local business forum

Carrie me and Support Swansea

2011-11-21T14:34:00.001Z

Hi everyone! I'm Carrie and I'm looking for businesses who want to promote themselves locally. I'm planning to be around town telling shoppers about what's in store for them.

I'll have about 10,000 Carrie keyfobs ready to give away in a few days and once you are signed up for free you'll begin to get regular special offers by e-mail. Download and print off the vouchers for interesting deals.

Yes! We tried to lanch this a few years ago and I've now come out of the Creative Ideas store-room and have been dusted down and re-branded because several traders have asked us to do so. I've changed my outfit and attitude. Last time shoppers paid for me but now I'm free. I'm a giveaway.

You've all seen Groupon and perhaps have taken advantage of the daily deals they have. Well I'm different. I don't take half of the deal price and my deals last longer than a day. I want you to discover new shops and products, new services and entertainent and I want to to try them out and come back time after time.

Swansea has much to offer and I'm looking to help knock down any barriers. I want you to come to town and have a great shopping experience. Worried about parking? The new bridge system is almost finished so there will shortly be little in the way of traffic delays there or along Oystermouth Road now.

PARKING is free for the first hour in the NCP car parks except Sundays. And there is plenty of room.

BUT BETTER. Parking at the High Street multi-storey car park after 10am is just £1 for up to 4 hours. And with the recent police initiative it is safer to walk down the High Street.

AND ALSO St David's car park is now just £2.40 for up to 4 hours, although yo may not know this as there are no banners up or any other signs apart from an article in the Evening Post.

Watch out for new developments

2011-11-13T21:48:00.001Z

I mentioned that charity collectors are allowed to work the city centre free of charge. I totally agree that charities should be allowed to collect without being charged a fee by Swansea Council but the charity collectors, after referred to as chuggers, are paid and they can be intimidating. There have been nummerous articles about them right across the UK.

It is understood that they might earn a basic pay of around £7 per hour but can be on bonuses giving them considerably more. If they are agency employees then the agency apparently earns a percentage of the direct debit that the giver signs on the street with the charity collector.

It will be interesting to see what it costs some of these charities to have collectors on the streets. In Scotland it is understood that Shelter pay out some £3m to chuggers and gather in £11m. That is a pretty high cost and just consider how many donations they may be losing where people find themselves offended by being accosted. I'm not saying that this might be the case in Swansea but it does leave a question mark.

I see that the Evening Post posted my article last Thursday about the comparative cost of distributing leaflets in the city centre compared to other cities such as Cardiff and Newport. The council spokesman said that a fee waas charged to cover costs of controlling this activity.

Here is my response in a letter I have sent to the Evening Post. I hope they publish it.

"I do agree that it is necessary to have some control over the distribution of leaflets but why should there be such a high cost? I mentioned in my interview that both Cardiff and Newport do not charge local businesses and encourage them to advertise freely.

It is worth noting that both cities do control leaflet distribution and have guide-lines and application forms to complete. Neither charge as they told me that they consider this a valuable service to local businesses: one that they feel they should support.

Swansea council seem to seek ways to stealth tax local businesses wherever possible, and this hasn’t just applied during the recent cuts in their budgets. The charge for leaflet distribution goes back several years. I note that the Swansea spokesman claimed that charges start from £36 but this was not mentioned when I contacted the City Centre management team asking about charges. They only mentioned that charities can canvass free of charge (although I understand the canvassers are paid a commission) and certain bodies who claim freedom of speech such as political parties. It is also interesting to note that the Big Issue sellers do not pay. I was told that there is a maximum of 4 but it does sometimes feel that there is one on every street corner! I have nothing against Big Issue sellers and in fact after being around 40 years getting people on the first rung of the jobs ladder, they do a good job, but with a small city centre footprint more than two sees overkill.

Come on Swansea Council. Don’t be penny pinching skin-flints. I understand that you aren’t here to make money for local businesses but to ensure the infra-structure is there for businesses to succeed or fail dependant on their products, plans and management. How do you feel you are succeeding? Have you put in place that infra-structure?

A little bit of help would be most welcome by local independent businesses, particularly during these difficult trading times. You know that the high rents and business rates are crippling so here is your chance to help in a small way."

What do you think?

Buskers and entertainment galore in Oxford Street, Swansea

2011-11-06T21:15:00.000Z

Started the day with a healthy sized slice of luxury victoria sponge. Healthy size but not healthy for my body, but perhaps I'm past that anyway.

I always spoil myself when I go to First Call Coffee in either the Orchard Street or High Street branches. They have such a great selection, any of which are made by Tony George on-site. As a qualified barasta he's pretty good with coffee too. And a little know fact is that he was the winner of the best cup of tea in the UK Tetley Tea competition about 4 years ago. There's a great team at both branches and I'd highly recommend a visit.

Then I walked across to Oxford Street to see Disruption presented by the Elysium Gallery in Cradock Street.

26 Artistes presented a range of entertainment that had the town laughing and enjoying themselves. Some are shown here and include Frances race and her Cleaning Ladies cleaning up Swansea.Ten people dressed as old fashioned stereo-type cleaning women obsessively cleaning the street, two people dusting, two with sweeping brushes, two with vacuum-cleaners, two spraying the benches, another cleaning the cash point and another picking up rubbish.

An opportunity to make comments by writing on the pavement with chalk was taken up by many passers-by. How lucky the Elysium Galley was to have such a sunny dry day for their disruption event

Sean Puleston and Erin Rickard presented Big Enough for Both of Us? This was a conumdrum that neither could answer but they did pose other questions.

Elena Videnova danced as she transformed into a butterfly in a representation of shedding skins, shedding cultures and re-birth It provoked the audience to see the possibilities of transformation.

Elena gave out home crafted butterflies as a momento

Yes! A giant corset. And right next to La Senza presented by 4 Queens inviting the public to participate and interact with their own feelings and ideas that they could write on cotton strips using s felt-tip pen and then hanging on the giant corset

A straightforward busker? I' not sure. Watch this space.

Walk through Swansea with Council Leader Cllr Chris Holley

2011-11-02T10:06:00.000Z

Saturday morning was sunny and bright at 6am. By 10.30 it was raining!! Council Leader Chris Holley was waiting in the car park opposite the Grand Theatre, brolly open.

We started our walkabout and I stopped a young couple to introduce us and asked what they thought of the City Centre. "The Quadrant Shopping Centre is fine but walk outside and everything looks tired and tawdry" they told us.

Moving on we entered a children's clothes shop and asked again. Immediately a woman customer told us exactly what she thought about shopping in Swansea. "Car parking should be free otherwise everyone will go to nthe out-of-town shopping centres or Trostre at Llannelli. There is a good range of shops there and parking is free and nearby." Cllr Holley explained that there is subsidised parking at the NCP carparks for one hour and that the High Street car park offers 4 hours for £1 after 10am but this was countered by the shopper who said she'd not park down there as she thought it not too safe an area. It is a difficult situation. On one hand the local council are promoting park-and-ride to keep traffic out whilst BIDs are encouraging people to drive into town.

In the Market we spoke with a trader who explained that he thought the market had become isolated for many older people who found it difficult to walk from the market to the bus station carrying their shopping. He went on to tell us that it was only just a few years ago when the Market was just so much busier. He thought it was a combination of reasons including the fact that most people were now struggling so they didn't have the money to spend. He suggested that some buses should pass the Market and be able to set down and pick up passengers. Although there were a couple of pick up spaces by the market this was insufficient. Cllr Holley said that the Market is the jewel in the crown as far as the city is concerned and is the reason many come into Swansea.

We called at a couple more shops but as the staff were serving we moved on. We stopped off at the Ole Coffee Shop in Oxford Street and had a welcome coffee, out of the rain. Speaking to the owner, Ali, we were told that trading was very difficult and that council actions were not helping. Ali said that he and many others he had talked to had little faith in the council employees where one department didn't know what another was doing. A major problem for the Ole Cafe was the high business rates. Cllr Holley explained that the Council were concerned with this but that the Welsh Assembly Government were responsible and it was they who levied the rates. He realised that this was a bitter pill to swallow and that the council had made representations to WAG.

Ali also mentioned the changes in the streets and local junctions. Oxford Street now narrows at the end so there is only one lane, thus reducing traffic flow, then turning right towards the Kingsway the lights appear out of sync so there are hold-ups.

These views support the feed-back that I've had when I've been out on my own talking to shoppers and traders. A big concern is the one-way system and the fact that traffic is usually gridlocked on Kingsway at any but the quietest times and this does deter people from visiting Swansea. The roadworks over recent months have had a real impact of visitor levels as people are help-up a few times then decide not to bother anymore, so the city has lost footfall that will be difficult to bring back or replace.

Several have thought that the Kingsway is now a health and safety hazard with half the road being one-way whilst the other (for buses and taxis) is two-way. It is confusing even for regular shoppers and must be a cause for accidents. How many have there been in the last 123 months? Before long one will be fatal. If the extra space is needed for the bendy buses then how do they manage so easily en route to the overnight parking areas?

A common comment has been that Swansea has so much to offer, both in the city centre and out of town. Whether culture or action Swansea has it all. We should concentrate on a complete package but certainly it is time to shake the city centre up.

Ferry Company Sinks

2011-11-01T18:35:00.000Z

THE FASTNET Line Group of companies has been placed into lnterim Examinership by Justice Peter Kelly at a sitting of the High Court.

Michael McAteer of Grant Thornton has been appointed Interim Examiner.

The Cork to Swansea Ferry, operated by Fastnet, will discontinue its full published service with immediate effect.

All booked passengers will be contacted in the coming days, with full refunds been issued.

A further hearing date of 15^th November has been set by Justice Kelly upon which the Interim Examiner will present a report on progress to the court.

Mr.McAteer is hopeful that this Examinership will be resolved as quickly as possible.

About Fastnet Line:

The Fastnet Line companies are owned by the West Cork Tourism Co-Operative Society Limited which was formed in April 2009 and has over 400 members that have individually invested funds into the venture.

This is very sad news that after just two years and support from the Welsh Assembly Government the Fastnet Ferry Company has sunk. This could have been a solid li9nk between Cork and Swansea bringing in visitors for short breaks and longer. It is understood that the exit from the ferry was planned to run through the city River Tawe entrance that would have shown visitors more of the city. It is hoped that this venture can be saved and runs again from April next year.

Under Milkwood performed at the Dylan Thomas Theatre

2011-10-31T22:25:00.000Z

Under Milkwood is performed annually at the Dylan Thomas Theatre by the Little Theatre Company. This year the play was performed up to the same high standard that we have grown to expect.

When Dylan Thomas was staying in Wales in New Quay one winter, he went out early one morning into the still sleeping town and verses came to his mind about the inhabitants. He wrote the account of this as a short story named Quite Early One Morning (recorded for BBC Wales 14 December 1944 and broadcast 31 August 1945). He continued to work on the idea for eight years.

In Quite Early One Morning there are numerous ideas and characters which would be developed more for Under Milk Wood. For instance, the short story includes a 28-line poem of which this is the fourth verse (the name and the final line reappear in Under Milk Wood).

    Open the curtains, light the fire, what are servants for?
    I am Mrs Ogmore Pritchard and I want another snooze.
    Dust the china, feed the canary, sweep the drawing-room floor;
    And before you let the sun in, mind he wipes his shoes.

Thomas wrote to his wife, Caitlin, (about 23 May 1953, from the USA, on notepaper headed The Poetry Centre), towards the end of a long letter 'I've finished that infernally eternally unfinished 'Play' & have done it in New York with actors.'

The same year, he read a part of the script in public for the first time in Cambridge, Massachusetts at The Poetry Centre. Soon after, with others, he sound-recorded a performance at the 92nd Street YMCA in Manhattan.

On 9 September 1953, he delivered a full draft of Under Milk Wood to the BBC as he left for a tour of America, intending to revise the manuscript on his return.

Dylan Thomas is reported to have commented that Under Milk Wood was developed in response to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, as a way of reasserting the evidence of beauty in the world

The play opens at night, when the citizens of Llareggub are asleep. The narrator (First Voice/Second Voice) informs the audience that they are witnessing the townspeople's dreams.

Captain Cat, the blind sea captain, is tormented in his dreams by his drowned seafellows, who long to live again and enjoy the pleasures of the world. Mog Edwards and Myfanwy Price dream of each other; Mr. Waldo dreams of his childhood and his failed marriages; Mrs. Ogmore-Pritchard dreams of her deceased husbands. Almost all of the characters in the play are introduced as the audience witnesses a moment of their dreams.

Morning begins. The voice of a guide introduces the town, discussing the facts of Llareggub. The Reverend Eli Jenkins delivers a morning sermon on his love for the village. Lily Smalls wakes and bemoans her pitiful existence. Mr. and Mrs. Pugh observe their neighbors; the characters introduce themselves as they act during their morning. Mrs. Cherry Owen merrily rehashes her husband's drunken antics. Butcher Beynon teases his wife during breakfast. Captain Cat watches as Willy Nilly the postman goes about his morning rounds, delivering to Mrs. Ogmore-Pritchard, Mrs. Pugh, Mog Edwards and Mr. Waldo ("It's another paternity summons").

