Предприниматель | Информационно-аналитический журнал - Part 119

How to sell a franchise

October 5th, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

According to the practice of many companies , franchising is a very profitable way to build relationships with partners, particularly in the area of ​​fast food and catering . Here are some tips for those who develops the franchise and wants to ensure that all standards in his business strictly enforced.

Carefully choose a partner

The right choice of partner for franchising will be half the success. Such a partner should strive for long-term cooperation , to support your corporate culture and values ​​, should be ready to strict compliance with all standards of business. To evaluate the candidate for the cooperation necessary to carry out multi-level interviews with the leaders of the main areas in your company , to help them develop a business plan . Experience shows that of the 50 partners after the interview may be the only one. You need to create such an image of the ideal partner for Franchising and guided by their own intuition when looking for that. If between the partner and the ideal way a conflict , it is necessary to examine the end of the whole situation , for example, will be useful to make a trip to the region this partner . It is important to hear the comments about it in a business environment , to investigate his business and make a decision.

Compliance with standards

Working with partners, the most important thing – it’s strict compliance with all standards. Best of all this will create a library of standards, which will specify all processes – from receipt of goods to cooking . And if in some part there will be no such standards , it may lead to the fact that you can not find a common language with his partner , accordingly, will not be able to guarantee the safety and quality of your customers. Therefore, you should not start a business of franchising , without conducting such a formalization .

Supply chain management

It is important to say all contractors franchise partners . This will help to avoid doubts about the quality of the product. Primarily assert suppliers. Because of this you will always be sure that the client can get the same taste and quality of food in the whole chain of restaurants . If you do not arrange logistics for all approved suppliers and distributors , it means you are not ready to start a business by franchising.

Training managers

A very important element in the franchise network – training managers to work in the field. They will be able to track its compliance with all standards and partner agreements . Before you start working with a new partner to all well- trained managers and the end of their certification . Also, you will be able to carry out various management education programs and workshops throughout the period of cooperation. This will help to improve performance in the workplace and improve efficiency.

Control of the franchisee

You will not be able to support the valuable work in partnership on franchising , if you do not carry out continuous monitoring . That means to us control? First, territorial control must constantly test the entire chain of restaurants : should be under the control of the entire transaction process , which also includes the storage of products , the process of preparation of dishes , etc.

Second, this is the work of secret shoppers, through which you can get information about the quality of compliance with all standards. Permanent contract clause in our company – this is a mandatory contracts with well-known on the international level a company that provides services in the mystery shopper network KFC restaurants around the world. That is the partner of franchising there is no way to know the secret buyer or somehow alter the results of his work. Mystery shopping has to assess compliance with all standards according to key indicators. Conveniently, one company is evaluating the entire chain of restaurants , which sends us a copy of the report to the franchisee.

Failure to comply

The franchisor needs to be set all the principles of working with its partners, if not complied with all the requirements of the contract. All these principles need to be specified in the documents. Often there are problems with the corporate culture , violations of standards of service , working with suppliers that have not been approved. In such cases, you can apply a variety of measures : it may be a conversation with the business owners to correct any errors , and closing restaurants franchisee .

Motivation

It is important to motivate the partners to an effective and productive work. And those who keep all of the standards are better than others , should be encouraged. For example , our network of restaurants across the network, as well as other countries of the CIS is the best restaurant in the city of Yerevan . As an incentive, the director of this restaurant got a trip to South Africa. Sufficiently curious fact is that out of 22 of our Russian partners , the best performance in this category showed restaurants operating under the leadership of women . The main religion in our company – is recognized. Do not regret a confession for those partners that best comply with the standards in your work and develop their business with you. Do not forget to thank them for their efforts in their work.

Two mistakes franchisors

All novice franchisors should be aware of two errors, which occur most often in this business . The first mistake is the desire to reach a compromise. You should never start a job with a partner who does not meet the requirements of the company , or even turn a blind eye to minor violations of the standards. The second mistake is to strive for rapid growth. It is often such that franchisors in an effort to develop quickly can ignore compliance with certain requirements , which could lead to the erosion of the brand until the destruction of the business.

When is it necessary to borrow money and when it is better to refuse loans

October 4th, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

Tips bankers owners of their own business.

Is in itself an idea to take a loan , thereby committing themselves to the bank , not very attractive. It is much more profitable to develop their own business on their own and at their own expense . This gives greater confidence in the future . But this is misleading.

If a business is able to grow, but does not develop , the competitors quickly bypass you. And even if you do not need much and it will not make them more forgiving to you. After all, we can not depend on the society in which we are. On the business side , here we can not close our eyes to the competition.

Most entrepreneurs have an idea of ​​how to improve the business by making it more profitable. More daring entrepreneur can take a chance to take the credit for the development of the business than many competitors leave behind. Investments not only help upgrade equipment, which will improve the quality of products and services, but also contribute to the expansion of the market, which consequently will increase the share of the market.

But not always use credit beneficial. If the wrong approach to the use of these tools, you can put considerable financial losses of the company. Such consequences are difficult to predict in advance. Only after a while it becomes clear who had the best business plan, the right goals, who was more consistent in the development of the business and effectively invested – you or your competitors.

Should I take out a loan , and if so – in what amounts ? The general rules here. Comfortable amount of debt is different for each industry. For networks of grocery stores is the best level and the ratio of net debt (the sum of short-and long-term loan debts without free money at the box office or on the accounts) and EBITDA of 4:1 , ie net debt should not exceed an annual profit in four times. For capital-intensive companies is the most favorable ratio of 3:1 – 2:1. It is necessary to take into account the current situation in the company ‘s business strategy , business acumen of its leaders , trends in the economy.

