Leadership is often seen as a solo role. But it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’re managing a small team or running a growing business, the pressure to make the right decisions can be overwhelming. Many leaders feel isolated, even when surrounded by people.
But what if you didn’t have to carry it all alone?
Research across Europe (2024–2025) confirms a powerful truth: behind many successful leaders is a mentor. Someone who’s been there, sees what you don’t and helps you solve problems before they spiral.
In this article, we look at:
Why going it alone holds leaders back
The measurable impact of mentoring on business performance
How to find the right mentor – including fully funded options
Running a business without guidance is like driving without a map. Here’s what that looks like for many SME leaders:
1. Decision-making isolation
You’re the one who has to decide. But without a sounding board, decisions get delayed or second-guessed. In a 2022 Deloitte study, 30% of executives said they “always or often feel lonely”. That kind of pressure affects clarity and confidence.
2. Costly learning curves
Trial and error is expensive. Without guidance, leaders repeat avoidable mistakes. A mentor helps you see the road ahead and avoid known pitfalls.
3. Stalled growth and missed opportunities
You don’t know what you don’t know. That gap in perspective can block growth. Mentors bring fresh thinking and help you spot chances to scale.
4. Stress and burnout
Wearing every hat leads to exhaustion. Burnout makes it harder to think, plan or enjoy the journey. A mentor gives perspective, focus and relief from the mental load.
5. Skills gaps and blind spots
Many founders are brilliant at their trade – but less confident with finance, HR or strategy. The Visa 2024 report found 52% of Irish entrepreneurs value mentorship, but only 20% have one. For women, half said they “don’t know how to find a mentor”.
That’s a huge missed opportunity.
Mentoring is not a luxury. It’s a proven growth tool – and it changes how you lead.
✔️ Higher business survival and growth
According to the UK’s Federation of Small Businesses, 70% of mentored small businesses survive beyond five years – nearly double the rate of those without a mentor.
✔️ Increased profits and efficiency
Enterprise Ireland found that mentored businesses improved efficiency by 46% and saw profit margins rise by 23%. Why? Mentors spot inefficiencies, help negotiate smarter deals and bring clarity to messy processes.
✔️ Faster problem solving and innovation
The Institute of Directors found mentored businesses resolve challenges 50% faster. With less firefighting, leaders have more space to innovate and plan.
✔️ Stronger leadership skills
Mentors help you grow personally – better communication, smarter decisions, sharper strategy. That confidence trickles down to your team.
✔️ Better team performance and retention
Good leadership means better culture. Mentors guide you in managing people well, recognising staff and leading with purpose – the kind of leadership that keeps teams engaged.
Knowing the value is one thing. Taking action is what drives change. Here’s how to begin:
1. Get clear on your goals
Ask yourself: “What’s holding me back?” Is it sales? Growth? Time? Confidence? Write down your top 3–5 challenges. This clarity helps guide any future mentoring conversations.
2. Use your network
Don’t wait for a mentor to appear. Local Enterprise Offices, industry groups and peer networks often run mentoring schemes. Reach out, ask for introductions and look for someone with relevant experience and values that align.
3. Apply for funded mentoring
Through MentorWorks, supported by Skillnet Ireland and the Small Firms Association – Irish SMEs (1–250 staff) can access four fully funded mentoring sessions with experts. Over 1,500 businesses have already used the programme to improve performance, leadership and strategy.
If you’d like to explore funded mentoring with us, get in touch.
https://www.bbcs.ie/mentorswork
Great leadership isn’t about doing it all alone. It’s about knowing when to ask for help – and who to ask.
A good mentor challenges your thinking, boosts your confidence and helps you lead with more clarity and less stress.
Don’t wait until burnout or setbacks force change. A single conversation could unlock your next stage of growth.
Ready to move from working in your business to working on it? Let’s talk.