Category: Business

11:36:09 GMT • 14 January 2025

Dog Theft: How to Prevent your Customers’ Dogs being Stolen

4 October 2021

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get dog walking insurance from Protectivity

The theft of a pet is a potential nightmare for owners, but for professional dog walkers, sitters and other professionals there’s the added responsibility of the animal in question belonging to someone else.

Sadly the numbers of dogs being stolen has risen sharply in the last few years, with the Blue Cross reporting a rise of 170% from 2019 and 2020.

With those figures being deeply concerning, it’s more vital than ever for pet professionals to ensure they protect their clients’ pets from adding to this unfortunate figure.

About Us

Protectivity is one of UK’s leading online providers of Pet Business Insurance, protecting over 14,000 pet care professionals every year. Our policy extends to include dog walking insurance, pet sitting insurance and dog grooming insurance, as well as protection for 11 other pet care professions.

Why are more dogs being stolen?

The disappointing fact is that pets, in particular dogs, have, and will always be stolen. However during the pandemic there has been a rise in dog ownership, and with the standard supply and demand model, with more prospective owners, the price tag goes up.

That rise in potential profit to be made from dog sales means the most unscrupulous sellers are going that extra mile to ensure they have dogs to make money from.

Owners and pet business operators cannot completely take away the risk of falling victim to pet theft, but there are plenty of things they can do.

Here are some of our top tips…

1. Don’t leave dogs unattended

It should come as first nature to dog walkers and owners but leaving dogs unattended in public spaces increases the chance of you falling foul to thieves dramatically.

That includes leaving dogs tied up outside shops or other businesses, inside a parked car or at the park.

The less time a dog is out of your sight, the less chance there is for the dog to be stolen.

2. Ensure your setting is secure

If your business involves keeping dogs on your premises, or even if you are visiting those of your clients, making sure they are secure is hugely important.

We all know dogs can sometimes take off of their own accord, so it’s worth checking that fences and property boundaries will keep even the most inquisitive dog inside.

By keeping your dogs inside, you can also keep potential thieves out.

3. Watch what you post on social media

Social media can be a great place to showcase your business to potential clients but it also comes with potential risks.

Posting your walks, daily activities or generally marketing your business is good, however there’s also the chance it’ll tell potential thieves where and when there’s an opportunity to steal a dog.

If you must post daily about your dog walks, it’s worth mixing things up to avoid a regular routine that can set you up for the risk of dog napping.

4. Ask that your clients’ dogs have good recall

Letting dogs off the lead when out on a walk obviously gives them an opportunity for a good run to burn off some steam, but it’s always worth ensuring they come back when called.

Should they fail to return on demand it increases the chances of them being snatched by thieves.

Whether you train the dogs yourself, or ask the owners to make an effort to teach dogs good recall, it can increase the safety of the pooches in your care.

5. Invest in a dog GPS system

It might seem an extreme investment, but with the value of certain dog breeds in the thousands, the outlay of a dog GPS system might be money well spent.

There are a number of options on the market, starting from around £50, so if you’ve got a lot of different animals in your care it can be a wise investment.

Should they take off, or worse still, be stolen, a tracker will allow you and the owner to see exactly where they go.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

11:35:27 GMT • 14 January 2025

A Beginners Guide on How to Set Up Google Ads for your Small Business

By Bee Ingram

22 July 2021

•

6 mins read

Contributors

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

Google Ads is Google’s online advertising platform which allows you to create online ads to reach audiences that are interested in the products and services that you offer. The Google Ads platform runs on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, meaning you have to pay every time a visitor clicks your ad. Even with the smallest of budgets, if you learn how to use Google Ads correctly, it can be one of the most profitable ways to market your business.

About Protectivity

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, offering a range of tailored insurance products, such as Hairdressing Insurance, Personal Trainer Insurance and Pet Business Insurance, that protect our customers against unforeseen events.

Step 1: Sign up process

If you already have a Google Account (in other words, if you use any other Google product, such as Gmail), you can sign up by entering your Google email address and password, then click ‘Sign in’.

If you don’t have an account or want to use a different email address to sign in, just click ‘Create an account’ at the bottom of the screen and follow the instructions to create and confirm your new Google account.

Step 2: What’s your advertising goal?

Shortly after you have provided the basic information to Google, you will be asked ‘What’s your main advertising goal?’. Your answer to this question will depend on the type of business that you run or work for and what its advertising goals are.

