance may still be something you want to consider, particularly if your business intends on working with the government, such as, for example, local councils or schools. However, bonding insurance only covers you in very specific instances. While bonding insurance may not be something you think is worthwhile for your business, you should undoubtedly consider business insurance to protect the future of your business.

Get a quote for your small business with Protectivity

While bonding insurance may not be for everyone, business insurance certainly is. Protect your business with our small business insurance – get a free quote today.

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5 Common Risks When Starting a Business

3 March 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Starting your own business is an exciting time as you chase your dreams of becoming an entrepreneur. Many entrepreneurs are risk-takers by nature, who have to embrace the unknown as they launch a new product or service into their industry.

When starting a new business, you should have plenty to look forward to, from being your own boss to trying new things. But there are several risks to be aware of that can impact your chances of success. Here, we’ll cover some of the risks when starting a business and how to minimise them.

Common risks associated with starting a new business

If you’re considering starting a business, it’s important that you prepare for potential risks that can threaten your business’ success. Of course, some risks are difficult to avoid, such as economic decline and market demand. But if you can find ways to mitigate potential risks, this can stand your business in good stead.

Here are some of the most common risks that affect new businesses and how to tackle them:

Financial risks when starting a new business

The excitement of starting a new business can make it easy to turn a blind eye to the financial risks associated with a startup. Being aware of these financial risks can help you make the best financial decisions for your company, and help you reap the rewards.

To increase your profitability, you’ll need a strategy to grow your sales and generate revenue. You may be relying on investors to get your business off the ground, and they’ll be expecting a return on their investment. So, it’s important that you have a plan in place to generate revenue and make a profit. Offering promotions to boost volumes of sales, and developing new products or service lines can be great ways to increase your profits and ensure you’re in a comfortable financial position.

To get your business up and running, you may choose to take out a small loan to tide you over until your profits start soaring. There are several types of loans and grants available to small businesses in the UK. In terms of grants, the government offers a variety of financial support options for new businesses that need financial aid.

Another risk to be aware of is sustaining your business over time. Making sure you have a financial plan in place that shows income projections, expected return for investors and how much cash you’ll need to break even can offer you peace of mind. Without planning ahead you could risk financial strain or even bankruptcy – so it’s vital that you have a roadmap in place to ensure financial security.

Regulatory risks for business owners to consider

When starting a business, it’s important that you meet the standards of your industry and any compliance requirements. Here are just some of the regulatory requirements for business owners to consider:

Industry regulations: Depending on the industry you work in, there may be industry-specific regulations that you must adhere to. For example, if you’re setting up a business in the finance sector, you will need to be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) who have strict guidelines you must follow.
Finance regulations: There are business compliance rules you must follow around tax, payroll, record-keeping and accounting, as well as dealing with HMRC. It’s important that you follow these regulations carefully to avoid being penalised.
Workers rights: There are several workers rights that you must follow, but the main three include national minimum wage (and being protected against unlawful deductions of pay), statutory minimum level of paid holiday and rest breaks, and protection against unlawful discrimination, unfair dismissal and unfair treatment for being a part-time worker.
Health and safety: There are several regulations around health and safety at work, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The act requires businesses to ensure staff have adequate health and safety training, a safe work environment that is properly maintained and adequate welfare provisions for staff at work.
GDPR: The General Data Protection Regulation came into effect in 2018 to provide a legal framework for companies to keep everyone’s personal data safe. This requires businesses to have strong data protection processes in place for handling and storing personal information.

Operational risks to consider

Another potential risk to be aware of when starting a business is what are known as operational risks. These include processes, systems or events that disrupt business operations. If not handled correctly, operational risks can threaten business success. Some examples of operational risks you need to be aware of include:

Fraud: Whether it be internal fraud where employees misappropriate company resources, or external fraud where independent parties outside your business attempt a cyberattack, bribery or theft – fraud can seriously affect your business’ livelihood.
Technology: Deficiencies or failures in your computer systems or software.
Safety: Violating or the risk of violating workplace safety measures, either physically or mentally.
Natural disasters: Harsh weather conditions, fire or other disasters that can put physical assets at risk, leaving it difficult for employees to perform their daily tasks.

Reputation management – how do I do it?

Your brand or company’s reputation can undoubtedly influence your customers’ decision to purchase. So having the unexpected strike can cause damage to your business’ reputation, leading to a decline in sales and profitability. Ensuring you have a plan in place to maintain your reputation can help mitigate the risk of a bad scenario occurring and your reputation being at stake.

