Wannabe or Professional? The Simple Test Every South Manchester Business Owner Should Take
If you run a small business in South Manchester, there’s one question that could change everything about how you operate:
Are you a Wannabee… or a Professional Business Person?
Most business owners start out with passion and enthusiasm — but somewhere along the way, the day-to-day chaos takes over. You end up reacting instead of planning, chasing rather than leading. Sound familiar?
That’s why I created a simple one-page self-assessment called “Wannabe or Professional Business Person”. It’s designed to help you see — in black and white — whether you’re working in your business like an employee, or on your business like a true professional.
Wannabe Business Owners…
- Hope for the best instead of having a plan
- React and firefight instead of thinking and planning
- Confuse activity with productivity
- Spend time on little problems instead of big moves
- Avoid their numbers (or don’t even know their cashflow)
- Wait for everything to be perfect before taking action
- Don’t pay themselves properly
- Are easily distracted by new ideas, bright shiny objects, or “quick fixes”
Professional Business Owners…
- Have a clear plan and schedule — and stick to it
- Ask the right questions and think strategically
- Understand their T.E.R.M.S. (Time, Energy, Resources, Money, and Skills)
- Book their holidays first and then plan around them
- Know their numbers — every week and every month
- Take massive action rather than waiting for perfect conditions
- Have systems in place so their business runs smoothly
- Pay themselves properly and know their breakeven figure
- Embrace video, marketing rhythms, and consistent habits
Why It Matters
In business, there’s no middle ground. You’re either in control — or being controlled by your inbox, your customers, and your calendar.
Professionals plan their work and work their plan. Wannabees hope for the best.
If you’re serious about taking your South Manchester business to the next level — whether that’s more profit, more time, or more freedom — it starts with self-awareness. This checklist is your mirror.
Take the Test — Then Take Control
Grab your copy of the Wannabee vs Professional Business Person checklist and see where you stand. It’ll take five minutes to complete but could transform how you think about your business forever.
Contact Graeme Clarke
📞 07588 560 278 or 0161-881 2213
📧 admin@manchester-businesscoaching.co.uk
🌐 Manchester Business Coaching
For help becoming a properly professional business owner — and building a business that works for you, not the other way round.