Explore our work & see the results
The latest business strategy articles, advice and insights from the ProfileTree team.
Does your company have sensitive communications or data to protect? Could a secure communications method reduce your risks? We discussed these business essentials, and much more, with John Bailie of Northern Ireland-based SaltDNA. John’s company offers a solution for secure enterprise communications (including voice, text and file) between mobile devices and desktop computers. He explained […]
There’s an app for everything these days, but there’s a reason for it. Apps create convenient solutions to problems we didn’t even know existed – but where do these entrepreneurs get their innovative ideas from? In our recent Business Leaders episode, discover how a Dublin business owner has used innovation and app development to build […]
An expert who helps drivers find and fund the right car, van or fleet for their needs visited the ProfileTree studio to explore the future of the car industry as well as discuss vehicle leasing, vehicle technology, cross-border business and much more. Traction Finance Director Paul McGuire also gave his insights into the highly topical […]
An essential business topic was explored by a visitor to the ProfileTree studio; support for businesses to help deliver upskilling and growth. Economic Development Manager Nuala Kilmartin of Belfast Metropolitan College discussed access to funding and explored the integration of education and industry. She introduced her own career path and outlined the work of her colleagues by […]
Does your business struggle to collaborate and innovate? One answer could be staring directly at you, on your computer home screen. In our latest instalment of our Business Leaders series, we speak to Google specialist Fintan Murphy, CEO of Damson Cloud. In the interview, Fintan discusses how he helps companies use Google’s Cloud computing tools […]
Personal and business development are separate, yet intertwined. When you choose to invest and nurture one, this can have a positive knock-on effect of the other. But how can we leverage both into ensuring career success? In our latest instalment of our Business Leaders series, we speak with Sam J Webb, a business development consultant […]
A Northern Ireland-based business development specialist shared some of her expertise during a video interview covering startup essentials such as resources for new companies, small business growth and much more. Rosemary Morrison, of Directus Training and Consultancy, passed on some professional insights during a ProfileTree Business Leaders discussion in our Belfast studio. The […]
Is scaling a business part of your long-term plan? Here’s an opportunity to learn from an entrepreneur who grew an Irish company into a global operation in just a few years. Andrew Mackin, of environmental health and safety specialists Mackin Consultancy, took part in a video interview in our Belfast studio. He outlined […]
Innovation is a key part in every aspect of business growth. But how is it done? This week, our host Ciaran Connolly chats with Mike Shelly, who used innovation to boost his equine science business Plusvital. The pair also discuss some essential insights into international markets, exporting and much more. To find out more, watch […]
Innovative Technology with Denver Humphrey What can we learn from the space industry? A visitor to the ProfileTree studio took us behind the scenes of Ireland’s space sector and revealed how specialist teams aren’t just working on world-class projects but have fascinating and ambitious plans for the future. Denver Humphrey, Head of Research and Development […]
Smarter Content Marketing with Nick Mason How to increase content engagement? A London-based company has set its sights on revolutionising content engagement by creating a new platform built around improved user experience for readers. Nick Mason, CEO and Founder of Turtl, took part in a ProfileTree video interview to explain that his tool doesn’t just […]
How can startups afford software development? A successful tech entrepreneur who specialises in development for new businesses called into the ProfileTree studio to take part in an insightful discussion. Tom Hughes, of 3rd Digital, explained his own fascinating background and took us behind the scenes of his award-winning company. He began by outlining his route […]
A digital leader identified as one of the top entrepreneurs in Ireland visited the ProfileTree studio to discuss digital transformation and much more. Naomh McElhatton, named among the top five entrepreneurs to watch in 2019 by the Irish Times newspaper, explored all things digital and outlined the work of her company SMART Global. She began […]
Ever been curious about the real benefits behind business coaching? ProfileTree had a chance to hear an example of how mentoring and coaching can be used in a powerful, practical way thanks to a visit from exam coach James Perry. James, of James Perry Exam Coaching, also discussed motivation and business growth during his very […]
Many people need a helping hand to get on the right track with their health. But little do people know – improving your health can start by taking a few simple steps. That’s where Dáithi O’Connor’s business Revive Active steps in: with specialist supplements designed for healthier living. In a recent Business Leaders episode, we […]
Explore the vital subject of emotional wellbeing, and a range of essential mental health topics, through our interview with resilience skills specialist Leigh Carey. Leigh is Executive Director of The Hummingbird Project NI, which provides training, develops programmes and gives support to the mental health family. During her Business Leaders interview, Leigh discussed mental health […]
What is an environmental consultancy? Who better to guide us through the work of an environmental consultant than the Managing Director of a multi-million pound environmental business. Dr Mark McKinney, of ATG Group, visited the ProfileTree studio to take part in a Business Leaders video interview and pass on some expertise with the aim of […]
Why is IT support important? This modern business essential was explored during a ProfileTree video interview with business IT systems expert Scott Wilson. Scott, of Wilson Computers, also shared some insights into choosing the right IT for your company and discussed digital data security. He introduced himself and his business by explaining that his team […]
Success Online with Phil Carrick How to start an online business from home? A great first step is to learn from the experts and use their experience to create the best possible foundations for your new home business. That’s why ProfileTree invited Phil Carrick of HowtoSacktheBoss.com to take part in a Business Leaders video interview. […]
Change in business can be hard to manage. But, when we are prepared and proactive, it can lead to great success. In our latest Business Leaders episode, we explore innovation and getting ahead of the curve with Lydia McClelland, Head of W5. To learn more fascinating insights about this topic, check out our full Business […]
