Is social media recruitment right for your business?

There have always been ways of recruiting that go beyond the simple job advert in a newspaper, or in more recent years, an online job board. For as long as recruitment companies in Northern Ireland like Webrecruit Ireland have existed, employers have also depended on the likes of internal recommendations and 'word of mouth'.

However, there's no question that this is the big moment for social media recruiting. For some companies, it's their sole means of advertising externally for jobs.

But is it the most suitable route for your own company?

Does social media give you the right audience?

For some Northern Ireland businesses, social media recruiting is a godsend. If they're on social media already and have a bank of loyal followers with an interest in their products or services, they've already got a great pool of people to hire from.

Some companies, though - especially the bigger brands - find that advertising vacancies on social media brings too overwhelming and untargeted a response. They simply get drowned in irrelevant CVs, making a more discreet advert in a relevant publication a better strategy.

Public or private?

On one hand, there's no doubting the speed and convenience of being able to write a job advert and post it to Facebook or Twitter in minutes, without paying a thing. But would a higher level of discretion be better?

We aren't just referring to the tendency to get bombarded with hundreds of CVs when you make your vacancies more public. We're referring to the fact that many companies would rather not let such social media followers as current or potential clients know that there's upheaval at the moment in the personnel department.

You may be advertising for a role that has had a high turnover lately, which if prospective applicants notice, might deter them from applying. Remember that social media recruitment adverts carry your brand, so everyone will know that your company is the one hiring.

Make the most of social media

One thing's for sure - social media recruiting is here to stay. As one of the most respected recruitment companies in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, Webrecruit Ireland can help you to decide whether it's the most suitable route for your own next hiring campaign.

Editor’s Note: Webrecruit Ireland (http://www.webrecruitireland.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

5 things to remember when rehiring a former employee

Picture the scene... you're sifting through those CVs, and a name pops out - it's someone who's worked for your company before. What's more, they did a pretty good job last time. They're probably a safe bet then, right? There won't be too much training to do, and they already know your business, possibly inside out.

Mind you, there can be some pitfalls when rehiring a familiar face. The leading recruitment consultant in Exeter, Webrecruit, gives you some valuable tips for making the rehiring process as thorough and professional as possible.

1. Don't accept just any former staffer

Sure, you can save on training and even advertising costs when you rehire a past employee of yours. But are you rehiring for the right reasons? Would you still recruit them if they were a brand new candidate, or are you being guided by mere convenience?

2. Research the candidate thoroughly

Don't skimp on the essential research into the candidate, just because you know them. For one thing, they might have changed a lot since they last worked for you, so check those references. But also look back at how they performed when they were with you - even ask their former managers if they're still at your firm.

3. Ask the right interview questions

The fact that you're considering rehiring someone shouldn't mean that you treat them lightly at interview. In particular, ask them why they left your firm in the first place, why they want to come back and what would make them leave again. You don't want them to depart again as soon as they get a better offer, so scrutinise their motivations for returning.

4. Explain how the business has changed

Yes, companies do change between a returning employee's spells there, and before you rehire them, they should be told about those changes. They shouldn't be left with the impression that they are returning to the exact same business, or necessarily even the same job, as its responsibilities and workload may have also changed.

5. Keeping checking how they are doing

You'll want your ex-employee to make a smooth transition into working for you again, but bear in mind that they may hesitate to ask for help compared to a brand new employee, due to fears of sounding like they don't know what they're doing. That's why it's so important to keep checking on your staffer and let them know that you're available if they need any assistance.

Whether you're hiring someone for the first, second or third time, with Webrecruit as your recruitment consultant in Exeter, you can ensure that you're making the right choice.

Editor’s Note: Webrecruit (http://www.webrecruit.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Don't overlook our gorgeous fishing cottages in Somerset

There can truly be few more beautiful parts of the world than rural Somerset, and for those who are yet to be converted, all that it takes is one look at the highly in-demand fishing cottages in Somerset of Waterside Breaks, to say nothing of the abundance of further-flung local attractions.

Our cottages in this delectable part of England do not merely appeal to those looking for the most relaxing fishing break. Loved-up couples, families with children and even adventurous singles seeking a slice of the tranquil also frequently enquire about them, and with good reason. Here at Waterside Breaks, after all, we can offer stays at the much sought-after Lakeview Cottages in Huntworth, near Bridgwater.

