How a Call Answering Service Can Transform Your Small Business

As a small business owner, you wear many hats. From managing day-to-day operations to ensuring customer satisfaction, your plate is always full. One area that often poses a significant challenge is handling phone calls. Whether it’s answering enquiries, taking messages, or providing customer support, managing calls can be time-consuming and divert your focus from core business activities. This is where a professional call answering service can make a substantial difference.

What is a Call Answering Service?

A call answering service provides businesses with a dedicated team of professionals who handle incoming calls on their behalf. These services can range from basic message taking to comprehensive customer service solutions. Here are some compelling reasons why small businesses should consider leveraging a call answering service.

Benefits of Using a Call Answering Service

1. Never Miss a Call

Every missed call could be a missed business opportunity. A call answering service ensures that all calls are answered promptly, regardless of the time of day. This 24/7 availability means that your customers can always reach a friendly and professional voice, enhancing their experience with your business.

2. Professional Customer Service

Providing high-quality customer service is crucial for retaining customers and building a positive reputation. Call answering services employ trained professionals who can handle customer enquiries, resolve issues, and provide information efficiently and courteously. This professional touch can significantly improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Cost-Effective Solution

Hiring full-time staff to handle calls can be costly, especially for small businesses with limited budgets. Call answering services offer a cost-effective alternative, allowing you to pay only for the services you need. This can lead to substantial savings while still ensuring that your calls are managed effectively.

4. Increased Productivity

Managing calls can be a major distraction, pulling you away from more critical tasks. By outsourcing call handling, you can focus on what you do best – growing your business. This increased productivity can lead to better business outcomes and a more balanced workload for you and your team.

5. Scalability

As your business grows, so does the volume of calls. A call answering service can easily scale with your business needs, providing more support as required without the hassle of hiring and training new staff. This scalability ensures that your call handling capacity always matches your business demands.

How to Choose the Right Call Answering Service

When selecting a call answering service, consider the following factors:

• Reputation: Look for a service with positive reviews and a proven track record.
• Customisation: Ensure they offer tailored solutions that meet your particular business needs.
• Availability: Choose a service that provides support to cater to your specific operating hours.
• Cost: Compare pricing models to find a service that fits your budget without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

In today’s competitive business landscape, providing exceptional customer service can set you apart from the competition. A call answering service not only helps you manage your calls efficiently but also enhances customer satisfaction, saves costs, and boosts productivity. By investing in a reliable call answering service, you can ensure that your small business is always accessible and professional, paving the way for sustained growth and success.

Ready to transform your call handling process? Contact us today to learn more about how MOMENTUM can support your business with a professional call answering services.

T: 01903 688789

E: makeithappen@mbsmih.com  

Carpenter Box nominated for two Accounting Excellence Awards!

Sussex and South East-based accountancy firm Carpenter Box has been named a finalist In two categories of the prestigious Accounting Excellence Awards 2024.

The awards recognise the achievements of accounting firms and teams from across the UK, and Carpenter Box has been shortlisted for the Employer of the Year (Medium & Large) and Tax Team of the Year.

Commented Managing Partner, Alan Edwards: “I am incredibly proud and delighted for our teams to be acknowledged through this prestigious awards scheme. Training and development is integral to our culture, enabling individuals to pursue their career aspirations. These award nominations reflect the expertise of my colleagues at Carpenter Box and their determination to always go the extra mile to help clients achieve their goals.”

Over the last 12 months, staff numbers at the firm have grown by 27% from 201 to 255, with 14% of staff working for the firm for more than 10 years. A 2024 client survey gave an impressive Net Promoter Score of 71, with 70 being the gold star standard.

Carpenter Box operates from offices in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, London, Portsmouth and Worthing.

www.carpenterbox.com

New contemporary works of Sussex landmarks revealed

Artistic duo gives modern take to Eastbourne Pier and Salvington Windmill with bright and bold colour treatment

Sussex-based artists Two Faced Twins have revealed their most recent work – two new pieces showing Eastbourne Pier, each depicted in alternate day and night scenes.

