Doug Richard Explains His Essential Steps To Business Success

Doug Richard, School for Startups

Full Seminar Details

This is the kind of insight we've come to expect from Doug Richard. From the Californian sunshine to your television set, Doug vaunts over 20 years' experience in the world of business, predominantly establishing and building technology software ventures across the UK and United States.

�Starting a fast growth company does not happen by magic and nor does it involve merely effort. If anything it is a frame of mind,� says Doug. �All businesses must have a long-term aim and purpose. That purpose creates the focus and the identity of the company.�

Doug's expertise is backed by some very impressive credentials. He is also Director of Pearl Software, the Chairman and CEO of Trutap, founder of the Cambridge Angels (a network for private investors), Chairman of the Conservative Party Small Business Task Force and non-executive director of Beats Digital.

But Doug became a household name when he featured as a panellist on BBC 2's hit show Dragons' Den. Alongside a fiery troop of investors, he grilled potential investees with his frankness and sharp business acumen. To much disappointment, he left the show after its second series due to other commitments.

His latest project is the seminal School For Startups, the UK's premier provider of business training and tuition. Through a series of highly interactive one-day seminars, Doug and his team provide intensive training for fledging entrepreneurs and business owners.

�The aim is to increase the number of innovative small businesses in the UK, to provide them with world class business advice and to help them succeed� says Doug. �There is no magic formula to building a business. The task is akin to putting together the pieces of a jigsaw.�

At this year's show, Doug's seminar will be underpinned by his dedication to small business. Based on his unique experience and knowledge, he will take you through the key steps to succeed in business. Doug will explain, that, before an entrepreneur invests valuable time and money into a business idea, there are essential questions they should ask themselves: Who are my customers? What makes my proposition attractive? Do I have a sustainable competitive advantage? What type of industry am I in? Do I have the right skills and experience? Who else do I need to make this work?

Doug will not only provide you with the fundamental framework to answer these questions yourself, but impart you with the confidence and inspiration to innovate and excel in business.