At the end of the crisis the company began optimizing the portfolio by reducing rates, refinancing and lengthening the debt. In good times, companies may sell their shares , and the money to pay on your loan repayments or further expansion of the company. For small and medium-sized businesses such a move is not possible, so before you engage in the business borrowed money , you need to think it through well . Credit money can both help to expand your business and earn more income , and worsen the position of your business. What are the most common mistakes in lending among entrepreneurs?

Useless purchase

Man , even at the psychological level is much easier to spend other people’s money rather than earn their own way. Very often the money is spent on things that at first glance seem to be necessary , but it does not really bring any business income, and even vice versa. It should not be at first to hire a large staff , purchase expensive office furniture and equipment , because it could undermine the financial position of the company. After a while you will see that could well do without it .

First, develop marketing and sales

Before investing in fixed assets direction of the company , such as purchase equipment to build production capacity , while not having any ideas about how to expand the customer base , or not having any prior agreements with them. Even the ” Gazprom”, not signed contracts with customers , do not produce gas and building pipelines . You can always buy the equipment , but that’s much more difficult to find buyers . And if the investment does not lead to the expansion of customer base , then buying equipment is only in those cases where it can cut your costs.

Lending one production cycle

The use of credit only brings success if the loan terms and the rate of turnover correlated correctly . For example, in trade transactions loan terms are 3-4 months , but if you take this credit only for the purpose of completion of the next production cycle , it is possible to fail. In fact, for most of the loan term commercial operations is longer than one period of the production cycle. After all, you can repay the loan only if the cumulative net profit will be equal to the principal amount.

Another loan

If you already have a debt that exceeds the annual income of 2-4 times , you need to very carefully consider the further financing of your business and look for new sources of funding. Sometimes it is necessary to stop, no matter what may seem enticing prospects with new money . It seems that the market is expanding, and everything should work fine. But sometimes it is better to focus on reducing costs . After a short period of time you can collect a lot of credit! Credit facilities are much easier to spend than to get them. The most difficult thing – to get a credit income and pay them to the bank.

Do not skimp on the important

Unnecessary waste in business can lead to considerable problems, but no less harmful very stingy . Now we are talking only about the most useful and profitable for the company. And if a purchase can help you reduce costs by several times , do not give up on him. And if you need any advice that will help you solve any problem, do not skimp on the services of a qualified consultant .

Finance initial business by revenue

Credit facilities are only an auxiliary tool in the development of the business. Every entrepreneur should initially possess a considerable amount of their own money . Further funding is necessary due to business income. Of course, the money earned should be enough for life, but buying expensive cars and other ” toys ” you can lead a business to collapse. Many large companies are using it for profit business finance , and they are , or not to pay dividends , or pay only 10-20 % of net income. Only large companies operating in the international market , can afford to pay a dividend in the amount of 40-50 % of net profit (” VimpelCom” MTS “CTC Media», TNK -BP and others) .

Lack of own funds

You should not take credit, if your accounts are no funds or go for broke , spending once all credit. This is a very risky business . Remember the saying : “The Bank provides an umbrella when the sun is shining , and takes away , as in the rain .” This, of course , exaggerated , but some truth in it, because the lack of liquidity, as a rule , shows no caution to the bank itself , but about the problems in the client’s business .attraction of investments

You should not totally give up the opportunity to sell a part of the investor. Now there are a lot of funds, there are a lot of wealthy people who are willing to invest in your company , buying a third or a fourth of it . In addition, to sell part of the company is not forever , but only for a certain period , for example, for four years, when the capital invested will bring good results , and will help increase the company’s value . When choosing an investor should be very careful and use only those funds and people , business reputation which has repeatedly been confirmed.

Do not rush to repay the loan

Do not be in a hurry to repay the loan ahead of schedule , because you can lose some of the benefits . But stretch it pay off for the duration of the contract is not worth it , as the diversion of money on interest payments can cause considerable harm to the business.

A little out of practice

The situation has tried to quickly expand in several directions of “Rusal” deteriorated significantly during the crisis, when aluminum prices have dropped significantly . The worst is in the case at the end of 2009, when the company’s debt exceeded its revenue of 22.9 times. But by the end of 2010, managed to level this figure up to 4.4:1 .

Over the past few years, the highest debt load is considered to be a network of pharmacies “36.6” , although there were no delays in payments the company does not. The company uses a lot of resources for large-scale expansion . By the end of 2010 reached the figure of 4.8:1 , while EBITDA exceeded the amount of interest payments in half. Now the stock market bonds that companies are considered high-risk speculative instrument.

Restaurant chain “Rosinter “, which puts a lot of money in the development of the network and is on the verge of profitability , net profit margin in 2010 was able to reduce the rate of 1.1:1 , compared with the previous period 2,97:1 .

Discounter “Magnet” , which in 2010 was greatly expanded network of stores , still has a low debt ratio , which is equal to 1,39:1 , and in 2010 he had the lowest figure 0,09:1 . To strengthen its position in the market has to take out a loan and a competitor “Magnet » – X5 Retail Group, which consists of a network of shops ” Roundabout “, ” Crossroads “, ” Carousel .” But the debt policy of the company is even more aggressive, and by the end of 2010 the figure was 3.7:1 , compared with a year earlier 2,08:1 .

 

How do we promote the site

October 4th, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

Co-owner of online store products continues to talk about how she opened the business.

