Experts from Google and Lloyds Banking Group will share the secrets of online influence at a digital masterclass at the Bicester Eco Business Centre next Thursday.

The ‘Digital Know How’ event will be held at the Centre on Charlotte Avenue in Elmsbrook, Bicester and is free to attend.

People will learn how to build an online presence through social media with tips and tricks from industry leaders on how to organically grow your audience.

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Lucy Wendon, community manager at the Eco Business Centre said the event was a first for the area: “We’re excited to hold what will be the first of many digital workshops at the Eco Business Centre and are proud to welcome the likes of Google and Lloyds Banking Group through our doors.

“The beauty of digital technology is that a business can essentially base themselves anywhere and still export to the rest of the world. From Bicester to Boston, geography is now less of a barrier - all you need is space and the right digital infrastructure.

“Businesses don’t need to be based in London in order to reach their customers, which means they no longer have to bear the costs or commute to the city either. Spaces like the Eco Business Centre mean you can work in a unique and forward-thinking environment and still grow quickly.

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“The event will have something for everyone, no matter what stage your business is at. Whether you’ve been established for a while, or if you don’t have any online presence at all, you’ll be able to gain insight from a global leader.”

Based at Bicester's Eco Village, the Eco Business Centre - which opened last September - is managed by TownSq, and provides office and co-working space, giving a unique place for start-ups and small businesses to grow.

As well as being available for meetings and events such as this, the centre will look to grow and support a community of founders, freelancers and entrepreneurs, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.

Tara Foley, Lloyds Banking Group’s Ambassador for the South East, said:

“According to our latest Business Digital Index, four in 10 South East firms lack the full range of essential digital skills. While investment in digital connectivity in the South East has accelerated in recent years, we now need to make sure everyone has the necessary digital skills to unlock the advantages associated with going online.

“Our latest research also found that an average small business in the UK with employees boasting strong digital skills earns around £260,000 more a year. Firms need to equip themselves with digital capabilities in areas such as SEO and social media marketing, not only to boost their bottom line but to also ensure their survival in the economic landscape of today and in the future.”

To book your space at the event, go to eventbrite.co.uk.