FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What about contracts?

As a whole we usually don't have long term contracts, as we offer a flexible service to meet your needs. The most we usually ask is that you try us for at least three sessions.

How often can I see my mentor?

As each package is tailored for you, you can see, speak and contact your mentor as often as you like. From our experience, monthly sessions work best; however, it is a personal choice.

What can I talk about with my mentor?

You can talk about anything that you choose, so long as it is legal. Most commonly we talk about your plans, goals and dreams and how we can help you achieve success.

What do other people say about you?

Take a look at our reviews on Linkedin , Trustpilot and our own testimonials page.

How long do sessions normally last?

We have found from experience that 90-minute to 2-hour sessions are just perfect for settling into a growth mindset and achieving those 'light bulb' moments, most commonly on a monthly basis. But we are open enough to work at your pace.


What's your refund policy?

Some of our solutions like our Virtual Mentoring, offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, although we also offer a no-divorce-clause initial 30-minute discovery call to see if we can work together.

How do I pay?

99% of our clients pay electronically by BACS, we also accept, Direct Debit, Paypal & Credit Card and of course Cash.

Is this confidential?

All our conversations are confidential and will not be repeated outside of the mentor relationship. We do have contracts and Non Disclosure Agreements should you wish to sign one.

What do I get from my mentor?

Mentoring is a personal relationship, everyone gets something different from their experience. But you will get a record of the mentoring session along with any agreed tasks to keep you on track.

I'm still not sure?

If you are still not sure, make a booking that suits you best, and we'll include a complimentary 30-minute taster session. Remember, choose a mentor or coach with whom you feel you can work effectively. Mentoring and coaching are personal relationships.


What kind of businesses do you work with?

I work with established businesses and charities across the UK, typically led by Directors, CEOs, or Founders looking to grow, stabilise, or innovate. Most clients have teams in place and want an external perspective to improve leadership, performance, and governance.

What’s the difference between business coaching and board advisory support?

Coaching focuses on developing you as a leader and decision-maker, while board advisory and non-executive roles focus on strengthening the business strategy, structure, and governance. Many clients use both for balanced growth and oversight.

How long does it take to see results?

Clients usually notice a real shift in focus, confidence, and clarity within the first 4–8 weeks. Tangible results — such as improved profitability, smoother operations, or stronger team alignment — often follow within three to six months.

How much do your services cost?

Business coaching starts at £500 per month, and board advisory or non-executive director support starts from £750 per month, depending on scope and complexity. Everything is transparent and agreed upfront — no surprises.

What’s the best way to get started?

Simple — book a free discovery call or send a quick message via bradex.co.uk/contact. From there, we’ll define your goals, choose the right support plan, and get your first session booked.

How does your business coaching work?

Coaching runs every month and includes a two-hour focused session, a written report with clear action points, and ongoing support via WhatsApp. It’s a blend of accountability, strategy, and problem-solving — designed to keep you and your business moving forward.

What industries do you specialise in?

I’ve worked across finance, tech, property, professional services, manufacturing, and the charity sector. The common thread is helping leaders make better strategic decisions, strengthen governance, and drive sustainable results.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes — I offer a 30-minute discovery call to discuss your goals, challenges, and where I can add the most value. It’s completely free and obligation-free.

How do you work with remote or national clients?

Most sessions are held via Zoom, supported by digital reports, shared workspaces, and WhatsApp for easy contact between meetings. I also meet in person where possible — especially for board or strategic sessions.

I'm still not sure?

If you are still not sure, make a booking that suits you best, and we'll include a complimentary 30-minute taster session. Remember, choose a mentor or coach with whom you feel you can work effectively. Mentoring and coaching are personal relationships.


How do you tailor your support to my business situation?

Every engagement starts with a deep dive: your ambitions, obstacles, metrics, team and context. Then I craft a bespoke plan (strategy, governance, growth, leadership) and we revisit it monthly to adjust. This means you’re not getting a “one-size-fits-all” package — you’re getting what you need.

Can I mix coaching, mentoring, board advisory and non-executive services?