Do you want to attract phone calls to your business? Or do you prefer to drive sales to your eCommerce website? Maybe you want to attract more people to a physical location such as a gym? Simply select the option that is best suited to your advertising goals.

Step 3: Write your ad

Google will ask you to confirm your business name and website, plus you’ll need to complete a verification process. Once complete, you’ll then need to create your ad. Here is the place to put your creative hat on and write a captivating advert that will encourage people to click on it.

You should consider using keywords in your advert copy that is specific to what people are searching, as well as a clear call-to-action.

Assuming you are just getting started with learning how to create a Google ad in AdWords, we’ll start with the basics. A text ad is made up of these three main parts; headlines, description lines and final URL.

– Headline 1 is the most prominent part of your ad, so it should clearly state what your business is or the product or service you are offering. For example, a personal trainer might use the headline ‘Experienced Personal Trainer’.

– Headline 2 should be used to shout about one of your key USP’s. If you were a gym business owner, for example, you might use ‘Zero Sign-Up Fees’ or ‘Only £X.XX A Month’.

– Headline 3 is optional. We suggest using it for a call-to-action such as ‘Call Us Today’ or ‘Book Online Now’.

– The description lines should provide more detail about what you offer and why the person reading your ad should visit your website.

– The final URL is the landing page of your website that you want people to go to. This should always be the most relevant page on your site.

Once your Google Ads account is set up, we suggest you go into your campaign settings to create Ad Extensions. Ad Extensions expand your ad with additional information such as USPs and/or additional services.

Step 4: Choose your keywords

Keywords are the search queries that people search for in Google. For example, a professional barber might need public liability insurance and, therefore, search for ‘public liability insurance for barbers’ in Google.

To start with, you want to be as specific as you can with your keywords – think about what your ideal customer would be searching for in Google to find your product or service.

You can always use Google’s free Keyword Planner Tool to help you with this area. It will tell you how many people are searching for your keyword(s), plus it will offer estimates on how much it will cost you each time someone clicks on your advert, in turn giving you some idea of how much it will cost you to run the advertising.

Step 5: Location

During the next step, you need to select the geographic location(s) where you would like your ads to show. Your targeting can be as broad as the entire world or as specific as a single post code.

If you have a small business and want to attract people coming to your location, we recommend choosing “advertise near an address”, then you’ll be targeting people in your specific local area.

Step 6: Set a budget

Google will give you a set of budget options that you can consider before you decide on a final figure.

From the image below, you can see that Google offers an estimate on the number of clicks your adverts will get as well as the maximum monthly spend.

Despite Google being kind enough to offer you such insights, we would advise you to enter your own budget. If you want to spend more (or less) in the future, you will have the option to change it.

Put simply, you are saying to Google that you are prepared to spend X amount on your advertising.

You can also select to run your campaign continuously or until a specific date.

Step 7: Confirm payment info

Your last step is to enter your business and payment details.

And there you have it, your account should be all set up. Once you complete the initial set-up, we advise keeping an eye on the campaign to see how well it is performing (i.e. How many clicks have you attracted? How much is it costing you per click?).

One final thing that we suggest you look into ASAP after launching your campaign is conversion tracking…

Conversion Tracking

Conversion Tracking is vital to monitor how well your advertising is performing. Without it, knowing if your adverts are producing website sales or leads (i.e. form submissions and/or phone calls) for your business is extremely difficult.

You can find out how to set up the correct Google Ads conversion tracking by visiting this page.

Thanks for reading this article, we hope you found it useful. If you did, you might find this relatable read of interest: How to use Instagram to market your small business

Last updated by

09:40:42 GMT • 11 November 2024

Top 5 Event Manager Blogs Every Organiser Should Follow

By Mandy Czyz

22 July 2021

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Mandy Czyz

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

Get event insurance from Protectivity

Being a professional event manager is not easy. Whether you are organising a party, a craft fair or an exhibition, there is often so much to do it can be somewhat overwhelming.

To help you keep up with the demands of the job, we have put together a list of our top 5 favourite event manager blogs. From tips and advice to design inspiration, these 5 event blogs will help you in so many different ways.

About us

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure, and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, offering a range of tailored insurance products, such as Event Insurance, to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

1. Hippo – best for tips and advice

If you are looking for useful information and professional advice directly from experienced event managers, then following Hippo will provide you with exactly that. They are an independent, full-service agency specialising in complete event project management and venue finding.

