What does a business adviser do?

Business advisers give advice and support to help new businesses start up, and established businesses grow. You’ll be advising on a range of business areas from finances to business plans. You’ll need to have good analytical skills and excellent communication for this role. 

What do I need to do to become a business adviser?

To work as a business adviser, you need proven experience and a good track record in business management. Most business advisers have run their own company, or worked in management, finance or human resources. Employers will usually be more interested in your skills and experience than your formal qualifications, but it may be helpful to have a business-related degree or a professional qualification in a subject like project management.

Relevant A levels include business studies, business marketing and economics

Vocational certificates and diplomas (such as BTECs) are available in a range of business-related subjects including accountancy, business studies, enterprise and entrepreneurship.

Related skills

• Problem solving
• Time management
• Organisation
• Numeracy
• Communication
• Business management
• Analytics
• IT
• Financial planning

Academic route

• A levels include business studies, business marketing and economics

Vocational route

• Certificates/diplomas in a range of business-related subjects

Related subjects

• Business studies
• Maths

Desirable qualifications

• Experience of business management or human resources

Where to find out more

• Institute of Consulting (IC)
• National Enterprise Network 
• Great Business  
• Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs 

Where could I be working?

You may be self-employed or working as a freelance business adviser for yourself, or you could be working for a business advice centre or company.