- What it Takes Deborah Meaden tells us what she thinks it takes to be a successful business leader.
- Researching Entrepreneur, Deborah Meaden gives her tips on researching your potential market.
- Planning Successful UK business woman Deborah Meaden gives her advice on business planning.
- Pitching Successful female investor Deborah Meaden gives her thoughts on pitching your business idea to secure funding.
Business tips & advice
Being your own boss sounds really attractive and it’s true that it can be incredibly rewarding and exciting, but there are downsides that you need to consider. Successful female entreprenuer and Dragon, Deborah Meaden, has the following advice for anyone thinking of setting out on their own...
Many people nurture romantic notions of running their own business and I would certainly not discourage them as it has been a path that has led me to a great deal of fulfillment, reward and satisfaction, not to mention ultimate wealth BUT, it is not a path that suits everyone.
There is plenty of advice available on how to start your own business but before you find out "how ?" you should be honest with yourself and ask "why do I want to start my own business?"
You really need to ask yourself why you want to do this and then consider the impact that this decision is going to have, particularly on your private life and the lives of those around you. Be under no illusions, setting up a business is hard work. You’ve got to be prepared to put in "whatever it takes" and expect the business to consume the vast majority of your life – certainly in the early stages. Are you REALLY prepared to do this? Your current job could look decidedly attractive after a few months of hard slog, so if you aren't 100% committed to the project you’re probably safer staying put.
Ask yourself some very tough questions, do you have the skills and knowledge? Are you in a position to take risk? Is your business idea sound? Do you REALLY want the full and ultimate responsibility that comes with being your own Boss?
If you’re still determined to be your own Boss after considering all of this then visit the other pages in this section for further advice and my views on what it takes to be a success.
Before starting out...
There’s a wealth of general business advice readily available on the internet including information to help you produce business plans, legal information and specific guidance for start up businesses. The following links take you to just a few of the websites where you’ll find helpful information.
Business Link
Small Business Advice
Alliance and Leicester
HSBC
The BBC has also compiled a very comprehensive list of useful websites. Click here to view the BBC webpage.
