Mentoring: Why two heads are better than one

Starting a new business or looking to grow an existing one? Having a mentor could give you the boost you need, says Gina Dyer.

Starting your own business can be a lonely experience at first, and when you're totally immersed in the project it can be difficult to plan it objectively. While financial advisors can steer your books in the right direction and friends and family provide much needed emotional support and valued opinions, speaking to someone who has trodden the path before you can help you to set goals, develop your business skills and offer access to useful resources.

What is a mentor?

A mentor is someone with relevant business experience who can offer guidance and support. It could be someone who has started and run their own successful business, or someone with a proven expertise in your business area. Above all, it's important that your mentor is someone you trust and whose opinions you value.

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