Reputation management is a way for you to monitor how your customers perceive your business and take the necessary steps to improve your brand’s image. Often, this is centred around monitoring your company’s reputation in reviews and through social media like Instagram. But there are other steps you can take such as:

Understand your values: Know what your company stands for and make this clear to your employees, so they can ensure these standards are sustained. Make sure each member of staff knows what your company’s message is and how to reflect it to help maintain your brand’s reputation.
High customer service: Your customer service is the key to making a lasting impression on your customers, so ensure that it’s high quality. Great customer service increases customer loyalty, leads to referrals and helps maintain a good reputation of your brand and its values.
Plan for bad scenarios: Make sure you have a plan in place of how to deal with a potential bad scenario. Brainstorm potential scenarios that could damage the public’s perception of your business and how you would take action. For example, if a customer were to complain about the cleanliness of your premises, this would indicate that the standards need to improve.

Business protection – keep your business safe

You’ve put a lot of time, money and effort into bringing your business to life, so it’s only right that you’ll want to protect it. Here are some ways you can help to keep your business safe for long-term success:

Cybersecurity: Whether your business runs from just one computer or all members of staff work from individual devices, it’s important to ensure all technology is protected against cyberattacks. Not only do you need to secure your business’ data and financial information, you also need to adhere to GDPR by protecting your customers’ and employees’ data.
Outsourcing: If you need to outsource certain areas of your business to another company, you’ll need to ensure you aren’t liable for their misconduct.
Business insurance: While you may think you’ll never need to use it, business insurance is there to protect you against the unexpected. It will protect your business financially if you were to get sued by a third party, as well as additional extras you can add to your policy that are tailored to your industry. With the right cover, you can enjoy the day-to-day of your job with peace of mind, knowing you’ll have a helping hand available should disaster strike.

Get a quote for your small business with Protectivity

Here at Protectivity, we specialise in business insurance for small businesses across various industries. Our tailored business insurance can protect you against the unexpected, so you can embrace your new challenge to the fullest. Perhaps you’re a personal trainers needing personal trainer insurance who is starting their own business. Our affordable business cover can give you the peace of mind you need to open your new business with confidence. Get a quote for your small business insurance today.

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Employers’ Liability Insurance vs Public Liability Insurance

2 March 2023

•

6 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Both employers’ liability insurance and public liability insurance cover your business in the event an injury occurs and there’s a claim for compensation. However, there are certain key differences that mean your business may require one but not the other.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at employers’ liability insurance vs public liability insurance, including what each covers, why you might need it, and the risks involved by overlooking their importance.

What is employers’ liability insurance?

If your business has at least one employee, whether part-time, full-time, or even work experience, then by law you’ll need to secure employers’ liability insurance. It helps to protect your business should an employee sustain an injury and claim compensation.

It doesn’t matter how that injury might have occurred, or how little you perceive the risk of injury to be. For example, your employees don’t need to be working in a high-risk environment, such as a factory – even slipping on a wet floor or tripping over a chair leg can cause an injury for which your business may be held liable.

It’s your responsibility as an employer to ensure your business has the appropriate level of cover should the unexpected happen. If your business employs at least one employee then it’s a legal requirement to have the relevant policy in place and cover you for a minimum of £5m.

You should have employer’s liability insurance if…

There are many reasons to ensure your business has employers’ liability insurance. If you’re self-employed and a sole trader, or work with bonafide subcontractors, then it isn’t necessary. However, if anyone who works with you could be considered an employee – including unpaid volunteers – you’re required to secure employers’ liability insurance. This even includes temporary employees and students doing work experience. You’ll also need it if you don’t technically have any employees, but have a limited company with more than one director.

An obvious example is you’re a software development agency with three full-time employees and one part-time employee. Due to the risk of injury being low, the risk of a compensation claim by an employee is also low – however, you can never guarantee that there is zero risk. Because of this, you’ll need employers’ liability insurance.

A less obvious example would involve a self-employed graphic designer who periodically works with local students to provide them with work experience. While not technically an employee, this would still require a policy. Similarly, an electrician who hires a labour-only subcontractor (ie, one that doesn’t have their own tools) will also need employers’ liability insurance.

What is public liability insurance?

Public liability insurance covers you should a customer, client or member of the public make a compensation claim against your business. This would usually be a result of your business being at fault for injury or damage to property. These claims can be expensive and time-consuming, and public liability insurance covers the costs involved with any legal action.

Unlike employers’ liability insurance, public liability insurance is not a legal requirement. However, it’s recommended should a claim ever be raised against you, regardless of how low the level of risk may seem. In many circumstances, clients will want you to prove you have cover before working with you. Certain trade associations also require you to have public liability insurance in order for you to become a member.

You should have public liability insurance if…

Most claims come as a result of perceived negligence, which is a fairly broad term. For example, if you’re a painter and decorator and accidentally drill through a water pipe, it can be hard to argue against this being negligence. However, if a customer enters your small clothing store and spills a drink, which another customer then slips on resulting in an injury, this could also be perceived as negligence.

