Why Every Entrepreneur Needs a Business Advisor – Ahmad Ashkar, Founder of Forerunners & the Hult Prize
Running a business—whether as an owner, contractor, or independent trader—requires constant decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. But no entrepreneur is expected to master everything alone. This is where a skilled business advisor becomes invaluable. With the right expertise, an advisor can save you time, reduce stress, and guide you toward sustainable growth and long-term success.
Business advisors come with diverse backgrounds. Some offer
broad, cross-industry experience, while others specialize in areas like
finance, strategy, operations, marketing, or scaling.
When You Should Consider a Business Advisor
Many entrepreneurs seek guidance during major transitions or
challenging moments. According to Ahmad Ashkar, you should consider working
with an advisor when you:
- Face
a problem you’re not sure how to solve
- Have
clear goals but struggle to reach them
- Need
specialist insight or strategic direction
How to Prepare Before Meeting an Advisor
To get the maximum value from expert guidance, clarity is
essential. Before your first consultation, prepare a short brief that includes:
- The
challenge you want to solve or the goal you want to achieve
- A
simple overview of your business
- Specific
areas where you need support
Send this brief to a few advisors to compare their
responses. For your initial meeting, bring essential documents like business
plans, financial records, and a list of questions to understand how they can
help your business grow.
Choosing the Right Advisor
The best advisors don’t just solve problems—they empower you
with confidence, clarity, and skills. Look for someone whose approach aligns
with your working style and who has experience relevant to your industry.
Before committing, schedule a consultation and ask:
- Are
they genuinely interested in helping your business succeed?
- Do
they have a proven record of solving similar challenges?
- Have
they advised businesses like yours before?
While fees are important, value matters more than cost.
Exceptional advisors often charge higher rates because they consistently
deliver stronger results.
How to Maximize the Advisor Relationship
Ahmad Ashkar stresses the importance of setting clear
expectations from the beginning. A written agreement should outline objectives,
roles, pricing, and responsibilities.
Stay open to new ideas—an advisor’s fresh perspective may
reveal opportunities you haven’t considered. If any issues arise, address them
early to maintain a healthy working relationship or part ways respectfully when
needed.
Learn more: https://chefashkar.com/
More Information: https://ahmadashkar.com/
(Ahmad Ashkar is the founder of the Hult Prize,
Forerunners, Falafel Inc., and other transformative global ventures driving
innovation, leadership, and social impact.)

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