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What does a Business Advisor do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A business advisor provides guidance to businesses on a range of topics, including strategic planning, marketing, finance, and operations. They help businesses identify opportunities and overcome challenges. Business advisors typically have extensive experience in the business world and can offer insights and advice that businesses may not be able to obtain on their own.

Business Advisor job duties include:

  • Advise clients on business decisions
  • Assist clients in developing business plans
  • Help clients secure financing
  • Identify new business opportunities for clients
  • Evaluate client businesses
  • Develop marketing strategies for client businesses
  • Negotiate contracts on behalf of clients
  • Manage client accounts
  • Train and mentor client employees
  • Provide expert testimony on behalf of clients

Business Advisor Job Requirements

A business advisor typically has a bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field. Many have a master's degree in business administration (MBA) or a master's degree in management. Advisors may also have certification, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Consultant (CMC), or Certified Financial Planner (CFP). They should have experience working in the business field, preferably in a management or consulting role.

Business Advisor Skills

  • Analytical
  • Strategic
  • Tactical
  • Innovative
  • Flexible
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Problem solving
  • Organizational

Related: Top Business Advisor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Business Advisor

A business advisor is a professional who helps businesses improve their performance. They work with businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to large corporations. As a business advisor, you will need to have a deep understanding of business operations and be able to offer advice and recommendations that will help your clients improve their bottom line. If you are interested in becoming a business advisor, here are a few things you need to do:

1. Get a degree in business or a related field. A solid foundation in business will give you the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in this role. You can get a degree from an accredited college or university, or you can complete an online program.

2. Build your experience. Once you have your degree, it’s time to start building your experience. You can do this by working in a variety of roles within businesses, such as human resources, marketing, or sales. This will give you a well-rounded understanding of how businesses operate and what challenges they face.

3. Get certified. There are several professional organizations that offer certification for business advisors. Getting certified will show potential clients that you have the skills and knowledge to help them improve their businesses.

4. Market yourself. Once you have your degree and experience, it’s time to start marketing yourself as a business advisor. You can do this by creating a website or blog, writing articles, or giving presentations at conferences and events. You can also join professional organizations and networking groups where you can connect with potential clients.

Related: Business Advisor Resume Example

Related: Business Advisor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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