About a month ago, my partner suggested a single experiment : to refuse advertising for one week . That is, we have to voluntarily disable context on two pages – Yandex and Google.

For me the idea was not the best , because you can lose a lot of orders. But , on the other hand, do not try, do not know. And if the reduction of orders will not critical , it can be a considerable part of the cost to transfer to something else , because the extra money will never happen. So I decided to try. The very next day I called in a panic Cole , that, well, there are fewer orders . But, as it turned out, he had not advertise disabled , and I should not have worried. However , the day was as usual.

The next day, we have disabled ad . The result – minus 5 % on orders . I argued that we were lucky because the orders did our regular customers . But the very next day – minus 10 %. Of course , this is not an indicator , because the days are different. But large orders became fewer , and the drivers were underutilized .Then Nick decided to give up the idea and wrote the advertisers . The very next day, including advertising, and our website has been a real boom. Feed blog readers to Forbes rushed to our website . And where did many additional orders can not be determined without analyzing . Generally experiment with advertising is very difficult , besides scary. Therefore, we must rely on their own experience . I want to share it with you.

Online advertisingInternet

Advertising – this is the main engine for sales online store. In doing so, we have seen very quickly. Here is today one businessman from Kazakhstan asked me how to promote your online store, to which I replied – that’s how . Especially when your budget is low . Here you have proof – the lion’s share of clients (at least 90 %) are finding us through the network. They look , investigate , and if your service offers the convenience and quality, assess it and test . And this is where you have the opportunity to get another regular customer .

Now, tell a little about the benefits of contextual advertising banner in front . First of all , PPC advertising provides the opportunity to formulate a narrow inquiry as much as you need. Secondly , the audience , attracted by such advertising – is a quality audience . After all, when a person enters a query “buy cider ” and sees an ad that you can buy pear and apple cider , and even home delivery , most likely, he will buy it and .

Contextual advertising effectiveness is different , because you do not have to pay for the number of impressions and the number of hits on them. And though the transition to a website does not mean that necessarily will be made an order, but the probability is quite high . Another advantage of PPC advertising is its maneuverability. You can control the advertising yourself, you can charge it by managers to promote it on the Internet , you can limit the cost of your queries , enable or disable them yourself , but you will always see the results of their work.

Internet advertising market is accessible to everyone , and enter it , you can , with just 1,000 rubles budget. But if you want to see the real results of your work on advertising is better not to save .

We had to use and banner advertising. One day before the New Year we bought at Mail.ru one banner . Special effects are not followed. I will not say that banner advertising is dying , even though many talk about it , but to say that it brings good results, too, will not. This advertising works too , although it is less mobile and more expensive . Yes, and edit the banner in the course of work , too, had .

If anyone thinks that online advertising is very cheap , it is very wrong. If you compare the cost per contact from the internet and offline , you will figure quite comparable . For comparison, take the ad in a magazine and banner advertising . In the case of a magazine advertisement for the number of contacts is due to the number of views and images, respectively, for banner advertising – is the number of impressions . So for 1000 contacts in a magazine advertisement you will pay an average of $ 50-100 thousand for the same banner ads – $ 5-20 . We can see that the figure is quite comparable . In addition, an advertisement in the magazine gives less likely to attract the client, while in a banner just a click away – and the person already in your store. Yes, and the entry into the market of advertising in offline is much more expensive , especially for the print media.

Advertising is offline

Offline advertising we specifically did not use due to the limited budget. But there are still some experience . When we decided to take part in ” Good Housekeeping .” The point was to take orders from people at the time of the exhibition . The exhibition lasted for three days, and we hoped that taking 100 orders a day, will be able to cover all the orders. But it was only a hope. As it turned out , people were not prepared to immediately make reservations , however, as we are. I had to tell everyone about your store, but this time came five more interested with your questions .

Though with the orders did not work, but advertising is successful. Our advertising stand saw about 3,000 people , and has more orders . And attendance online store has grown by an average of 500 people a day .

And about the same time we decided to make our advertising makaronomerok with the help of FlyCards. This makaronomerku invented Jura Parfenov , chief editor of the ” Crocodile” and our good friend . He has always been a master at such notions here . This meant makaronomerka to measure the exact portion of pasta to cook them . In addition, he found the Jura , where you can make them , could only spread. Then we turned to FlyCards. But no results are not followed – was no more orders , but 60,000 rubles we spent. Sending the money on contextual advertising , we would have a much greater effect.

However, not all bad : we have decided to use the remaining makaronomerki as gifts to the orders of our customers.

Social networks

As without advertising on social networks? So we decided to take advantage of this resource for the advancement of our website store. And so we opened a LiveJournal community . At first, we did not even know what it can be filled , so arranged various competitions and games . Now we publish our newsletter , which all registered users will receive every two weeks . It so happened that we publish the newsletter does best , and with the genres we have a lot of experimenting – sometimes it avtointervyu and sometimes short stories , but a lot of ideas .

This summer we had the opportunity to sponsor one of the ethnographic expedition , which was held by the chief blogger headings Artem Lebedev . We then bought a sponsorship package for $ 2,000 , which included the placement of the logo on the car Artem Lebedev, as well as a link to our site, posted a blog tema.lj.ru. The audience of 150 000 people was not a myth. Being a famous designer , he uses his blog for promotional purposes and earn good. The cost of a single contact from Lebedev in our store was $ 0.15, which is comparable to the cost of such contact in other media. But it’s worth it , because Lebedev read almost everything.

What to expect from marketing

October 4th, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

Classic marketing techniques are no longer able to attract the consumer. How to attract customers?