As a result, if your business serves customers or can be accessed by the public in any way, it’s advisable that you secure public liability insurance. This includes:

Builders
Cleaners
Coffee shops and cafes
Contractors
Estate agents
Events companies
Leisure companies and tourist attractions
Restaurants
Retailers
Spas and salons
Therapists
Tradespeople

If your business is office-based and contact with your customers and the public is low, it may also be something you want to consider. For example, clients may periodically visit your business premises for meetings, you may hold job interviews on-site, or you simply receive deliveries from couriers.

Even if you work from home, securing the appropriate public liability insurance should be something you consider, particularly if you sometimes work away from home.

The risk of not having the correct insurance in place

As we’ve already highlighted, if you have employees (or even volunteers and certain types of subcontractors) then having sufficient employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement. By not having insurance, not only does your business risk facing astronomical costs in the event of a claim, but you also face fines of £2,500 per day until you have a policy in place.

Public liability insurance isn’t mandatory, however, if you choose not to have it then it’s important that you and your business understand the risk. Even if the risk to others is exceptionally low, accidents do happen. If you find yourself on the receiving end of a compensation claim as a result of injury or property damage, then without insurance the cost to your business is likely to be high. In many cases, the costs can climb into the millions, which may lead to bankruptcy.

With insurance, your insurer should pay any legal costs – including any compensation you may be required to pay – minus any excess you may have on your policy.

Summary

When it comes to employers’ liability insurance vs public liability insurance, it’s often more than simply a case of choosing one or the other. Depending on your business and who works for and with you, you may need one or the other – or even both.

Looking for new employers’ liability or public liability insurance? Protect your business with our small business insurance – get a free quote today.

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Best Presents & Gift Ideas for Dog Walkers

24 February 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Thinking of buying a gift for your dog walker? Before you panic, check out our guide and buy your dog walker a gift and show your appreciation for all their hard work. But what exactly should you buy? Here, we’ve created a roundup of the best presents for dog walkers, including an option for every budget.

Gifts that every dog walker needs

Whether you use your dog walker one day a week or your furry friend is lucky enough to spend time with them every day, your dog walker deserves the best treat. Rather than just buying a box of chocolates or something generic, you should instead buy something they need or something that will help them look after your pup. With this in mind, here are the top presents for dog walkers this year:

Portable neck fan

Remember that summer heatwave when the temperature was regularly topping 30 degrees? Working in an air-conditioned office was hard enough, so imagine how your dog walker felt.

To help them next year, consider buying a portable neck fan they can take with them on those hot summer walks.

Walking shoes or trainers

Dog walkers are continually pounding the pavements. As a result, they can work their way through trainers and boots quickly. If you notice your dog walker’s shoes are a little worse for wear, treat them to some specialist walking shoes or trainers. Their feet will thank you.

Eco-conscious poop bags

The poop bag is a staple for any busy dog walker. If your canine carer walks up to six dogs a day, then they could go through 30-50 poop bags a week – that’s a lot of plastic.

To help them reduce their impact on the planet, consider purchasing some eco-conscious poop bags. These break down far more quickly than regular plastic poop bags and have a much lower impact on the planet. With these, your dog walker can feel a lot better about what is probably the worst part of their job.

Appointment book and planner

Good dog walkers get booked up quickly. If your dog walker is scrambling around for appointment cards or uses their phone to track where they need to be and when, then consider buying them an appointment book and planner so they can improve their organisation.

Wireless earbuds

Dog walkers are constantly on the move. To help them answer calls, listen to music or engage with a podcast all while providing the best possible care for your pup, consider buying your dog walker some wireless earbuds.

Fitness tracker

When you’re pounding the pavements all day, you quickly rack up a lot of steps. If you buy your dog walker a fitness tracker, they’ll be able to see exactly how hard they’re working.

Flasks

Winter walks can be incredibly cold; especially if you’re out multiple times a day. To help your dog walker keep warm in the winter winds, consider buying them a flask. To make the gift extra special, you could even get it personalised or engraved with your dog’s name.

Scented candles

If your dog walker also offers home boarding, then they’ll likely struggle to keep that famous ‘dog smell’ out of their home. So, consider buying some scented candles that can help them freshen up their home and relax after a tough day of walks.

Charity donations

Dog walkers love pets and are charitable people. If your dog walker is someone who has everything, then consider making a charity donation in their name. A donation to a pet charity such as the Dogs Trust is one of the best presents for dog walkers imaginable. This is because it shows how much both you and they care about pooches.

Collapsible dog bowls

Your dog walker can take collapsible dog bowls on each walk and ensure your pup remains hydrated at all times. Pet walkers always carry emergency supplies in case your dog gets tired while exercising. Collapsible bowls can make their load light and compact.

Keyrings

If you give your dog walker a key to your home, then consider giving them the gift of a personalised key ring. Not only will this help your dog walker identify which key is right for your home, but it will also add a special and personalised touch to their interactions with you.

Dog-themed bracelets

Your four-legged friend will likely hold a special place in the heart of your dog walker. To ensure their bond is always close, buy your dog walker a special dog-themed bracelet that is personalised with your pet’s name.