How to market online? ProfileTree welcomed Adam Pearce of Blend Commerce to our studio to discuss online selling, Shopify and much more. The Blend Commerce co-founder, speaking via a Zoom video link, shared some of his Shopify and online marketing expertise. He began by outlining the specialism offered to businesses by Blend Commerce, who simply […]
What is the future of technology? In our latest Business Leaders episode, we discuss tech, cyber security, autonomous systems and much more with Alert Logic Data Scientist and Founder and Director of Farset Labs, Andrew Bolster. To find out more fascinating insights from industry expert Andrew, watch our full Business Leaders interview below or on […]
Strategic development is at the core of business success. But how can this be implemented to ensure leadership teams are equipped to deliver a strategic plan? We asked expert John McKee, Managing Director of Linkubator, to share his views. In our latest Business Leaders episode, we learn all about John, his business, and what advice […]
Public relations is the professional maintenance of a favourable public image by a company or individual. While many people may know of it, not enough understand its importance. This week, as part of our Business Leaders series, we speak with PR industry leader Riki Neill of RNN Communications. In the interview, we explore how you […]
Innovation is a multi-faceted term. Many people understand its connection to success – but not what it involves and the power of its outcome. Cris Beswick is responsible for helping companies untap their potential, drive innovation and see results. As part of our Business Leaders series, our CEO Ciaran Connolly speaks with Cris about his […]
What are the advantages of branding? In a globalised, competitive market like today’s, your brand has become more important than ever. But what is branding and what are the advantages? Understanding the advantages of branding will help you to make a strong and lasting impression on customers. Ultimately, this is crucial to running a sustainable […]
How to manage a restaurant? In our Business Leaders video interview, Michelle from ProfileTree was joined by Paul O’Kane who shared some of his substantial management and food industry expertise. Paul is the owner of three restaurants in County Down, Northern Ireland and, therefore, has a wealth of experience in his sector. His premises are […]
What do digital agencies do? What services do they offer and how can those services help your business? Our ULTIMATE GUIDE looks at each of the valuable areas of work digital agencies can bring to your organisation. Why? Because understanding the work of digital agencies can be the first step to making the most of […]
SEMRush is a highly advanced tool. It’s also pretty expensive. As such, you want to ensure that you can make the most of it. This includes analysing both your own site and the sites of your competitors. Let’s take a closer look at this leading digital marketing analysis tool and learn how it helps to […]
Conflict and resolution apply with everything in life, whether it be personal or professional relationships. Peacebuilding may sound like an easy task, but author and consultant Tony Macauley states that reconciliation can only be achieved through careful means. In our latest Business Leaders episode, we chat with Tony about his career, and how to keep […]
We live in a culturally diverse world, where no two countries share the same unique traits. Celebrating and appreciating one another’s culture is what makes the world a better place, full of rich opportunities and experiences. What’s more important, is how we integrate these into our workplaces, to enable businesses to become more successful. This […]
Let’s explore the main types of corporate strategy. But what is a corporate strategy? How do they differ from other business strategies? Read on to find out everything you need to know. A corporation is different from an everyday company. For starters they are much larger. Also, they are a separate legal entity from their […]
What can online learning do for your business? In our latest Business Leaders interview, we speak to Gavin Woods, Client Services Director of Aurion Learning, about e-learning and business strategy. To discover more, watch our full interview with Gavin below, or read on for the highlights. What is Aurion Learning? Aurion Learning is a solution-first […]
How important is bookkeeping for a small business? A superb summary by a Northern Ireland-based specialist sums up just how vital bookkeeping is for companies big and small. Marie, of New Balance Bookkeeping, pointed out that “staying on top of their accounts” can help companies to “make strong business decisions”. Introducing the work of her […]
First-Hand Tips from Andrew Hassard How to start an Ecommerce business? What better way to learn about identifying a niche market and building your business than to hear directly from Ecommerce entrepreneur Andrew Hassard. Andrew, who is Managing Director of Northern Ireland-based company Mango Bikes, talked Ecommerce and business start-up during a fascinating ProfileTree video […]
For many people, improving their career prospects or starting a new business is not an easy feat. However, with the right advice and direction – it can be made a lot easier. In our latest Business Leaders episode, ProfileTree CEO Ciaran Connolly speaks to career specialist Mark McCracken, about entrepreneurship, employment opportunities and much more. […]
To be able to set up, develop and grow a successful business, regardless of the industry ─ a good business strategy is vital. Whether you’re looking to set new business priorities, outline plans for growth, determine a product roadmap or plan your investment decisions, you’ll need a strategy. Most businesses start small and stay there.
But if that’s not good enough for you — or if you recognize that staying small doesn’t necessarily guarantee your business’s survival — there are examples of companies out there that have successfully made the transition from start-up to small business to fully-thriving large business. Coming to the realisation that your organisation needs one is easy. However, creating an actual strategy is a little trickier.
While it may sound a bit daunting, iterating like this actually makes strategy easier. It will save you from endless visioning exercises, misdirected SWOT (the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analyses, and lots of heroically uninformed big thinking. Crafting your strategy in relatively small and concrete chunks and honing the answers to the five questions through iteration will get you a better strategy, with much less pain and wasted time.
Questions to ask when building a business strategy:
In follow-up meetings to discuss your progress, it’s also important to revisit your action plan regularly and to continually update it. Allowing your action plan to be surpassed by developments in your company is a sure way for it to go above and beyond.