Yes — absolutely. Many clients start with a monthly coaching subscription, then bring in board advisory or non-executive support as they scale. The key is clarifying roles (you lead, I advise; or you lead, I chair) and documenting scope accordingly to preserve governance clarity.

How do you maintain confidentiality and avoid conflict of interest?

All engagements are governed by a signed agreement (scope, confidentiality, and role). I don’t take conflicting clients in the same sector. If I foresee any potential conflict of interest, I raise it immediately and we determine a path (recusal, alternate advisor, etc).

What kind of ROI or benefits should I expect — and when?

You can expect: clearer focus, better decisions, stronger leadership, improved governance, more disciplined growth or smoother exit. Early signs often show in 1–3 months (decisions made, priorities shifted). Tangible outcomes (e.g., new clients, streamlined operations) often appear in 6–12 months. As with most initiatives, faster if you commit.

What’s the minimum engagement period, and can I cancel?

Typically, coaching begins with a 3-month commitment to allow enough time for momentum. Non-executive or advisory roles are agreed upfront for a period (e.g., 6–12 months) or project-based. You’ll find the terms transparent in the engagement document. If you need to pause or terminate, we’ll discuss the implications on scope and deliverables.



How does the WhatsApp support between sessions work?

You’ll have direct access via WhatsApp to raise urgent questions, share progress or flag concerns. I aim to respond swiftly (within business hours) so you keep the momentum. Think of it as “on‐call strategy + accountability”, not just a chat.
Note: the channel is for business-related matters, not midnight rants about your coffee machine.

What happens if my business priorities change mid-engagement?

That’s expected and normal. If your focus shifts (e.g., from growth to acquisition, or from stability to restructure), we review the written report together, redefine new action points, and realign the support. Flexibility is built in — the goal is results, not rigidity.

How do I know whether I need a coach vs. mentor vs. non-executive director?
  • Coach: You want to develop yourself (leadership, mindset, habits)

  • Mentor: You want an experienced business person to share insights, connections, and challenge your thinking

  • Non-executive director/board advisor: You need governance, oversight, boardroom input and independent challenge.

We’ll diagnose your need in the free discovery call and define the right mix.

Can you help our charity or NGO — and how is that different?

Yes — in fact, I have chartered experience in the charity sector and governance. For NGOs, I bring board advisory, strategy, governance and funding/impact insight (not just commercial growth). The language is different (impact rather than profit), but the rigour is the same.

How do we measure progress and success?

We set at least 3–5 key performance indicators at our first session (could be revenue growth %, leadership engagement, governance score, team turnover reduced, etc). Each monthly report tracks those KPIs, plus qualitative progress (actions taken, barriers removed). Your written monthly report becomes a living artefact of growth, and we review it together to keep you accountable.


Some of our testimonials

Testimonials on FAQs page
Its been a pleasure having Carl as our business mentor. He's listened, given insightful business advice and above all else, helped us to focus on the stuff that really matters. Its been worthwhile for our charity - Iain Pearson - LinkedIn.
FAQs page testimonial for Oliver
Carl has been amazing with my business growth advice and support! One change alone has increased our business turn over by a minimum of 25%. Can’t rate Carl enough. - Oliver Alcock - LinkedIn.
Gail Howarth Virtual Mentor Testimonial on FAQs
Carl has provided virtual mentoring to me. Carl is definitely the go to man! Full of knowledge and experience and extremely easy to communicate with. Carl has built my confidence. - Gail Howarth - LinkedIn.
Amy King Business Mentor Testimonial on FAQs
Carl has been supporting our clients on a variety of projects. He has worked with growing businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, inspiring and supporting so many people in their journeys. - Amy King - LinkedIn.
Jill Boardman Charity Mentor Testimonial on FAQs
Carl provided me with a non-judgemental listening ear, valuable expert advice and support through a period of difficult circumstances in my role as a Charity Chief Executive. I value the time and support provided by Carl. - Jill Boardman - LinkedIn.
Graham Coulston-Herrmann Business Mentor Testimonial on FAQs pages
Carl helped me to look objectively at the business which allowed us to grow and create more jobs. At the same time he challenged me about the less profitable parts and to concentrate on the more profitable areas. - Graham Coulston-Herrmann - LinkedIn.