The works were unveiled during an exclusive event held at Two Faced Twins’ Worthing seafront gallery on 23 August. Created in the Two Faced Twins’ trademark bold, bright and unapologetically upbeat style, the pieces combine the ink drawing talent of 33-year-old Stella Stevens and the colour treatment of twin sister, Gemma Stevens. 

The artists were born and raised in Sussex and are already well-known for their seaside depictions of Worthing, Brighton and Littlehampton. Stella, speaking of why they decided to add Eastbourne Pier to their collection, said: “As an artist, I’m drawn to detail, especially architectural detail, and Eastbourne Pier has so much of it to offer. It’s beautiful, unique and feels almost maze-like. I drew the pier from two different perspectives and in the process it sometimes felt like I was seeing it properly for the first time.”

Gemma, known for her appreciation and eccentricity of colour, added: “It’s always exciting and even slightly nerve-wracking to launch a new artwork, especially when it’s of something as iconic as Eastbourne Pier. I wanted to reflect the joy the pier brings to so many and has for generations by making it sing with colour. The bright pinks, blues, greens and yellows scream fun and happiness, and that was so important for us to get across.”

Along with the Eastbourne pieces, Two Faced Twins also revealed a new painting of Salvington Windmill available in two different colourways. Gemma said: “We love visiting the windmill and learning about its fascinating history and restoration. When we were thinking what to add to our collection, the windmill was a natural choice for both of us.”

Stella said: “When drawing the windmill, I particularly enjoyed the challenge of showing movement. I’m really pleased with the end product and love how Gemma has made the windmill pop against a bright pink and blue sky. It shows how this much-loved landmark is as relevant today as it was when it was built in the 18th century.”

The Eastbourne paintings Day Trip to Eastbourne, Pier Lights, Home to Roost, Moonlight Flit, and Milling About, are all now available framed or unframed in a variety of sizes from Two Faced Twins Worthing gallery or from the website https://www.twofacedtwins.com/. Prices start at £145. Each piece is a limited edition.

A range of homeware featuring the new artwork is also available. The homeware range includes greeting cards, glass coasters, chopping boards, placemats and fridge magnets, and starts at £3.00.

Stanford Legal Services recognised for excellence and innovation ahead of national awards ceremony.

Paul Stanford of Stanford Legal Services has been recognised for his commitment to innovation, service excellence, client experience and expertise having been shortlisted at a prestigious national awards ceremony in Estate Planning Consultant of the Year.

The British Wills and Probate Awards was launched in 2018 to recognise and celebrate the firms, businesses and individuals who have delivered outstanding service and expertise to clients across the wills and probate/private client sector; and is widely considered to be an indicator of excellence and trust.

Firms shortlisted have been through a rigorous process of independent scrutiny by a panel of industry professionals who arrive at the final shortlists. The winners will be announced on the 10^th October 2024 at the gala ceremony in Manchester.

Commenting on his success, Director of Stanford Legal Services, Paul Stanford said:

“I am delighted to be shortlisted for the Estate Planning Consultant of the Year award. This nomination reflects my unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service, technical knowledge, and innovative solutions. Over the years, I have strived to assist others and engage with the community, all while focusing on continuous improvement, training, and development. This dedication has allowed me to consistently exceed client expectations, as reflected in numerous 5-star Google reviews. It is an honour to be recognised as a trusted, competent, and reliable estate planning legal services adviser.

Stanford Legal Services, led by Paul Stanford, continues to set the standard in estate planning. Paul's leadership and expertise makes him a go-to resource for complex estate planning needs, earning him a stellar reputation in the industry.”