Pet blankets

Whether they’re walking dogs that are cold, muddy or wet, dog walkers simply cannot have enough pet blankets. Buying some extra this Christmas will help them through the cold winter months and beyond. They’ll also help keep your pet warm and dry.

Bespoke drawing or artwork

Artwork featuring your pet and your dog walker is the perfect gift. Whether you choose a small framed photo or a larger piece that’s commissioned by an artist, your artwork is sure to take pride of place in their home or office.

Dog treats

Finally, if your dog walker has everything on our list, then consider buying some dog treats. Buy your pup’s favourite and they can share them with their furry friends on their next adventure with the dog walker.

Why you should use an insured dog walker

Before you trust your four-legged friend with a dog walker, you must check they are insured. This is because, if your dog walker has insurance in place, you’ll know that your furry friend is covered if something goes wrong, such as if your dog is injured or goes missing.

Not only does Dog Walking Insurance provide you with peace of mind, it also provides your dog walker with a number of benefits. Comprehensive Dog Walking Insurance policies like ours include a number of key benefits, such as:

Care, Custody and Control Cover
Public Liability Cover
Non-Negligent Cover
Equipment Cover
Loss of Keys Cover
Employers’ Liability Cover

If something goes wrong and they have the right cover, they could save thousands of pounds.

What’s included in Dog Walking Insurance?

Our Dog Walking Insurance includes Public Liability for dog walking plus cover for 13 other pet care activities, including pet sitting, home boarding and pet grooming.

With a Dog Walking Insurance policy from Protectivity, you’ll receive all the following benefits as standard:

Public Liability: You can choose to include between £1 million and £10 million worth of cover to protect your business against claims arising from property damage or injury to a third party.
Care, Custody and Control: Up to £100,000 worth of cover is provided (up to £25,000 per animal) in the instance of accidental loss, injury, illness or death of an animal while in your care.
Non-Negligent Cover: Similar to the Care, Custody and Control benefit, you are also covered for accidental loss, injury, illness or death to an animal in your care during the course of service delivery through no fault of your business.
Key Cover: You are covered up to £10,000 for new keys and locks, as well as the cost of re-setting intruder alarms and associated call-out costs.
Equipment Cover: As standard, we provide £250 worth of cover for your equipment against theft, loss and accidental damage. You can increase the protection of your items up to the value of £30,000.
Close Family Extension: Your close family members are included under your policy as standard. This means that, if you employ your husband, wife, son, daughter or any other close family, you do not need to take out Employers’ Liability

Get a quote for Dog Walking Insurance

Our Dog Walking Insurance is available from £5.41 per month. It covers 14 different pet care activities and provides public liability, vet bills cover and more. To see exactly how much our Dog Walking Insurance will cost you, get a quote today. We can provide you with a tailored quote in only a couple of minutes.

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Best Hypnotherapy Techniques

14 February 2023

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6 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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You might think that hypnotherapy is all about spinning spirals and feeling very sleepy. But there’s actually much more science behind it than you might think.

Hypnotherapy has its foundations in psychotherapy and neuroscience, and it’s been practised to great success since the late 19th century. Today, it’s used by people from all walks of life to help them improve their lifestyle and mental wellbeing: this means there are plentiful opportunities for hypnotherapists to offer treatments and establish successful, profitable businesses.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the basics of hypnotherapy, including how it works, the main types of treatment, and what to remember if setting up a hypnotherapy business.

What is hypnotherapy and how does it work?

First of all, it’s important to make clear that hypnotherapy is not a kind of mind control, despite what you might have seen on TV or in films over the years. Instead, it aims to get the mind into a more relaxed state, by taking it out of consciousness, so that it’s more open to new thoughts and ideas.

A hypnotherapist uses proven techniques to move the mind into an unconscious state that is only slightly above that of sleep. As a result, the mind is controlled by theta brain waves that can receive different thoughts, and not be constrained by the conscious mind finding reasons to close off those thoughts. It’s for this reason that hypnotherapy can be so effective and fast-acting for people who want to make changes in their life, from curing themselves of a phobia to giving up smoking.

How effective can hypnotherapy be?

The effectiveness of hypnotherapy naturally varies from person to person, depending on how their individual minds work and which types of hypnotherapy are most effective for them (more on those below).

However, when it works, the results can be astonishing. When people are trying to get into a new habit, or give up a bad one, it can take weeks or months for them to bake those changes into their minds, if indeed they ever manage it. Hypnotherapy, at its most effective, can almost be like flicking a switch, helping them embrace those changes in a matter of hours.

The speed of the change makes it a highly accessible and affordable means of therapy, especially for those who might not be able to afford long and expensive courses of psychotherapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Which are the most popular hypnotherapy techniques?