You can not only find out what projects they have been recently working on, but they also offer some fantastic guidance, knowledge, and inspiration direct from the event management experts. You can get handy tips and ideas on event management, product launch, training, roadshows and team-building event management.

2. Eventbrite – best for planning & promotion

Eventbrite is a global self-service ticketing platform that allows you to manage your event digitally, so you can browse, create, share and promote local events.

Along with their event management services, they host a blog that’s packed with practical information for any event planner. By following them, you will get a little bit of everything – from event industry news and roundups to practical tips on “health and safety” to “how to manage your event budget”.

3. Event Industry News Magazine – best for event news

Want to keep up with what’s happening on the scene of the UK’s biggest events? This one is just for you.

You can also find the latest event management tips, event industry podcasts, event features and guest blogs from event industry professionals.

The widest variety of event news for medium to larger events in the UK such as festivals, concerts, and sporting events. It’s split into five main sections: Brand and Agency News, Conference and Meetings, Event Technology, Exhibitions and Trade Show, Festival and Outdoor News.

4. Event Manager Blog – best for trends & technology reviews

EventMB has been acknowledged as the go-to online resource for trends, technology, innovation and education for the event industry. Their content is varied, well-structured and very informative.

You can subscribe to their weekly podcast, where they “cover the latest innovations in event technology, case studies of successful events, new thinking in event design, and exciting destination updates”.

If you decide to follow their blog, you’ll be joining thousands of professionals from around the globe.

5. BizBash – best for inspiration

Bizbash is a really exciting hub that you cannot afford to miss, as it covers almost everything in the events world.

Being North America’s No.1 news source for event and meeting professionals, not everything is completely relevant for UK event organisers. However, it serves some fresh ideas for event managers and organisers that are still worth learning about.

In addition to the plethora of useful information, there is the GatherGeeks monthly podcasts which you can listen to for free without prior registration.

From organising small-scale family events to large conferences and festivals, any event can be improved by following the tips from these blogs.

Get Event Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

11:34:47 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Charge the Right Price as a Mobile Hairdresser

15 June 2021

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

The very first step to growing your mobile hairdressing business is to charge correctly for all your services and ensure your services aren’t unnecessarily being discounted or undercharged.

To define your pricing in the best possible way, you should take into consideration these 3 elements:

• The required lowest price needed to cover all business overheads (travel, products, time)
• How your competitors’ price their services
• Your own level of experience

About us

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, offering hairdressers insurance and barbers insurance. We offer a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

How much should a self-employed hairdresser charge?

This is variable and depends on experience, how well established you are and where you are in the country. You may find it difficult to put your prices up later down the line, so you shouldn’t set it too low to begin with, even if initially your clients include just family and friends. However, as you gain experience working on your own and you build a loyal client base, you could increase your prices.

It’s best to do your research and find out what other self-employed hairdressers are charging in the area.

For example, outside of London, you would find hairdressers charge around £20 to £25 for a basic cut and style. If you’re working in London, the prices people expect to pay would be slightly higher.

You can choose two options when planning how to charge your clients:

Charging by time (Hourly pay)
An hourly rate can work well at ensuring that a freelance hair stylist is paid for all of the work that they carry out during a job. It is common for hair stylists to work overtime as their hours are very unpredictable. By charging by the hour, the hair stylist will be paid for every minute they work on the job.

Flat Rate
Flat rates are popular as they decrease the risk for the client. By giving a fixed fee before the job starts, both the hair stylist and the client know what is expected of them and there are no sneaky surprises that will affect the cost at the end.

You will find that majority of hairdressers choose to charge a flat rate fee.

It is also important to consider the overall costs of running your mobile hairdresser business. You can do this by using calculation tools.

What expenses can I claim as a mobile hairdresser?

You should take into account things you will be able to claim back on your tax return when calculating the costs you charge as a mobile hairdresser, to keep your prices competitive. Claiming for everything you are entitled to could save you hundreds of pounds every year.

Some of the main deductions include:

Travel Expenses
If you need to travel for work, then you will be able to claim certain travel expenses against your profits on your tax return. You can claim travel costs as long as you are only including travel which is undertaken for work purposes. This could include visiting clients, travel to training events or even to the bank to deposit your takings.

Materials and Equipment
From basics, such as scissors, shampoo and a hairdryer, to more specialised colouring and styling equipment, it can all be included as expenses on your tax return.

Clothing
You may wear a uniform when you work, if so, you will be able to claim back the costs as a business expense. You can also claim for any protective clothing that you have to purchase for work such as aprons and gloves.

