We’ve taken a look at some of the key qualities we think you should be looking for in your business adviser.
When it comes to trying to find the perfect business adviser, it can be hard to know what you should or shouldn’t be looking for. A lot of the time, what you need will depend on your business and goals, but there are some commonalities you should look for – no matter what your objectives are.
Curious and inquisitive
A good adviser will take the time to ask questions. Whether that’s about you, your business, or your goals, they should always spend plenty of time finding out as much as possible. Ultimately, the more a business adviser learns and understands about your business and your objectives, the better equipped they will be to provide you with advice and guidance. Hence why it’s so important to find someone who wants to get to the roots of your business.
If a business adviser fails to take the time to understand you and your business, this should raise a red flag. It’s likely that the advice and guidance you will receive from them won’t be efficiently tailored to your business goals, which could result in your business failing – or taking longer – to get to where you want it to be. In order to fully grow and develop your company, you need bespoke and tailored advice, which you’re unlikely to get from someone who doesn’t fully understand your struggles and aspirations.
Proactive and communicative
Being proactive means that your adviser will be invested in your development, taking the time to reach out to you about various projects and plans as well as holding you accountable – and being communicative ties in nicely with this. You need someone who is happy and able to communicate on a regular basis, not only to discuss any questions or concerns that you might have, but also for them to hold you accountable.
Finding a proactive and communicative business adviser is very important, but these qualities can be hard to spot unless you’ve already started working with them. It’s always a good idea to speak to other business owners that have used the adviser you’re talking to. Find out as much as you can about how they’ve helped other businesses, and whether they were engaged and proactive in their support. This should give you a good indication of whether they’re a good fit.
Passionate and experienced
A business adviser needs to have experience in business – a fairly obvious point, we know, but that’s not all. You also need someone who is passionate about helping your business grow, develop and succeed; someone who has the experience and knowledge to give you advice and guidance, but is also determined and committed to seeing you achieve your goals.
Experience is the number one thing to look for, what exactly have they accomplished in life? Take a quick look at their LinkedIn profile or a browse of their website to see how much experience they have. Have they earned the right to advise you? Have they walked the walk? Have they even run a business? Have they experienced success and failure? Do they have real life experiences? Don’t be afraid to ask for testimonials and to speak with current owners they are working with. This first step is key in weeding out the mediocre from the accomplished.
How can you find someone who’s also passionate?
From our experience, this comes down to gut feel. Spend some time talking face to face (or via Zoom if you’re unable to meet in person) to get a feel for the individual. Every business adviser is different and will work differently depending on their experience, so it’s down to you to find the right one for your business.
As a business owner, you’ve no doubt learnt to hone your instincts when it comes to hiring or working with new people, and this is no different. Trust your gut.
Get in touch
If you’re still looking for the perfect business adviser, or want to find out more about what a business adviser can do for your business, get in touch with the Mustard team today. We’d be happy to hear from you and discuss your business and requirements.
