BOSS LADIES - Deborah Meaden

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Don’t expect anything from anybody, work hard, put your head down, be good at what you do, and good stuff will happen.

Deborah Meaden is most commonly known for her appearances on the popular television show, Dragon’s Den. She is straight to the point, and uses her decades of business experience to point other business people in the right direction. In this post, we will be learning from Deborah’s experience, and taking away some great lessons. ​

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To succeed in business, you have to do more than just be there. You have to love every minute

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Now aged 58, and originally from Somerset, Meaden, prior to her TV fame, ran a highly successful multi-million pound holiday package business, as well as successfully carrying out a management buy-out, among other things

At the very young age of 16, she went to Brighton Technical College to study business. Just after graduating at the age of 19, she relocated to Italy, and pioneered an exporting agency for ceramics and glass, selling products to high end retailers such as Harvey Nichols. Sadly, this venture folded after 18 months.
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Around this time, she said, “I consider it a failure to slog on with a business that is going to die sooner rather than later. And that's a skill I've had from my very, very early days. It's very difficult to realise that you're not going to make any money out of something. A lot of people are blinded. They think, "I can't give this up. I'd feel like a failure”.

It is this pragmatic and courageous approach that has carried her so far. It would be tempting for many to keep going with something that is not thriving, but according to Deborah, the best thing you can do is to strip things back when you have to, and not be afraid to do so.
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True entrepreneurs never stop learning from their own successes and failures - and from one another

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Today, she specialises in investing in up and coming businesses, as well as supporting a number of charities and social enterprises. This includes those she met during her time appearing on Dragon’s Den, which significantly increased her reputation in this area.
Her book, Common Sense Rules, has had sparkling reviews from high profile publications.

Many insights into what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur
The Independent

For fans of straight-talking sass and common-sense wisdom
Harper’s Bazaar

She gives no nonsense tips on turning a bright idea into a business proposition, and inspiring others to get on board
Daily Express

Find out more about Deborah Meaden and what she is involved with by checking out her official website:
http://www.deborahmeaden.com/5/books

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