At Mrs. Organ-Morgan's general shop, women gossip about the townspeople. Willy Nilly and his wife steam open a love letter from Mog Edwards to Myfanwy Price; he expresses fear that he may be in the poor house if his business does not improve. Mrs. Dai Bread Two swindles Mrs. Dai Bread One with a phony fortune in her crystal ball. Polly Garter scrubs floors and sings about her past paramours. Children play in the schoolyard; Gwennie urges the boys to "kiss her where she says or give her a penny." Gossamer Beynon and Sinbad Sailors privately desire each other.

During dinner, Mr. Pugh imagines poisoning Mrs. Pugh. Mrs. Organ-Morgan shares the day's gossip with her husband, but his only interest is the organ. The audience sees a glimpse of Lord Cut-Glass's insanity in his "kitchen full of time". Captain Cat dreams of his lost lover, Rosie Probert, but weeps as he remembers that she will not be with him again. Nogood Boyo fishes in the bay, dreaming of Mrs. Dai Bread Two and geishas.

On Llareggub Hill, Mae Rose Cottage spends a lazy afternoon wishing for love. Reverend Jenkins works on the White Book of Llareggub, which is a history of the entire town and its citizens. On the farm, Utah Watkins struggles with his cattle, aided by Bessie Bighead. As Mrs. Ogmore-Pritchard becomes asleep, her husbands return to her. Mae Rose Cottage swears that she will sin until she explode.

As night begins, Reverend Jenkins recites another poem. Cherry Owen heads to the Sailors Arms, where Sinbad still longs for Gossamer Beynon. The town prepares for the evening, to sleep or otherwise. Mr. Waldo sings drunkenly at the Sailors Arms. Captain Cat sees his drowned shipmates-- and Rosie-- as he begins to sleep. Organ-Morgan mistakes Cherry Owen for Johann Sebastian Bach on his way to the chapel. Mog and Myfanwy write to each other before sleeping. Mr. Waldo meets Polly Garter in a forest. Night begins and the citizens of Llareggub return to their dreams again.

Next week the Dylan Thomas Centre celebrate with a week of Dylan Thomas related performances and talks.

Winterland set for sixth consecutive festive outing

2011-10-26T23:25:00.000+01:00

WATERFRONT Winterland is returning to Swansea for the sixth consecutive time from the middle of next month.

It's now been confirmed that the attraction will bring festive cheer to the grounds of the National Waterfront Museum from November 18 to January 8.

The main Admiral ice-skating rink, a children's rink and Santa's Grotto will be among the fun.

A funfair and the Miles Hire Giant Wheel with spectacular views over Swansea Bay will also feature.

New for 2011 is the chance to ice-skate and enjoy the fun until 10pm on New Year's Eve - just two hours before millions join in celebrations to mark the arrival of 2012.

Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: "Waterfront Winterland has become a key part of Christmas in Swansea since its inception back in 2006.

"It's an event that generates fantastic festive atmosphere that's enjoyed by thousands of people of all ages.

"It's hard to believe the year has gone by so quickly and that we have just a few weeks left until the Christmas countdown begins here in Swansea."

Other Christmas events people can look forward to include the annual Christmas Parade and switching-on of the festive lights on November 20.

A Christmas Market will also be held in the city centre from November 25 to December 18 and daily entertainment will be arranged in Castle Square from November 19 to Christmas Eve.

Pantomime fans have the chance to catch Aladdin at Swansea's Grand Theatre from December 16 to January 15.

Have a look at www.swanseachristmas.com for more information.

Let's Get things Going

2011-10-26T22:16:00.000+01:00

Press Release being distributed tomorrow

The challenge went out. And Council Leader Chris Holley took it up and will be in the City Centre on Saturday 29^th October between 10.30 and 11.30 talking to shoppers and business-people on how they view Swansea City Centre.

Mike Leahy, working with Tourism Swansea Bay, has been putting up ideas to promote Swansea and to bring some life and activity that will encourage visitors and heighten their shopping experience on his blog at www.mikeleahy.com. He then went on to challenge the Leader to some face-to-face exchanges. He said “I love Swansea and the whole area. There is so much for the visitor but I feel there is plenty that can be done by the Council to make the city centre more inviting, to improve their shopping experience without having to spend much money”. He went on to say “There seem to be too many groups discussing these issues but not a lot of action. Committees talk, individuals take action”

He has now met with Council Leader Chris Holley who has agreed to do a walkabout in the City and find out the best and worse things perceived by both shoppers and the retailers who serve them. The three main questions they will be asking are “What do you think is the best Swansea offers?”, “What is the worst thing?”, and “What would you like to see or what do you think would be an improvement?”

Mike Leahy has now discussed some of his ideas with Cllr Leader Chris Holley and had a further meeting with Cllr Richard Lewis, the City Ambassador. It has now been agreed that three ideas would be taken up at this stage as local trader initiatives and these are appointing a Town Crier who would be out and about throughout the City at the weekends promoting events and local businesses which would be funded by local retailers: creating an Artists Quarter similar the Montremart in Paris: and finally improving the busking to as near a level as that seen in Covent Garden. The finer detail hasn’t been agreed yet but there has been considerable backing from local traders who feel that much can be done to make the City Centre a vibrant shopping destination.

Let's not let the sun set on these ideas. Lets put them into action.

Bring in the "A" Team

2011-10-18T08:55:00.000+01:00

It seems that the biggest hurdle to achieving anything in Swansea are the different departments that appear to overlap and who need to sanction the smallest change. A question of too many chiefs? Or maybe too many cooks!

Whatever the reason the simple answer for Swansea to progress is to have a small team who have autonomy and can get quick answers and decisions. A team of visionaries who are action driven to turn the city around. To come up with a plan and put it into place immediately. From little acorns big oak trees grow.

It will take more than a few nods and grunts to get this off the ground. There would be loads of opposition and many obstacles but a progressive council could cut the red tape and get this going so that there are results before Xmas.

Every day someone tells me they don't shop in Swansea anymore. Too any "Big Issue" sellers. The city is scruffy. Not enough choice. Parking is still difficult. No "Wow" factor.

The time for Action is now.

An Opportunity to bring Shoppers to town

2011-10-14T10:21:00.000+01:00

We should be planning for bigger better shopping experience

Can't we make the Winter Wonderland and Christmas Lights launch a bigger better experience like they are in Cardiff

CITY CENTRE TO STAGE DAY-LONG CHRISTMAS PARTY

Cardiff, named the 6th best shopping centre in the UK is planning a dazzling launch to the festive (lets call it Christmas and forget the local authority fear and political correctness) celebrations with a full day of free entertainment backed by the city centre traders.

Swansea should be focussed already on such an event. It looks like spending will be down as consumers tighten their belts so a bump start could be a great idea. What are BID doing? We need to climb up the ladder and become a shopping centre that visitors look forward to.

Swansea must stop being the bus pick-up point for Cardiff.

Why don't we have living statues around the city bringing some life!! Why don't we have some real statues of local heroes? These could be the product of a local competition. And perhaps they could be sited for a couple of months and changed. With the huge number of creative artists in the area this is could be a great focal point.

Go to London and walk along the Bayswater Road. Why don't we have artists displaying their work on a Sunday morning along the High Street or in the park in front of the waterfront museum. Or even along Oxford Street. What a draw that would be. You could even have an artists quarter where artists are working outside like in the Montmartre area of Paris

You have to start somewhere and sometime. So why hasn't this been done before? Why can't it be up and running in a couple of weeks? Why can't the council just a few weeks? Local artists would love this and it wouldn't cost the council anything. Charge a few pounds if necessary: just a nominal amount and certainly nothing for bonefide students at local colleges and universities.

Get rid of the paperwork. KISS - keep it simple, stupid. Issue licenses at £20 that are valid for 8 weeks as a starter. If it works - as it will - and bingo you will soon be drawing in more visitors. Don't be greedy. Look upon this as an investment.

Come on Swansea.This could be the beginning of something really big. Lets get those visitors excited and turn the tide so Cardiff folk come here.

I Love Swansea Campaign

2011-10-13T09:22:00.000+01:00

Bay of Life Campaign! I Love Swansea Campaign!

How many more campaigns are running right now to promote Swansea? Wouldn't it be better to get together and have a bigger impact? Divided we fall: united we stand!

It is now a week since I contacted the Evening Post to tell them that Cllr Chris Holley, Leader of the Council, will be accompanying me on a walk through Swansea talking to both shoppers and traders to get some gut reaction about what is good and bad in the city and ideas of what can be done to promote it as both a destination and shopping city. I should have thought it was pretty damned easy to connect this with the "I Love Swansea" campaign but it sees not.

I note in the Evening Post yesterday that the there has been no increase in usage at the High Street car park. I'm not surprised. I have asked several people in the city centre about the reduced parking fees and without exception nobody knew about it! There seems to be a poor mechanism for spreading information. I know there have been articles in the paper but I think most have been linked with safety or other negative issues.

At a meeting with Phil Roberts and two of his colleagues at the Civic Centre I suggested that perhaps free transport from the railway station to the bus station would be beneficial to rail travellers arriving in town but this was immediately rejected. This quick-fix would also encourage people parking in the High Street car park, particularly on wet or cold days and for those carrying bulky or heavy purchases.

Why aren't there Street Ambassadors giving out information? A couple of students giving out leaflets. Or perhaps the Street Wardens could give a helping hand whilst they patrol the streets. Couldn't BIDS help here too? They have put up some material in empty shop windows. Wouldn't a special parking offer be a great message in shop windows? How about distributing leaflets to the retailers. After all they are the biggest beneficiaries.

On the point of parking I still hear complaints from drivers that they are charged in the NCP car parks for their first hour on Sundays. Ballers clearly say "First Hour Free" it must be very small print about the £3 Sunday charge!!! The fact that parking is free in the council car parks on Sundays does not compensate.

Mike Leahy

Clyne in Spring

2011-10-12T23:52:00.000+01:00

An incredible park all year round but particularly in Spring. Apart from the gardens there is a lovely chapel tucked away and clearly visible from the road.

http://www.churchinwales.org.uk/~s442/clynechapel.htm

Relax in Swansea

2011-10-10T22:08:00.000+01:00

What a load of rubbish

2011-09-30T18:59:00.000+01:00

Eric Pickles, the English Local Government Secretary has annjounced today that weekly refuse collections will be re-introduced across England. Over 170 local councils now have fortnightly collections and there are mixed feelings. Some folk think that the fortnightly collections are a backward step encouraging vermin and causing fly-tipping and smell. Whilst others feel that the suggested quarter £billion cost could be used better in other areas with the cuts facing cash-strapped councils.

Does this mean we might see Swansea follow?

How is recycling really going? Are we meeting our targets? What are the facts? I noticed yesterday that there are several black bags outside some homes. And I read somewhere that the accepted number is just two black bags a fortnight. For a family of 4 that seems extremely harsh. But is it true?

Interestingly I feel that the early morning street cleaning is one of the best council services know. These guys work in all weathers and remove last nights debris. My only concern is the ammount of chewing gum on some pavements.

Your comments are welcome.

Iconic music festival at Swansea museum

2011-09-30T11:33:00.000+01:00

It was one of the world’s biggest ever live music festivals and fans of icons like Jimmi Hendrix now have the chance to find out more about it at Swansea Museum. An exhibition devoted to the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival has opened up at the Victoria Road attraction until the end of the year.

The festival marked one of the last times legendary American guitarist Jimmi Hendrix took to the stage. It also included performances from stars such as Moody Blues, The Who and Jethro Tull. The museum exhibition features a huge selection of photos taken at the event by cameraman Charles Everest.

The photographer described the assignment as the most difficult he ever undertook. He spent five days and five nights not only taking images of the musicians but also of some of the estimated 600,000 festival-goers who attended. Joni Mitchell, Miles Davies and Kris Kristofferson were among the other acts to perform.

The exhibition also includes sculptures by Gut Portelli. They include Hey Joe, a piece that combines Hendrix and Vietnam, and Blow, a piece that features Miles Davies and his iconic trumpet.

Period guitars have been provided by Cranes Music and jewellery by Glenys Everest is on display. Copies of all the framed prints from the CameronLife Collection are available for purchase at the museum along with a large selection of other festival-related memorabilia.

Andy Rosser-Davies will be running guitar workshops throughout the exhibition. Hawkwind, Lovin’ Spoonful, Emerson, folk singer legend Joan Baez, emerging Brit star Donovan, Melanie, Free and Emerson, Lake and Palmer were among the others acts who took to the stage at the Isle of Wight Festival.

Jimmi Hendrix was found dead in London within weeks of his performance.

City Mascot

2011-09-30T11:24:00.000+01:00

We have a mascot for the Swans and LC but I don't think there's one for Swansea City.