These luxury four star cottages are set in the peaceful surroundings of a gorgeous canal and a private twelve-acre fishing lake. Stunning views over this lake can be enjoyed from the rear of these three bedroom properties that sleep six, and it goes without saying that this spot is a fisher's paradise, with the different species able to be caught here including Carp, Koi, Pike, Bream and Roach.

However, the additional twelve acres of private woodland and lakes also makes these fishing cottages in Somerset irresistible living quarters for those wishing to enjoy all of the abundance of nature, from plants and insects to fish and birds. Although you could spend your entire break wandering through this woodland to your heart's content, the close proximity to the cottages of the famous canal and riverside towpaths between Bridgwater and Taunton ensures even more opportunity for gentle walking or cycling.

Of course, there will always be some people staying at our fishing cottages in Somerset who are more on the adventurous side, and who are therefore likely to welcome the challenging terrains for off-road biking that are the Quantocks and Blackdown Hills. All of this is without even considering the nearby charming market towns that simply beg to be explored, and where you will find highly hospitable village pubs serving delicious traditional food.

The Lakeview cottages themselves are naturally formidable in their specifications, being as outwardly full of character as they are contemporary in style on the inside. For those with mobility requirements, two of the single storey lodges have been adapted with wheelchair-accessible kitchen work surfaces and a wet room with shower and hand rails.

Search the Waterside Breaks website today for availability and pricing information pertaining to our fishing cottages in Somerset, as well for other lakeside fishing holidays.

Make Vantage PR your complete technology PR agency

There's no question of what a monumental difference technology has made to all sectors of the economy in merely the last decade or so. Never before has communication been so instant, far-reaching and international, which has had vast implications for business and society. Anything and everything is being talked about online - and your company is not exempt from this.

On one hand, technological developments over the last few years have created new, powerful channels for reaching the right audiences. But on the other hand, these channels can be used in ways that cause great reputational damage to your company. It shouldn't be too surprising, therefore, that the need has arisen for companies to be more proactive in managing their public reputations, in partnership with the right technology PR agency.

There are many reasons why Vantage Public Relations is precisely that PR agency. The company does, after all, combine some two decades of B2B and B2C public relations experience with an invaluable grounding in the digital PR and social media of today's corporate marketing landscape. All sizes of business in the UK are catered for, with our ability to address the most specific needs reflected in our excellent record of client retention.

As one might expect of a truly 21st century technology PR agency, Vantage PR's ability to make the most of online resources is integral to this record. With it now widely acknowledged that the Internet is as valid a media channel as magazines, newspapers and broadcast mediums, Vantage PR has far-reaching expertise in the effective promotion of client businesses online, which helps to boost search engine rankings as well as enhancing a firm's all-round reputation.

We know how to extract the maximum potential from the full breadth of digital tools, from SEO, social media and link building to email marketing and e-newsletters, to the end of boosting website traffic and generating a greater number of quality sales enquiries. Whether you talk to us about social media strategy and campaigns, e-shots and e-newsletters, blogs and editorial or website advice and management, we'll carefully plan and build a coherent digital communication strategy that has equal, or even greater power than a traditional offline PR campaign.

Talk to Vantage PR today about why we really are the complete technology PR agency.

How Tuffa can address your every need from a domestic heating oil tank

A heating oil tank is nothing less than an essential purchase for many of those households that are not coupled up to the UK's mains gas network, and that therefore require a means of storing oil on their own property's grounds. This oil is used by such households as fuel to heat water, for both their hot water systems and the general heating of their property.

However, there is a list of important practical, financial and even legal requirements that such homeowners will need to consider in choosing a heating oil tank. The tank that you buy will need to be not only well-priced, but also capable of lasting for many years with minimal maintenance. Much deliberation is required in selecting a tank that is suitable for your home, not just in terms of the finer specification, but also size.

It is recommended to allow an oil capacity of around 500 litres for each of your home's bedrooms, meaning that a two bedroom property will require a tank with a minimum 1,000 litre capacity, a three bedroom home at least 1,500 litres and so on. By choosing the right capacity of tank, you will be able to store as much as is needed to take advantage of the lower prices for fuel that tend to occur in the summer, the time of lowest demand.