British Wills and Probate Awards Headline Sponsor CTT Group Director Clive Ponder TEP said

“It’s an absolute pleasure and a privilege to once again be headline sponsors. The BWAP Awards recognise the very best in our industry and having the honour of being a judge this year, I’ve seen first hand the talent and dedication, and the heights of achievement this industry can reach”

“Huge congratulations to all those who’ve been shortlisted for the awards. I look forward with great enthusiasm to the 2024 winners being announced at this year’s event in Manchester in October.”

The British Wills and Probate Awards is the largest event dedicated to recognising excellence in the industry. It is hosted by Today’s Media, the publishers of trade publication Today’s Wills and Probate, an online news publication for solicitors, will writers and probate practitioners.

Further details about The British Wills and Probate Awards 2024 are available at www.britishwillsandprobateawards.co.uk. 

Join Tree Action in Making a Greener Future

Tree Action is a Community Interest Company dedicated to organising tree planting and maintenance projects on school grounds and public land. Since 2020, we have funded and organised seven school tree-planting projects in Sussex, planting between 20 to 50 trees per school. Our projects aim to connect young people and nature, and improve the local environment.

Recent Case Study: Oak Grove College

We recently completed a project at Oak Grove College in Worthing. A group of enthusiastic students participated in a plum tree planting day, which included preparing the ground, planting the trees, and adding stakes for support. This initiative expanded an existing small orchard, enhancing the school’s green space.

In addition to some fruit trees, the children planted silver birch trees to help maintain a mixed woodland and absorb pollution from the nearby road. The students have taken on the responsibility of regularly watering each tree to ensure their healthy growth. This project is a school-wide effort, with many year groups participating in various activities such as weeding and watering to help maintain the trees planted.

Many schools don’t have the time or resources to deliver a tree planting project on school grounds, so we fundraise and plan projects for them, enabling students to connect with and appreciate nature and contribute to combatting climate change.

We are asking for donations to continue our work. By becoming a regular donor or corporate partner, you can make a significant impact on our local environment and community, and fulfill your sustainability goals too. In return for your support, your company is welcome to engage staff in our tree-planting projects in the Adur and Worthing area. Additionally, you can display our ‘We Help Tree Action Plant Trees’ logo on your website, to showcase your commitment to sustainability.

For more information, please feel free to visit our website at: www.treeactionuk.org

Or contact us at ricky@treeaction.org.uk

St Mary’s Church in Horsham receives commemorative plaque to mark award-winning renovation

Handover ceremony after Pilbeam Construction named as winner in Sussex Heritage Trust Awards. 

St Mary’s Church in Horsham has a received a special plaque after a renovation project at the church by Southwick firm Pilbeam Construction won a Sussex Heritage Trust award.

The aim of the renovation was to improve flexibility of space in the South Aisle of the Grade-1 listed building in Causeway, Horsham, which in part dates back to 1247.

It also saw underfloor heating installed, creating a comfortable space for people to take refreshments during concerts and after services.

Judges were so impressed with the sensitive way it was achieved that they awarded the project first place in the Ecclesiastical category.

Now, having picked up the award in a ceremony at Lancing College Chapel, Pilbeam returned to Horsham to hand over a commemorative plaque to the church.

Nick O’Riordan at St Mary’s said: “We’re absolutely delighted with this award-winning project and the way it has transformed the space at St Mary’s.

“A lot of people have remarked on how wonderful it looks, completely in keeping with this very special and historic building.

“Many congratulations to Pilbeam Construction for being honoured in this way and for working with us so closely on the project. We’ll be very proud to display the plaque and to welcome people to enjoy the South Aisle at St Mary’s with us.”

Expertise was required to complete the renovation, which included digging down to put in insulation for underfloor heating pipes before adding a screed layer and ceramic tiles.

These were then topped with stylish Clipsham Stone tiles, expertly laid next to the church’s existing Victorian floor tiles.

All these works needed to be carried out with minimal disruption and damage to the fabric of the building, including the church’s famous Father Willis organ.

