Consider Employing an Apprentice
Employing an apprentice can be a great way to ‘home-grow’ reliable, well-trained employees who will be familiar with how your business works from the ground up. At the time of year, thousands
of students who have just completed GCSEs or A levels – and some who have not achieved the grades to stay on for the second year of their sixth form – will be considering their options. While some will have had definite ideas about what lies ahead, others may still be unsure, of will have found that the long summer break and/or unexpected exam results will have made them reconsider their next step.
Mike Cherry, National Chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said that students who have just completed their A levels should consider all their options: “While A-level results day always brings talk of university places, we should not forget the value of practical, vocational education to employers and individuals. Vocational training has become an increasingly attractive option for young people keen to earn as they learn and who may be put off by the rising cost and uncertain returns of a university degree.”
According to FSB research, around a quarter of its members are considering employing an apprentice in future, and two thirds of apprentices remain in long-term employment with their company.
Ensure They’ve Fulfilled Met Their Auto-Enrolment Duties
It’s time for even the smallest of forms to begin the auto-enrolment process, so if you’ve been sticking your head in your sand on this issue, it’s time to pull it out and ensure you’ve got pension arrangements in place for qualifying employees – before you face a stiff fine.
Make A Plan for Christmas
Few businesses are unaffected by the festive season. Even if your particular trade doesn’t see an influx of orders or bookings in the run-up to Christmas and New Year, you and any employees you have may be taking a break – so now is the time to plan how you will cope with higher demand, staff annual leave and time away from the helm.
Ensure Their Tax Affairs are in Order
With tax return submission deadlines looming, it’s time to make sure that all your paperwork is in order. Now is the time to track down any mislaid receipts and invoices.
The deadline for registering for self-assessment, if you haven’t already done so, is 5th Paper tax returns are due by midnight 31st October, but if you’re opting for online submission, you have until midnight 31st January 2017 – which is also the date by which any tax you owe must be paid.
Keeping on top of tasks is the best way to avoid last-minute panics, so if you’re a small business owner, make these 4 tasks a priority this month.