Take a look at the current heating oil tank range here at Tuffa to discover the full breadth of possibilities. If this is your first time making such a purchase for your home, you may not have expected to be able to choose from capacities as low as 1,350 litres, or as high as 15,000 litres. Nor may you have been aware of such available optional extras as fire protection, high accuracy gauges or custom outlet positioning.

Such is our commitment to providing you with a heating oil tank that meets your most specific demands, that there are even various colour and high security options. Our bunded heating oil tanks meet all conceivable functional requirements, their specification encompassing the likes of an inspection lid, manway access, lockable cabinet and overfill prevention valve, depending on the exact choice of model. They also comply with all current UK oil storage regulations.

Whether you require a heating oil tank for a domestic, commercial or agricultural application, as well as for a new build or existing building, you can have the utmost peace of mind when you buy yours from Tuffa.

Editor’s Note: Tuffa (http://www.tuffa.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Report prompts government's new asbestos awareness initiative

A new survey conducted by Censuswide for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has further affirmed the importance of asbestos surveying by shedding light on the often misunderstood dangers and prevalence of asbestos exposure, prompting a new safety campaign geared towards fighting the danger and increasing employee awareness.

The initiative was launched by Health and Safety Minister Mark Harper, who has stated: "The number dying every year from asbestos related-diseases is unacceptably high. Despite being banned in the construction industry, asbestos exposure remains a very serious risk to tradespeople. This safety campaign is about highlighting the risks and easy measures people can take to protect themselves."

The survey uncovered the fact that tradespeople working in fields such as interior decoration, construction, carpentry and many more were being exposed to asbestos more than one hundred times a year, and that their awareness of its prevalence and dangers was shockingly rudimentary.

Disclosing the pervasiveness of such myths as the idea that opening windows and drinking a glass of water would offer such tradespeople substantial protection, the research reported that less than one third of individuals polled could identify the correct safety measures for working around asbestos.

More than half were reported to make potentially fatal mistakes while believing themselves to be acting correctly. It was ultimately concluded that a shocking average of 20 tradespeople succumb to asbestos related diseases every week. The number of people suffering from asbestos-related disabilities is sure to be just as concerning.

The asbestos surveying services provided by Trident Surveying exist to minimise the personal, financial, and legal risks for you and your employees. Asbestos can be found in a host of household areas, and fibres can be easily disturbed by basic work. Once breathed in, these fibres can have lethal results, causing diseases like lung disease and mesothelioma – an aggressive cancer of the chest cavity, outer lung, and abdominal insides.

Asbestos exposure profoundly threatens the health of you and your employees. With increased governmental input aiming to improve public awareness, the legal costs of failing to protect employees is set to grow and grow, meaning that both your firm's financial and physical wellbeing could be at risk. Contact Trident Surveying to organise your asbestos surveying today, in order to protect yourself for tomorrow.

Why are so many homeowners opting for flooring slate?

It's cheaper and easier than you might think to add flooring slate to your home. Flooring slate is an increasingly popular choice for today's homeowners and is ideal for environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.

The properties of flooring slate make it great for insulation, and you may even decide to add an underfloor heating system to it. By fitting flooring slate at your property, you can increase its value and make it a more comfortable place to live. The slate has a timeless appeal, which means that you can expect it to still look great a number of years down the line. If you're looking for a flooring option for your home that won't appear dated in a couple of years' time, flooring slate may well be ideal.

Many home improvement ideas have a limited shelf life, but flooring slate is not one of them. Its natural qualities make it robust enough to stand up to everything that it might come up against. The material is fire-resistant, which comes as no surprise given that it is derived from metamorphic rocks, which make it extremely robust.

While flooring slate was mainly used in years past for outdoor environments, it has become extremely practical to install inside the home. Flooring slate is remarkably easy to maintain and there are various patterns and colours to choose from. This means that it is incredibly versatile and able to cater for a wide spectrum of personal tastes. Flooring slate is an investment that can increase the value of your home while also pushing up your standard of living.

Talk to us today if you're keen to find out more about flooring slate and the various packages that we can offer. Flooring slate offers obvious benefits during the colder months that we are now entering, but also has true year-round appeal.

The Natural Slate Company has years of experience when it comes to the supply and installation of flooring slate. We go the extra mile to bring you the home improvements that you're looking for and you can count on us to deliver an unrivalled standard of customer service. We're the obvious choice when it comes to flooring slate - just contact us now to find out exactly why.

