Are you thinking about working with a business mentor but feeling a bit apprehensive about what to expect? I completely understand. Opening up your business—and yourself—to someone else can feel daunting. I thought I’d take the opportunity to open up and give you a glimpse into what a mentoring partnership with me truly entails.
A truly safe space
When clients describe me as “a safe pair of hands,” they’re often referring to something deeper than just trustworthiness. I deliberately create an environment where you can be vulnerable without fear of judgment.
What does this mean in practice? It means you can admit you don’t understand your financial statements without feeling inadequate. You can share that you’re overwhelmed without worrying I’ll think you’re not cut out for business. You can reveal your biggest mistakes knowing they’ll be treated as important learning opportunities, not failures.
This safety isn’t just emotional—it’s practical too. Confidentiality is absolute. Your business information, your struggles, your plans—all stay between us. This foundation of safety makes everything else possible.
Honesty and integrity are non-negotiable values
At the core of every successful mentoring relationship lies honesty. I hold this value close, and it underpins everything I do. For our work together to truly make a difference, I need clients who are ready to be completely honest from the very beginning—with themselves and with me.
This means acknowledging where things truly stand in your business. It means being forthright about your challenges rather than presenting a polished version of reality. Without honest assessment, we simply cannot build an effective path forward.
Similarly, integrity in how you conduct business matters enormously to me. I believe that sustainable success comes only when your actions align with your values. My approach to mentoring isn’t just about increasing profits or streamlining operations—it’s about building a business you can be genuinely proud of.
When partnering with clients, I look for those who share these fundamental values. Our relationship must be built on mutual respect and ethical foundations. In return, you’ll receive the same level of honesty and integrity from me—even when it means having difficult conversations.
Strategic thinking, always
I believe deeply in the value of strategic direction. Without it, business activities can become disjointed exercises that don’t lead anywhere meaningful.
During our sessions, you’ll notice I consistently ask, “How does this fit into your longer-term vision?” Whether we’re discussing a marketing campaign, a staffing decision, or a potential investment, I’ll guide you to connect it to your broader strategy.
This doesn’t mean rigid planning that doesn’t allow for adaptation. It does mean developing a clear direction that helps you make consistent decisions, even as circumstances change.
My clients tell me this strategic mindset is one of the most valuable skills they develop through our work together.
“Working with Debbie is always energising, forward focused, and proactive. By overlaying her expert knowledge of the challenges facing, and opportunities for small businesses, Debbie brings fresh perspective and astute commercial insight to our sessions.
I know I can rely on Debbie to elevate my thinking, turning ideas into purpose-driven outcomes. She steers me away from following the established path, reminding me to always look up and out for inspiration.” Jo Stickland, Group Director, ILAG.
Professional with a sense of fun
Business is serious, but that doesn’t mean our sessions have to be stern or dry. I believe in bringing personality and humour to our work.
We’ll laugh together. We’ll celebrate your wins with genuine enthusiasm. We’ll find moments of lightness even when tackling tough challenges. Building rapport isn’t just pleasant—it’s practical. When we connect as people, I become genuinely invested in your success.
“Working with Debbie is an absolute delight. Her enthusiasm is infectious and her work is of an excellent standard.” Dorothy Brown, Managing Director, Even Keel Solutions.
Zero judgment, maximum learning
Every business owner makes mistakes. I’ve made plenty myself over my three decades plus in business. What matters isn’t avoiding errors—it’s how we respond to them. When you share a misstep with me, you won’t face criticism or an “I told you so” attitude. Instead, we’ll analyse what happened, extract the valuable lessons, and apply them moving forward.
This zero-judgment approach frees you to be honest about what’s really happening in your business. And honesty is the only foundation upon which meaningful improvement can be built.
Supportive challenge
Working with me isn’t always comfortable—and that’s by design. Growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone, so I’ll certainly challenge you.
But my challenges always come with support. I won’t simply point out issues and leave you to figure them out alone. Instead, I’ll help you understand the nature of the challenge, explore possible solutions, and develop the skills and confidence to address it.
I might challenge your assumptions about what’s possible for your business. I might question whether you’re aiming high enough. I might push you to consider perspectives you’ve overlooked. But I’ll always do so with respect and genuine care for your success.
“What makes Debbie stand out is how she gets you to step outside your comfort zone in a comfortable way – she provides the perfect balance of challenge and support. Her mentorship has been educational and insightful. Her guidance has helped me create a clear vision of where I want my business to go.” Steph Taylor Business Support
Your journey, not mine
Perhaps most importantly, I recognise that this is your business journey, not mine. My role isn’t to create a carbon copy of my approach or to impose my vision. I’ll share expertise, offer guidance, and provide tools—but ultimately, you make the decisions. I’m here to illuminate paths, not to choose which one you walk.
This respect for your autonomy means our work together enhances your confidence rather than creating dependency. My biggest delight comes from seeing clients develop their own sound business judgment.
What to expect when we work together
If you’re considering working with me but feeling uncertain, here’s what you can expect from our initial sessions:
- First, I’ll take time to truly understand your business—not just its mechanics, but your vision and values too.
- We’ll identify your most pressing challenges and opportunities, prioritising them thoughtfully.
- Together, we’ll develop practical, actionable steps that move you forward while building your confidence.
- And throughout, I’ll be fully present—listening deeply, responding thoughtfully, and bringing all my experience to bear on your unique situation.
The clients who benefit most from working with me tend to be those who are open to growth, willing to consider new perspectives, and ready to take action—all while maintaining the highest standards of honesty and integrity.
If that sounds like you, we might be a great fit—even if you’re feeling a bit nervous about taking that first step. All meaningful growth involves a bit of uncertainty. But you don’t have to face that uncertainty alone. Send me an email if you’d like to have an initial conversation.