What does it really take to be an entrepreneur?

There is no doubt that launching - and maintaining - a business is challenging. A combination of a good business idea, a robust business plan and a clear focus are essential to all would-be businesses. But add to these TAL London's vast experience in advising and managing SMEs and the chances of achieving commercial success are significantly improved.

Setting up and running a business can be a rewarding, but a tough and often lonely, experience. The most successful people TAL London has worked with are those who are passionate, focused and clear-sighted. For them it's not a lifestyle choice, it's real.

We aim to build strong and long-lasting relationships with our clients so we can continue to offer them strategic advice at every stage of the business's development. We look for strong negotiators, those who drive a hard bargain on fees and those who are prepared to challenge us. In short, we look for people who know what they want.

Many start-ups overlook the importance of seeking proactive advice from a professional adviser from the outset. We work with a broad range of businesses from a variety of industry sectors, providing advice on how to strengthen their business plans, advising them on managing their cash flow and helping them define their markets in order to maximise sales and profitability.

1. Personal qualities

Have self-belief, ambition and drive, as well as being resilient and hard-working.

2. Know your offer

Most businesses fail because their owners can't spell out what makes them different. Have a clear vision of your aims.

3. Understand your market, and be a leader of people

Sell your dream to your customers - and your employees.

4. Don't ignore the numbers

Accounting may be considered unglamorous by many, but you will fail if you don't get your accounts, cash flow and credit control right.

5. Stay in control

Keep on top of your cash flow and have strict credit control. It's essential to get your customers into the habit of paying on time as soon as possible.

6. Dig deep

Many banks are reluctant to lend to start-ups. Utilise your own resources, friends and family, and apply for funding when you have a track record.

7. Invest in a business plan

Developing a business plan is a vital thought process which will enable you to take corrective action when needed.

8. Get contracts in place

A contract is vital for shareholders and partners. Stakeholders' aims and ambitions may be the same at the start of the process, but they could differ over time and disagreements about the direction of the company may occur.

9. Take ownership

Successful businesses are managed and directed. Work on the business, not too deep within it, or you won't see the wood for the trees.

10. Enjoy it

Running a business is hard work. You need to be passionate about and committed to what you're doing, but it becomes all the more hard if you don't enjoy it.