Editor’s Note: The Natural Slate Company (http://www.theslatecompany.net) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Why Simpson Packaging is a champion when it comes to polythene products

Packaging supplies don't come more essential than polythene products, with such items as polythene bags, gripper bags, stretch film and pallet wrap, polythene furniture covers and Q-Lite pre-stretch film being crucial to the operations of so many firms in the removals, self-storage and furniture industries. Not to mention such a wide market within general manufacturing and industry.

Here at Simpson Packaging, we should know - after all, we are one of the principal suppliers of such products to the aforementioned types of industries, our popularity assured by our competitive pricing, family-oriented service and, of course, the stellar standard of the polythene products themselves. Our polythene bags, for example, come in numerous sizes and gauges (thickness) and provide excellent dust and moisture protection for all manner of items.

A high level of customisation is possible with some of our polythene products, as shown by the options for our customers to have bags printed and bespoke manufacturing requests achievable such as self seal strips, micro perforations or block bottom bases. Such custom printing is also available for our gripper bags, which are transparent polythene bags that incorporate a plastic closing strip, enabling them to be resealed repeatedly. Choose from plain and heavy-duty gripper bags, as well as those with write on panels.

However, as we know just how important it is for many of our customers to ensure the adequate protection from dust of their furniture when in storage or transit, we're also proud to be able to offer a comprehensive ex-stock selection of polythene furniture covers. The range includes armchair and sofa covers, mattress bags, dining chair covers, dust covers, carpet sleeving and more.

Similarly indispensible for many of our manufacturing and distribution orientated customers, is cost-effective stretch wrap for the secure palletization of products. This range encompasses standard clear films, black opaque security film, flush and extended core hand film, mini handy wrap bundling rolls and more. Your workers will be able to wrap pallets even more easily and efficiently, however, when you opt for our Q-Lite pre-stretch film that removes the need to stretch the film, thereby minimising operator fatigue and back strain.

We even offer jumbo machine applied stretch wrap rolls for use with a range of stretch wrap machines which we have available. These machines are ideal for businesses with high wrapping demands. They will speed up the efficiency and the price per metre of machine film is generally cheaper than that of hand applied rolls. Additionally we have a number of different styles of polythene heat shrink film available from stock in preformed shrink bags, centre folded or single wound sheeting form. This type of heat shrink film is ideal for the protection of heavy palletised loads or items that need securing together and protecting from the elements.  Robust shrinkwrap guns and heat shrink systems for the wrapping of smaller items for point of sale products are also available.

But there's so much more to the range of polythene packaging supplies on offer at Simpson Packaging, such as the many colours and sizes of carrier bag that we stock, not to mention refuse, rubble and linen bags. Simply head to the polythene products section of the Simpson Packaging website today to see why we have built such a formidable reputation in this area.

Editor’s Note: Simpson Packaging (http://www.simpson-packaging.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Create a magical big day with Shendish Manor

Shendish Manor is one of the most acclaimed wedding venues in Apsley and is renowned for its elegance. We go the extra mile as far as hospitality is concerned, and are passionate about helping couples to marry in style. Our picturesque grounds are ideal for wedding photos and are overlooked by some of the most epic scenery in the country.

There are also many different rooms to choose from when it comes to your wedding ceremony and we even have banqueting suites for up to 350 different people. Our wedding co-ordinators are experts in their field and you can count on them to ensure that your day runs like clockwork.

We can also provide catering and offer dishes to suit people of all tastes. Special room rates are available for your guests. Guests can choose from a rustic room in the Manor House or one of our ultra-modern air-conditioned rooms that are located in the modern wing. Residents are offered special rates for the golf green too. Why not get in touch today to talk about marrying in our stunning Victorian hotel?

The hotel is located within 160 acres of gardens and parkland and although the building has been renovated over the years, it is has lost none of its timeless charm. Our rooms are famed for their ambience and are designed to offer an unrivalled standard of comfort.

The Manor House is ideal is you're inviting up to 92 guests to the ceremony and can hold an additional 68 people in the evening. This Jacobean venue is characterised by high ceilings, oak panelling and a picture-perfect fireplace. The hotel also features Superior or Four Poster rooms and you can even order flowers, chocolates and champagne to your room.

Our staff are hospitable, understanding, attentive and provide the highest standards of customer care. We're confident that you won't regret choosing Shendish Manor as a venue for your big day. We're passionate about helping our guests to create magical memories that they'll cherish forever, so look no further if you're interested in wedding venues in Apsley.

