SMALL businesses in Cambridgeshire can now benefit from an extended specialist advice service launched by Business Link in the East of England. Aimed at small businesses that employ up to five staff, the phone-based service will provide busy, time constrained owners and managers with business advice and support during weekday evenings and on a Saturday, as well as weekdays.

The team of 11 advisers are highly experienced; each have run their own business, been in the driving seat operating businesses for others, or in senior positions with major commercial operations. Specialisms within the business advice team include sales; marketing, including social media; technology; operations; financial and business planning; product development; HR and training.

Malcolm Williamson, head of information & intelligence at Business Link said: “Availability of time is a constant challenge when running a business, and we know that owners and managers of small businesses don’t just need access to advice during a normal working day. That’s why we’ve launched this dedicated, extended advice service; those holding the reins of small business can now also engage with an experienced adviser outside of normal business hours, as well as on a Saturday.

“We know that businesses that seek our help have a 20% higher survival rate than those that don’t. When one-to-one advice is sought with one of our advisers, that survival rate increases an additional 12%. Simply put, businesses that receive advice from a Business Link adviser do better, which is why we’ve enhanced our service to meet the needs of Cambridgeshire small businesses.”

To make an appointment with a Business Link adviser call 08457 17 16 15 between Monday and Friday, 9am to 5pm, or via email to info@businesslinkeast.org.uk. advisers are available by appointment Monday to Friday, 08.30am to 7.30pm and Saturdays 10am to 4pm.