BIDEMI ALABI
Bidemi is the founder of BusinessExcel UK, a business strategy and management consultancy that supports entrepreneurs, small and medium sized businesses and social enterprises with developing their business strategies and plans.
All information and links were correct at the date of original publication on
18 Apr 2013
Tell us a little about BusinessExcel UK and how they help clients.
We help them to understand and plan their finances including financial forecasts; raising finance; developing and pricing new products and services as well and structuring the business to achieve success.
What was the catalyst that made you decide to go into business?
My passion for working with entrepreneurs and the desire to do things they way I want them done.
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What was holding you back from being an entrepreneur at the time?
Nothing actually held me back; I had the passion and some experience but maybe the lack of start-up capital played a little part.
What was the best business advice you were given?
Not to expect Rome to be built in one day or my idea / business to be loved by all.
What is the most exciting thing happening in your sector right now?
The demise of Business Link; it’s created opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to find and work with knowledgeable and experience business strategy and management consultancies that add real value at the right price.
What are your customers demanding more from you at the moment?
A lot more people are starting businesses dues to the current economic climate and existing businesses want to be more efficient, resourceful and maximise their potential and opportunities, so there is a lot more demand for support with business strategies, finance readiness and raising finance.
We are fortunate that we have the knowledge, experience, expertise and contacts required to be a one-stop-shop that supports them.
What social media tool are you using at the moment?
At the moment we are using both Facebook and Twitter, although must confess we aren’t taking advantage of all it has to offer yet.
What is your take on personal business failures?
I never think of or recognise not succeeding in business as a failure. I think of it more as a valuable experience; one from which you can gain a lot from.
Who are you following on Twitter and why?
Not following anyone at the moment, but will definitely start very soon.
A few key persons of interest like the Prime Minister, the deputy Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Business
What book would you recommend for entrepreneurs?
Good to Great by Jim Collins. Great book and will also recommend Built to Last by the same author.
What is your favourite quote?
My favourite quote is:
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” — Philippians 2:3
This is my mantra and a BusinessExcel UK ethos. We are all about supporting entrepreneurs and businesses. We would do it for free if we didn’t have bills to pay!
What next?
Growth…Growth…Growth