November Insights: Resilience, Planning & Purposeful Connections

Member News

Introduction: 

With the year winding down, November gives us the gift of focus. It’s a powerful time to solidify plans, strengthen systems, and prepare your business and your team for a confident, forward-thinking start to 2026.

This month’s newsletter is packed with strategic insights, certification guidance, meaningful networking opportunities, and flexible learning options to empower you for the road ahead.

Growth Strategy Corner: Prepare for Q1—Now, Not Later

Success in January doesn’t start in January it begins now. Here’s how we can set the stage for a strong Q1:Forecast Smartly: Let’s review what this year has taught you, then use those lessons to forecast next quarter’s goals with clarity and relevance.

Align People & Priorities: We’ll check that your team’s focus matches your top business goals, so there’s no wasted energy going into 2026.

Map Out Your First 90 Days: We’ll create a realistic, strategic roadmap for Q1,breaking big goals into small, actionable steps.

Need a second set of eyes on your plan? I’m here to help.

[Schedule a free 30-minute strategy session]
 

Networking: Connect & Grow

 

This is the last chance to purchase tickets for the networking event of the year,

International Men’s Day - 19th NOVEMBER (check out EventBrite

Want a personal intro to someone in my network? I’d be happy to connect the dots.

Just reply to this email and let’s talk.
 

e-Learning Highlight: Keep Learning, Keep Growing

This month is ideal for personal and team development without disrupting operations.

Applaud BC’s e-learning platform provides:
 

Tutor-Led & On-line Accredited Courses: Engaging modules your team can complete at their own pace.

Downloadable Certificates: Ideal for compliance, onboarding, or CPD tracking.

Flexible Packages: Pick one course or opt for full LMS support across your organisation.

Explore courses in business skills, customer service, health and safety, and mental health perfect to build capability and confidence before the year ends.

?? Need help choosing the right courses for your team?

?? Explore eLearning with Applaud BC
 

 Standards Insight: ISO 9001 – Quality That Builds Trust

 

November is the perfect time to revisit your internal systems and ask: Are we consistently delivering value—every time, to every client?

ISO 9001 gives you the structure to embed quality into everything you do. It’s not just about ticking boxes it’s about building a culture of excellence.

Here’s what it brings to your business:

Improved Customer Satisfaction: Structured processes reduce errors and make your service more consistent, which keeps customers coming back—and bringing others with them.

Lower Costs Through Fewer Mistakes: ISO 9001 helps you catch quality issues early, before they become costly or reputational risks.

Stronger Team Accountability: With clear roles, expectations, and process ownership, your team works with more clarity and confidence.

Whether you're preparing for your first certification or refreshing your current QMS, I’ll support you through every stage from discovery to documentation to audit prep.

 [Let’s Talk About ISO 9001]

Standards Insight: ISO 22301 – Resilience is a Competitive Edge (Business Continuity)

 

No business is immune to disruption but every business can be ready for it.

ISO 22301 is the gold standard for business continuity, helping you plan for and recover from the unexpected. Here’s what it brings:

Confidence Under Pressure: With structured continuity plans, your team knows what to do when it matters most.

Protection of Revenue & Reputation: Keep key services running even in a crisis, maintaining trust with clients and partners.

Preparedness for Tenders or Contracts: ISO 22301 certification often gives you a competitive edge when bidding for work.

Let’s build a continuity plan that matches your risk profile and business goals.

[Let’s Talk About Business Continuity]

 

Quick Tip: Pre-Holiday Planning

Before December hits and things slow down:

 Lock in critical Q4 deliverables

 Review contracts, compliance, and HR timelines
 Clarify team expectations during the festive period

Doing this now helps avoid December drift and gives you a restful break without business stress.

 Need a holiday handover checklist or help reviewing your Q4 priorities? Just hit reply I’ve got a template you’ll love.

Funding Spotlight: Business Consultancy Support

Did you know there’s a grant available to help fund the kind of consultancy work we’ve been discussing in these newsletters?

The Specialist Business Consultancy Grant offers 80% funding up to £5,000 for eligible businesses looking to bring in external expertise to solve challenges or unlock growth.

Whether you're planning your next big move or tightening operations before year-end, this could be a great opportunity to bring in support without stretching your budget.

Eligible consultancy support includes:

  • Growth and action planning

  • ISO or other accreditation preparation

  • Bid writing and tender support

  • Development of marketing strategies

Financial or operational efficiency reviews
​
If you'd like help applying or want to check if your business is eligible just reply to this email. I’d be happy to walk you through it.

November Insights: Resilience, Planning & Purposeful Connections