Just how tough is the jobs market? Is the gloom pervasive or are there bright spots? And what do you do if you're looking for a new job? Business Plus canvasses the views of the experts Spread betting is a form of financial gambling, and attracts people who believe they can second-guess markets. Business Plus reports on the growth of the business in Ireland Directors Beware: Insolvencies are on the rise because of the economic downturn. Business Plus canvassed the experts for advice on what steps ailing firms must take to avoid going bust and facing the consequences Banks are more likely to fund a franchise startup than a standalone venture. Business Plus explains why, and hears from some franchisors about what it takes to succeed as a franchisee Focus On Ten Companies With A Dedicated CSR Focus; Why Social Responsibility Matters For Business; Practical CSR Ideas For SMEs; Diary From A Third World Boot Camp Top Hotels And Venues For A Great Staff Party Trips to Premier League games in England are a great way to treat customers and clients. Business Plus reports on the packages on offer from some of the leading sports tour operators Company brochure sites no longer cut the mustard for web-savvy surfers. That's the view of leading web developers Concern about the job prospects in a tougher economic climate is prompting more people to upgrade their skillsets The experts who can plan the perfect corporate event offer advice and tips on planning an event Even in an economic downturn, demand for accountants remains robust. Business Plus reports on the paths to qualification for this rewarding career Most companies want publicity for their PR buck but there is a growing demand for strategic counsel Third level colleges now provide all sorts of assistance for entrepreneurs. Who offers what, and advice from entrepreneurs who've been through the mill Direct marketing has moved beyond mail into the digital arena but is it a medium just for big players? Business Plus trawled through scores of filed accounts to uncover Cork's largest privately-owned businesses. NICK MULCAHY reports on the where the leading firms make their money Cost Conscious: Business Plus runs the rule over some of the latest office printers and finds out what the trends are in the sector A detailed listing of the leading commercial law firms in Dublin and the views of managing partners The market for broadband internet connections in Ireland exploded by 70% through 2007 and there is still a lot to play for In our annual Survey of Dublin chartered accountants, Business Plus lists the top firms and canvasses the views of their principals, starting with John Glennon, who did the biggest deal in the sector in the past year Quality graphic design is important for a company's image, branding and reputation. In this Business Plus Survey, we list some of the top business design firms and seek out the opinions of their principals How can a business make its website more attractive? How can online retailers become more efficient? How can you determine which parts of your website are attracting visitors and which aren't? The latest Business Plus Survey looks at these questions Most providers of business software are confident about the year ahead The Dublin region has a huge selection of hotels with meeting rooms and the premier venues are listed in our annual survey Beyond Firefighting - Every small business knows a tech guy who can hook up a new printer or fix the e-mail. But firms won't benefit from technology unless they raise that bar Recruitment Drive: Despite forecasts of the economy slowing down, recruiters are still optimistic about the future Franchising can offer a fast-track route into business for individuals prepared to work hard. But you must shop around and do your homework