There are many different hypnotherapy techniques in use around the world, some of which are more well-known than others. But in the main, these six are the most common that people considering treatment are most likely to be looking for:

Suggestion hypnosis: perhaps the most common type, to the point of it often being called ‘traditional’ hypnosis, this is where hypnotherapists make suggestions to patients that encourage them to make changes in their lives. These suggestions don’t have to be dictated by the therapist: they can be mutually agreed before the treatment starts
Ericksonian hypnotherapy: this is more or less the opposite of suggestion hypnosis, where clients gradually reach a state of hypnosis over the course of a conversation. Clients play a much more active role in their treatment as they reach the intended mental state with the help of their therapist
Regression hypnotherapy: this type is perhaps closest to what people would consider psychiatry. In their hypnotic state, clients are encouraged to recall any memories from their past that may be causing the problem they want to solve, and apply new information to resolve the issue
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP): these techniques don’t involve bringing the client into any sort of hypnotic state – instead, the conversational principles of Ericksonian hypnotherapy are applied to people at any time and in any place. NLP has gained particular traction among business leaders to help them succeed
Self-hypnosis: while it is possible for people to hypnotise themselves, it can be extremely difficult to achieve, even for experienced professional hypnotherapists. Those capable of doing so can apply it at any time in their lives, to help them resolve any problems that might come their way
Primers: this is the name given to hypnosis delivered through pre-recorded audio. Previously, this would have been on cassettes or CDs, but technology now makes it much easier to deliver these treatments to clients digitally. They are generally the cheapest and most accessible means of trying hypnotherapy, and so are ideal for those new to the concept

Which hypnotherapy techniques are best?

There’s no simple answer to this question, as it will vary so much for both parties. As mentioned above, some people will be far more receptive to some types of hypnotherapy than others. Additionally, from a business perspective, you may find that certain types are more popular (and therefore more profitable) with customers in your local area.

So the best way to proceed as a hypnotherapist is not to put all your eggs in one basket. Often, a combination of multiple types of hypnotherapy can generate better results, while being able to deliver many different types broadens your potential customer base as wide as possible. That’s why it’s important to get trained and qualified in as many techniques as you can, and brush up on your knowledge and expertise on a regular basis.

Get hypnotherapist insurance with Protectivity

Hypnotherapy is not without its risks, and it’s always possible that treatment can have unintended consequences that may cause patients to get hurt, even if you’re highly trained and qualified. If you’re running a hypnotherapy business, this can leave you vulnerable to a claim that can have severe ramifications from a financial perspective. This is why, just like any other type of therapy enterprise, it’s absolutely essential to have comprehensive insurance cover in place.

Protectivity is one of the only insurers in the UK that offers specific hypnotherapy insurance cover. Our policies can include public liability cover of up to £5 million, in case your treatment or advice leads to accident or injury, as well as professional indemnity, and optional equipment cover of up to £3000. That way, you can treat people with any type of hypnotherapy with confidence, and give yourself peace of mind.

Take a more detailed look at everything our hypnotherapy insurance and counselling insurance have to offer.

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What to Ask for at the Barber

12 February 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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If you’re a man and you have hair, then you’re probably used to that sinking feeling you get at the barber when you’re looking back at yourself in the mirror. You know what you wanted your barber to do, but for one reason or another, he’s cutting and shaping your hair into something else. And short of shaving it all off, there’s not really much you can do about it.

It’s easy to blame the ability of the barber in this situation, but a lot of the time, it just comes down to miscommunication between barber and customer. Often this is because customers don’t know how to explain what they want, and barbers struggle to understand exactly what to do based on vague ideas and descriptions.

Solving this issue can be beneficial for both parties: customers who get the cut they want, and barbers who get satisfied customers and repeat business. This guide gives you five tips on what to ask for at the barber, to get the best results every time.

Research what you want in advance

If you’re reading this guide, then you’re already part of the way through step one. Research is everything in communicating to a barber what it is that a customer has in mind. And this goes much deeper than just finding the name of a particular style.

That’s because every customer and every head of hair is different. Some men have hair that’s longer than others, thicker than others or darker than others, for example. Then there’s the shape of the head to take into account, and where there might be any crowns. And on top of that, the current popularity for beards and facial hair add a new dimension to the conversation. Exploring ideas that work for personal characteristics is therefore the ideal starting point.

Know the lingo

You wouldn’t go into a garage to get your car fixed and ask them to take a look at ‘the thingy next to the engine’. So why would you go into a barber and ask them to take ‘just a bit off here and there’?

There is a surprising amount of terminology involved in barbering, but it isn’t a secret code: all the right vocabulary is out there for everyone to find if they look hard enough. Knowing the right phrases for what you want can break down many of the barriers in communication. Start by looking at guard numbers, types of fade and tapers, as these will form the foundation of most common men’s hairstyles.