Oddly enough , the consumer market continues to grow even during the crisis. In 2009 Rospatent has registered more than 28,000 trademarks. Of course, the statistics for the departed from the market brands not, but one thing is clear – the new brand is much more than the departed . How to survive against the competition? Oleg Beriev , owner and president of branding agency Mildberry, shares predictions about what will be popular in marketing in the next few years.

– Now , many say that the recession crisis in business everything will be different. This also applies to marketing. Is there any prerequisites to big changes ?

– Recent changes in marketing have nothing to do with the crisis. This is quite a natural course of events.

The classic marketing trick trust me long ago lost its popularity – “we are a big company , we offer high quality, so buy our products .” This acquisition made ​​sense in a one-way communication – people listened , but could not check the speaker, to refute his words , either to confirm . Now, when the information became available to everyone , people can listen to and evaluate what they are told . Work on the principle of trust me a lot harder.

– What are the communication with the consumer the most effective?

– It is best to build a relationship with the consumer. Whereas previously only marketing to promote a product , but now focuses on the implementation of the desires of the consumer. Many advertising campaigns are now seeking to offer a person a dream , but this principle is not so effective. More popular is the concept of values. Heard highlight its audience Harley-Davidson? ” 40 -year-old accountant, kotormu like weekend wear leather clothes for herself and scaring residents of small towns .” We are faced with the image of an office worker tending to freedom, which is limited to weekdays …

– But what’s wrong with offering people to fulfill their dreams ?

– It’s the same dream, but value addition . In this case – the sense of belonging to some kind of community , a sense of mutual support and fellowship. Pay attention to what rallies organizovuyut owners Harley-Davidson – there attracts thousands of bikers from all over the world.

– That is, marketing will be effective only by creating a community around the brand ?

– It is. But even the most original products will not be able to form a community around it , unless the values ​​shared by its users , and that this somehow relates to the product itself. Very interesting built online system of savings accounts in the United States , in which any person can fund your account , receiving monthly interest on your card . This project was launched in March 2008 , at a time of crisis , and in spite of that , now in customer accounts is more than $ 250 million this system has a rather atypical and original brand communications – piggy bank pink and wearing glasses. But the most interesting part of this project that can replenish your account parents and friends , as you can replenish their accounts . Thus, a person involved in an atmosphere of mutual support .

– And can the most common products offer the consumer value – relationship?

– Yes , of course. Enough to draw a parallel between the product and the challenge that represents a certain value. For example, take the soap. Soap – a cleanliness , nice appearance , and good self-esteem , respectively . In 2005, Dove launched the promotion of female beauty – or rather were driven standard images that exist in the society. The Foundation also organized self- Dove, who organized various photo exhibitions, online forums , school workshops in Europe, Canada and the United States . In this case, Dove soap niche is different from those in the price range brands. But the ideas that are now associated with this brand in the West, making it more valuable to consumers .

– Why do foreign companies in the Russian market do not create such communications with the consumer ?

– A few years ago I happened to talk to the marketing director of a subsidiary of the Russian company a fairly large Russian companies . Then we talked about the creation of new original communication with the consumer. He then noticed that the creation of such communications for it is quite interesting , but in Russia he was unable to find a suitable frame for it . Therefore, it is more convenient to spend a couple of million dollars on advertising .

– Do I need to look for new Russian brand communications with the consumer ?

– Of course , it is worth . It is hard enough , but a winner . What is the beauty of the property, so this is nothing new to invent do not need to – there are values ​​in themselves . We just need to choose the kind of value to offer to the consumer , and after that to develop the brand on this basis . But to use it always is not worth it . Markets where competition is low, does not require the creation of complex concepts. To understand what branding is necessary to apply , you need to anticipate how will change the competitive environment ( and highly competitive markets as their example will affect your market) . The concept of value , the more effective stiffer competition .

– You always offer your customers to create value?

– Always, but not every customer will be able to realize this vision . Sometimes the opposite . We participated in the development of the brand chain stores ” Respublika” . Vadim Dimov , the owner of the network , follow your intuition when choosing the concept of values. We did not even give him such advice . The shop sold the same books , gifts and music, as in all the others. But many prefer it to ” Republic” , the main audience that – young people . Perhaps it happened because the store created an environment in which they feel more comfortable .

– But a lot of companies are trying to follow the principle of ” a circle ” – for example , beer brands …

– Some brands of beer literally toying with the consumer. Indeed, some young people had borrowed some words from advertising and consumed more beer. This has contributed to increased sales , but not building relationships . Now a lot of companies that are trying to be original , but it’s far from the values ​​, but rather a desire to stand out from the rest . In addition, the right marketing is not that complicated as it seems at first glance. To please the consumer , it is necessary to understand that he is interested in , what he lives , what his habits. From a consumer need to be sincere if you want to build a lasting relationship with him . David Ogilvy once said that the consumer is not really an idiot . Consumer – it’s your wife that should not be hurt , underestimating her intelligence.

How earn a partner

October 4th, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

How can I extend the range and speed up sales online store , involving different partners.

Today was a very popular partnership. We are partners provided considerable help , when we opened and started to promote our store . In addition , competent partnership can significantly improve the company’s earnings : a very useful and interesting experience. In our work we use three types of partnerships: the sale, promotion , assortment .

Do not be afraid of unusual conditions

As for me , the most interesting kind of partnership – to expand the range , or rather , the partnership with suppliers. This does not apply usual suppliers to the usual conditions . For us, this partnership with a company that supplies us with the cooking , and recently we have started to cooperate with farmers . The range is quite unusual , especially if the country products . And what is most convenient – we are working out the specific terms of cooperation beneficial to both parties.