Training
Keeping your skills up to date and learning new ones is a vital part of being a self-employed hairdresser, so if you attend any training or complete any courses that are directly related to the running of your business, then these are also deductible.

Marketing and Advertising
If you do any advertising to promote your services, you will be able to claim back some of the expenses.

Insurance
Any hairdresser will need Hairdressing Insurance without exception, so it is always best to make sure you are covered to ensure that you aren’t left footing the bill if anything happens, plus you can deduct the cost of your insurance against tax.

By taking into account expenses, you would be able to work out how much to charge as a mobile hairdresser to stay competitive.

If you are looking for more information on expanding your business, you can find out more in our blog on How to attract more clients to your business.

Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

11:34:09 GMT • 14 January 2025

Top 7 Work Ethics Every Hairdresser Should Know

7 June 2021

•

4 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

Whether you call it “salon ethics”, “rules of engagement” or “workplace etiquette”, there are certain codes of conduct which hairdressers need to respect and follow. Our 7 rules will take you on the fast track of success by having the right attitude, appropriate behaviour, and personal commitment.

The 7 rules of salon ethics are not only about bringing customers back, but also about sending them away happy enough to refer you to their friends. Here they are:

About us

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, including hairdressers insurance and barbers insurance. We offer a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

1. Be on time

If you have a policy about clients who are late then it is important that you are punctual. If you are a mobile hairdresser, you will probably be travelling to your clients, so ensure you allow enough time between clients and take into account things like traffic. Likewise, if you work in a salon ensure you are ready for the client when they arrive.

Sometimes things can be out of your control but be considerate and respectful of your customers’ time. Even if you are occasionally late, try not to make it a regular thing.

2. Keep your cell phone quiet and out of sight

It can come across as unprofessional to have someone who keeps checking their phone or answering private calls while performing a service. It’s best to leave your phone out of sight and on silent when you are with clients. If it is essential that your phone is on, let your friends/family know you are with a client and only to contact you if there is an emergency.

3. Get a clear understanding of what your client wants

Nothing is worse than your client leaving the salon feeling unsatisfied or disappointed with their hair. Make sure you know exactly what they want and reconfirm before you start. You could even show examples of what the client has asked for, to ensure you are on the right track. For example, if your client requests shorter hair, that might mean a trim, but to you it could indicate a complete style change.

4. Be prepared before your client arrives

Ask your clients exactly what they want before they arrive, so you know that you have all the right equipment/products to do the job. Then have all your tools ready to use, and sanitised before you reach a client’s house or the client arrives at the salon. Be prepared to offer your full attention to the client in your chair.

5. Remain courteous and professional when talking with your client

Avoid talking about volatile topics, including religion or politics. Watch your language, too, so that you don’t offend anyone. If possible, focus on the client’s interests and hobbies. Once you develop longstanding relationships with your customers you will begin to know what they enjoy talking about.

6. Be neat & dress professional

If you are working in a salon, you probably have a dress code to follow. At the same time, mobile hairdressers normally don’t adhere to such rules, however it is important to dress up appropriately around your clients. We are probably stating the obvious, but also make sure you are clean, neat and well-manicured.

Make sure your breath is clean and fresh, avoid excessive perfume and don’t forget to use your deodorant. You and your client will be in close quarters long enough to notice.

7. Be efficient

Regardless of whether you are a freelance, mobile or salon-based hairdresser, your efficiency is important not only for your personal growth, but also for the company you are working for. If you are wasting time, products or resources you will be ignoring another essential rule. Salon owners and clients can easily spot it, which doesn’t leave a good impression.

Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

11:33:43 GMT • 14 January 2025

How To Start A Dog Walking Business

3 June 2021

•

10 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get dog walking insurance from Protectivity

How to become a dog walker

Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and everyone wants to make sure that their treasured terrier or cherished cockapoo stays fit and healthy.

The only problem is that with people living such busy lives, because of work, family and other commitments, it can be hard for them to find the time to give their dog proper exercise.

But their challenge could be your opportunity. All over the UK, many people are setting up their own dog walking businesses, taking people’s four-pawed friends out on a stroll for a pre-arranged fee.

It can be great fun and an excellent way to keep yourself fit – but it isn’t quite as simple as knocking on your neighbour’s door and grabbing hold of a lead.

Like any business, there are lots of things that need to be addressed to ensure that a dog walking business runs successfully. In this guide, we’ll take a look at all the steps you need to take to develop a successful dog walking business:

Experience is key!