The term mascot – defined as a term for any person, animal, or object thought to bring luck – colloquially (informally) includes anything used to represent a group with a common public identity, such as a school, professional sports team, society, military unit, or brand name. Mascots are also used as fictional, representative spokespeople for consumer products, such as the rabbit used in advertising and marketing for the General Mills brand of breakfast cereal, Trix. See the LC mascot to the right

And we have the Swan's mascot here on the left. In the world of sports, mascots are also used for merchandising. Team mascots are often confused with team nicknames. While the two can be interchangeable, they are not always the same. For example, the athletic teams of the University of Alabama are nicknamed the Crimson Tide, while their mascot is an elephant named Big Al. Team mascots may take the form of a logo, person, live animal, inanimate object, or a costumed character, and often appear at team matches and other related events, sports mascots are often used as marketing tools for their teams to children. Since the mid-20th century, costumed characters have provided teams with an opportunity to choose a fantasy creature as their mascot, as is the case with the Philadelphia Phillies' mascot, the Phillie Phanatic.

Costumed mascots are commonplace, and are regularly used as goodwill ambassadors in the community for their team, company, or organization. Apologies for this being so americanised!! Bt you get the drift.

Carrie your Local Business Card

2011-09-29T00:46:00.000+01:00

Carrie is your Local Business Card Another idea to bring business into the City Centre.

The Local Business Card was a front runner of the latest rash of discount systems now available such as Groupon.

The Local Business Card offers local businesses the opportunity to promote themselves through regular special offers. The project was developed some 3 years ago but didn't take off becase of the lack of local support. It is set up with window stickers, discount key-fobs and a dynamic website.

We have shown 3 Swansea Council dept directors and BIDS and are surprised that their enthsiasm didn't last beyond a few hours. This scheme, if used within the city centre would encourage consumers to spend more within the area.

The Local Business Card is a simple concept. Card cost £5 per year and entitle the holder to a range of discounts on a whole group of products and services. Traders pay £5 month and are able to put up a number of offers each year. The offers are promoted thyrough a regular e-mail newsletter with downloadable vouchers or a printed voucher sheet, dated with an expiry. The expiry is best to be short and can be anything from a discount, money-off , 2-4-1 or anything that the trader wants. It is aimed at getting new customers and persuading existing customers to return more often.

The card is in the form of a key-fob. Research has concluded that paperwork should be kept to a minimum and lost or stolen cards just replaced at a nominal amount. The card is a tool to increase footfall: who uses the card isn't important so it could be used by family members.

This scheme is simple to manage. The card could be the "Swansea Business Card". It could be up and running in 3 weeks with a small budget and high impact.

Are you up for this Swansea Council?

Chris Holley Leader of Swansea Council

2011-09-28T23:46:00.000+01:00

Mike Leahy pleads . . . . .

Lets turn this . . . . . . . .

into this . . .

. . . . . yes. A happy bunny!!

Seems to me that the Council are like a herd of rabbits (yes! herd may be a suitable word and it's the correct one) as soon as they see any event being organised, any business trying to make a profit, any householder wanting to make home improvements. They are blinkered and can only see "Health and Safety", "Compliance", "Planning Permission" or "Will we be sued?" and shout "STOP!", "NO!" or "YOU CAN'T DO THAT HERE!".

Come on Chris Holley, this is your opportunity to become a leader of men (and women) and show us that you are at the helm and that you are directing your band of merry men to slash the red-tape, become positive and find opportunities to bring the community together and not rend it asunder.

CHRIS HOLLEY THIS IS YOUR WATERLOO!

A Cry for Help? No a Shout to success

2011-09-28T23:18:00.000+01:00

Another idea bringing Swansea alive!

Why not employ a Town Crier? Think about it. There would be a competition to find the best Town Crier, This would be a build up through local radio and the South Wales Evening Post and possible coverage by both BBC Wales and local independant TV and radio.

A town crier, or bellman, is an officer of the court who makes public pronouncements as required by the court. They carry a handbell to attract people's attention, as they shout the words "Oyez, Oyez, Oyez!" before making their announcements. The word "Oyez" means "hear ye," which is a call for silence and attention. Oyez derives from the Anglo-Norman word for listen. The proclamations book in Chester from the early 19th century records this as O Yes, O Yes!
The Town Crier, dressed fully in his traditional robes would be a welcome sight and a regular attraction in the City Centre.

But can the Local Authority afford a Town Crier? The simple answer is a resounding “YES!” because he could be advertising local retailers at a low outlay. In fact the alternatives are through BIDS which could ensure all businesses are given an advertising spot, or do it by a fair, transparent draw: or businesses could be offered the facility on a first come first served but at a reasonably cost, maybe a sliding scale so the smallest businesses would have an opportunity to participate This shouldn’t be a money making scheme that the council can use as a top up.

Think of the benefits. A colourful character walking around the City; his bell and voice certainly attracting attention: advertising forthcoming events (not just council events) attractions, news items and other news; something different!!

There are dozens of free, low-cost or self financing ideas that will help Swansea become more interesting. Watch out for more.

Is Chris Holley reading this and will he, as leader of the Council, take any action. He can call me on 0796 364681

Place of outstanding beauty or Dank and Derelict

2011-09-27T14:45:00.000+01:00

Swansea is a city of contrasts. Sweeping golden beaches, a magnificent marina, pedestrianised Oxford Street or the High Street. take yor pick. Indeed as far as the High Street is concerned take your pick and shovel.

We will never get back those days when the High Street was so central to Swansea. Where both road and pavement were jam packed. Where all the shops were full and thriving. An era of bye-gone days.

But that doesn't the end of the High Street. Willthe Concil take up the challenge today or leave until tomorrow (which never comes)?

One question needing an answer is are the owners of these properties paying Business Rates? If not why not? If so then they must feel they are throwing money away.

What do you think? I'd love to get a response or a Council reply. Come on folks sitting out is for the weak. Lets get strong together and get the action needed today. Your support is needed now.

It seems that the new Coastal complex will be an oasis in a sea of despair.

Book tickets to see Cappuchino Girls at the Evening Post Theatre in the Coastal Complex on the High Street for an experience that is just something difference. Support local talent

SEE THE NEXT POSTING FOR MORE INFORMATION

Bringing Life Back into Swansea City

2011-09-26T22:53:00.000+01:00

With the way that Swansea has been ripped apart to make way for the bendy buses, constant roadworks particularly along Oystermouth Road, the out of town shopping centres, run-down High Street, number of empty retail units, low cost of going to Cardiff, the apparent anti-trader attitude and stance by the local council with what appears to be an enormous number of enforcement officers who seem intent on stopping traders trading it seems that there are many obstacles preventing the City Centre from having the bustling profitable activity that swansea deserves.

It is good to see that the railway station has been refurbished recently but surprisingly that the exterior wasn't cleaned when the building was apparently clad in scaffolding. Surely this wouldn't have been a huge expense: it would certainly have made the building look attractive.

The railway station is one of the two gateways for foot visitors and deserves to be welcoming. It currently looks so drab.

On leaving the railway station there is then a walk into the city centre, probably along that run-down area of lower High Street, brightened only by the Grand Hotel (which has recently been revitalised under new management) and First Call Coffee, who are alone in a long row iof empty retail units.

It is exactly 12 months since the Evening Post wrote "Swansea High Street is the worst entrance to a city centre in the United Kingdom and not even the ambitious regeneration project will solve the problems of the alcoholics, drug addicts and beggars. That is the shocking conclusion of traders on High Street following a three-day police crackdown which saw 50 people temporarily banned from the area for antisocial behaviour."

Chris Holley, Swansea Council leader, said at the time "We recognise that High Street is a key gateway into the city centre and that it leaves many people with their first impressions of Swansea. High Street was historically a bustling retail area and it's our goal to restore it to its former glory."

There are some lovely buildings that avoided the bombings in the forties but they have been so neglected that their real glory is being destroyed. All buildings look run-down and neglected. Surely a fast fix wouldn't be so expensive.

WE NEED SOME CREATIVE AND RADICAL IDEAS THAT CAN BE PUT INTO ACTION TODAY. NOT NEXT WEEK!

With unemployment running so high and schemes to re-train local people as painters and decorators, electricians, plumbers and other trades wouldn't it make sense to have some on-the-job training and just get this area painted. So the Council will foot the bill, but would that be bad? It would help get more people trained and give local people some pride: it would match in with the newly completed Coastal Creative Hub where the Evening Post Theatre has just opened it's doors to Mal Pope's Cappuchino Girls musical: it would welcome newcomers and would help deter some of those currently hanging out on the street. Add some hanging baskets, street furniture and look at the traffic patterns and you'll have a great gateway. The traffic is a huge problem with hold-ups in both directions chrning out more fumes than an army of smokers ever could.

There is now talk of a Sunday street market possibly including stall-holders from the indoor market, a carboot area and local produce. This might be a good idea but how long will it take for crowds to start frequenting the street? Will the council feel the need to grab a fee from all stall-holders or will they see this as a bigger opportunity? Will their enforcement officers be out in force? I feel there need to be some relaxing here.

WE NEED SOME CREATIVE AND RADICAL IDEAS THAT CAN BE PT INTO ACTION TODAY. NOT NEXT WEEK!

At the other end of the High Street there is more activity but because it's a bit of a walk from Oxford Street footfall isn't has high as it could be. Perhaps some entertainment in the large pedestrian area by Slaters and Shaws, adjoining the Kingsway might change the footfall routes.

THIS IS A GREAT OPEN SPACE THAT IS BEING OVERLOOKED. IT MIGHT ALSO HAVE AN IMPACT ON NEW LEASES IN THE SLATTER BUILDING!!!

Why not build a stage or at least have a pavement level stage area and have offer all buskers an opportunity to entertain. This could be like Covent Garden where all acts are auditioned and allocated a time each onday morning at 10am. This would ensure a high standard of act. Once again the council should not be looking at fees but at producing a focal point that would attract an audience. Not just singers and guitarists but dancers, classic singers, jugglers, clowns and comedians. Why not fit web cams and broadcast this on the web. This is already being done in other countries to great effect. It could be linked to the Giant Screen in Castle Square too so bringing in more spectators.

Take a look at this amazing video of street entertainment. We may not get such talent but who knows! There are great acts around and once running you might get people from across the UK

Now lets look at the existing buskers. Some are ok but others are just aweful. Wouldn't it be sensible to addition these guys Bring up the standard.And I know that Big Issue sellars are doing something positive and we should support them, especially this week to commemorate 50 years since John Bird founded the magazine but there just seems to be too many around town.

And why does it cost so much to give out leaflets in Swansea when it costs a fraction in other towns and cities. 8 months ago it cost £100 for 10 people giving out leaflets in Cardiff, £25 in Bristol, nothing in Newport and about £150 in Swansea, except charities and I guess the canvassers take a big percentage there. BIDS members get big concessions but have a business a mile out of the city centre and you get no concession.

Surely BIDS could be doing more. They should be promoting the retailers. What are they funding? Taxi Marshals at night in Wind Street, anti graffetti gangs, litter or recycling collections - all of which should be council jobs I would have thought.

We need some action now. Take a train or bus to Cardiff and see how vital it is there. And it costs me just £2.50 return by Greyhond on my bus pass, about the same as a cup of coffee!!

WE NEED SOME CREATIVE AND RADICAL IDEAS THAT CAN BE PUT INTO ACTION TODAY. NOT NEXT WEEK!

Why isn't there a manned Tourist Information Kiosk by the Dragon Hotel? Or Oxford Street? Not a building but something small with people who know about the City and can give great advice. Why not a money-off voucher broadsheet being given away with all the offers available in the city?

The excuses about not enough money don't hold up. Get some low-cost and free ideas running.

Even the free parking is jinxed. Did you know you get up to an hour's free parking in the NCP carparks! Well no. On Sunday it's not free but costs something like £3 for an hour. That isn't made very clear and I have talked to a couple of people who have been caught. So parking is free in the council car parks on Sundays but that isn't the issue. I feel it is misrepresentation.

I've had ideas that would make a difference like the on-line radio, the Local Business Loyalty Card and this on-line TV. All of these are proven ideas. But getting any reaction is like holding a burning match to an elephant's hide - nothing.

Staying positive is great when you can see something happening bt it doesn't appear to be. Let's make Swansea great again. Come on Council. alk is cheap. Get real. Get moving! Ct out the Cr*p! Stop worrying about enforcing and start encouraging.

COMMENTS ARE MOST WELCOME

Exciting Marketing Course in October

2011-09-12T09:41:00.000+01:00

Marketing is the lifeblood of any business. And Tourism Swansea Bay are proud to announce a great marketing course made up of three seminars held at weekly intervals next month (October) running on the 5th, 12th and 19th. Heavily subsidised this will give you the platform to take your business to the next level.

Marketing is the process of raising awareness of your products and services so that people want to buy them, have a channel to buy them and are helped in making a positive decision, purchase and to come back again. Selling is part of this process and is usually person-to-person. Marketing is one of the three pillars that will support your business. The other two are having a product or service that you can supply and having a system to ensure goods are paid for.

This series of 3 workshops will get you taking the action to make your business fly. The best time to get marketing is in a recession when everyone else is wondering what to do: and the secret is to use ideas that are easy to do now, practical, targeted and no-cost, low-cost.