At first I did not want contact with the cooking , and it is quite true, because the salad will not live long , but we do not offline sales and close to Olivier did not bake bread (Of course, many times we thought about selling freshly baked bread, but has not yet figured out how to do this , because then you need to buy ovens for baking ) . But the guys , ” cooks ” on the site does not have time , so we found a profitable outlet for both sides – we put them on the range of your site, and they, in turn, we are preparing a meal for each order . Thus, every morning we get fresh food, is not in stock balances , and customers are very satisfied .

With farmers we also found a good way out : we accept orders for a week on the same day. On this day, they bring us fresh products , and we will deliver them right away .

Through this collaboration, we have new loyal customers , and we appreciate that.I would also like to develop other non-core segments , for example, to sell books , and toys for children. But so far there is no right partners .

Many customers from ” Mnogo.ru “

Somewhere in five or six years ago, I received a card “Malina , though I do not remember where. I even somehow use it, and even tried to get a gift . But you like things were not available , and then I lost the pin and the Council has ceased to use it. Of course, I could re-release it , but there was no particular desire . But now I see that more and more people want and can use all kinds of discounts and promotions that save . And for us it’s an interesting possibility.

Once we started working with the club ” Mnogo.ru .” To date, these clubs mass, but it is the ” Mnogo.ru ” one of the first of its kind that existed on the market for 10 years.The principle of operation is simple: the members of this club can receive bonuses on the map, using the services of its partners, among which were the banks , stores, airlines, etc. Then , having accumulated a certain number of points , people could exchange them for gifts. In addition, bonuses are different types : regular , double, and many more options depending on the partner and shares it offers. This service is not cheap , so we had to pay the club a certain percentage of orders, but very effective .And in November of our customers accounted for 40% of the customers of the club. They brought us 30 % of turnover. The club provides us customers , our goal is to get them interested , they returned again and again. I was very pleased with the result, but in the future we plan to continue with Nikolai similar experience of cooperation. Now we are working with the club Home Credit Bank, whose clients are also the owners of such cards . We, as partners of the club must offer its customers discounts . Also we have implemented the ability to pay via card Home Credit Bank.

When selling a third person

But the most surprising for me to kind of partnership began selling through intermediaries. It would seem that in the internet age such sales are not significant at all , in fact it is not so.

Payment here is the same as with the clubs – the calculated percentage of the order. And when at the beginning of the year Delivery Club offered us cooperation, we did not give up . Delivery Club – a unified system of orders, which brings together different service delivery – from the shops and to the pharmacies.

Today it is a growing trend – such marketplaces bring together several goods and services , respectively, the customer can go to a website and order yourself immediately and products, and pizza , and medications , etc. In addition, operators Delivery Club is very polite and courteous to all appeals . Perhaps this they attract customers , because as explained by the fact that people are getting orders from our online store in the original packaging with all the contact details on it , but I still turn to the club.

Turnover of Delivery Club is 10%. With that it is not the first such service , which we had to face , but the most successful was the collaboration with only Delivery Club.

How to pay

Now I’ll tell about the cost. In fact , each partner always comes quite humanely. But if there are several of these partners , we may have unforeseen circumstances . Here is an example . Client is registered in our online store. From the second order , he can get a discount from 1 to 5%. He already has a card ” Mnogo.ru ” ( we pay bonuses Club ) order payment is made ​​by credit card ( we pay a commission payment system ) , and it turns out that a map of Home Credit Bank ( we provide a discount card holder ) .

The result – two thirds of income from the order we have lost. Of course, it’s worth it , after all , how many discounts received , the client certainly make your next purchase from us, and moreover lead us to new clients. A much more important for us to develop, what to save on clients .

Divorce with business partners. Instructions on how to divide the business.

October 2nd, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

Do not forget that the talks always benefit more than from the trial.

Most analysts argue that this year or the first half of it was coming once the economic and financial crisis . The main reference point for such predictions – the number of broken contracts and broken joint ventures. When the business partners cease to work together , the question arises : “How to share the losses and damages caused by wrong decisions of one of the partners and how to deal with debts that remain for the shareholders ? “.

Undoubtedly, the loss-sharing negotiations , however, and even more complex than revenue sharing . People by nature hate losing . According to studies, Ludi willing to pay more , just to avoid losses than to insure profits. Usually, such negotiations are always conducted in a very tense atmosphere, and often end up with lawsuits. Some lawyers say that some customers offering them a million dollars , but would not lose half a million . Not to be found here rationality – is human emotion .

If you plan to share the business, you should immediately decide what is more important : to leave the partner without a penny , with the risk of losing everything , or reduce losses to a minimum. If you care about the second – follow these rules.Immediately go to court to file a lawsuit . Also, call your counselor or a lawyer , immediately begin to think of how you will negotiate . The rules are simple.

1. Determine the “rules of the game.” If the trust in the other party is gone, you should first discuss procedural issues . You need to decide how much time you will meet with his former partner , where you will meet the information that you have voiced them . If the other side will agree to your terms , then it is ready for talks , but these procedural issues should be first in chrede agreements to which you need to address .

2 . Do not hurry with the final decision. Over time, the loss can either increase or decrease . It is therefore necessary to compile a complete list of what can further lead you in losses , then divide it into two groups – something that should be done immediately and what can wait for later . As practice shows , the things deferred until later in 2008, led to a profit in 2011 .