Editor’s Note: Shendish Manor (http://www.shendish-manor.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Fibre optic cable supplies are a Securi-Flex speciality

When customers across Great Britain, Ireland and Europe have found themselves in need of the highest standard of specialist communication cables, they have so often turned to Securi-Flex. This company has built a leading reputation over the years for its acclaimed SFX line of cabling, covering such items as signal and control cables, telephone cables and data cabinets and accessories.

Unsurprisingly, SFX has also become a go-to brand for those seeking the very best and most suitable fibre optic cable supplies. Browsing the range of fibre optics on offer at Securi-Flex means being able to choose from various loose tube and tight buffered cables, in the complete range of micron sizes. Available sheathing options, meanwhile, include LSZH, Internal/external and Corrugated Steel Tape (CST).

Pre-terminated wire can even be supplied by Securi-Flex at a nominal fee, for those who know not only the installation, but also the distance required and choice of connector. The selection of fibre optic accessories that the store offers, meanwhile, is barely less formidable than the main cabling range, encompassing pig tails, patch cords, patch panels/boxes and connectors.

Customers purchasing the SFX Tight Buffered Fibre Optics cable benefit from a product constructed from colour coded buffered wires, packed in water-resistant rodent protected strength members. This cable's outer sheath is equally suitable for internal and external use, given that it is both flame retardant and low smoke halogen free.

Also available in the current Securi-Flex fibre optic cable supplies range is the SFX Loose Tube Internal/External cable, its construction based around a silica gel filled tube containing as many as 24 colour coded cores. This tube is covered with aramid strength members, in addition to a flame retardant and low smoke halogen free outer sheath.

Another strong seller among Securi-Flex's fibre optic cable supplies at the moment is the SFX Corrugated Steel Tape Armour (CST), which can be specified with 4-24 cores and offers good moisture resistance due to its gel filled tube. Just as many cores are available for the SFX Steel Wire Armour (SWA), this one's construction being from standard loose tube cables, subsequently packed into a flexible fibre glass water blocking strength member with an LSZH jacket.

Those taking a look around the current complete fibre optic cable supplies selection at Securi-Flex are certainly likely to be well-served by what they find. 

Editor’s Note: Securi-Flex (http://www.securiflex.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Oil and gas skills gaps 'can be filled by contractors'

Those in the oil and gas industries making the most of specialist accountancy for contractors may take an interest in the 2014 Oil & Gas UK Economic Report, which has identified a series of key areas experiencing an acute onshore worker shortage, which contractors could play a key role in alleviating. Contractors could also help to improve productivity in the North Sea, where investment is coming under threat from spiralling costs.

As reported by the ContractorCalculator website, Oil & Gas UK commented: "Operators and contractors alike continue to cite shortages of adequately skilled people as the foremost challenge facing the industry. The intensity of activity on the UKCS, international competition for talent and current immigration policies have combined to exacerbate these shortages."

Dave Chaplin, ContractorCalculator CEO, hailed the positive role that contingent-based workers like contractors could play in the industry, stating: "When there are just not enough workers to go around, contractors are able to rapidly switch from project to project minimizing downtime and maximizing the uptime when their valuable skills are being used."

Various strategies are being used to tackle the skills shortage, according to the report, including retraining candidates from other sectors and boosting entry-level recruitment. However, some skills areas in which industry experience is all-important continue to suffer from insufficient numbers of suitably skilled workers.

Oil & Gas UK explained that mid-career personnel in numerous onshore roles, such as project management, design, subsea and drilling engineering and geosciences, remained "the critical area of shortage". The natural beneficiaries of such shortfalls are the oil and gas contractors who possess the right skills to land relevant contracts.

Such a list of hard-to-find skills may also lead suitably skilled employees to consider contracting, given the ready availability of lucrative contracts as soon as they start out working for themselves.

Oil & Gas UK added that contracts abounded throughout the UK, but that they were also concentrated in certain areas. While the European oil and gas capital of Aberdeen and the north east of Scotland accounted for many of these roles, new contracts were also to be found in great numbers in London and the south east of England, East Anglia and the north east.