Marketing Part 1 on 5th October

All about building a working Marketing Plan that you can write today and start using and evolving tomorrow. And including the following:

Introducing you and your business
What a Marketing Plan is
Two types of Marketing Plans
How it should be written and used to build the business
Discussing your customer profile
Workshop: Completing your Marketing Plan basics
Why targets are important
Targets and how to set them
Workshop: Group team spirit Business Plan Workout
Project: Take the plan and discuss and develop with other Company members

Marketing Part 2 on 12th October

A Marketing Plan will ensure you are working towards targets for business growth and increase profit. A well written plan left in a filing cabinet is useless.

Talking through the week’s process since starting to write a plan
Reviewing your Marketing Plan
What is working? What isn’t?
Who is embracing it in the Company
Assessing the marketing performance of your business using the unique Alpha Comprehensive Asset Marketing Appraisal
Choosing 5 marketing tools to use right now

Marketing Part 3 on 19th October

Marketing can be as expensive as you want. But it can be as cheap as chips. Here we discuss no-cost, low-cost proven ideas that work. And I’ve seen some bright ideas from the sixties coming back. Amazing.

The simple things are easy to start now
News-letters
The most important and productive thing you can do
Little things mean a lot
Networking! How to make a real impact for free
Real basic advertising
Social media
Audio and video
A trip down the A6 might surprise
Website thoughts
Exhibitions that are different
Being street wise
And much more

The way forward is to book your place now. With only 6 places available time is short.

Unsure if this is for you? Listen to the following testimonials and you'll want to go ahead right now.

Swansea Market film

2011-08-28T12:41:00.000+01:00

Swansea Market celebrating 50 years

Elysium Gallery Bus Stop Cinema

2011-08-21T10:08:00.000+01:00

Friday was the private viewing of Bus Stop Cinema, a collection of 12 short films chosen by the organisers as a representation from the submitted entries.

I personally find some works of art and arty films difficult to understand. maybe I'm a pleb!! But I was pleasantly surprised to find a wide range of film that was, in the main, interesting and understandable. I was late by a few minutes so was unable to read the programme. And there wasn't a lights-up period between films to catch up. So that meant that I couldn't read the synopsys of each. Do you judge films on entertainment or information value? presentation? or do you look at the artist's notes to gain a perspective. guess it's a bit of all these.

In the end I found some films stood up on entertainment value whilst others I had to wait until the end of the Show to gain an insight. And maybe I'm impatient so I found some too long. The gallery was converted into a small blacked-out cinema for the event and a nice touch was the popcorn we were given. And supplied in cups went there wasn't that appalling rustle that you normally get. I missed the drinks before the show but there was an opportunity to take a glass afterwards and discuss the productions.

I particularly liked Foto by Thomas Canning. Strong story and although it began with a stereotype character that was particularly necessary and actually enhanced the film for me. It was fast paced and full of twists and turns that had me wondering throughout. Interestingly this is Cannings debut as writer and director and he certainly pulled it off for me. In fact he has shown at several festivals and was awarded best thriller at the Limelight Film and Arts Awards in 2009.

Jayne Wilson's All that Might Heart did tell a particular story that tied the film together when I read the synopsys at the end but I just enjoyed the images and music which gained pace, peaked and slowed down to the end leaving me feeling that this was a piece to relax through, and that I'd be happy to play in the background, just as I play music that I enjoy.

David Marchants's Love Boat was lively with plenty of action and although I didn't necessarily pick up on the writers inner thoughts and motivation I did feel that the story flowed well.

And my final selection is Downfall: Self Service Tills and Jaffa Cakes which had me suddenly sitting up and enjoying this humour that mocked the 20th century's most iconic monster: making him look ridiculous. The message came across within a few seconds and was well written so that the humour stayed tight and continuos.

I think you'll find that my selection probably tells you I'm a real pleb and do like films that are pacey and with a strong storyline. Go and take a look. Is my selection sound? Would you choose a completely different group?

It is brilliant to have the Elysium Gallery in town where artists of different disciplines can display and share their work. But of course without you popping in to see what is on then there is no point. Artists like us all like feed-back. Well done guys.

The Elysium Gallery is open until Saturday 3rd September on Wednesday through til Friday afternoons 12 - 5pm. You can pop in a get a taste or sit through the show which consists of 12 short films with a total performance of an hour and a half.

Comments are welcome.

Theatre is alive and ready to entertain you in Swansea this Week

2011-08-18T22:15:00.000+01:00

Filming The Doll here in Swansea back in February went well and the editing is now on couurse again so watch out for the finished film. Two of the cast are performing in plays locally until Saturday so this is a great opportunity to enjoy great entertainment at either the Grand or Dylan Thomas Theatres. Why not take in both.

Michelle Morris is appearing at the Grand Theatre until Saturday in Ian Dickens Productions International Ltd present Jack Popplewell’s comedy thriller Busybody. The story centres on a meddlesome cleaning woman who keeps telling the cops how to mind their business and who steps forward with the right evidence in every pinch.

She lives in the basement of the office building she cleans and one night finds a body. By the time the police arrive, there is no body and no evidence. The wrong alarms are sent out, murdered men turn up alive, and the whole thing is chalked up to the cleaning woman’s imagination until. . .

Meanwhile Rob Stradling appears at the Dylan Thomas Theatre

Date / Time: 17th - 20th August 19:30

Swansea Little Theatre is proud to present an hilarious new comedy. It will receive its World Premiere at the Dylan Thomas Theatre in August 2011. Written and directed by Dave Jenkins, his last play, “Welcome To The Neighbourhood” was a big hit at Swansea Little Theatre in August 2010.

Gareth Evans is 35, English and unlucky in love. After splitting from his latest girlfriend, he moves to Swansea looking for a brand new start. He has no choice but to move back in with his parents for a while, which brings along several problems of its own! After unwanted help from his family, he soon meets the girl of his dreams, a lovely Welsh girl named Bronwyn. But will her extremely patriotic Welsh Father be so impressed with his daughter’s decision to go out with a football loving Englishman!

This is a heart-warming, feelgood Wales based comedy that looks at what it means to be Welsh and what it can often mean to be English!

Go on. Get out and have an evening at the Theatre.

Brighten up your garden with a rare treat

2011-08-18T21:43:00.000+01:00

Plant and garden lovers will be in for a rare treat at the Botanical Gardens in Singleton Park this weekend. Walk or drive down to the entrance just below Sketty by the Zebra Crossing. Walk into the park and keep going straight ahead, bearing just slightly to the right. You'll come across what is to many people a secret garden. Stroll through and be delighted by the many plants on display for this is where plants are grown on or from seed to be planted across the City. Some of the gardens are for staff only but there's sufficient to keep all gardeners interested for a couple of hours. Apart from the outside beds there are also the greenhouses.

This is a great place to take the kids too. Especially if you aren't a gardener because there are some real gems for them to see and often someone who can tell you more about a particular plant.

And this weekend sees the popular rare plant sale taking place on Sunday August 21 from 10am to 5pm.The rare plant sale is part of the Botanics in Bloom festival which runs throughout August.

Green fingered enthusiasts will get a chance to pick up a bargain and unusual additions to their gardens from the huge choice of plants available. The available plants will range from herbaceous perennials to herbs and fruit trees.The event also gives gardeners an opportunity to seek expert advice direct from the growers or from other keen gardeners.

Through Saturdays and Sundays in August the general plant sale takes place and is organised by the Friends of the Botanics.Saturdays plant sales are from 10am to 2pm and Sunday plant sales take place between 2pm and 5pm.

Steve Hopkins, Swansea Council Specialist Parks Manager, said: "Some of the finest nurseries in Wales are bringing their finest rare plants to the gardens this weekend and this gives keen gardeners an excellent chance to pick up a rare treat to brighten up their gardens."

As a bonus the Morriston Big Band will also be playing in the band stand and plenty of children's entertainment will be available to generate an excellent family atmosphere. If you havent attended one of these events then make this your first. I particularly like listening to the band and having a cup of tea with a slice of cake. A chance to relax and just enjoy the atmosphere. The Morriston Big Band recently went over to Disneyland and performed there. They have CD's available so you can support this band who have made such an impact at many events over the years.

Have a look at www.breatheswansea.com for more information or call 01792 205327.

Help make our market matter at celebration event

2011-08-17T23:57:00.000+01:00

IT'S celebrating its 50th birthday this year after being rebuilt following the Swansea Blitz and now a major event is being held at Swansea Indoor Market later this week to help raise its profile.

The Making Markets Matter roadshow is coming to the city on Thursday August 18 between 10am and 4pm to help persuade the shopping public to savour the joys of the attraction.

The event is being held in collaboration with the National Market Traders Federation and will feature cookery demonstrations, free face-painting and a find a fruit treasure hunt.

It's one of many similar events being held across the UK this summer to help put the country's 1,400 markets on the map and show people why they matter.

The Making Markets Matter mascot Victor the Lion will be on hand to entertain children throughout the day and many of the 100 plus traders will be running special offers.

Presenters from the Wave will undertake a live radio broadcast between 10am and 2pm and other fun activities will include a voucher vault grabber and a Play Your Cards Right stall.

Joe Harrison, Chief Executive of the National Market Traders Federation, said: "Making Markets Matter is all about encouraging people to appreciate their local market and all it can offer. The Federation's road show is designed for the public to have a fun day whilst experiencing a great retail offer."

Have a look at www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk for more information or call 01792 476370.

Though the days of huge landings of fish at the old docks are long gone, we are still blessed with a great choice of fishmongers, many of whom are to be found in the Swansea covered market. Each of these displays their own unique products as well as some of the more well known fish and shellfish.

One such fishmonger, occupying a corner plot on the main thoroughfare, is Coakley-Green. With a 150 year old pedigree, this business has become a local by-word for quality seafood and also does pretty well for a nationwide reputation. Opened in 1856, the original business was situated at No.1 Goat St., near the current location of the former David Evans’s building, but like much of the city centre was destroyed in the Blitz. (www.swanseamarket.food-passion.co.uk). We are looking forward to returning to the market on Saturday where Adrian has promised us his usual weekend display of ice sculptures and giant fish. Watch this space for some fabulous photos and a forthcoming video about Swansea Market

The counter takes some time to prepare from being empty and we'll be rising early to follow Adrian through the day in his life. hat'll be an early one.

Samphire is also known as sea asparagus is very slaty to the taste but this decreases with preparation and cooking. Blanching for a minute or so seems to be the trick.

The wonderful ice sculptures are made in amould that was specially created for Adrian. They will last all day in the winter but melt very quicly duringt tyhe summmer. Fish is kept cool with constant ice being added to the counter. Adrian tells me that the ice maker is kept busy through the hot months.

Here you see ice being sprinked over the counter area. The selection of fish is just so comprehensive to suit every pocket and palate. I took some white bait, fresh and of a good size. I must say that after being lightly shaken with seasoned flour they cooked quickly in hot oil to a crispy coating and where served with a spicy rice dish and salad were filling and healthy. I recommend you visit the market and sample Adrians fish.

Watch out for the Swansea Market video coming shortly.

Toy Story in Castle Square

2011-08-17T23:53:00.000+01:00

Castle Square Swansea presented Toy Story on the Giant Screen. The gardens were full of parents and children enjoying watching the film on a really sunny day.

Fils will be shown over the next few weeks, every Wednesday at 2.30 so get your picnic packed and get the kids out in the fresh air for a fun packed afternoon

Broken Britain

2011-08-10T00:09:00.000+01:00

Here are a couple of poem by Ollie that is part of a CD I produced two years ago. Does it ring any bells?

If Dylan Thomas was around today!!

2011-08-09T23:32:00.000+01:00

How would Dylan Thomas see Swansea today, nearly 100 years since his birth? And how would he be making his way? Would he be writing TV soap scripts? Would he be scrounging drinks off locals or tourists?

And how would he write about our city? As most of his writing was based on his experiences and observations what stories would he be writing? In his book The Artist as a Young Dog he writes about adventuures he had in the local park, on the local beaches and with his friends and relatives in and around both Swansea and Carmarthen.

There are still tramps about and one might scare him into writing a modern The Hunchback in the Park. And after all the fountain is still there.

What's on Offer in Singleton park this month

2011-08-08T16:56:00.000+01:00

Botanics in Bloom 2011

1 - 31 August, Singleton Botanical Gardens, Singleton park

We say with such huge open parks such as Singleton that Swansea has just about everything within walking distance (or at least a short bus ride) from beach, castle, shopping centre, open parkland, large indoor market, gardens, woodland and small urban villages.

Wherever we live we all say the same thing "Oh! I've never been there! or "Haven't been there since I was a kid!" With healthy living at the forefront of the search for a longer better life this is the opportunity to get some easy exercise and enjoy some interesting sights.

Singlton Park is full of surprises from the Sunday afternoon music, plants for sale, a perfect place to take the kids biking, a picnic or a simple stroll. t's agreat time to think things through in peace. And it's a fact that when you exercise yor brain becomes more creative. Don't beleive me? Get out to Singleton Park and discover nature and maybe your inner self too.

To contact the Dog Training call Liz Ellis on 01792 798962

Botanics in Bloom is celebrated every year throughout August when the Botanical Gardens in Singleton Park are in full bloom and at their most spectacular.

During this time you can see many specimens of rare and exotic plants from all over the world, as well as more traditional plants.