Dogs can be challenging, especially if they’re not familiar with you, and that’s before considering that the temperament of dogs can vary substantially from one breed to another.

That’s why it’s vital that you have good experience of walking different types of dog (and not just your own if you have one!) before you start.

You’ve also got to be prepared for the weather. If pet owners have enlisted your services to walk their dog, they’ll be expecting you to provide that service even if the weather is bad.

Ensuring you have not only the right equipment and clothing, but also the right mentality for all-weather dog walking, is therefore very important.

Once you’re properly up and running, you should find yourself walking multiple dogs simultaneously. While you may feel confident and experienced enough to handle a large number of dogs, it’s worth considering what your realistic and practical limit would be.

Additionally, you may find that a limitation is placed on you by your insurer (read more about insurance below) – many insurers insist on a maximum of between four and six dogs at any one time.

Dog walking laws and regulations

It might seem like walking a dog is a very simple exercise, but when operating as a walking service, there are lots of rules and regulations that you may have to comply with. These include (but are not necessarily limited to)

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs)

PSPOs are put in place by local councils in particular areas to restrict the number of dogs in that space. These are typically local parks or areas where large numbers of dogs may congregate.

Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005

Offences such as failing to clear up dog poo properly or not keeping a dog on a lead fall under this legislation, in places where Dog Control Orders apply. Penalties can reach up to a maximum of a £1000 fine.

Control of Dogs Order 1992

All dogs in public places are required by law to wear a collar that includes the name and address of the dog’s owner. This can be written or engraved, but as a dog walker, you should ensure this information is present before you start each walk.

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

If a dog is considered to be ‘dangerously out of control’, then a criminal offence is being committed by the person deemed to be responsible for its control at the time.

Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953

If walking dogs around farmland or other rural areas, you should always keep them on leads and well away from any livestock. In the case of farmland, dogs must not chase or attack any kind of livestock; in this scenario, farmers are legally entitled to take measures to protect their animals, potentially up to the point of shooting the dog in question.

The Countryside Code

Although not necessarily legally binding, the UK Government’s Countryside Code provides helpful advice for walking dogs in rural areas responsibly. In particular, it advises to always keep a dog in sight or on a lead, ensure that a dog will return when commanded to do so, and to make sure a dog doesn’t stray into an area where right of way doesn’t apply.

Dog walking qualifications – do you need one?

There is no legal requirement to possess any specific qualifications to run a dog walking business. But getting some dog walking qualifications can be helpful: it can give you additional expertise and experience, and can give you some extra credibility when marketing to potential customers. Potential qualifications to explore include:

Animal care qualifications

Credentials that show an aptitude for taking good care of animals – such as animal behaviour or animal first aid – look good on any CV or website.

City & Guilds

There are a range of City & Guilds Technical Competence Certificates available that relate to dog walking. Of particular relevance are the Level 2 certificates in Dog Walking; Pet Sitting; and Animal Health, Husbandry and Handling; and the Level 3 certificate in Animal Nutrition.

Dog-specific qualifications

A variety of different bodies offer their own courses and certifications aimed at improving the standards of dog walking and animal care, including those at the National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers, and Think Dog.

Cost and finance considerations

There are plenty of things to take into account on the business side of things when starting out as a dog walker.

Formulating a good business plan should form part of your initial work, helping you establish how you’re going to attract and retain customers, how you can stand out from your competitors, and how you’ll operate day-to-day.

The business plan should also consider any costs you may incur in your operations, in particular around transport.

In bigger cities, it may be possible to use public transport to travel from one client to another (as long as the dog walking market isn’t already saturated).

However, in most cases, your own vehicle will be needed to get yourself around – and your dogs if you want to travel for walks further afield.

You will also need to make a decision about your business status. Initially, it may make more sense to operate as a sole trader, but if your business grows (especially to the point you start to employ other people) it may be beneficial to register as a limited company with Companies House instead.

Dog walking business administration

There are several other business-related duties that you’ll need to fulfil, both as part of the set-up process, and on an ongoing basis once you’re up and running. These include:

Checks

You will need to undergo and pass a criminal record check if you are to enter the houses of any of your customers, or hold their house keys at any point. This means applying to the Disclosure and Barring Service if you’re in England or Wales, Disclosure Scotland, or AccessNI if you’re in Northern Ireland.

Contracts

A solid contract, along with terms and conditions, are vital for clearly defining what you’ll do in return for payment, and to ensure you get paid. It also gives you valuable legal protection in the event of a dispute.