3 . Do not focus on specific figures , as these figures can only cause negative emotions. First, you must think about what proportions you will share the losses . This should be on an equal footing? Or your shares in the company were unequal ? Such conversations can help you avoid emotions and solve all mathematical way .

4 . It is not necessary to haggle, especially if the relationship is on the verge of breaking . It is better to be in talks for more flexible framework , everything else can be charged by a trusted party. This will save you from emotional decisions and help maintain control over the process .

5 . Do not rush to put the final point. Any agreement always takes time : for example , you can arrange a meeting in a year. Chances are that within a year the situation is different, the size of the losses will be smaller. In addition, if you prefer, you can restore your relationship with your partner.

Always remember that the talks will benefit significantly greater than that of the trial. But you can have more control over the process , which is already much better.

What kind of investor you need

October 2nd, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

The company’s founder LinguaLeo shares his experience of relationships with strategic investors , business angels and funds.For three years now , we are working on the development of web servers dedicated to learning the English language. During his tenure, we ‘ve to deal with different types of investors – business angels , strategists , and venture capital funds . We managed to attract investments totaling $ 3.2 million Hopefully our history of working with investors will help other beginners do not make mistakes .

Strategist

Because of their inexperience, I wanted to avoid funding from venture capital funds and business angels and immediately enter into negotiations with the strategy . Strategists – it is the large companies that operate in the same industry, as we do, that is the object of investment, which is interested in acquiring a controlling stake .

As it turned out , the position of the investor is different from our position on several key parameters. For example, strategists do not have enough experience to work with new projects that are under development, such investors are unwilling to take risks, and their interests are usually different from the interests of the owners and crew. The main purpose of such investors – to get the project to further integrate it into your business. Not in its interest to develop the company with billion dollar market capitalization .

As a result, transaction completed unsuccessfully .

There are some distinctive features of the strategists. For example , they have unlimited amounts of funding, but their main interest is only in the development of their own business . They do not want to take risks , and the means of their only target the growth of capitalization of the company. In addition, this investor may be an expert in their field , but nothing about the development of start-ups.

Business angels

A few months later I had the opportunity to work with business angels . They are called so because they are investing in start-ups , though small, but needed the money at the stage of development of the company – as it already has a product , or its prototype. They are called ideal for several reasons. First, they give the money very quickly . For example, I received a response within a week after the start of negotiations, and after two received the first tranche . Second, these investors will never interfere implement the development strategy and fully trusted by the founder . Third, they help solve a variety of issues .

Such transactions may be even a few days. For example , as I had. I was fortunate enough to meet with Sergei Kuznetsov and Yegor Rudy , who were the co-founders of the company , “Your tutor “, during a coffee break. They are involved in the development of a large network of tutors across Russia . We quickly found a common language and get acquainted with their investor Igor Ryaben’kii and after 2 days of a deal on an investment of $ 200,000 .

Very often, business angels are entrepreneurs . They become practical partners , not only put you in the money, but also to share their experiences. Since they are investing their own money, and often guided by their own intuition.

The deal is very simple and allows you to quickly arrange the export documents to get money and get started. For example, instead of having to carry out due diligence ( analysis of all aspects of the work of the company) , it is enough to meet the owner, to ask him some questions and view the metrics Google- analytics. And that is enough to make a deal .

Which is typical for this type of investors, it is the size of investment that is always measured in thousands of dollars. In such a case, the investor can share the risks with the owner. In addition , business angels have a very high level of professionalism , they tend to not only grow your business , but also improve the pace startup. Money from such investors are often “smart” , but not in all cases.

Venture Fund

Within six months after working in the business angels our project was to make a profit . Investment enough just for those six months . Then, already with business angels , we began to look for venture capital funds “A” class , which would correspond to our investment needs.

We are looking for investors with expertise in IT, e-commerce , SaaS- projects or education. Some of us find ourselves , we are treated to some directly or through business angels . At this time, we got the win in the contest BIT – quite prestigious in CIS competition , which took part in investment projects. There we also met representatives from the fund Runa Capital.Then we turned back in the 10 funds in Russia , but all had their drawbacks. Then we went to the United States. We communicated with the Accel, Start Fund, August Capital, TMT Investments and others. But there was not less than minuses , and maybe even more. As a result, we made ​​a deal with Runa Capital.

To meet with representatives , it took us more than 10 meetings , dozens of letters and phone calls. We have prepared several versions of the presentations of our business plan , answered a lot of questions about technology, finance, marketing , strategy and team. It should be noted , this is quite a useful exercise .

Before we signed mamorandum took six months ! But in the end we still got ” smart money “, and it is not only investment, but also a learning experience , communication command , the list of which some very successful campaigns , such as , Dr.Web, Softline, Alawar, Acronis, Parallels , and other . The difference between the investor , who can only offer the money and the investor who offers ” smart money ” is huge. And at this stage of development, we have chosen the best partner .

The founder Vitek launches new brand

October 1st, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

With Andrew Vitek Derevyanchenko gets margin , and Maxwell gives him the sales growth .

There is a joke among competitors that Golder Electronics is the second leg . The first leg was the company Vitek, has turned into the most successful brand of small electronics and technology in Russia , the second leg is a trademark of Maxwell, appeared on the Russian market in September 2009 . Mark Maxwell offers consumer products at low prices , which once started with Golder Electronics.