Work out the best way to describe your style

Armed with research and terminology from the first two points, you’re now much better-equipped to work out a concise description of the haircut you’re looking for. If you can boil down all your preferences into a few short sentences, then you can deliver this to your barber as soon as you hit the chair, and start everything off on the front foot.

However, it’s important to be flexible to a certain extent, and not to stick too rigidly to your description. A good barber will be able to offer some advice on how your idea can be tweaked here and there to deliver an even better end result.

Back up your description with photos

During the research stage, it’s highly likely that you’ll have searched through photos of different styles, and found some that closely resemble what you’re looking for. If you’re struggling to translate that visual style into a verbal description, then there’s no reason that you can’t take the photo with you and show it to the barber.

Many barbers use design and style like Pinterest themselves, so that they can keep up-to-date with trends and be able to offer advice and suggestions. Using the same apps to find your style inspiration, and showing your findings to the barber on the day, can help make sure that nothing gets lost in translation.

Ask for advice if you need it

Don’t forget that barbers will have cut thousands of heads of hair over the years, and will have a wealth of experience and expertise that you can take full advantage of. And at the same time, they want you to get out of their chair feeling happy with the cut you’ve received.

Never feel afraid to ask for their opinion as they’ll be more than happy to help. Whether you’re not sure if your idea is right for you, or they want an expert view on a new style, remember that there’s a professional ready and waiting to assist.

Get your barber business insurance from Protectivity

If you’re a barber reading this, then you’ll already have plenty of experience of customers that struggle to get their preferences across. This guide can act as a business aid in helping them – and you – get the results you want.

Another important business aid for barbers is insurance, so that you don’t suffer financially should anything unforeseen occur. Protectivity offers specialist barber business insurance policies, including public liability, personal accident cover, equipment cover, and employers’ liability insurance (if you employ other barbers).

Our cover can give you peace of mind, help you grow your business with confidence, and starts at less than £4 a month. Take a closer look at all our options for barbers insurance.

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How to Organise a Charity Event

10 February 2023

•

6 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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If you run or are involved in a charity that needs to raise more money, then organising an event can deliver a real boost. It can give a focal point to your overall fundraising strategy, bring your community together, and help you give the public enjoyable experiences that makes them feel that they’re getting something in return for their donation.

However, putting on any event with success can be much easier said than done. There are plenty of things to take care of to ensure everything runs without a hitch, and that any problems don’t impact your ability to raise money. In this guide, we’ll look at seven vital steps around how to organise a charity event, covering all the big tasks before and after the big day, so that you can maximise the potential of your fundraising.

Work out your objective

It’s very easy for event organisers to lose focus of what they’re trying to do as their event plans get increasingly complex. So before you make any other plans, start by working out what your ultimate goal for the event would be. This could be a particular target figure for fundraising, a more general aim to increase awareness, or to sell a certain number of tickets and reach a desired level of attendance. Whatever the objective is, setting it out at the start and keeping it front-of-mind throughout can ensure you always stay on the right track.

Decide your theme and budget

With this objective set out, you can start to address some of the specifics of event organisation. Working out an appropriate budget is critical: after all, there’s no point spending £20,000 on putting together an event that’s only going to raise £10,000. If you have a theme in mind, then now is the time to commit to it, so that you can put your budget considerations into that context. But when it comes to money, the next two points are especially important:

Find a suitable venue

Location, location, location: it might be a well-worn phrase, but when it comes to a charity event, it’s absolutely critical. There’s a delicate balance to be struck between the accessibility of a venue and how much it might cost to hire. If looking at an indoor event, then church halls or school halls (if at weekends or during the holidays) are normally good, cost-effective options. For outdoor occasions, consider football, rugby and cricket clubs, many of which have associated bar and parking facilities, and are generally more than happy to earn extra funds for their own means.

Search for sponsors

Depending on the type of event, attracting event sponsorship from local businesses can be a major revenue generator. Many businesses may well be interested because being involved with a charity event can help them raise their community profile. However, they will naturally expect a return on their investment: this could be signage at the event, featuring in the programme, mentions on the website or social media, for example. And don’t necessarily think of sponsorship purely in cash terms: doing a deal in exchange for exposure (for example, venue hire or extra assistance with the event) can help you make substantial budgetary savings.

Market the event to your audience

Once you’ve got everything in place, you can then fire up your marketing operation, so that as many people as possible know what you’re doing, where you’re doing it, when it’s happening and what you’re raising money for. You have many different media and advertising channels open to you, but which ones to prioritise depends on your target audience. For example, for younger demographics, then a greater emphasis on social media is preferable; for older people, local papers and newsletters may have a better effect; and for families, try and get your event mentioned in communications from local schools.