Accounting

Whether you’re a sole trader or limited company, you’ll still be expected to keep and file accounts for tax purposes. You should set up a small business bank account in order to keep business and personal money separate.

Marketing your dog walking business

Getting your dog walking business noticed is one of the most important parts of the job, and it can be one of the trickiest.

There are lots of different ideas you can pursue, but ideally you need to think of ways that stand you out from the crowd, whether that be through different services you offer, attractive pricing, good qualifications (as mentioned above), or through offers, referrals and incentives.

Then you can put these ideas into practice across a range of platforms and mediums. Don’t neglect the more traditional ways of marketing such as leaflets, placing adverts in the local paper or good old word of mouth – these marketing materials may be low-tech but they can still be very effective.

Then of course there’s social media (especially including videos), which should have a clear focus on driving interest towards people making bookings or enquiries, ideally through your website.

A website is essential but it doesn’t have to be overly complex: a few pages explaining who you are, what you do and what stands you out as the best choice gives customers all the information they need to know.

To take your marketing to the next level, consider the ways you can join the dots of all your marketing methods together and build a brand.

In the same way that big businesses have logos, imagery, colour schemes and a tone of voice that makes them instantly recognisable, you can apply many of the same principles on a smaller scale. If you can get these key communication skills right, then your business will be the first one that people think of when they decide to find a dog walker.

Obtain dog walking insurance

Like the qualifications, dog walking insurance is not a legal requirement, but we strongly recommend you take out a policy for a host of reasons.

Firstly, you never know what may happen to you or the dogs that you walk when you’re out and about. Dogs can jump out in front of people, cyclists or cars; they can attack other dogs or cats; their leads can trip up other people (or yourself if you aren’t careful!) – and that’s just three of the things that can happen.

Ensuring that you’re protected if you’re unable to work for whatever reason, and that you can cover any claims arising from injuries or accident damage, including any vet bills incurred.

Exploring public liability insurance and ‘Care, Custody and Control’ cover can ensure that both you and your business are protected, whatever the future may hold.

At Protectivity, we provide a host of dog walking insurance policies so that you can start your new business with confidence. Take a closer look at dog walking business insurance today, and find a wide-ranging policy at a price that suits you.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

11:33:28 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Use Instagram to Promote your Small Business

By Bee Ingram

18 May 2021

•

5 mins read

Contributors

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

Using Instagram paid advertising is a fantastic way to reach a wider audience, boost credibility, and convert more sales. More than 28 million people use Instagram every month in the UK*, and roughly 90% of them follow at least one business. This means that, in 2021, utilizing Instagram to promote your business could help boost your number of clients.

How to open a Business Instagram account

1. Go to your profile and tap Menu in the top right-hand corner.
2. Tap Settings.
3. For some accounts, the Switch to professional account option will be listed directly under Settings.
4. Tap Account.
5. Tap Switch to professional account.
6. Tap Business.
7. Add details, such as your business category and contact information.
8. Tap Done.

With an Instagram Business account, you’ll be able to access insights that can help you understand who is engaging with your business. You’ll also have access to the professional dashboard, where you can track your performance and discover professional tools.

How to optimise your business Instagram profile

It is important to optimise your Instagram profile and make it look eye catching. It’s where your customers will go to learn more about your brand, visit your website or even book an appointment.

Write a great bio
The people reading your bio were curious enough to visit your profile. So, you have 150 characters to hook them in and show them why they should follow you.

Optimize your profile picture
You can decide to use whatever profile you like, whether that being your logo or something relating to your business for example a hairdresser may have a profile picture of cutting hair. However, it is important that your picture is uniform across all social media platforms to ensure brand recognition.

Add relevant contact info
It’s important to provide a way for people to contact you directly from your profile, not just though your direct inbox on Instagram. Include your email address, phone number or physical address (If you have one).

Add Story Highlights and covers
Add finishing touches to your Instagram profile with profile highlights.

What are Instagram ads?

Instagram ads are posts or stories that businesses pay to promote to users’ Instagram feeds. They can look just like regular Instagram posts, but are always identified by a “Sponsored” label. They can also include a call-to-action button to drive traffic or conversions.

How to set up an Instagram Ad

1. Connect your Instagram to your Facebook Account
– In order to run ads on Instagram, you’ll need to have a Facebook ad account and a Facebook Page.

