One Business Network

The Law of Attraction states that we can have everything we want in life, by focusing on it and believing it can be achieved.  Whether you believe this is true, or not, just give it some thought for a moment…

Have you ever watched an account of an epic battle for survival, for example stories from Everest or of Ranulph Fiennes?  Listening to what Ellen MacArthur endured whilst out at sea, or reading about Lewis Hamilton’s amazing success in Formula One?  The one thing all these stories have in common is the total commitment the people have to achieve their dreams.  They knew what they wanted, they believed they could have it and they took action to ensure they achieved it. 

There are a vast array of Government bodies wanting to help you set up in business.  Below we have listed some that we found really useful, but they all come with a health warning - beware of taking advice from people who have never run their own business.  They may offer some useful hints and tips, but we would always recommend learning from people who walked the path before you.  

As an example of this, let me tell you a little story... when we first started our marketing company in 2004 we attended a free business start-up course which had a grant attached.  On the first day, we were told that we didn't need a company name and that we could trade off our own name, as none of us would be doing any business outside our home town.  I have to say, that was an ambitious start to a four day course!

Unfortunately,  this attitude plagues the business advice sector and gives people an excuse to dampen your ambitions.  I'm pleased to say things are improving and there are many very good business advisers, who have a huge amount of experience - just ask a few questions, so you know how much weight to place on the advice you're given.

Never one to miss an opportunity, it was that piece of advice that led to the creation of the ONE Business Network.  All our contributors are experienced business owners - successful and unsuccessful.  What we share is only our opinion, but at least we've been there, done it and got the T-shirt.

Remember... Free Advice is Worth Exactly What You Pay For It

Did you know…

£1000 put on a credit card and paid at the minimum amount every month would take 16 years and 3 months to pay off.  You really need to understand money and get a grip of your finances if you’re going to be successful.

Sales are the lifeblood of your company, and you need to decide fairly early on which type of salesperson you are:

• Are you a ‘hunter’ – if you have no problem talking about money, you fall into this category and should be responsible for sales, which will bring in 15% of your revenue
• If you are a ‘farmer’, you should concentrate on the delivery aspects of your business; focusing on customer service.  This will play to your strengths and customer follow-up will produce up to 85% of your revenue
• If you’re a manager, stick to the finance areas and find someone else to negotiate the money.