When to Ask for Help?
When should you ask for help in business? The answer is simple, always. This does not mean you are constantly in crisis, it means you recognise that seeking advice is a strength, not a weakness, and a key to success. The best leaders are lifelong learners who know the value of outside perspectives.
Obvious Times to Seek Help
Most people only consider asking for help during tough moments. Certainly, there are classic scenarios when reaching out makes sense:
Hitting a challenge or problem you just cannot solve alone.
When the business is struggling or growth has stalled.
A new opportunity emerges that requires expertise or guidance beyond your current capacity.
In these situations, an experienced advisor or mentor can provide solutions, fresh ideas, and confidence to move forward.
Even When Business Is Booming
How about asking for help when things are going well? Counterintuitive as it sounds, good times are ideal for a business “health check.” An advisor’s fresh perspective can help to ensure your success lasts longer than just ‘today’ For example, an advisor could help you:
Review your structure and business model to confirm it is robust and future ready.
Evaluate key supplier relationships, and even tender certain contracts to ensure you are getting the best value.
Update your strategic and business plans considering recent successes and new goals.
Review your personal financial structure (e.g. ownership, insurance, tax plans) for asset protection and tax efficiency.
Identify investment or diversification opportunities to grow your operations further.
By being proactive, you safeguard and capitalise on the gains you have made. Advisors often spot opportunities or risks you might overlook, helping you stay ahead of the game.
More Than Problem Solvers
A business adviser is far more than a hired problem solver. They can challenge your assumptions acting as that “unreasonable business friend” who pushes you out of your comfort zone and encourages you to reach for new heights. A good advisor can also serve as a mentor and accountability partner, helping you develop new skills and stay focused on your goals. They bring hard won experience and an outsider’s objectivity to guide important decisions. In short, they will not only help put out fires in an emergency but also help light them up when needed to drive future growth.
An Investment with Returns
Finally, do not view advisory help as just another expense, view it as an investment in your business’s future. The right advisor will produce tangible returns by uncovering ways to boost profits, streamline operations, or avoid costly mistakes. Their value will far outweigh the cost of their services.
By asking for help early and always, you position your company to thrive in good times and bad. Great businesses are not built alone so reach out to me at SAS Business for a no obligation chat.