As noted by Derevyanchenko , the basic principle of marketing has always been a correlation between production and market demand . Owner Golder Electronics, once received a good income from trading import video , audio and home appliances in 1999 decided to establish its own brand . He picked a good time , as due to the crisis, demand for expensive Japanese and European vehicles plummeted. In addition, he served as a good example of colleagues on the market . Back in the mid-1990s, the market of Southeast Asia gave rise to new brands that produce some of the Russian distributors . Then there Vigor, Scarlett and VES Electric. After analyzing the successes and mistakes of competitors Derevyanchenko decided to launch the development of their own models and submit them to the Chinese market.

Already in 2000 the market of Russia were first irons, kettles and vacuum cleaners from the company Vitek ( name of the company came from the Latin word vita – life and technica – appliances). Electric Vitek can be purchased at an average of $ 15-20 . Now the cost has risen to $ 30. After waiting three years, while revenues grew consumers Derevyanchenko decided to move prices higher . Then Golder Electronics started producing products with ” innovation component ” – for example , vacuum cleaners equipped with a function perfuming the air , irons with electronic control system and stereos with vertical loading discs .

Higher revenues from sales of these products will allow owners of Golder Electronics to invest more money in advertising, product development and the search for new sales channels . By 2009, Vitek has worked with about 200 dealer companies throughout Russia and federal chains of consumer electronics and appliances. Company Vitek was on a par with Panasonic, the market was small appliances Russian share of 3.8 %. About the same percentage owned by the French and the German manufacturer Moulinex – Rowenta. The range of products has reached 350 , while sales for the year amounted to about $ 200 million Derevyanchenko Then bought a Hong Kong company that has received orders for the development of engineering models Vitek.

In this case, the company’s managers Golder Electronics wanted to go back to the lower price segment , as the rise in technology has led to a slowdown in sales growth. But the Derevyanchenko was against it , because he knew that the solvency of the Russian population grew, and in such a situation is pointless to lower prices . But when the market situation has changed , he quickly changed his mind. At the end of 2008, sales techniques Vitek dropped significantly , and regional dealers demanded supply of cheaper options . According to the commercial director of Samara “Vesta Electronics ” Sergei Semenov , in 2009, his share of his company in the market of low-cost technique was 70 %.

Then Derevyanchenko decided to focus on cheaper products , such as hair dryers, irons and kettles, the cost of which should be lower than the cheapest of its products by 20 %. In search of a name for the new brand was organized three focus groups with five large cities , among which were both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Then the participants considered several foreign-language titles , but in the end everything came together on the name Maxwell. Derevyanchenko not hide the fact that the name was chosen because Maxwell consonance with the names of foreign companies. For example , Maxwell House – a coffee or Maxell – manufacturer of batteries and CDs.At the price lists Golder Electronics brand Maxwell appeared in September 2009 . Six months later, Maxwell sales were $ 600,000 monthly. But Derevyanchenko does not stop there and plans to increase sales to $ 1.5-2 million per month . Maxwell range can be extended up to 100 names , but now it includes blenders , coffee makers , juicers , scales , hairdressing machines .

According to the commercial director of one of the dealers of Vitek, Maxwell can increase sales if it is to invest more money in advertising . He believes that the success of the brand has brought Vitek is good publicity in its niche . Over the period 2000-2009 . investments in advertising increased 37-fold , that is, up to $ 15 million, but the owner of the Golder Electronics has no plans to promote a new brand because it considers it inappropriate to invest in the advertising of the brand that consumers low commodity prices .

According to him , the main thing – the right to organize the sale. At Maxwell is a very powerful marketing channel that allows you to sell anything. He realized it only after it decided in 2006 to launch a new brand of professional grade cookware Röndell. Engaged in the promotion of this brand dealers Vitek, and revenue from sales of kitchen appliances is $ 3.5-4 million per month .

Eugene Nazarov , the owner of the brand Vigor agree that Golder Electronics has the most close-knit network of sales channels among all its competitors. And the appearance of the brand Maxwell only contribute to its loading , in addition, the demand for low-cost technique is always there. But , according to the assessment of the ” GfK – Rus” selling inexpensive household appliances in Russia last year decreased by 24% compared to sales in 2008.

Despite this , sales of Maxwell continues to grow. According to Sergei Semenov of “Vesta Electronics “, Derevyanchenko can develop Maxwell, even when all the competitors gradually fade . He believes that low-cost technology is very important to strike a balance between quality and price, in this case, even the advertising is not required. And Maxwell has a very good lineup and reasonable prices. Just believe and representatives of networks of “El Dorado ” and ” M. Video “, which recently began selling a new brand of Golder Electronics.

Products Maxwell would have appeared on the network and “The World ,” if it were not for the bankruptcy of the network, and “Technosila” if not for a change of ownership . Derevyanchenko believes that the EUMC has successfully managed a second time to take the same niche. And indeed the trademark does not require a lot of resources – responsible for it two managers in Moscow and one in Hong Kong, which oversees the development and production models (central office Golder Electronics has only 200 employees). And to the question of how much profit profit brings Maxwell, Derevyanchenko smiles , saying that profits enough that competitors could not subside quietly .

Angry boss or a good uncle

October 1st, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

The head of Microsoft’s Russian talks about how to lay off employees and how to stomp their feet and scream .

Those who in Soviet times studied psychology, not to forget the horrors of ” professional deformation of bourgeois individuality .” Times these are left behind , but today in RuNet from time to time there are articles that describe a ” deformed professional managers with increased levels of aggression, inadequacy in the perception of people , loss of zest for life and an inability to self-improvement .” Personally, I do not accept any atrocities as in a professional environment , as well as in personal life.

