Don't be afraid to ask for help

“Nothing endures but change” - wise words once spoken by Greek philosophers that still ring very true today. Whether they have forecasted for it or not, business owners are constantly having to adapt to changing customer bases, fluctuations in the economy and increased competition.

Now, more than ever, flexibility is a vital attribute for businesses to have, but unless you are aware of available options, it can be difficult to know which way to turn to get the support you need.

It’s at times like these that business owners need help and trusted advice, which is easier to access than you might think.

For the last two years Orvia has been running a business mentoring programme on behalf of the North West Regional Development Agency, where leaders and senior managers identify opportunities for development and growth by utilising the skills, experience and guidance of an established business leader.

Business mentoring is:
• A personalised service ¬ each mentor is individually chosen based on their personality, skills and business background
• Tailored to you ¬ sessions are held at a time and location of your choice
• Driven by you ¬ mentoring relationships last as long as you need them to.

Mentoring is a method of personal development that encourages you to review your business aspirations and then set more defined goals and objectives that are realistic and achievable.

Preston-based Lancashire Gritters Ltd was established last year by founders Angela and Mark Cookson who have worked with a mentor for ten months to define clearer targets, focus business resources and develop a business plan.

“Our backgrounds are in admin, agriculture and machinery and we didn’t have any sales or contract management experience, so when Lancashire Gritters was established, it seemed as though we were feeling around in the dark. Luckily we were able to access Orvia’s mentoring programme and now have a more defined business strategy and objectives. ” said Angela.
“Our mentor has helped us to better understand sales forecasting and encouraged us to explore avenues we wouldn¹t have considered before. The guidance and support from our mentor has been invaluable and we would recommend it to other business owners in a heartbeat.”

Saesla Razvi
Orvia