For all our sturdy independence, few entrepreneurs can function completely alone. We make the decisions alone and we take responsibility alone, but that does not mean we do not need information, and, sometimes, advice.

Some of our advisers serve a specific purpose – most obviously, our accountants, or management consultants on a specific project.

There is also a tribe of mentors, counsellors, and advisers who offer ongoing general advice. Some may be glorified bureaucrats or bank managers of dubious value. Others may be non-executive directors who bring something tangible to the table.

Whatever their status, there are some qualities all business advisers must have:

1   Experience – not particularly of your sector and their specialist task, but of business in general

2   Enterprise – only an entrepreneur can really advise an entrepreneur

3   Independence – beware of “business advisers” who work for banks, insurance companies, or government fronts

4   Integrity – someone advising you to do something dishonest may be dealing dishonestly with you

5   Discretion – if he tries to impress you with talk about other clients, it means he is talking about you to them

6   Positive attitudes – you need someone who is frank about potential difficulties but who shares your belief in ultimate success

7   Commitment – it is not always appropriate but you may have more confidence in someone who is prepared to take a stake in your business, who wants share options as well as, or instead of, fees up front.