“I have got nobody to talk to, and when I see my accountant he just wants to check the figures and then send me away. When I go to see the bank managers, they are so young that there is nobody to challenge what I am saying, as they do not have any experience.”
These are some of the most common statements from business owners that we have come across over the past few years. Running your own business has become even more lonely, and while it can be pleasant not to be challenged, it does mean that you as the proprietor have to get it right first time and every time, and no one can do that.
Friends and family could be there to support and give their views, but if your business is family run this can sometimes bring the added pressure of getting it right for the members concerned.
So, how can you get encouragement and guidance either on a regular basis or as and when you need it? Mentors have hands-on experience and will question how and why you are doing some of the things that you are proposing. They can look at your business with a fresh perspective, and may be able to offer some alternative ideas.
When choosing your mentor, it is important that you both have the following:
- Respect for and the ability to be honest with each other.
- A good understanding of you and your business.
- An open mind but a clear direction of your end objective.
- A responsible payment plan/agreement that fits for both of you.
WLP has a number of experienced mentors, whose details are viewable on our People page. Alternatively, visit www.mentorsme.co.uk.