For Entrepreneurs Only

I have helped set up a new venture in the East Riding of Yorkshire - a group of the regions most successful entrepreneurs with the aim of helping other entrepreneurs in the region. The group of 70 serious entrepreneurs have combined sales of over £2 billion and employ over 25,000 people.

The aim is to help create new wealth and jobs for the benefit of the local economy. Specifically the group will help the 10% of the population who are thinking of starting a business to consider taking the next step into business. We will also help existing businesses to grow their capacity outside the regional boundaries by helping to remove the barriers to progress.

Entrepreneurs prefer to learn from successful peers and also get their energy topped up which is drained by 'energy vampires' such as banks, local authorities and other bureaucratic organisations. The group will facilitate this process.

Have a look at the new website www.forentrepreneursonly.co.uk and let me know what you think.

Understanding and Developing your Business DNA

One of the most important ingredients in the recipe for success is the businesses DNA.

The DNA is THE WAY businesses do things. It is their unique set of beliefs, attitude, culture and priorities.

Rarely written down, the DNA however can be deduced by the way businesses treat their 3 primary stakeholders, their customers, staff and investors. It's either an asset or a liability. A strong consistent DNA can be a powerful source of energy and drive within any business.

It can include 'hard' elements like profit or sales goals but the real source of business success usually comes from the 'soft' things for example:

- A delighting customers culture
- Treating employees with dignity and respect
- Pride in performance
- Managing with integrity
- Taking personal responsibility for performance
- Commerciality in all dealings

My very best clients in terms of consistent performance over time, like Keepmoat, have a DNA by design which serves the business.

Q. What's your business DNA and does it serve your business?