Alan Corbett, managing director at Pilbeam Construction, said: “This was a special project to be involved in and we were delighted to see it win an award.

“Then to come back and present a plaque to our friends at St Mary’s, and see for ourselves how well the project has been received, was inspiring. We hope the newly renovated space will be used and appreciated for many years to come.”

For more information please visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/

Criminal Groups Targeting Charities and Not For Profit Landowners in the South East

 We have received a message from the Environmental Crime Agency asking that we raise awareness around the risks of serious and organised waste crime to landowners, who can leave charitable organisations with substantial clean up costs, that can run into tens of thousands of pounds. 

There is a criminal group currently operating across the South East, where offenders have targeted scout groups.

The offenders’ method involves making an unsolicited approach to charity landowners in person/phone call or email offering free or low-cost landscaping/resurfacing, sometimes in exchange for storing some ‘soil’ on your land. 

The material is waste that has been processed, and to the untrained eye can look like a pile of soil. The cost of clearance falls to the landowner including the landfill tax, which can be substantial. A charity site has been targeted this year in Berkshire and approximately 100,000 tonnes of processed waste has been tipped. 

It is highly likely that offenders are currently scouting for new land, although two individuals were arrested for these offences on the 19th June 2024 and are currently on bail whilst investigative enquiries continue.

Please find some information here for the benefit of charity and not for profit landowners. The offenders are experienced and well organised, so please encourage your staff and volunteers if they are approached by individuals or companies offering to do free or low-cost landscaping, resurfacing or similar, be suspicious and to report their concerns promptly to the Environment Agency (0800 80 70 60) or via Crimestoppers.

GWCA Partner with Worthing Football Club

GWCA Solicitors are delighted to announce that we have partnered with Worthing Football Club and become a premium sponsor for the upcoming 2024/2025 season.

Worthing Rebels have played at Woodside Road since 1901 and are the most successful team in the Sussex Senior Cup, having won the competition 22 times. The club has gained two promotions to the National League South and the Rebels finished the 2022/23 season in their highest-ever league position in their 137-year history.

GWCA Solicitors started out in in 1915 and, like the football club, has been at the heart of the Sussex community ever since. We have a great reputation for helping people with life’s big decisions. This partnership with Worthing F.C will help develop and strengthen relationships with current and prospective clients, together with key local business and communities.

GWCA have been a statement of the Sussex legal community for over 100 years and have prided themselves by being the largest local solicitor firm in Sussex and the South coast, providing legal services for individuals and businesses. Our offices are in local towns around Worthing and across the South coast. We are proud of our strong ties with the local communities and organisations.

As part of the sponsorship, GWCA Solicitors will have prominent advertising areas within The Sussex Transport Community Stadium. You will see this as you walk into the stadium on the fencing to your left, around the pitch and in match day programmes.

Emma Chatwell, GWCA Senior Partner said “We are a local firm keen to support and promote other local businesses and are delighted to become the clubs’ one of the clubs’ premium sponsors. We are proud to stand with Worthing Football Club and look forward to supporting them as we support all existing and new clients, in every aspect of their lives.”

Bennett Griffin LLP Acquires Charles Hill Hubbard LLP: A New Chapter in Legal Excellence

Bennett Griffin LLP, the award-winning solicitors firm based in Worthing, is delighted to announce its acquisition of Charles Hill Hubbard LLP, a respected legal practice in Chichester.

This strategic move marks an exciting milestone for both firms and promises to enhance the legal services available to clients in the region.

Earlier this year, Bennett Griffin opened its second office in Eastgate, Chichester.

The incorporation of Charles Hill Hubbard LLP into Bennett Griffin LLP brings together two firms with shared values and a commitment to providing high-quality legal services.

All at Charles Hill Hubbard LLP will join the Bennett Griffin team in Chichester, ensuring continuity and a seamless transition for clients.