Perhaps even some of the readers of Forbes are committed widespread mistaken belief that every sensible head should be able to shout , stomp their feet and awe to his subordinates . Even if a person is kind and good , but the profession forces .I think that the myth of the relationship in a team is one of the most harmful . As my human and professional experience : there is no more appropriate approach in its relations with employees, than humanity , and all manifestations of aggression and pressure are not allowed.

I can not say I never point out the mistakes , not firing , do not deprive bonuses , do not make the tough decisions . Such actions often occur in the work of any manager . But I always try to separate personal and professional relationships. In addition , the dismissal of an employee is often a blessing for him . And if he could not find himself in the company , does not mean that person is not a professional or that he lacks the zeal and intelligence. Perhaps another company people will be better able to show themselves , to do better and come back to us again , but this time as our client or partner. And if I’m firing people , I always tell him that. I always say it is not for us is not the man himself , and the results of its work , eating they are not compatible with the policy of our company.

The same can be said about the negative assessments , which must specify the head of a particular team member . To criticize a project , or some part of the problem , not the person. It should be noted that this position comes not only from the ethics and humanity , but also out of concern about the effectiveness of the business. The main character traits begin to form from early childhood. Therefore, an attempt to change an adult is doomed to success. Criticism , aggression , condemnation directed toward a particular person, his qualities of character and personality , can lead to deterioration .Every professional manager realizes that his main task is not to change or to teach people, and to find the best use of their professional skills . If the person does not have sufficient motivation or he is not doing its job , it can be transferred to another position to offer him all the options and show all perspectives , to create a situation in which he would be better able to express themselves and improve their results .

Responsibility at work and demands on their employees and themselves is one of the most important corporate values ​​with Microsoft, with which I fully agree. After all, it is unreasonable to require the person that he can not or does not want to do because of the nature of his character and personality. In such a case , or to find other options or dismiss the person, but you should not try to teach him life. Each manager must always remember that people are different . Therefore, do not try to change the staff from within or make them more like themselves .

I believe that discussing human personality – a sign of lack of professionalism , as it is a direct interference in the private life of man. And , as you know , the personal life of a man and the personal because that is not public . You may know about the different events in the lives of employees and support them , but do not give them advice or intervene in matters which are not related to the work . In a sense, this is the reverse side of the coin : on the one hand – the evil boss, on the other – a good adviser , irritating his care and attention. I think it is equally harmful to the business is to do both

How to convince an employer that you are worthy of greater wage

September 30th, 2013 Журнал «Предприниматель»

According to recruiters , you need to work to increase . First, you need to prepare the iron arguments

White -collar workers are not so often turns to get a raise . Typically, this increase they receive during the transition to a new position or to another company. To this must be prepared in advance , so as better to have on hand trumps when to start talking about money.

An important reason.

The best reason to get a raise is changing jobs . According to the manager of external communications recruitment company Acumen International Eugenia Aleksandrova , if an employee is committed to improving their skills and thus does not change positions , higher salaries, he did not wait . Sell ​​yourself more when you can move to a different position at another company , she says.

For example, if you want to improve your English or to obtain additional knowledge – it is up to you. Do not expect to receive for this increase to the salary , the head of the practice of ” Production and Technology ” recruitment company Hudson Antonina Ermolenko . You can get such a premium in the transition to a new position in the new company , confirms it .

But there is a company in Ukraine that offer their employees opportunities to climb the corporate ladder. A person can start with an ordinary salesperson and grow to the director’s office, says Antonina Ermolenko . But, unfortunately , not many companies welcome such a ” leveling ” of skills and abilities .

Raise your price

If you want to upgrade to a paid position , conduct a test of their skills and knowledge. While it is very difficult to determine how much it means this or that skill in payroll , yet recruiters sought to determine the degree of importance of the various arguments.According to experts HeadHunter Acumen International , Ukraine and the principal value of an increase in wages should be built in the following order:

1. Experience . In this regard all recruiters agree that it is important for the employer to the applicant previously served similar functions , explains Antonina Ermolenko . Therefore, it is important to strive to achieve the goals on the present job , and always capture these gains. To confirm his words , it is better to take on a job interview recommendations.

2 . Management experience. According to Evgenia , this experience is very important for all high-level positions . You should be able to tell about the achievements of the team, you were driving , in specific terms.

3 . A broad base of contacts. This is especially important for marketers , sales managers and recruiters . This framework must be comprehensive , relevant and constantly updated.

4 . Knowledge of PC . This criterion is a basic prerequisite for employment , said Natalia Matsipura , PR-manager recruitment portal HeadHunter. According to her, sometimes even welders do not take the job without the knowledge of the PC.

5 . Knowledge of a foreign language. Certainly , knowledge of English will not only add points to you at the interview , but the impact on your future salary , according to Eugene A. . But if you want to work in a German or a Japanese company , better to start visiting the respective courses.

6. Demand for specialty.If your specialty is one of the gaps in the labor market , you can increase your salary requirements . According to recruiters , very popular with employers are sales managers , programmers , lawyers , accountants and financiers .

7. Communication , familiarity with officials. This criterion is very important for executive positions in GR (government raltions, due to the government ) and the PR, especially for lobbyists , which is very high demand .

8. Higher Education. According to recruiters , even today in the car park is very hard to get without a diploma .

9. Certificates , courses and workshops . This criterion can contribute to you at the interview. But, according to Antonina Ermolenko , one only having an MBA is unlikely to raise salaries . As she says , it is rather confusing , but it is not a rule , as many companies want to see in your office employees with MBAs , but are not willing to raise wages because of this .

10 . Driving license / driving experience. This criterion is not mandatory, but for many senior positions driving license is desirable .

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