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Find a Mentor Preston

Local mentors who help new business start-ups.

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Preston Business Category

Preston Mentoring

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Whether you are thinking about starting a business in Preston or you are already successfully trading, we would strongly advise you to consider finding a business mentor.

Even the most succesful business people recognise that they do not know everything and that an impartial outside perspective can be invaluable. Unlike working for a company, as an entrepreneur, you do not have a boss to turn to or to ask for a second opinion. A good mentor will learn about you, your business, your strengths and weaknesses. This combined with their own wisdom and experience, will provide you with an ongoing support mechanism.

Recommended Local Partner

AskAskew Early Years and Childcare Business Consultancy

AskAskew Early Years and Childcare Business Consultancy

AskAskew provides business support to new and established early years and childcare providers, including private day nurseries, pre-schools, out of school clubs, registered childminders, schools operating childcare

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Local partners

We are happy to promote anyone who is prepared to offer friendly support to local start-ups.

Our local partners have been kind enough to help us and are keen to help you too.

Frequently asked questions

Mentoring

Starting and running your own business is deeply personal but there are some questions which are asked more than others. Here are some of the most common mentoring queries that we have received over the years.

What is business mentoring?
Business mentoring is a supportive, long-term relationship where an experienced individual (the mentor) provides guidance, advice, and support to a less experienced person (the mentee). Unlike coaching, which is often more task and performance-oriented, mentoring focuses on the overall development of the mentee in a broader professional context.
What are the benefits of having a mentor?
Having a business mentor can offer numerous benefits, including personalised advice, insights into your industry, networking opportunities, emotional support, and guidance through challenges. Mentors can help you refine your business strategy and improve your decision-making skills.
What qualities should I look for in a mentor?
A good mentor should have a strong track record of success, deep industry knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the willingness to invest time in help you grow. Look for someone who is respectful, trustworthy, and demonstrates a genuine interest in your business and personal development.
What are the responsibilities of a mentor and a mentee?
Mentors are responsible for providing guidance, encouraging personal and professional growth, and offering constructive feedback. Mentees should come prepared, be open to learning and feedback, actively engage in the relationship, and set clear goals for what they hope to achieve.
How long do I have to work with a mentor?
The duration of a mentoring relationship can vary widely based on individual goals, the nature of the mentorship, and the preferences of both the mentor and the mentee. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, but there are some general mentoring guidelines.
How much does a mentor charge?
Gather all necessary documents before starting the application process. Common requirements include a business plan, financial projections, details of key team members, and a clear description of how the grant will be used.
How do I find a suitable mentor?
A list of local and national contacts can be found below.

Free startup guide

Start Your Own Business in Preston

Download the 2024 edition of our Free guide

An interactive step-by-step guide which also includes all of the most important subjects covered with links to useful articles and relevant contacts.

The idea of starting your own business can be incredibly exciting and who can blame you for being tempted?

However, the sad truth is that far too many new enterprises fail in the early stages. Our aim is to make sure that you don't become one of them.

This guide explains the key start-up subjects in simple English and points to where you can find help and support.

More Information and instant download

Free Friendly Advice

AskAskew Early Years and Childcare Business Consultancy

If you would like some free friendly advice from a trusted local partner, please complete the form.

There will not be any pressure nor will you be under any obligation to buy paid services.

Alternatively you can contact Andy Pringle at andy@syob.net and he can help guide you with more information or suggest the best person to contact.

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Preston Mentors

Hardman McNeal
Business Simplified - Removing the jargon from running a business. Jenny & Cate are two mums in business who understand the pressures of working around a family. We support and help you to take small steps in building your dreams. Do you struggle with structure, spinning too many plates not knowing what to do for the best? Our one 2 one coaching either face to face or via video call may work for you.
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invest in women hub
Having mentors can be invaluable when it comes to starting, growing, and scaling your business. Whether you are facing a challenge in your business, need advice on a certain topic, or simply just need to talk to someone who has done it before, having mentors can be of huge advantage. That is why the Invest in Women Hub brings to you our free of charge Find a Mentor platform designed to help you with your entrepreneurial journey by connecting you with mentors and unlimited 1:1 conversations tailored to your needs.
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AskAskew Early Years and Childcare Business Consultancy
AskAskew provides business support to new and established early years and childcare providers, including private day nurseries, pre-schools, out of school clubs, registered childminders, schools operating childcare
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Robert Parkinson Consultancy
Business AdvisorMentorCoach and Founder Member and Fellow of the Institute of Consulting. Over the past thirty years I have helped and advised over 5000 businesses large and small to develop, succeed and reach their goals. Many businesses were assisted at that essential start up phase, some have even been advised not to go ahead. With timely advice I have helped prevent viable businesses closing down and assisted others to expand and grow.
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Local help for startups

There is plenty of help for startups in Preston but where can it be found?

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