Editor’s Note: SAIL Business Solutions (http://www.sailsolutions.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Let Ryness be your one-stop shop for lighting goods

There's no need to pay over the odds when you buy lighting online or offline, and you may be amazed by just how generous the price tags at Ryness Lighting and Electrical are. At Ryness, we specialise in supplying top-class lighting for some of the best prices around.

We have been in the business for over 50 years and have transformed in that time from a modest single store on London's Goodge Street into one of the most successful chains in the UK. Whether you're a domestic customer or a business looking for fantastic, affordable lighting, you can count on us to deliver the quality that you're looking for.

We have 14 shops in Central London and four more elsewhere and are able to offer more than 600 different types of lightbulb. We're seen as one of the most reliable suppliers of lightbulbs in the country, with our staff being experts in their field. A large number of our staff have been with us for over a decade. Our close-knit team can offer a friendly, personal approach and you can get in touch with them at any time if you have any special queries about lighting and our products in particular.

We won't leave you waiting around when you buy lighting online or offline from us. In fact, you can expect to receive your goods within three working days of an order being placed. You can talk to us about our comprehensive range of lightbulbs through e-mail or over the phone and if you place an order of over £50, you can receive free delivery. All payments are completely secure and we sell a huge range of non-lighting items, too.

Take a look at our website today if you're interested in computer accessories, remote controls, kettles, toasters and DAB radios to give just a few examples. Our goods are sourced from some of the most trusted manufacturers in the world and we're confident that you'll struggle to find better prices elsewhere. At Ryness, we're synonymous with quality. We offer real value without cutting corners, so why go elsewhere to buy lighting online or offline?

Editor’s Note: Ryness Lighting & Electrical (http://www.ryness.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Protect your identity with ID fraud protection stamps

Identity fraud isn't something that we can afford to take lightly, many people having become victims after long imagining it would never happen to them. People have lost vast sums of money through identity fraud, and more and more of us are reluctant to throw our old paperwork out with the rest of the rubbish in case it falls into the wrong hands.

Criminals may only need a few bank statements or bills in order to clear out your bank account or borrow money in your name, so what can we use to prevent these people from gaining access to such information? One of the best answers is ID fraud protection stamps.

Shredding documents is a popular and common solution, but did you know that you can also invest in special stamps that will render any confidential information printed on your paperwork unreadable? Shredding is an efficient choice but it can also be incredibly time-consuming and fussy. Stamps, on the other hand, can help you to protect your personal information quickly in a more straightforward manner.

Simply run the stamp's roller across your confidential information and it will become illegible. One simple swipe will render the document useless in the hands of would-be criminals. After you have used the stamp, you can dispose of the paperwork in the same way you would get rid of other recyclable materials, like card and packaging.

Here at Rubber Stamp King, we can offer a wide range of stamps for all manner of applications. Whether you're looking for stamps for Christmas, doctors' stamps, stamps for rewards cards or simply stamps for decorative purposes, we can help. Stamps have countless uses, covering both recreational and practical purposes.

Why not let Rubber Stamp King be your one-stop shop for stamps? Delivery is free and you can count on us to never run out of stock, which means that you can always get your hands on them when you need them. There's no need to look any further if you're hunting for top-quality ID fraud protection stamps - to say nothing of our broader stamps selection including garage stamps, loyalty card stamps, NHS stamps and so many more popular types.

Editor’s Note: Rubber Stamp King (http://www.rubberstampking.co.uk/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Make this Christmas one to remember with us

You'll have a lot to think about when browsing the best hotels for Christmas, although admittedly slightly less should you choose Regency Park Hotel. After all, we simply adore Christmas and always go the extra mile to ensure that our guests enjoy visits to our prestigious premises that they never forget.

We currently have a broad range of hotel deals on offer for Christmas, so why not find out more about our acclaimed festive party nights? Sign up for one of our Christmas parties and you'll be able to enjoy a three-course meal plus a disco and a party, while rubbing shoulders with some of the friendliest, fun-loving people around.

You can even book a private party for your staff, friends or family members if you wish. Our team know exactly how to put on a party that you'll never forget, so why wait any longer if you're keen to see this Christmas go with a bang rather than a whimper?

If you'd rather visit us in the daytime, we can cater for you. We are currently taking bookings for our renowned Christmas lunches, and what's more is that if you're keen to avoid those post-Christmas blues, you can even dine with us in January without missing out on any of the festivities.