There will also be a variety of events including children's entertainment, brass band concerts, guided tours, workshops, demonstration and plant sales.

A visit to the gardens in August is a must so come along and join in with the fun activities and celebrate Botanics in Bloom.

Main Programme of Events

Band Concerts:

Sundays 3.00pm – 5.00pm

Relax in the beautiful surroundings of the gardens whilst being entertained by some of Swansea's finest bands.

7 Aug City of Swansea concert band

14 Aug Constellation Big Band

21 Aug Morriston Big band

28 Aug Swansea Accordion Orchestra

Free

Children's activities:

Mondays 1pm - 4pm (excludes Bank Holiday),

Sundays 3pm - 5pm (includes Bank Holiday)

There are so many activities to keep the children happy. Monday session includes arts & crafts, an entertainer and face painting.

Mondays - £ 0.50 all inclusive with entertainer (unfortunately we can't guarantee that every child will get their face painted due to time constraints)

Here are a list of children's entertainers that will be present every Monday throughout Botanics in Bloom and will be providing a range of activities and entertainment from magic shows and storytelling to clowns and glove puppets;

Monday 1 - Diamond Dust

Monday 8 - Mike Church

Monday 15 - Loopy Loo

Monday 22 - Mr Bubbles

Every Sunday - Free (arts & crafts and face painting)

Guided tours of the gardens with slideshow:

Tuesdays and Thursdays 2.00pm – 4.00pm.*

A guided tour is a great way to explore the magnificent gardens and experience all they have to offer. Guided tours for 10+ people can be arranged at £1.50 per person, which can be booked any time.

Adults £1.50, children £0.50

(*meet at main gate)

Bird and wildlife slideshow and tours with an experienced wildlife guide:

Wednesdays 10.00am – 12noon.*

Discover the wonderful variety of birds and wildlife that live in the Botanical Gardens. An experienced guide will take you to all the best spots to catch a glimpse of the gardens' inhabitants.

Adults £1.50, children £0.50

(*meet at Ty'r Blodau)

Workshops and demonstrations

Wednesdays 2pm - 4pm

Have you ever wanted guidance on garden design? Or perhaps you would like to learn about growing vegetables? If so, there is bound to be something of interest for you at these workshops which incorpoarte many interesting topics.

Adults £1.50; children 50p (not suitable for very young children)

Plant sales:Saturdays 10.00am – 2.00pm

The extremely popular plant sales, organised by the Friends of the Botanics, offer a great opportunity to purchase high quality, locally grown plants at competitive prices.

Free admission

Rare plant sale
Sunday 21 August, 10am - 5pm

The rare plant sale will give you a chance to pick up something special for your home or garden.

Whats news in Swansea today?

2011-08-08T16:36:00.000+01:00

Swansea stars of tomorrow take centre stage

MORE than 20 talented children from Swansea schools have scooped places on a national stage recognising their performing talents.

The talented youngsters from Swansea Council have won places in top Welsh choirs and orchestras as well as dance and theatre groups.

The youngsters will be able to take up their places with some support of Swansea Council.

Mike Day, Cabinet Member for Education, said: "This is great news. Swansea has a wealth of musical and performing arts talent and the success of this latest group of young people proves that we are helping produce the next generation of Welsh stars.

"I would like to congratulate the young people, their teachers and their parents for all the hard work they've put in so far and wish them well for the future."

In all Swansea can now boast seven students in the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, eight in the National Youth Choir and Training Choir of Wales, three students in the National Youth Jazz Wales, two in National Youth Dance Wales, one student in the National Youth Theatre and another in National Brass Band of Wales.

In a letter to the Council Gareth Pierce, Chief Executive of the WJEC said: "This represents a significant achievement for these talented young people, their local teachers, local music/theatre and dance services and the unitary authority.

"WJEC expresses its thanks and appreciation to Swansea Council for its continuing support and for its high regard of National Youth Arts Wales activities, events and services."

We say that Swansea is certainly retaining it's well earned reputation for producing top rate young performers, many who are going on to careers in acting, dance and music. It is good to see that there is such an interest in subjects a school outside those that are purely academic. With such a wealth of talent of all ages we should all be taking advantage of the many productions and shows throughout Swansea. An opportunity to forget the TV and slip into a world of imagination, suspense, excitement and glamour.

Libraries urge children to find their inner Dylan

BOOK experts say libraries are perfect places for children to seek inspiration and follow in the footsteps of Swansea's most famous son.

Swansea Council library bosses are urging children to enter the first ever Finding Dylan competition and make their own mark on the literary world.

The competition is now open and is aimed at all of Swansea's year six children who have just left primary school.

Children are asked to write an essay, poem or diary of no more than 1,000 words on any of the following subjects: My Summer, My Team, My Swansea or My Wales.

Swansea Council is behind the competition in association with the University of Wales Dylan Thomas Prize.

Steve Hardman, Swansea Council's Head of Library Services, said: "Children can use libraries as inspiration for their competition entries by accessing a variety of books, poems and information about Dylan Thomas as well as examples of his work.

"Our libraries also have seating areas where children can sit, think and write and we hope the competition will inspire children to think imaginatively about the place they live.

"Swansea is a very vibrant city and the themes of the competition allow children to base their writing around their own experiences. The competition also gives children the opportunity to base their story in fact or fiction and, if they need some inspiration, then their local library is a great place start."

Finding Dylan is being supported by Travel House and the winner will pick up a family break to Disneyland in Paris.

Entries can be submitted in hand-written or email form but must be in by September 5 this year.

A short-list will then be announced in mid-October before the winner is unveiled at a special ceremony on November 9.

Have a look at www.dylanthomasprize.com for application details.

We say with the age of screen based learning we should all encourage kids and teenagers to read more and to write too. Poetry and short story writing helps us communicate our feelings and gets the creative juices flowing. What is life about if you can't sit down with your children and worrk on something just that bit different. And I bet you will learn something about each other that you didn't know before. Give it a try

We'd love you to comment on these issues or any other.

Events weekend 6th and 7th August 2011

2011-08-08T08:31:00.000+01:00

Outside South Wales it is appalling that there are riots once again on the streets of the UK. Just now it's Tottenham, Edmonton, Brixton and Enfield. Groups of mainly young people driven by social media (Twitter and Facebook) swept through these areas following the terrible riots in Tottenham. Mass hysteria driven by a small group of hardcore anachists seems again to have been so easy to orchestrate. Bristol is probably the nearest that it's been to South Wales. Lets hope that this now dies down and law and order is is brought back again. The damage, looting and theft has left the local community devastated. Amazing to see the police dogs clear a scene Bring them on again for swift sharp success.

Back in Swansea we saw a Local Produce Market at Sketty which is a real commmunity project that is not just providing a real service but has also become a place to meet and greet old friends. These markets are a place to by real food from real people. Vegetables that may not be perfect in shape or size but ooze flavour that you don't get in supermarkets: home made cakes made from ingredients you'd find in any kitchen cupboard and were prepared fresh iether the night before or even early morning. And much, much more.

Coming up next Saturday is the Festival of the Tides from 1pm starting outside the Royal Oak at Penclawdd. Looking at video of previous years this is a real family day with loads of mini events for the whole family going on. £2.50 entrance is great vale and all profits go to local charities. To date they have given just over £10,000 which is pretty amazing.

The Gower Show was a wonderful event and probaly one of thev few remaining real county shows with home produce competing, dogs, horses, displays of all outside activities. The crowds poured in despite the threat of heavy showers. The ground stood up well against the heavy raain that fell in the night and everyone seeed to be enjoying themselves. A real booster when so many people are having concerns about job losses, high power hikes, petrol 50% higher than 18 months ago and much more.

Swansea City and played in Singleton Park. Another regualr even both here ad in Clyne Park where you can juust relax and hear some great music played by local musicians.

We are anxious to hear about your events so call and tell us. ask@swantv.com, tel/text 07976364681. If you don't tell we can't be there.

Thanks to all organisers for making us so welcome.

Events Week 30/31 July 2011

2011-07-31T19:37:00.000+01:00

Weekend Events 23/24th July 2011

2011-07-25T10:25:00.000+01:00

Out and about this weekend. If you have events coming up tell us about them for coverage.

The crowd of runners just kept passing us for several minutes. A real air of festivity and lets enjoy the event. At the same time raising money.

Jade Williams won on a record breaking time of nder 20 minutes. As a Welsh Champion runner perhaps not too unexpected but nevertheless a great time.And when I spokee with her just minutes later she was hardly ot of breath. Amazing!!

Emily Jones came was in the leader pack and was a sch a young rnner to do so well. Congratulations

The changes around the Marina over the last 3-4 years are amazing. Take a walk along the beach path and be surprised.

Thundercat Racing in the distance. Another national championship that wants to come to Swansea Bay

Mal Pope stops by for a cappuchino

2011-07-22T00:10:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow we'l be out and about taMal Pope stopped by today and spoke to Louise Houghton. It was a really relaxed interview and it was good to hear him talk about how much Swansea means to him. Don't miss this interview which will be in one of our first programmes when we start broadcasting in 2 weeks.

Mal has written several musicals and is such a wealth of information about Swansea history. I'm hoping we can persuade him to join us again . . and again . . .and again. He certainly brought some feel good dust with him today.

And talking about the theatre if you have an amateur production coming up shortly call us and we'll come along and talk with the cast, film an extract at rehearsal and show it prior to your event. It takes so much effort to take part in any production and what do we need? Audiences. So lets talk.

Tomorrow we are ot and about talking to people around town and seeing what you like most about Swansea. What you'd like us to include in our shows and if you have any interesting stories. Watch out for us

Swansea Coastguards fight to keep open

2011-07-19T10:02:00.000+01:00

7.45am went to Mumbles to try and speak with Sir Alan Massey, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency Chief Executive but he wasn't available. The sudden decision to close the Swansea Coastguard operation came as a shock to everyone living in the area. In the announcement it seemed to me that the arguement was not to do with the location but on two other factors. Firstly it was stated that there were enough employees from the Government Dept working in the area and it is felt that this is an excuse and cover for the loss, and secondly the heavy campaign at Fishguard may have tipped the scales on which station to close. It seems that locally the decision was not even considered. Or was it? There are support and campaigning groups now and understand the Facebook group closed today because it was full!

This is a vital service that does save lives. As an area of outstanding beauty and such a magnet to tourists with a whole range of outside water activities this service is not just necessary but essential. Please support

Surfing today at Rotherslade Bay

2011-05-09T22:42:00.000+01:00

As a local on-line Swansea TV Show we aim to bring you local interest. Here's some shots taken this morning around 7am. The winds were up and surf was high. Watch the surfers

Neath Steam Vintage Show

2011-05-08T22:48:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I went to the Neath Steam Vintage Show. It was only the second year that it had run but it was full of the most interesting vehicles. There were full size, half size and quarter size steam engines fired up and going as if they'd just come off the assembly line.

It was held at the Cefn Coed Colliery Museum, Crynant so there was plenty to see. And we'll be talking to some of these enthusiasts on one of our first Swansea Bay TV Shows.

Just take a look at this incredible steam engine that was used on local farms when first built. Looking at it you'd be srprised at the immaculate state that it's in.

I talked to Joe Davies who has an amazing collection of petrol cans. "Petrol Cans!" I can hear you exclaim.What is there to know? Surely one is the same as the next." The simple answer is "No!"

Joe is just so knowledgeable that he held me enthralled about the different petrol companies. The way the cans were manufactured. What paint was used and how the companies amalgamated or traded under different names in different places. Watch out for Joe talking to me on a forthcoming show.

There were also skilled artists. Here you see Paul Strange. I didn't get his contact details. If you know him please let me know. He is a qualified stone mason and has moved on to what he describes as "the joy of slate" and he creates the most beautiful reliefs with incredible detail. These are absolutely unique and take many, many hours of work to complete.

If you are holding an event that you think our viewers will enjoy then let us know ask@swanseabay-tv.co.uk

Marketing is dead Finding and selling to customers is in

2011-04-13T22:55:00.001+01:00

The word is out "Marketing" is dead! Well not marketing exactly, just the word itself.

I think that we have got tired of "marketing" and especially self elected marketing specialists.
Finding and selling to customers is one leg of the business holy trillogy - and that's marketing.

Ask 85% of small businesses if they want some marketing help and they'll say "No! I do all my own!" When you ask them what they do, they finally tell you then it's often "I stay open later now", "I had an advert in the xxxx local magazine last month" or "I've got some special offers, and the leaftel's on the counter" . If you don't broadcast that you are open longer nobody will know. If you advertise just once the results will be slim - you need to be regular. If your leaflet is on the conter it won't get new customers into the shop. I don't think these are marketing.

Big business have the resources and cash to employ a marketing team and pay for adverts, buy space and carry out huge leaflet drops. Small business are looking for way to bring customers into their retail units and shops for as little as possible but few are using innovative ideas.

I did see this small a-trailer being towed by a bike on Sunday and the same business set up big posters around town. There was also a stilt walker dressed as a baker but little else.

Possibly small business owners don't know who to listen to or what to do right now. They keep reading about these marketing guys but often don;'t want to spend money on what may not work or what they can do themselves anyway.