2. Choose a post to promote

3. Set goals and objectives
– Identify how Instagram can help you accomplish your goals. You could apply the SMART framework to ensure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely.

4. Define your target audience

5. Select Budget

Things to remember

Take thumb-stopping photos
You don’t need to buy a fancy camera; your mobile phone is your best friend when it comes to photos since you can post straight from your device.

Write compelling captions
Instagram may be a visual platform, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your captions.

Captions allow you to tell the story that makes the photo meaningful. Good captions can build empathy, community, and trust. Or it can just be funny.

Add a Call To Action (CTA)
Want people to click on your link? Tell them why they should.

Keeping tabs on your ads and checking your insights

It can be easy to just leave a recurring advert to do its thing each month without paying much attention. However, monitoring its success can be a good way of increasing its impact. Within the Instagram Insights, it is easily laid out to show you who is engaging with your content and when.

Look at the statistics and then make a business decision on what works and what does not.

Checking your insights:

1. From your profile, tap Insights.
2. Beside Your Audience, tap See All.
3. Scroll down to Most Active Times.
4. Toggle between hours and days to see if a specific time stands out.

Taking your business up a level

Good social media practice and a positive reputation may lay the foundations to marketing your service but paying out for Instagram advertising can be a beneficial expenditure.

About Protectivity

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, offering a range of tailored insurance products such as hairdressing, personal training, pet businesses that protect our customers against unforeseen events.

Last updated by

09:40:42 GMT • 11 November 2024

Dog grooming: Avoiding Injuries and What to do When They Happen?

26 April 2021

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get dog grooming insurance from Protectivity

When you mix sharp equipment and unpredictable pets, accidents and injuries can happen. Even if animal safety stays at the top of your mind and you always take necessary caution, dog grooming activities often pose potential risks. In this blog, we will discuss ways to help prevent them from happening whilst you conduct your dog grooming services.

About Us

We’re one of the leading providers of insurance for pet businesses and offering a variety of tailored products such as Dog Grooming Insurance.

Brush and Clipper Burn

If your dog has long hair and requires repetitive brushing in the same area, whether there are tangles or matting, it can cause burns, especially to sensitive skin.

Similar to brush burn, razor burn happens when a dog is clipped very close to the skin. Sometimes this is caused by a dull or hot razor after shaving through thick matted or pelted hair.

According to the British Dog Groomers’ Association, the first thing that is recommended is to take the dog to the vet to ascertain the cause of the burn. They will probably prescribe an antibiotic ointment to soothe it and prevent further irritation or infection. If the dog is particularly interested in agitating the rash, you can also advise the owner to use an Elizabethan Collar.

Nicks and Scrapes

Small cuts made by scissors or clippers can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most common are; when a dog is very jumpy or wiggly, when a dog’s skin is thin or when a dog has tight matting or is pelted, or if there are hidden warts, scabs or moles.

Matted hair, which is another common reason for cuts and scrapes is often built under armpits or between toe webbing. Even groomers find it hard to determine where the hair ends and the skin starts. So, asking pet owners to brush their pet regularly and book their grooming appointments every 6-8 weeks will help prevent a majority of these issues.

It is always advisable to check with the owner if the dog has any warts, scabs or moles, so that cutting them is avoided.

As a dog groomer, it can be scary knowing that you nicked or scraped a dog, but in most cases it is nothing to worry about as the wound will heal quickly and, as long as you ask the owner to keep it clean, the dog will stay happy and healthy. Of course, for bigger cuts it is highly recommended taking the dog to the vet.

Ear Plucking Irritation

Ear plucking is when a groomer pulls the hair out of a dog’s ears as excessive hair normally blocks the flow of air that keeps the ear canal dry, traps dirt and causes matting.

This procedure normally triggers irritation and discomfort to dogs especially when attempting to pluck hair around sensitive areas.

Plucking the hair from the ear canal is a disputable topic in the dog grooming world. Some dog groomers claim that they see more ear infections in dogs that get their ears routinely plucked, while others claim just the opposite.

Whether to pluck the dog’s ears or not will depend on their individual circumstances, however, remember to remind dog owners that ongoing ear care is important for pets that suffer from ear infections.

Cutting the Quick and Broken Nails

Another common dog grooming injury that occurs, both at home and with professional groomers, is the cutting of the quick on a dog nail.

Cutting the nail too short looks like the most horrific injury with a lot of blood, but it isn’t always quite as bad as it seems. Dogs have lots of blood vessels stored inside each nail, and routine nail trims will help them recede and make the nails safely shorter.

