Archive for 06/09/2010

Worker?

Some of us count ourselves as ‘self – employed’, others as an ‘employee’, but now we can be classed as a ‘Worker’.In a recent court case ( Yorkshire Window Company v Parkes ), though Parkes was described as ‘self – employed’ the court held that he was a ‘worker’, and therefore could claim to be paid statutory holiday pay under the Working Time Regulations.No mention of NI contributions, maybe the Inland Revenue will catch up with this one soon – Heads behind the parapet I think.

Regards John

Profile of The Boss and a Possible Solution

How does this sound for typical characteristics of a boss:

  • Lonely?
  • Makes all the decisions?
  • Makes bad decisions?
  • Blamed for everything?
  • Shoulders other peoples problems?
  • Lack of satisfaction?
  • etc.

If this seems pretty accurate then what’s a solution other than a change of managment style?

One answer is make the business a co-operative!

In this instance all employees own the business and you’d be surprised how much their drive, commitment and motivation changes. It can remove the characteristics above. It also can give the Company an edge and provide a good marketing tool.

Its an an alternative business model and one where a group of like minded people are a tremendous resource. It can also provide a more sustainable business with ready made replacements available.

Having said all of this, as with all businesses, you need to do your sums - will it work and make a profit? - you can’t expect people to invest in a romantic notion.

A co-operative means abiding by its founding principles and rules which includes giving all members a say in how the business is run. It should also be noted that the boss no longer is the only person with a stake in the business.

If you want to know more there’s a website www.co-operative.coop/enterprisehub  and a nationwide network of experts who offer free business support and advice.

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