And everyone is talking about social media. The problem seems to be few business owners actually understand it. And there are people out there charging large amounts but usually not achieving measurable results. There are some good people out there. It's just finding them. If you want someone who is really hot with social media for small businesses just e-mail me at ask@mikeleahy.com. I've found a real gem.

Meanwhile here are some ideas that will get either new customers or existing customers buying from you. Ideas that aren't new, that you know about but which you haven't tried.

Pick one a week and try it out:

1. Hand out leaflets with a special offer. Do it from your shop doorway is allowed.

2. Get existing customers to sign up to your newsletter

3. Make sure your website has your phone number at the top of each page and answer the phone within 2 rings every time

4. Give amazing service. Today I have seen some really excellent customer service that I;ll desribe on another occassion

5. Get a loyalty card system in and advertise it in your window etc

6, Ask customers what you can do to improve their shopping experience with you

7. Set up some joint ventures with non competing adjacent shops (both of you get an offer on a leaflet and hand out each others to customers as they pay for their purchase)

8. Check your window display looks good and is current and there is something to entice people over the threshold.

9. Check your staff are trained and are attentive to customers. Smiling is a great way to start a good shopping experience for customers

10. Try for additional sales. Today I watched a girl sell a handbag for £180 then went on to get a matching purse and credit card holder worth an extra £87

and a bonus:

Bonus: Hold an open evening where customers are invited in to try some products, hold a fashion show, see a demonstration. Get invites and encourage them to bring a friend. When the friends become customers send out a thank you card to whoever brought them along.

It's not knowing but doing. So take action now. Good luck

How business appears to have changed

2011-04-12T13:04:00.001+01:00

Today I went on a pre-arranged appointment at 11 o'clock. On arrival I was told that the partners were too busy to see me. A client has just dropped in and they'd been able to fit her in! I'd have to come back. Could I leave some information. "Yes I have your number so I'll arrange a new time on Friday!!"

Now I think I'm well mannered and not forceful in any way. The appointment was made by phone and I was asked when could I call to discuss the proposition. So I was really there by request.

Is the old courtesy of calling up to change an appointment gone?

Last week I visited a local business to give a presentation. It went well and the director asked for a quote so he could talk it through with his co-director (no! I don't know when I'll see him). After several unsuccessful calls back I was told he was in "just a minute, I'll see if he's free" shortly the guy came back with "He's not interested!" Now I can understand that if I'd cold canvassed an unknown company but no. This was someone I was on more than nodding terms with. Shouldn't he have spoken to me, no matter how briefly, and told me himself. At least I'd have found out why. And probably felt a bit better.

Is the old courtesy of telling bad news personally gone? I understand that texting is now used to fire or make staff redundant. Is this the new way?

A couple of weeks ago I had the last of 3 appointments with another business person. The first appointment was denied when I called? The second was a waiting game. I waited 38 minutes why he attended to a custommer who came in just behind me. Meanwhile 3 sales assistants stood by and waited for customers!! On the 3rd appointment I drove to town, parked up and went into the retailer. He wasn't there. "He's gone to Cardiff" I got an assistant to call him on hios mobile. "Something cropped up and I had to come to Cardiff". That's a 40 minute journey so wouldn't a phone call have been in order?

I write this because it seems that attitudes have changed. E-mail and texting are altering the way we do business. I guess I've been brought up to beleive in relationship selling, that it takes more than a quick glance over a website before spending money on something that may not actually be right. I believe that we buy from people and that our first impressions (right or not) generally are important: but it takes more than a first glance to build up a relationship.

Is selling thought of as old hat? The amazing thing about all three scenarios above is that each was with the top man in a retail business. What do they think when someone doesn't arrive for an appointment with them? Do they charge a "no show"? I spoke with a letting agent just last month and he had 12 out of 19 appoinments fail on one weekend.

I've had about 40 years selling experience and run quite large sales-forces. I've trained sales-people for major companies and have been national sales and national trade sales managers. I have created businesses and been successf. My customers over the years have includeda whole range from small one-man enterprises to the BBC, Marks & Spencer, BHS, BP and Shell, 27 local authorities, major hotel chains police authorities and many more. So I have had some experience. It;'s not as if I've blustered in and forced myself or tried high pressure selling. hese experiences have been a surprise.

Now despite all of this I have found that most appointments work. That there is still plenty of good manners and business form around. And despite the recession which is biting hard right now for many there is business out there. I am pleased with the business I've written up in just the last month.

I'm off to Cardiff and Bristol during the coming month and will be telling you about my sales experiences there. I feel there will be a change as the pond gets bigger.

Your comments are really appreciated. I'd love to hear from you.

Since writing this late morning I have had two really good appointments, both culminating in sales for services, not products, with a high value so I feel that I'm doing something right. And to make matters even better I've had a phone call and two texts supporting and agreeing with my experiences. Small ponds big problems.

Just to tell you about a great way to record conversations and anything else

2011-02-04T18:07:00.003Z

I've been recording conversations on Skype using prettymay (available under extras freeware on the Skypwe site for a year now and it's always come up trumps. Simple and reliable. If you want to record Skype interviews or for any other reason then mp3freedownloader is the answer.

Boy how technology has moved on! I remember when music came on thick vinyl records, played on a turntable. The arm was gently placed on the record and a metal needle ran along the groove picking up the vibrations (I guess) and transposing them into music that came out rather crackly.The first one we had was wound by hand and you needed to listen out for the music slowing down.

I remember my first sound recorder back around 1958. It was like a Walkman in size but a dinosaur in technology by today's standards. A school friend made this and fitted it into one of his father's tobacco tins! I could record about 8 minutes of sound and play back. It worked on a very basic reel-to-reel player and you needed headphones to hear. I used a pair of ex RAF headphone, probably second world war surplus.

So what a contrast between then, when crystal sets were common, and now when we can record using a variety of devices and play back to such high quality that you'd think the musicians were in the same room. Anyone under fortyish wouldn't understand.

Now I have an on-line radio show which you'd probably call a podcast but I like the sound "radio show". It rings of entertainment. And of course my show is made up of some music but lots of interviews a, handy hints and tips, and live news items. I use Skype for phone interviews because it's clear and I can record easily. I use mp3 free downloader because it has so many benefits.

When I call using Skype my mp3freedownloader automatically switches on and records as an mp3 which I can then use directly or edit. All files are stored together in a dedicated folder so they are easy to find. I used the free version but it's limited to 15 minutes of conversation and it is awkward telling an interviewee that we'll pause after 15 minutes whilst I re-set the recorder. It's a good way to trial the software and you can do that for as long as you like: but the pro version is really low-cost so it's a natural progression.

And here are some uses. Interviews are a natural. But what about those difficult conversations where you need a recording, just remember that you need to tell the other party and you need to get agreement. Record a sales conversation and listen back. Did you talk too much? Did you close enough? You'll learn to exchange words, vary the pitch and pace of your voice and speak with clarity. And you can pick up testimonials from satisfied customers. Give it a try and surprise yourself. Go to http://www.mp3freedownloader.com

Don't sell yourself short

2011-01-25T20:17:00.002Z

This is short notice but I feel it’s so important that I urge you to read on!

“Swansea is going to have a very slow recovery from the recession!”

Around 40% of people employed in Swansea are employed by the Local Authority!”

Bad news on the TV last evening.

Or is it? It’s good news if you have products or services that people want to buy at a price they are willing to pay – provided you have the ability, know-how and commitment to find those people and convince them to place an order. And no matter how good we think we are that’s often the stumbling block. The difference between success and failure. Sometimes it’s just that we’ve forgotten how. Sometimes we just don’t know how. And sometimes we are bogged down with so much non-productive work that we just don’t take the necessary action.

And that’s why I want to tell you about my exciting short seminar “Sales Success” that will turn prospects into pots of gold customers.

This seminar is designed for owners and managers of growing businesses. So if you can’t see a positive productive 2011 then this isn’t for you. In fact I’d go as far as to say that anyone who doesn’t really want to succeed shouldn’t sign up. BUT if you’re a “half-full full” person take the plunge and once you’re in and caght your breath with the biting cold you’ll suddenly feel the surge of blood racing around your body carrying that vital oxygen that will push you forward.

This seminar will have the same rush when you hear the magic words from a prospective customer “Can I give you an order?”

With the new government restrictions and cuts in place now is not the time to say “It’ll be alright” or “ Wonder how long we can go on like this!”

Now is the time to hone up your sales skills and cut the carpet from under your competitors feet. If you don’t get the business I can tell you who will. Yes! You are right, your biggest competitor.

So let me tell you about what I’m offering in the 90 minutes of this seminar.

You’ll learn or remember the 7 steps that culminate in you holding an order in your hand. The 7 steps are preparation, the first meeting, questions, presentation, overcoming objections, and finally closing. Sounds simple. Like riding a bike or swimming. You learn once and it’s always there at the back of your mind. If you don’t practice you’ll become skilled: if you don’t then you’ll get rusty and find it hard to keep up with the rest.

And with selling it’s not just knowing the 7 steps but being able to carry them out well. Well enough to persuade the prospect to sign an order and pay a price that gives you a respectable profit. And do you know the two most common faults in the selling process? Yes! You’ve guessed it. Firstly not actually asking for the order. Haven’t you ever said “Well. What do you want to do?” Often the prospect is actually thinking “I’d like to go swimming but I suppose I’ll have to wait til you’ve finished!” and sometimes they feel “I just don’t know what to do. Can I afford it? Do I really want it?” and bingo, the opportunity has gone. By asking “When would you like this delivered . . . ?” or “I think we’ve covered everything now. Let’s get the paperwork out of the way. Can you just OK the paperwork here!” you’ll find you’ve suddenly gained another customer. ***See the bottom of this page for the second most common fault of the selling process.

Often we come away saying “I lost the order!” when we really mean “I didn’t work hard enough to convince them?” or “What did I do wrong”

Successful selling is setting up a system, using the right type of words, getting positive reactions and persevering. Most sales don’t happen because the sales person goes in without a plan, doesn’t use the right kind of words and gives up too early.

So invest £37 and a couple of hours and you’ll get your money back 100 times over provided you walk the walk and talk the talk rather than putting your newfound knowledge in a dark corner of your mind.

Your only commitment is to plan your work and work your plan. Planning is just writing down a sequence of events. It includes finding out who wants your products or services: how they would find you so you can find them: how you will make appointments: an appropriate presentation: rehearsing and visualising. Planning is the essence of successful selling. Then you must work your plan and you’ll succeed. And there’s nothing like the feeling you get when you walk away with a signed order and know it’ll go towards building your business so you can buy that new car or take that holiday of a lifetime.

So book now just click below.

Then come along on Tuesday 1st February to the Metropole Chambers, Salubrious Passage, Swansea, just off Wind Street. Starts at 9.15 so come at 9.00. Pay by Paypal or send a cheque. There are a maximum of 7 places so sign up now. You can text or call me on 0797 63 64 681.

See you on 1st February and get those orders flowing in.

***Second most common fault made when selling?? Discounting or giving to much away so you don’t make enough profit. Remember turnover is vanity and profit sanity. Getting enough orders isn’t enough. Making good profit is!

Sales Success Seminar

2011-01-16T22:16:00.000Z

Success starts with sharing your dreams

2011-01-02T08:50:00.000Z

Success starts when you create an idea and make your dream. Sharing it with someone else and fixing that dream firmly as an ambition is the real launching ground for the success to happen.
Work with me over at least 3 months and see the difference a critical friend can make. See how new ideas and skills can help you expand your business. e-mail me on ask@mikeleahy.com for more information

Snow in Sketty

2010-12-24T23:03:00.004Z

We thought the snow and ice would never end. Small hills that would have us cruising up were sheets of compacted snow frozen to ice. Pavements became danger zones.

Happy Christmas but do we really want a white one now?

2010-12-21T22:35:00.000Z

And so we run up to Christmas. The snow and ice has certainly had an effect.

Difficult to get out to the shops so will there be a last minute rush with panic buying? Will the snow stop us in our tracks?

Buying on-line has been attractive for many but the goods aren't getting through as fast as they should be and I understand that some online retailers have stopped accepting orders for Xmas. So that's going to have an impact on the high street.

Another factor, of course, is the recession. Some are forecasting a record breaking Xmas because many people can't see the point of saving with the low interest rate. Sales are started even earlier this year, some began a week ago or more, whilst others start tomorrow or Thursday. So if there is a record-breaking sales will they be profitable? It's no good thinking turnover if the profit has gone.

Profit pays wages, rent and business tax, new stock and all those other business expenses. Without adequate profits how will some retailers manage? Banks continue, day on day to damage businesses by reducing overdraft facilities yet seem to get away with So let's hope there won't be major losses on the face of the High Street after Xmas.

I noticed many shops closed on Saturday, Sunday and yesterday. These have been mainly smaller shops who may only have a limited number of staff. So it can be impossible to travel. But banks closed too? Surely these guys are earning enough from us all to be able to keep branches open. Sadly not. In fact I know one of the local banks to me where the staff are truly stretch - I guess in the name of profit.