Managing Partner at Bennett Griffin, Kate Hallin, said she was excited about the acquisition:

“We are thrilled to welcome everyone from Charles Hill Hubbard to the Bennett Griffin team. This represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide quality legal services in Chichester and beyond.

“The clients of Charles Hill Hubbard can look forward to an expanded range of services, greater capacity and support as well as enhanced technology to ensure their cases progress efficiently but still with the high level of knowledge and expertise they are used to receiving

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the team at Charles Hill Hubbard for their exceptional work and dedication over the years. Their legacy of excellence in property and private client work will continue to thrive under the Bennett Griffin umbrella.”

Founded over 100 years ago, Charles Hill Hubbard LLP has been a cornerstone of the Chichester legal community, specialising in property and private client work.

Dominic Ryan and Christopher Spirit, current Partners of Charles Hill Hubbard, shared their excitement about the move:

“We are proud of our history and the strong relationships we have built with our clients. Joining Bennett Griffin LLP allows us to offer our clients an even broader spectrum of legal services while maintaining the high standards they have come to expect. We are excited about the future and the opportunities this acquisition brings.”

Bennett Griffin LLP is known for its forward-thinking approach and commitment to the local community.

The firm actively supports various local causes, including St Barnabas House and Worthing Pride.

With this acquisition, Bennett Griffin LLP continues to strengthen its presence in West Sussex, offering expert and friendly legal advice to individuals, families, and businesses.

Clients of both firms can be assured of the same dedication to excellence, with the added benefits of increased resources and expertise.

For more information about Bennett Griffin LLP's services, please visit www.bennettgriffin.co.uk or contact their Chichester office at 01243 256370

Sussex Transport - a New Truck and a Rosette

We are thrilled to share that Sussex Transport recently participated in, and won a rosette, at the UK Road Transport Expo. Invited by our esteemed partners at Palfinger UK. This annual event, held at the prestigious Road Transport Expo, showcases the latest innovations and excellence in the transport industry.

About the UK Road Transport Expo

The UK Road Transport Expo is a premier event that brings together key players in the transport and logistics industry to exhibit their cutting-edge vehicles and technologies. This year’s expo featured a diverse range of exhibitors, providing attendees with insights into the latest advancements and trends shaping the future of road transport.

Palfinger UK: Leading the Way in Lorry Loader Cranes

Palfinger UK, a renowned name in the crane and lifting industry, is celebrated for its innovative solutions and exceptional quality. As the official UK distributor for Palfinger lorry cranes, Palfinger UK has been setting benchmarks in the industry for decades. Their expertise extends to providing comprehensive in-house assembly, bespoke body-building, and dedicated servicing throughout the equipment’s lifecycle.

Our Award-Winning Showcase

We are incredibly proud to announce that our Volvo FH500, equipped with the Palfinger PK 580 Tec 7 crane and a custom-built Palfinger body, was awarded the prestigious ‘Best in Show’ rosette at the expo. This accolade is a testament to the superior craftsmanship and advanced technology of the Palfinger team, as well as our commitment to excellence in our fleet.

Palfinger UK

We are delighted to award our 'Best in Show' rosette to Sussex Transport and Andy Packham for their Volvo FH500 with Palfinger PK 580 Tec crane and Palfinger body built in our Devizes workshop. What a beautiful vehicle. This vehicle will be on our stand for the next two days, so pop along to see it for yourself.

A Word of Thanks

From all of us at Sussex Transport, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Palfinger UK for their invitation and outstanding hospitality at the expo. Your recognition and support mean the world to us.

Andy Packham - Lifting & Training Manager

"I am honored to have represented Sussex Transport at the UK Road Transport Expo and to receive the 'Best in Show' award for our Volvo FH500 with the Palfinger PK 580 Tec crane. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, and I want to thank Palfinger UK for their exceptional hospitality and the opportunity to showcase our vehicle. It's partnerships like these that drive our success and innovation in the industry."