Agency Worker Regulations (AWR): What is AWR?

Agency Workers Regulations aim to combat discrimination of people who work for employment agencies, by stating that agency workers should be no less favourably treated in pay and working time than their full-time counterparts, who do the same work. Similar to IR35, the guidance is designed to ensure fair treatment of contractors and freelancers, and ensure that … Read more

How to overcome procrastination driven by anxiety

This model for overcoming procrastination driven by anxiety illustrates some of the emotional and behavioural “knots” underlying some forms of procrastination. Solutions for anxiety-driven procrastination The dominant loop here is the cycle of anxiety and overwhelm.  Anxiety is difficult to address directly. Thus, we have to look elsewhere for leverage points in this system. I … Read more

Challenges in growing an agency

Once upon a time, marketing agencies were profitable businesses.  They were tough to get into and get the first few accounts, but  competition was reasonable and the business model provided  sufficient profit margins.  Today, that is no longer the case. It is very easy to get into the  business, but it’s very hard to grow … Read more

Rules for good leadership

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work directly with a number of leaders. I define these as people who lead their own teams and organisations. What makes some of them good leaders? My answer is personal and subjective. Note the “some of them” reference. Being good at your profession does not necessarily … Read more

4 ways to make Your Business More Sustainable

Businesses of all sizes are becoming more aware of their impact on the world. Business sustainability is now a primary focus for organisations across industries, as companies focus on long-term profitability and cut their carbon footprints. Additionally, consumers are becoming more aware of how businesses treat the environment, which has forced businesses to take action. … Read more

Tips for new fathers (or, how to dad good)

I find most writing on how to be a good father quite patronising. Instead, I’ve collected the most practical advice for new dads into one place. It will grow over time, as will babies and the parents that look after them. Further advice, anecdata, exceptions that prove the rule, etc, are welcome in the comments. … Read more

Freelance in 30 Days Book: Get the confidence and knowledge to succeed at going freelance

The freelance book that helps you get the confidence and knowledge to thrive in your new freelance career. Do you want to build the confidence to finally go freelance? Do you want the freedom and flexibility that comes from being your own boss? Do you want to be a creative and productive freelancer? Answer "Yes" to these … Read more

Advice for joining the climate justice movement

Advice for joining the climate justice movement from Cynthia Kaufman, author of The Sea is Rising and so are We: a Climate Justice Handbook. I would encourage anyone wanting to do this work to find a group to work with.  We need to join with others and use our collective power to get institutions to … Read more

About Ben Matthews

Hello, I’m Ben Matthews Based in London Co-Founder and Director at Empower Brief summary of my story so far: Contact me Want to ask me something? Email me at [email protected] Book My book, Freelance in 30 Days, is out now

How to clear the Twitter Card cache to show the right image

Have you ever tried to share a news story from your site to Twitter and realised there is no picture being pulled through to the Twitter Card? Twitter might have added the wrong image or you might have forgot to add an image and added after publication. Or perhaps the headline has changed and the … Read more