And trains, airports and major roads seem to have ground to a halt. Rail passengers waiting over 5 hours for Eurostar to travel to France and I guess those coming back too. Heathrow just closed with no movement at all. And no communication either, so passengers don't even know what's happening. Living in a world of fast moving technology and the most advanced personal communications systems such as I-Phone it doesn't make sense that airports can give passengers good information

So lets have a really good Christmas and forget our worries and troubles. And let's try and make 2011 a great year.

Loyalty Cards

2010-12-10T00:19:00.006Z

Customer Loyalty is ranked as the foremost issue faced by business owners. There is usually no loyalty in today's market. Many customers move away because they see a cheaper price, are enticed with a special offer or forget about you and the busineess they have placed with you previously.
And who are the best people to make into future customers? Why! Existing customers of course. They have already bought from you so they know the quality of the service you give and the products. They need less persuading than people who haven't bought from you before.
So what can you do to encourage them to come back time and time again? How about a loyalty scheme that would reward them every time they bought.
Want to know more? Click here.

Here's what they said

2010-12-02T12:01:00.001Z

I thought you might like to see this short video. These business people came on courses I have run and here's what they said.

If you feel you could benefit from a little help in getting more sales then call me. You will be pleased you did.

December here in a week

2010-11-23T18:15:00.001Z

What are you doing to prepare your campaign to bring in sales during January and February,historically the lowest sales months of the year?
And this year the hike in VAT plus British Gas gas and electricity up by 7% and other increases it's going to leave many householders looking to cut back dramatically. This will have an adverse effect on practically every type of business.

So now is the time to sit down, brainstorm and come up with some simple practical ideas that wioll give you the edge over your competitors.

New Year resolutions usually kick in on New Years Day and kickout before mid March. So why don't you start now. It's often really just a question of of changing your habits.
So . . .
Don't spend hours writing Business Plans and Marketing Plans.
Write down on an A4 Sheet your BIG GOALS - just bullet points.
Then write down the small stages you need to take to reach those goals. Those small steps are solutions. Think about it.
By tackling say 4-5 small; goals each week you will reach your Big Goals.

Christmas Campaigns are getting earlier each year

2010-11-06T17:20:00.003Z

Many years ago one of my daughters went to Australia at the beginning of October so we had an early Chrismas. We decked the house, even putting up a Xmas tree with lights. We had lights at the windows and outside. Was she surprised when she arrived for what she thought would just be a going-away meal. We had a great family occasion. Next day we drove her to the airport. On our return we took everything down.

Our neighbours, however, were also busy and that evening as dusk dropped we found they'd put up their Chrisrmas decorations!1 I guess we had just taken them unawares. It's impossible to know what went through their minds when they saw we'd taken everything down again!!

Have you ever had a similar experience?

But now is time to get cracking if you haven't already done so. With Christmas just a few short weeks away people are beginning tio think about gifts and presents. And of course with many looking to tighten their belts spending could go either way. It could be austere or there could be a build-up as people might think "Lets have a good one this year and it's going to be harder next"

Do you like the Xmas photo of the hand and bauble? I've found a great website with thousands of images you can use free so long as you include a bye-line or link. Go to
http://www.freedigitalphotos.net. This photo is by Salvatore Vuono. These images will brighten up any text.

Want more ideas? You can have a free Hidden Marketing Asset Review. Click here

The White House opens its doors.

2010-10-28T16:13:00.003+01:00

Mike Jones of The White House in Swansea attended my Seminar on Tuesday and today he kindly send a few words as follows.

"I didn't learn anything new on Mike's seminar but I was reminded of so many ideas that I'd forgotten. It was a great wake-up call and I'll certainly be taking action starting today. I thought the toolkit book was a great idea and the call to action list good to get those brilliant momentarily ideas on paper I recommend Mike's courses for any business owner who wants to take their business to the next level."

Mike very kndly provided a large flask/jug of coffee for our seminar. And of course creams, milk and sugar. Thanks Mike.

And talking about referrals I looked up Mike's website and see that he gets almost daily testimonials. And are they good! Here are some from the last few dys. I know it's good because I've had friends stay there. I've just recommended them for a Xmas party for a group of 12-14 and Mike has come up with a really good price. Nice to have a party where you can meet in the intimate lounge for drinks, adjourn to the dining room for the meal then back to the lounge for a few more drinks. Almost like home from home without the work.

Go to that link and take a look Click here

Review posted by - Brian Tainsh , Langbank, Renfrewshire - 20/10/2010
Very nice single room with corner windows. Nothing was too much trouble for Proprietor Mike - as I had to leave early each morning he supplied a packed breakfast for me. Would return to the White House, and recommend it.

Review posted by - Sue B , Reading - 18/10/2010
Room was good, free wifi was great. The food was very good - there was a wide range of interesting dishes to choose from for dinner. Breakfast was great too. Parking just outside on the road was much closer and more convenient than in a large hotel chain.

Review posted by - Rob Pearce , United Kingdom - 18/10/2010
Very clean and smart accomadation!!!! Will return in future

Review posted by - Bronte & Meredith , Australia - 18/10/2010
Many thanks to Mike and his team for making our two stays so enjoyable. The hospitality was sensational. Minor problems with the TV and the noise were overcome by the service and friendliness of all involved.
Best wishes to everyone at The White House for Xmas 2010!

Review posted by - John Smith , Haverfordwest - 15/10/2010
Superb accommodation, extremely clean and well equipped.
Hospitality first class and always on hand.
Extensive Menu, Comfortable Bed, Free Wi-FI.
This accommodation I would class and 5 Stars.
Mike puts a lot of effort and time into making this the best place to stay in Swansea without a doubt !!!.

Review posted by - Sian Jones , Denbigh - 12/10/2010
Had a lovely stay! Room very clean and comfortable and breakfast was delightful! Will be back.

Testimonials are the killer sales closer. Use them with gusto. If you use a sight seller then include some full letters (photocopied in colour) and if you send out quotes send some in the pack. On your website, and advertising, and in blogs. They are a winner.

To book the seminar on 9th or 11th November click here

Good Business.

First Seminar took place this morning. Feedback here.

2010-10-26T22:33:00.002+01:00

Today I ran the promised first small seminar for six business owners. It lasted about 80 minutes and was really interactive. The feed-back I've had has been good and I've included an e-mail I received from Richard Smith of RClean Window Cleaning Services who attended, and whom I have worked with during the last 12 months. We have decided to follow up with another meeting to continue with the seminar as there is still a cave full of information to give out and discuss.

We actually covered just 4 pages of the 36 page manual I have written and used over the last few years. It is a comprehensive course that covers most aspects of business apart from most finacial aspects.

Richard wrote "Well mike it was another good meeting and I always take home with me a little more knowledge each time. I can't wait until the 16th to continue the group talk.

I must give my testiment to a marvelous marketing and business advisor, Mike leahy. Yes you did read that correct it's Mike leahy. His practical advice will improve any business. A business that wants to gain more business will always thrive by investing time with Mike Leahy.

My faith in Mike started after my business Rclean which offers window cleaning and pressure washing services in South Wales started to lose business because of the recession, and me being rather ill with undiagnosed sleep aponea which is now treated thankfully.

Mike's marketing advice gave me a much better understanding of what I was doing wrong and how I needed to put in place my attention on doing the right things to gain business.
I have made big improvements and certainly learnt how to gain work business through Mike Leahy.

Thank you Mike

If you wish to call me I am always happy to have a chat about how Mike has helped me personally. signed Richard on 07883029588."

To visit Richard's website click here.

There is another seminar tomorrow. And I'm really looking forward to 9.15 when we start. If you are interested then drop me an e-mail at ask@mikeleahy.com. I'll consider running another series shortly. It is updated to include more about Social Media as this is now an integral part of any business. Socal Media is moving at neck-break speed and you really need to know about the basics.

Perhaps you feel travelling to Swansea is not practical. I'm now looking at producing a cd that'll include Podcasts, Pdfs and Powerpoint Presentations together with phone 1-2-1 calls. Interested? Express your interest now and I'll keep you updated. Just send an e-mail to ask@mikeleahy.com or write a comment below.

When It's gone, it's gone!!

2010-10-22T17:11:00.003+01:00

Sold out with 24 hours!!

Attendees include two who have been to previous seminars of mine and so know how good they are. One said "It was nearly 2 years ago and I need to have a refresher and be motivated.

So now it's upwards and onwards.

We are going to cover a huge amount of tips and tricks that'll get any business up off the blocks and running. It is going to be a really exciting 90 minutes on topics that I'm really experienced with.

The biggest hurdles for many businesess are creating ideas that bring in more profit without having to spend huge amounts and taking big gambles.

I'll be reporting back after both have run. And if they are as successful as last time I'll consider putting on some more.

Meanwhile I was talking to Gareth Davies of Custom Print Works! who was telling me he goes out foot canvassing and gets new customers every day. Having been an advocate of cold calling since the sixties I was pleased to hear his take on this. "Nobody else is doing it. It's much better than calling by phone for many reasons and it's good for my health and pocket. I get plenty of exercise and make good money for the business."

It is another way of finding customers and I'll be covering this at in a future posting.Gareth, who is a very experienced salesman will be joining us as a delegate at the Thursday seminar next week. He follows the same thoughts as me. No matter how experienced you are, you'll always learn or remember something to try out.

It's Not What You Know. Or is it!

2010-10-21T23:11:00.003+01:00

There are just two places left for the FREE seminars on Tuesday and Thursday next week. They may have gone by the time you read this.

Interestingly at the Mid and West Wales Chamber networking breakfast this morning that I attended 4 people signed up to attend beccause of postive comments by past attendees plus two who have attended previous meetings are coming back for more.

I was very pleased to receive this testimonial earlier today. An e-mail out of the blue. I've been working with the Lance and Paul of the Uplands Diner in Swansea for the last few months and there have been dramatic socila media and off-line marketing plus other changes and a completed make-over. They are now servibg more breakfasts than ever before and have broken all records during October.

They kindly wrote and said:

The old saying goes "It's not what you know, it's WHO you know". This saying is very appropriate to Mike Leahy. If you needed to find the answer to something and he didn't know it-(first of all, that would probably be unlikely), secondly, he would probably know somebody who WOULD know the answer. He is like the human version of Wikipedia. Since he began assisting the team at the Uplands Diner, he has brought a vast array of experience and knowledge which he has personally learned over the decades. Secondly, he has met a lot of like minded people in that time, and they in turn bring their skills with them. But you can't get that on Wikipedia.

Testimonials are so important in building up new relationships with potential customers.

Make your success

FREE Dynamic 90 Minute Seminars

2010-10-19T18:06:00.003+01:00

Money back guarantee!! No need. This is a free event full of great material you go take back to the office and use straight away. I've had some who haven't even made it back to their office. They've been so fired up they've gone out and tackled a prospect or followed up on an aexisting customer to get additional business!!

Come and join me on Tuesday 26th or Thursday 28th October (next week) at the Metropole Chambers, Salubrious Passage, Swansea, SA1 3RW for just 90 minutes of fast talking ideas that will make your business buzz.

Not a boring Powerpoint Presentation but a new idea every minute. So thats 90 new ideas or selling skills. Could you take so much information in and then go back to your office and put it into action? I guarantee that you will increase your net profit.

This will get you spiked up. I'll even paint some go-faster stripes on your arms once you attend this Turbo Success Seminar and you'll just motor. Another Business Builder Brick.

We’re Having a Dynamic Seminar!

90 packed minutes of Creative Marketing Ideas and Selling Skills

Presented by Mike Leahy
(Booking is essential)

Location: Metropole Chambers, Salubrious Passage, Swansea, SA1 3RW
Dates: Tuesday 26th ; Thursday 28th October
Time: 9.15 - 10.45 am
What to Bring: A receptive mind and a willingness to take action
No Cost: This is a f.ree event *see below
Reserve Your Place: Call or Text 07976364681
(Very limited places. Maximum 6 people per seminar)
Booking is Essential
Do You qualify? Only Business Owners and Managers

Guaranteed to get you thinking and taking action. Great Ideas you've forgotten or that are new

“Mike provides individual and business support in a number of areas as his knowledge extends beyond marketing and covers many areas of business operations. Mike has acted as a mentor during my early stages of business development and continues to assist me with marketing consultancy. I find Mike to be personable, supportive and reliable in his delivery of creative marketing solutions.” January 4, 2010 Jacqueline Cole CEO Make My Summer Ltd

Wishing you success. So call me today on 07976364681 and book your place now.

*the event is free but anyone who books and doesn't attend will be charged £49.00 as it will be preventing someone else from benefitting. You do need to book. Do it Now. Call 07976364681

2010-10-18T08:04:00.000+01:00

Is selling an art or science?

2010-10-15T18:18:00.000+01:00

Some people say salesmen are born and others say you can make them. Some peoople think selling is an art whilst others say "Science"

Be persistent! And dare to be different!

2010-09-14T17:39:00.003+01:00

Here are some more building blocks that will make you successful through small steps and persistence.