Styptic powder is the most common and efficient way to stop a dog’s nail from bleeding. It’s what vets and groomers use to treat minor cuts as well.

If a dog in your care suffers any of these injuries the key when dealing with them is to stay calm. Having a first aid kit on hand is essential.

You can find out what to include in your dog first aid kit from our blog here. Or if setting up a dog grooming business is a long-term ambition of yours, here are some important things to keep in mind: What To Remember When Becoming A Dog Groomer.

Get Dog Grooming Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

09:54:07 GMT • 14 January 2025

5 Tips on How to Progress Your Hairdressing Career

24 February 2021

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Get hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

Whether you are a hairdressing apprentice, a senior stylist or even a salon manager, you’ve got a job and you love the industry you work in. Even if that is the case, you probably don’t want to stay in the same position forever.

The hairdressing industry is an innovative, fast moving, image conscious business, so if you want to progress your career you will not only need to be passionate, creative and full of energy but also adaptive, skilful and ready to push boundaries.

Here are five tips that can help you to progress your hairdressing career. Trying them out could put you in a better position to move forward.

About us

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, with products including hairdressing insurance and barber insurance We offer a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

1. Make A Plan – identify how you’d like to grow and stay focused on your goal

Where do you see yourself in five years and how will you find your way to that place? A clearly articulated set of goals will help you work towards your vision. Once you’ve clarified your goals, the next step will be to figure out what skills you will need to develop or strengthen, what types of experience you need to gain, and what connections will be helpful to encourage you before you make your next move.

If you are a beginner taking your first steps into your hairdressing career and see yourself as a Style Director, then you will need to build a wide range of skills, knowledge, and experience. You can get into this role through completing a college course (like a Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing), an apprenticeship or working towards this position.

2. Grow and Maintain Your Network Within Your Current Company

Many hairdressers take advantage of the numerous opportunities to network outside of their salons, underestimating the importance of networking at work. Networking within your salon is key to developing new skills and identifying opportunities for advancement.

Take time to meet people and nurture all your new and existing relationships in your hair salon. It can help position you for a future promotion or get you in on some of the new clients that come through the door. Your colleagues might also know about other salons that are hiring or have insight that can aid your professional development.

3. Attend Hairdressing Events

Attending hairdressing events will help you grow your skills and understanding of the latest hairdressing trends as well as allow you to meet other people who share the same passion and inspiration. It’s a great opportunity not only to talk to experts and leading members of the hair and barber industry but also to join the technical programmes which allow you to experiment with new methods.

It may not be easy to find a place for the annual British Hairdressing Awards, but there are plenty of other hairdressing events throughout the year such as Hair UK, Olympia Beauty, L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy, Wella Professionals Trend Vision Award, Freelance Hairdressing Association’s Inspire! Event, Modern Barber Awards etc. Why not search for networking events through professional groups or sites such as Eventbrite, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Meetup.

If you ever organising a hairdressing event, we provide an event insurance policy which might be of interest to you.

4. Find A Mentor

Mentors can help you identify and work on the skills you need to succeed in your field. They’ll provide coaching and support when you are having difficulties and need some motivation.

Perhaps there is a highly experienced hair stylist you admire, someone in a hairdressing group you are part of who is always suggesting new techniques, or a more experienced alum from your college who is a hairdressing magician.

Once you find your mentor, you need to set up a regular meeting with them and ask them for feedback on your professional development or have a discussion about which skills you should build to enhance your hairdressing career.

5. Take Courses to Strengthen Your Skills and Learn New Ones

There are tons of hairdressing courses that you can take on your own time to set yourself up for future career opportunities. Refer back to the list of skills you made earlier and make sure you identify a course that will help you achieve your goals.

They will teach you everything from the trendiest styling techniques to providing in depth consultations and recommendations to your most demanding male and female clients.

Whether you choose to enrol into a university, college or a specific hairdressing course there are many accredited institutions that offer professional hairdressing qualifications. It’s probably worth making sure that your diploma is accredited by the internationally recognised governing body VTCT. Learning new skills even through an online course can set you up for a promotion or new job by making you a more attractive candidate.

Whatever route you take, a career in hairdressing comes with flexibility and the chance to continuously develop your skills. When you can’t achieve the usual signs of career growth, it’s natural to feel stuck and unmotivated. But by following these five simple steps, you can invest in your own professional development and set yourself up for larger opportunities and new positions once the right time comes.

Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by