Google to offer free advice on digital skills in Newark

Google is offering free advice on digital skills in Newark tomorrow.

The multinational technology company is holding its Google Digital Garage at Castle House.

The courses offered in Newark will include: building a digital marketing plan, social media strategy, how to make your business more visible online, and an introduction to digital advertising. Free face-to-face coaching on a 1:1 basis will also be offered.

Research from Innovate UK found that the top priority for towns in the UK in order of importance to their High Street, town or city centre, was digital skills (42%) and improved digital marketing (36%)

Ronan Harris, Managing Director Google UK, said: "In the digital age, a basic understanding of how the online world works is useful and when it comes to business, it’s essential. We are delighted to bring the Google Digital Garage to Newark in Nottinghamshire to ensure everyone has access to free digital skills workshops and one-to-one coaching.

“We want to give businesses in Newark the digital skills they need to make the most of new technologies to level the playing field against their competition, reach new customers beyond their local area and grow, whilst ensuring they remain at the heart of the local community.”

Robert Jenrick, MP for Newark and Bingham, said: “Speaking with local business people, one of their top priorities is the need for improved digital skills and connectivity.

"The internet is irreversibly changing the way we live and shop and has placed an irreversible pressure on small businesses in our area, particularly independent businesses and shops on the high street. The digital marketplace has become an invaluable tool for so many people, so it is necessary to equip the offline world with tools to maximise the online one. I was delighted Google accepted my invitation and agreed to send its Digital Garage team to Newark to provide a specific market town’s seminar.”

The event will run from 10am-4pm. Visitors can either book in advance or drop-in on the day. For more information, or to sign up to a session, visit: http://g.co/MarketsTourUK.