Be Persistent!
I was talking to a friend yesterday who is a music composer but isn't making big bucks so he works selling door to door. He sells utilities. That is a hard job, knocking on every door in a street, hoping to catch someone at home. And hoping even more that they are the householder - that they are prepard to give you a few minutes time - that you can convince them of your money saving offer - and that they will sign up.

He probably gets more "No's" in a day than most of us do in a month, if not a year. Yet he persists whatever the weather and no matter how many difficult or rude or unpleasant people he meets: no matter how many doors are unanswered because he knows the odds are in his favour. He probably knows the number of "No's" he gets to every "Yes". So he can accept the negatives and no-answers because he knows each one brings him closer to the next order.

Are you persistent! Do you keep going when faced with "No" after "No"? Or do you stop early and call it a day? Because that next call - the one after you stop - could be the one that says "Yes".

I remember back in the sixties selling encyclopedias door to door and we used to go out as a group. Maybe 5 in a car. We'd park up and the superviser would hand out street maps so we knew which roads to call on. We'd arrive about 11 in the morning. Then we'd meet up at about 1 for something to eat then back out knocking on doors again. At around 5 we'd meet up again and then it was back on appointments in the early evening.

During the day we'd be making appointments. We needed both partners to be present because we were presenting a big investment and most families bought on hire purchase. We wanted a joint agreement.

During the days we were selling appointments and in the evenings we were selling products. It was hard work, especially if it was raining or cold but the rewards were high so we persisted. The staff turnover was high but those who stayed generally earned.

It's a long slow journey setting up any venture, whether it's you as a sale-person or a a business that you intend to grow and employ people. Have a dream. Stay focussed. Keep going and you will reach your goal. But don't forget the map - your business or marketing plan - for without a plan, map or guide we won't know where we are reaching for.

Dare to be Different
Look at what your competitors are doing and try to be different. Become memorable.

I remember when I was a young salesman I started wearing a bow-tie. You don't see many nowadays and when you do , do you wonder what sort of person the wearer is? Well it was the same then but I carried on and became the guy with the dickie. Even when buyers couldn't remember my name they remembered the tie and associated it with the products or services that I was selling. Like the phot? This was a the launch of the Local Business Forum two years ago. We have gone through big changes since then.

How can you be different? How can you stand out in a crowd? It doesn't have to be outrageous but if it is and provided it doesn't offend anyone then you may surprise yourself and build up a memorable brand image.

If you want to be successful by doing the small things right and using no-cost, low-cost marketing ideas that work then sign up for personal coaching andd realise your full potential. Just call or text me on 07976364681 or e-mail ask@mikeleahy.com. Two heads are better than one - together we can succeed.

Be lucky by being active and positive.

Basic Marketing is the no-cost, low-cost rute to success

2010-08-31T21:36:00.002+01:00

Over and over I am finding that businesses are ignoring, ignorant about, or forgetting marketing basics. And it is the basics that will drive any business forward and ahead of the competition. It seems a no-brainer that these are the essential elements and usually either low-cost or indeed no-cost.

And so I’m setting out to push my concept and help any business-person who will read and participate in this blog and the ideas that are brought out.

If you want to finally crunch the credit-crunch (watch out for the infamous cuts we are expecting that will affect everyone) or if you want push the boundaries then I’d hope this will get you going. Please give me some feed-back and let me know how you are doing. Help me prove that you can increase your profits and improve your cash-flow through using simple techniques. The theme will be enthusiasm, positive attitude and action. Without these you can try all the ideas under the sun and still fail. Who said give me an average enthusiastic man and ‘ll make him a success? If it hasn’t been said already then I’m saying it now.

To get started you’ll need to think about your customers, who are they, why do they buy your products and what would they buy in addition? Don’t spend too long writing a huge report. Use an A4 sheet – ring up some of your customers and talk to them. Ask if they can spare a few minutes and give you some feed-back on how they found your products or services. What did they like best? Did they have any ideas to make improvements? Why did they choose to use you?

By asking these questions you’ll learn about yourself and your business, you’ll see how you can make positive changes and most importantly you’ll begin to build up better customer relations. Why not invite them onto your Customer Review Panel and tell them you’ll send out occasional e-mails with a question or two. But you can also send out information about new services and products.

Marketing basics rule. OK! let’s prove it. Sign up to the Local Business Forum for 1-2-1 coaching that will turn you into a Super sales machine.

10 Building Blocks to Dramatically Increase Your Profits

2010-08-29T19:47:00.005+01:00

This is just on an overview of some simple basics that you should work on in your business. Get the basics right and the rest will look itself.

Get a website
Over 72% of consumers now use the internet rather than Yellow Pages or Directory Enquiries. A website helps people know, like and trust you - then they'll buy. But apart from prospective customers checking you out others may want to buy on-line. There are many factors that you should consider with a website
but it is bettter to have a poor website than one at all, provided you plan to make improvements as a priority. Websites should be constantly adjusted and improved.

Give Something Free
Give something free to and you are halfway to the sale. Well! Not exactly half way but you'll get prospective customers to pause and look twice. With the thousands of sales messages we are all bomabared with daily you need to get yourself noticed. A freebie is a good way. And it can be used in a number of ways to get more business, lead the reader forward or get information.

Contact 50 new businesses each week and talk to the MAN
You've got to get out and tell to sell. Regular phone canvassing guarantees an increase in potential sales. You may need to change that target depending on a number of factors. But start today and make those adjustments as necessary. If you haven't done this before be ready for a surprise, lots of "no's" but when you hit a "yes" it's all worthwhile.

Network
Networking is a way to get your message out to local businesses and build up a referral system. Look for Free opportunities, events that you can go to for free, exhibitions where you can networkwith the exhibitors. Networking is a sure-fire way to get new business but not usually from those you talk to but from people they know. Always ask "who do you know that could use this product/service?". Networking is an art. Not many people know how but those who do certainly do get new business.

Have a Newsletter
This keeps prospects and existing customers hot and interested in your products. The newsletter can be on-line or printed. The former is free or low-cost but these usually don't get read by that many people, no matter how interesting. The latter are often read by more than 1 person but there is the printing cost and postage.

Start an appropriate advertising campaign
There are several ways to advertise without spending large sums on newspapers, radio, TV or Yellow Pages.You don't need large expensive adverts. The very smaklest offering a free report are winners and usually open the door for you.

Build a Prospect List
Some people are ready to buy now whilst others won't buy for weeks, months or years. Manage your list and keep each prospect alive.Grade each propsect into hot, warm and cold. Put in dates when you want to contact them to take them to the next stage. Keep a prospect sheet.

Maintain good records
Good records will ensure you keep on top and get the order. You need to keep records on prospects and when they will probably buy, individual records for each prospects and customer, sales records, activity records and a diary.

Keep Trying New Ideas
Nothing stands still so even if you feel you're are doing well you need to be innovative. Both new products and new selling methods will grow your business.

There will be updates and more in-depth articles to help you.

All these ideas will improve your business provided you Take Positive Action.

Want to grow your business? Then click here

Is Coaching right for you?

2010-08-26T13:29:00.007+01:00

Concerned about whether coaching and courses will work for you? Here are some comments from satisfied clients.

Rachael Flanagan of Mrs Bucket Cleaning Co and the current UK Young Entrepreneur of the Year (beating over 1500 other hopefuls) said:
“Mike runs great seminars. I learn new ideas about sales and marketing every time we meet and they always work”

Nick Everest of Visual360Wales said:
“I found our meeting interesting and you were inspirational”

Barbara Collier of Collier Photo Imaging said:
“Mike Leahy has advised myself and my staff on marketing, motivation and merchandising . . he has a world of experience and gives his time generously. I would not hestiate to recommend him to any business or individual needing to increaee their turnover. His cheery smile, wonderful enthusiasm and eldless markerting ideas are absolutely invaluable”

Some content for the first few weeks that will get you off on a fast-track start include:

Any project needs planning. Then you need the tools and materials. You will be building your business with these bricks to have a firm structure that will last.

Introduction. “What you can expect from this course” If you want to increase turnover and sales and are prepared to make some changes then this is for you. Successful selling is achieved through having positive personal attributes, sales skills, marketing ideas, plenty of bottle, the ability to take enthusiastic action and a good system.

Are you Motivated? Many people say they’ll succeed: without strong self-motivation there is no way. How to get and stay motivated starting today.

Visualisation. What is it and how can you use it to become ultra successful?

Get Organised. Lets start as we mean to go on. Without organisation you’ll never reach your goals in life. And there is no set way to be organised only golden rules.

Back to Basics. Before you can go forward you need to look over your shoulder and see where you’ve come from. You also need to look at the maths equation that will tell you whether you have a chance to succeed. No you don’t have to do any complicated algebra!!

All about Canvassing. Why do you need to canvass? What methods can you use? What is best for you? Canvassing is both a big “No! No!” and a numbers game.

Carry out a SWOT Analysis. Read the instructions and follow the template: you’ll then work it out for yourself

Use a Diary. Many don’t use diaries properly. A diary is the signpost and results of your Business or Marketing Plan. A diary is the place where you must be honest with yourself.

CRM System. This is free and will allow more than one person access. Great for running teams, using a virtual assistant and generally keeping ahead of the game.

Action Plan introduction. You’ll see how important a forward running Action Plan is to keep you in front of the game. You’ll get a template that you can use week on week, month on month.

The Day Book your best £5 investment. Buy a Day Book today and you can use your brain in a more constructive way.

The YOU brand. Lets be honest. Why do people buy from your business? The answer should be a personal one.

Complete the Hidden Asset Audit. This 26 pages questionnaire will help you see strengths and weaknesses in your own marketing

Write Marketing Plan Part One. So now to write out the Marketing Plan that’s going to shoot

you up to the stars. Part one however is getting the background information. Unfortunately this is the boring bit so lets get it out of the way first.

Getting that order - the numbers game. If converting prospects into customers may be an art then working out the number of orders you’ll get is quite a science. You’ll love it when people say “No!”

Selling success is a conversation piece. I’ve loved selling for the past 45 years. It has been an experience to meet so many interesting people, to hear their stories, to ask them questions and to finally get that order signed. Most people hate selling – I’ll show you how to love it!

Getting calls. Mobile, Answering Service, Pager, Joint Ventures. When someone calls your phone they want to talk to a person. Maybe you can’t afford a receptionist. Well there are some great alternatives. And I bet one of these is for you.

Looking Great. Do you look the part? These tips alone will increase you confidence and add inches to your personality.

Canvassing to suit your Business. There are many ways to generate interest in your

services and products. Calling people by phone, writing, sending e-mails, texts or calling in person on them at work are just some ways. Lets find out what suits you.

Canvassing by Phone Part 1. Telephone canvassing is hard work that most people hate. Done well by experienced canvassers can be enjoyable, stress free and very rewarding. What are the key secrets? How can you succeed? Part One will get you started.
Canvassing Sheet. This template will get you started and enable you to keep tabs on what you are doing. Remember! Number crunching shines the way forward.

Door-to-Door Canvassing Part 1. Going out and calling on businesses was the rage in the sixties. Now it’s back and bringing in the results. We’ve forgotten the importance of personal face-to-face contact. Try these proven techniques and win through time after time

5x3 Cards. Forget your Blackberry or I-phone. Index cards can be a secret weapon in relationship selling.

Canvassing schedule. You’ve got to set yourself targets. Make your pledge today and I promise you’ll see positive results fast.

Write Marketing Plan Part Two. We’ve seen where we are now lets look at where we want to be. This is your blueprint.

Facebook, Twitter, Linkin and more. If you haven’t used any of these get onto the site and look at some of the pages. You may have to register as a member but it’s free so just do it. Make sure you use the same name – your name to build up your personal branding. More about this later.

Want to grow your business with this COMPREHENSIVE SALES & MARKETING COURSE? Then just Click here

Good luck with your sales

Talk to me and increase your profits dramatically!

2010-08-02T16:53:00.009+01:00

Work with me for just 15 weeks and we’ll dramatically increase your turnover and profits.

Starting or running a growing business but not sure what to do next?

Running a business that just isn’t growing?

Still making mistakes that you should be aware of?

Join me in the Local Business Forum

I’m Mike Leahy, your growing business coach and, just like you, an entrepreneur. Starting a new business or growing an existing one is hard work if you do not have the experience and expertise.

Starting out just like you with a small instant print shop back in sixties and built it up using practical no-cost and low-cost marketing ideas coupled with my selling experience. Since then I have worked with numerous business owners, sharing with them those same trusted ideas and skills so that they too enjoyed success with their businesses.

I am still running business ventures including a new on-line radio show for growing businesses so that my finger is still on the marketing pulse. This year my aim is to help 120 business owners like you learn and use the steps to get your business working so that you achieve the lifestyle you want.

You will have found that the internet is overflowing with information, often at inflated prices, that promises you success overnight. This does occasionally happen but usually through a fluke. Most enterprises grow through hard work – look at overnight entertainment successes - when asked they usually tell you it took over 10 years of un-ending hard work.

So if you want to become a millionaire by tomorrow this isn’t for you!

On the other hand if you want to grow your business on firm foundations that will become a valuable asset then join me and other dynamic business owners at the Local Business Forum and learn through the Local Business Academy.

Good Selling makes great business.