At crucial points in your life, you are going to have to give a presentation. The pitch to win the deal. A nerve-wracking experience, but if it goes well you could clinch that multi-million pound contract and be a hero. So how do you get people to listen to you?

Is it possible to make money and be charitable at the same time? Can we make giving good for business? It is a philosophy that is close to my heart and that I have been thinking about a lot lately, because there is a new and exciting wave of philanthropy sweeping the business world.

As a business owner you’ve got to be decisive, committed to your course of action, and able to communicate your intentions clearly. People like to be led and it is vital that your team is clear about what they are ment to be doing, what they have to achieve, and by when.

I have spent much of my professional life as a business coach and mentor to business owners of mid-range businesses; talented and bright people who work hard and play hard and know what it is to achieve great results. But it never ceases to amaze me how few people know why they are in business or what their exit strategy will be.

In family business it is often taken for granted that there will always be a family member at the helm of the company. However, this may not be good for the business nor actually what the heir apparent truly wants.