Alternatively, you may wish to dine with us on Christmas Day itself. We offer delicious five-course Christmas lunches with all the trimmings, but don't hesitate to get the wheels in motion if you do wish to visit us on December 25^th, as places are filling up fast. You can rely on our experienced events co-ordinators to make everything run like clockwork.

The fun doesn't stop there, either. Our New Year's Eve Black and White Ball is ideal for those who don't want to stay at home on 31^st December, and by attending this momentous occasion, you'll be able to enjoy a six-course dinner with a range of wines and entertainment from a great magician and DJ.

Enjoy Christmas and New Year in style by spending them with us at Regency Park Hotel. Those seeking the best hotels for Christmas will find our Yuletide events to be nothing less than the stuff of magic.

Editor’s Note: Regency Park Hotel (http://www.regencyparkhotel.co.uk/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

What qualifications and experience should substance abuse therapists have?

When parents are seeking a substance abuse treatment program for the young adult in their life, there are certain requirements that they will have. They are likely to want to know more about the exact focus of the program - is its focus squarely short-term addiction intervention or does it take a more holistic approach to clinical care, addressing not just the substance abuse itself, but also the accompanying emotional issues feeding that abuse?

However, additional focus should also be on the substance abuse therapists themselves. If, for example, the program is about tackling a young person's issues in a simultaneous and integrated manner, does it have Masters’ level clinicians holding dual licensure in mental health as well as clinical addictions? In addition, what is the relation of the owners to the day-to-day operations of their program? Do they take a hands-on approach, in addition to overseeing strategic decisions?

You may be looking for an adventure-based therapy program, in which case, you will be reassured by a program that is led by experts with a strong track record in the integration of wilderness therapy, substance abuse and mental health treatment. The creation of a truly effective holistic substance abuse treatment program - one addressing the client's physical, mental and emotional health as part of a focus on long-lasting recovery and wellbeing - depends on a team that knows exactly how to develop a cutting-edge program based on past experience and industry research.

The objective of guiding substance-addicted, troubled young adults to a genuinely sustained recovery is a difficult one to achieve without the right programming and clinical care. This may encompass experiential therapy, adventure therapy, social skills development, life skills, and unparamounted clinical care - among other elements. A program led by those licensed in professional counseling; clinical addictions; and mental health issues, such as depression, grief and trauma, developmental issues, bipolar disorder and gender identity issues.

Often times, substance abuse therapists have first-hand experience of addiction and its effects in themselves and/or their wider families, as well as specialized training in related areas including marriage and family therapy, adventure based counseling, systemic family interventions and clinical supervision. Whatever their exact qualifications, the most important qualification of all should be that you have complete confidence in the assistance that they can provide to your young adult.

Online sales set to drive up deliveries to 1.35 billion per year by 2018

The most flexible and convenient e-fulfilment services are set to become all the more important in the coming years, according to new research commissioned by Barclays and conducted by Conlumino. Online shopping will power a rise in deliveries to more than 1.35 billion per year by 2018, according to the report.

Not only is the UK primed for a 29 per cent increase in shopping deliveries over the next four years, but The Last Mile Report 2014 from Barclays' Retail and Transport & Logistics banking sector teams predicts continued demand for online purchases of clothing and footwear. These items accounted for 20 per cent of all deliveries in the period up to 2018 - more than any other product sector.

Deliveries of food ordered online will also be on the up over the next four years, the report expecting them to surpass the number of book deliveries to become the online sector with the third highest delivery volume. Such a major expected rise in deliveries powered by online retail has been attributed to the more widespread use of smartphones and tablets for placing orders, alongside more flexible and convenient delivery options.

Just over 1 billion deliveries were generated by online orders in 2013, compared to the 1.35 billion that are predicted by 2018, with electricals the sector tipped for the greatest growth of 61 per cent, from 65 million last year to 105 million in four years' time.

Richard Lowe, Head of Retail & Wholesale at Barclays, commented: "Not only is the online purchasing and delivery market growing, it is also having to evolve quicker and more radically than previously. Driven by the increasing use of tablet and mobile devices, almost seven in ten consumers say they are looking for more innovative and rapid delivery options such as Sunday delivery.

"Although they seek more flexibility in delivery options, consumers are still very conscious of keeping prices low with cost influencing consumers preference more than any other factor including quality of service."

