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Meet the Boost team: Simon Brooke

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If you are an early-stage business, or an aspiring individual with a great business idea, Boost’s Flying Start service can help you to grow. Aimed at leaders who have a bright and growing vision for their new business, the service focusses on building business and financial acumen and the core skills needed to establish a new business and drive sustainable growth.

Boost business adviser Simon Brooke, a specialist in hospitality and leisure, sport and marketing, talks about his role in supporting Lancashire businesses.

What motivated you to want to help other people in business and to become a business adviser?

I started my first business at university 27 years ago and I understand the realities of being in business. One thing I have learnt along the way is what everyone running a business needs is a trusted ally, someone who understands and listens. Alongside that is my awe of the sheer brilliance of Lancashire businesses and the county's opportunities to grow an evermore thriving business county.

Who has been your biggest business inspiration and why?

I don’t have a single inspiration.  It’s not necessarily 'famous' people that have been my inspirations, but various people I’ve met through the years that have imparted a key, eye-opening piece of advice or action. Inspiring people widen your view on possibilities or just reaffirm your lust for life.

Why is Lancashire a great location for a business?

What’s not to love? We have such a diverse county, with strong traditions of hard work, humour and community. I love the fabulous food and drink suppliers, retailers and restaurants we have access to, and the towns and cities steeped in history but within miles of acces to the countryside for inspiration.

How do you like to start your working day?

The same as every day, walking my cockapoo, Bertie followed by a mug of coffee. Despite the often glorious Lancashire weather (rain), there’s not much that beats a morning walk with the dog to get you into a positive mindset. There’s a lot we can learn from dogs about enjoying every moment.

What do you consider to be the greatest challenge for Lancashire businesses in the current economic climate?

Businesses have had a lot thrown at them over the past five years, and many I speak to are understandably running on empty, in resources or energy having spent so long battling external pressures.  

Reinvigorating these essential businesses and people is going to be key. Sharing opportunities to get involved in new networks, innovation in processes/technologies all helps begin that process.

What are your three top tips for anyone looking to start or grow a business?

  1. If you think you’re ready, you are . . . just go for it (there’s never a perfect time!).
  2. Invest time and energy in your team, better people take you further faster.
  3. Diarise time for you. Burning yourself out is not a badge of honour and you will thank yourself later.

About the author

Simon Brooke Boost Business Adviser

Having spent a career in marketing both client and agency-side, Simon started an ecommerce business in 2007. A further ecommerce businesses followed, alongside four years as a director of a professional football club. He eventually helped broker a deal to bring in new owners.

As part of Boost's Business Advice service, Simon provides helpful advice to startups and trading businesses in Lancashire that are ready to take the next steps for a successful, thriving business.

If you’re looking to grow, scale or start your business, use Boost; Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub. We offer a range of funded business support services. Call our Business Support Helpdesk on 0800 488 0057 to find out more or complete our enquiry form.

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