Put management and volunteers in place

As the big day approaches, attention will turn to the nuts and bolts of the event, and making sure all the necessary arrangements are in place. You’ll need to cover every possible eventuality of who is doing, what, where and when, from the arrival of anyone taking part, through the public-facing core of the event, to tidying up at the end. You may also need to recruit some volunteers to help with all the jobs that often go overlooked, like admission, parking and refreshments. Along the way, you’ll also need to put the right insurance cover in place, especially Public Liability Insurance in case an attendee suffers an accident or injury.

Maximise fundraising post-event

Just because your event has finished doesn’t mean that your opportunities for fundraising are finished, too. There will be plenty of opportunities for follow-up activity that can help generate more donations from the public, especially in the first few days immediately afterwards. Consider getting in touch with local media, and hitting the social media channels, with info about the success of your event and how you’re still accepting donations. In the longer-term, a story about how the funds you’ve raised have been spent to good effect can also be good PR.

Get event insurance with Protectivity

Even if it’s for charity, an event is still a financial enterprise. As a result, there is always the risk of something going wrong that can leave you out of pocket, or vulnerable to a claim from an attendee or fellow stakeholder. The damage of these financial impacts can easily wipe out all the funds that you manage to raise from the event – or even worse, lead to you making a sizable loss.

That’s why it’s so important to have comprehensive event insurance in place, and that’s exactly where Protectivity can help. Our tailored policies for events encompass Public Liability Insurance, cancellation cover, equipment protection, and even Employer’s Liability if you hire any staff for the event. The cover is competitively priced, but gives you peace of mind that you can raise vital money for your cause with minimal levels of risk.

Take a closer look at our event insurance policy and events cancellation insurance in more detail.

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Six Key Benefits of Massage Therapy

9 February 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Massage is often thought of as a way to improve the condition of specific areas of the body, or to achieve an overall feeling of relaxation. But that’s only scratching the surface of what it can do to the human body.

Good massage therapy, administered correctly and in the right environment, can transform a person’s wellbeing, both physically and mentally. In this guide, we’ll explore six of the biggest benefits that massage therapists like you can deliver to your clients, all of which can act as strong selling points for your business.

What kinds of massage can be beneficial?

As long as they’re done properly, any type of massage can help a person improve their physical and mental condition. This applies whether it’s a sports massage that targets the muscles and joints, a relaxing Swedish massage aimed at reducing tension, or even a shiatsu massage that relieves the body of any specific stresses and knots.

The key is to match the right massage approach to the right client, depending on their needs and preferences. For example, somebody who is wanting to relax and destress will be far more suited to aromatherapy or hot stone massages than a more intensive sports massage.

For more detailed information on different types of massage, have a look at our special guide.

The physical benefits

The most obvious benefits of a massage are to the body of the person being treated. This will vary from person to person, and across different types of massage, but there are many different positives that a client can take, including:

Muscles and circulation

Massages can help reduce any tightness or stiffness in muscles that can hamper the ability of people to move freely and without any pain. Related to this, a massage can also improve the circulation of blood through the body for a better body condition overall, and reduce any inflammation that may occur in joints over time.

Sleep and energy

When a massage removes any pain or stress from the body, the person being treated will find it much easier to get a good night’s sleep. This can have huge knock-on benefits to a person’s overall health, as they will have more energy and focus during the day, whether they’re at work, at home or exercising. Those who regularly work out will also find their bodies recover from exertion much faster.

Comfort and immune system

Being in regular or constant pain can be extremely draining, both physically and mentally, so a massage that relieves that pain (even if only temporarily) can make a huge difference to a person. With a better condition inside and out, people may also find themselves with a stronger immune response and more able to fend off illnesses and bugs. For older people in particular, this can be especially valuable.

The mental benefits

The difference that massage therapy can make to a person’s mental wellbeing is often overlooked, but it can’t be underestimated. While the mental benefits aren’t always obvious, they can be long-lasting and transformative to a person’s life:

Stress and relaxation levels

Perhaps the clearest mental benefit is that people generally feel more relaxed after a massage, and certainly less stressed than they were before it started. This can help people relax more at home and not get overly wound up by things and people around them, which can make a huge difference in day-to-day life.

Mood and relationships

Connected to the previous point, a more relaxed and less stressed person is far more likely to be in a better mood more of the time. This can improve the relationships a person has in their lives, from their partner or family through to their professional relationships at work. It can also help decrease anxiety levels and minimise the risk of people worrying about things in life unnecessarily.

Sense of wellbeing

A massage can help promote a more general sense of wellness within a person: they can feel more balanced and comfortable with the world around them. Even if there is no specific reason that a person comes for a massage, it can still be beneficial for their general wellbeing, acting as a time and space to unwind.

Get massage therapy insurance with Protectivity

Every type of massage comes with a certain element of risk, whether it’s unintentional injury caused to a client or equipment being lost, damaged or stolen. When these unforeseen incidents occur, having good insurance cover in place is vital, so that you don’t end up out of pocket.