Lowe added that such convenient and flexible delivery options as non-store based click and collect pick up points were already being introduced by retailers in response to the evolving market. However, he added that "with the online sales momentum set to continue, our research shows that it is more important than ever for retailers to reassess their online strategy and boost investment in the online fulfilment process to maximise the benefits of this growing market place."

E-fulfilment industry observers will be interested to read that 60 per cent of all deliveries from online orders last year were letterbox-sized packages and small parcels, with letterbox-sized packages tipped for the highest growth - 45 per cent - over the next four years. The region set to see the most pronounced rise in deliveries, meanwhile, is East Anglia, although the South East is set to remain the highest-ranking region in terms of overall numbers.

Mistakes that will make your flyer marketing campaign a flop

Contrary to the popular image of flyer printing being a poor quality alternative to a 'proper marketing campaign', it can actually bring you hugely positive results.

Think about it: everyone's talking about how digital marketing is the way to go these days, but how many social media posts or emails from random companies do you even take the time to read? But if a flyer drops through your door, you'll need to at least pick it up, and you'll almost certainly read it.

You can imagine, then, just what a massive impact high quality flyers can have on your business's prospects. However, all too many firms are left with the false impression that flyer marketing doesn't work, after they make any of the following mistakes...

Typos

If you pick up a flyer with a glaringly obvious misspelling, how likely are you to even take seriously what the rest of the flyer says? Chances are that your trust in the company as a professional operation will be damaged.

Just one sloppy spelling or grammatical mistake gives your target customer an easy reason to bin the flyer... so, don't skimp on the proofreading.

Poor quality images

It's the classic error... you've found the perfect picture for your flyer, only to blow it up to fit the flyer and be confronted with a disappointingly grainy image.

Again, this type of mistake doesn't reflect well on your company, giving the impression that yours is an unprofessional bedroom-based operation rather than the major industry force that you aspire to be.

Difficult to read text

You might have a lot to say on your flyer, but being informative matters little if the text size is too small, or if the font and background colours don't complement each other well. Readability simply must be the biggest priority as far as the text on your flyer is concerned.

Shoddy quality

All aspects of a flyer make a big difference to how it - and, by extension, your company - are perceived. An amateur-looking design or roughly-cut flyer suggest a rush-job, something that a truly leading company would simply never be guilty of.

This only gives you all the more reason to use the printing services of a professional company specialising in high quality flyers, like PrintUK.com. Indeed, we give you thousands of editable flyer designs to choose from, and our services are affordable - not just high in quality.

Trust us to deliver skirting board to perfectly match your needs

Skirting board is one of those purchases that is so easily underrated in its importance until one realises just how much poorer their home is without it. It serves various purposes, ranging from the practical one of protecting the wall, to the all-important aesthetic one of really defining a living space and adding the class and character that would otherwise be so lacking.

Midland Skirting is certainly a convenient and complete one-stop source of skirting, and is able to deliver skirting board of any of a range of classic and contemporary profiles. For more than 15 years now, British homeowners have repeatedly turned to Midland Skirting for the kind of beautiful profiles, in a number of thicknesses and depths, that they are simply unable to find anywhere else - combined with the most responsive, friendly and knowledgeable customer service.

Indeed, swift, safe and affordable delivery is one of the greatest virtues of buying your next skirting board from Midland Skirting. We deliver skirting board via TNT for the utmost efficiency and peace of mind, a tracking number being provided so that you always know of your order's whereabouts. Your skirting board is also carefully packaged so that it arrives in immaculate condition, ready for immediate fitting.

Your options for the delivery at skirting board from Midland Skirting are specified at checkout and start with standard Express delivery at only £5.25. Our regular Express deliveries take place at any time before 6pm, so you should expect to allow a 3-6 day turnaround on standard orders and 6-9 day turnaround on custom profiles.

Our full range of options is outlined on our dedicated delivery page, with unprimed skirting or architrave able to be delivered via Express delivery in just two days to mainland UK. Our complete range of options includes not just standard Express, but also 12noon Express, 10am Express, 9am Express and equivalent options for Northern Ireland. We are even able to quote a delivery cost for the Highlands, Channel Islands and Offshore Islands.

Customers should also be aware of the option of collection on request. Simply email or call us on 0121 369 0000 to arrange a convenient date and time. It's just one more feature of the complete service that Midland Skirting offers for those seeking the finest quality skirting board.