The two most popular business programmes on TV unfortunately pander to that medium’s most basic instinct – humiliation of the contestants.

But can we learn anything from these programs in respect of running a business?

As far as The Apprentice is concerned, there are certainly basic business principles which are demonstrated quite clearly – sadly, usually in their omission – including the need for:

·         planning,

·         efficient organisation,

·         identification of the marketplace!

However, the overriding tenor of the program is one of aggressive competition, with the “last one standing“ getting the prize, and everyone else going away with nothing.  This type of environment can work in business with a particularly strong leader – Sir Alan Sugar is clearly no retiring wallflower! – but overall I cannot help but believe and hope that better results are achieved with a more collaborative approach,  one that rewards good teamwork and consideration for the other members of staff, even if they are at a more junior level.

Dragon’s Den suffers from some of the same issues; those supplicants who cannot persuade one of the dragons that their business opportunity is attractive will often be the subject of belittling comments which are really pandering to the television ratings rather than any genuine business need.  As a potential investor, you may not agree that the person has a good business idea, but there is no need to deride and scorn him as a result.

Nonetheless, there are some very good lessons to be learnt from this programme, and from which any business owner looking for funding should learn.  Probably the most basic is that you should work up a one minute presentation which summarises your business and your proposition.  This ensures that you are:

·         concise

·         you understand your business

·         you understand your unique selling point

·         you understand the numbers which are going to represent a successful business.

In reality business angels can be flaky – the only rules which they abide by are their own, and some of them may not be as friendly as you might like.  But if you have done your homework you have a good chance of getting a decent result.

Amazingly if you have done that work, you may also fare better with your bank manager in the annual facility review!