Protectivity offers comprehensive massage therapy insurance to masseurs and masseuses just like you. Including public liability, professional indemnity, equipment cover and more, you can give yourself peace of mind from just a few pounds a month. Take a closer look at our specialist massage therapist insurance here.

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What is the Most Profitable Pet Business?

2 February 2023

•

6 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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If you love animals and you have an entrepreneurial spirit, then it’s natural that you’ll explore ways to forge a business out of people’s pets.

Not only does it allow you to enjoy some time with some furry friends, there’s plenty to get excited about from a business perspective as well. According to Pet Keen, the UK’s pet owners now collectively spend around £8 billion on their animal companions every single year, from feeding them and keeping them healthy to pampering them and taking them on holiday.

So if you’re looking at setting up a profitable pet business, there are plenty of avenues to explore. This guide highlights some of the stand-out choices.

The most profitable pet businesses

There are plenty of variables to consider and questions to answer when looking at setting up a pet-related business. For example: will you be coming into physical contact with the pets? Will you specialise in one particular animal (e.g. dogs or cats)? Are you targeting essential or discretionary pet spending? What types of insurance, registrations and qualifications do you need to operate legally and successfully?

How you address those questions will differ substantially depending on which business type you pursue. But to give you some initial inspiration, here are our choices of the most profitable pet business ideas:

Dog walking

Every dog needs regular exercise, but many busy working people just struggle to find the time to do it, especially in the winter when it’s dark when they get home from work. Professional dog walking is a simple way to lighten their load, and with minimal overheads and the ability to walk multiple dogs at the same time, can be extremely profitable.

Pet grooming

Keeping a stylish, clean, well-turned-out pet is more popular than ever before, and the public is willing to spend big on quality pet care. Setting yourself up as a groomer is full of business options, whether you specialise in one animal, work as a mobile groomer at people’s homes, or deliver perfect finishes ready for competitions

Pet sitting

Similar to the dog walking idea, many people are willing to pay to relieve themselves of the inconvenience of pet ownership, including if they want to go out for an evening or a weekend. Pet sitting can give them the peace of mind that their treasured animal is well cared for, either in their home or yours.

Clothing design

Whether it’s making them look fabulous or simply keeping them warm in the winter, there’s a sizeable market for pet clothing. If you have some design skills and you’re handy with a sewing machine, you can develop some original garments or even create one-off commissions, many of which can come with a premium price tag.

Treats

The world of treats has come on in leaps and bounds (no pun intended) in recent years, especially for dogs. There’s also a growing trend for people to apply their own dietary preferences to their pets, such as eating organic food as much as possible. Therefore, there’s big demand for pet treats that are both ethical and delicious.

Photography

Any proud pet owner will have lots of photos of their pet, whether on their desk, on the walls of their home or simply on their phone. But using a professional pet photographer can help them bring their animal’s image to life, either through portraits or out in the countryside. You could even take photos for marketing materials for other pet businesses.

Dog training

Whether it’s a puppy who needs to learn the basics, or an older dog or rescue that needs some corrective help, there is always demand for quality dog training. If you can help make dogs more obedient with better temperaments, then you can not only enrich yourself, but also enrich owner’s relationships with their dogs.

Boarding and daycare

Not every holiday destination is pet-friendly, not to mention the difficulty and expense of taking animals on flights. The normal option is to put animals in kennels, but this can be extremely expensive. Setting yourself as a boarding house for individual pets can be cheaper, while making you good money from the comfort of your own home.

Pet-friendly travel agent

Connected to the previous point, there are some places that are ideal for holidays with pets, and you can be the person to help owners find them. Putting together holiday packages that are perfect for both pets and people can stand you out in the travel agency market, and is a service owners may well pay a premium for.

Pet shop

It’s perhaps one of the most old-fashioned ideas on the list, but you can’t beat a good pet shop. Even in the age of internet retail, many owners still want to check goods out in person before they buy, and get multiple items in one place. If you have some expertise, you can also give owners valuable advice on the best buys for them.

Pet-friendly cafe

There are several different ways to approach a cafe with pets front-and-centre. One is to create a stopping point for dog owners on walks, with dog treats and food on sale alongside refreshment for humans. Another is to make pets the reason for visiting, such as a cat cafe where people can get some feline company while enjoying a coffee.

Get pet business insurance with Protectivity

As this blog demonstrates, there are many options open to you if you want to start a business involving pets. However, whichever choice you make, one thing remains a constant: the need for comprehensive insurance cover to protect your enterprise if something goes wrong.

Protectivity provides full cover for thousands of pet businesses, including dog grooming insurance, starting from as little as £75 a year. Our policies include public liability; Care, Custody and Control; equipment cover; legal expenses, and can also include employers’ liability if you hire staff. Available through flexible monthly payment plans, our policies can give you peace of mind and vital protection without putting pressure on your bottom line.

We offer insurance for all kinds of pet businesses, including dog walking insurance. Take a more detailed look at our pet business insurance policies here.

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