An examination of the developing role of personal business advisors withinBusiness Link

The authors examine the developing role of personal business advisors (PBAs ) within Business Link. Drawing on a national survey of PBAs, they highligh t trends and variations in practice and perceptions relating to four key ar eas: the client focus of PBAs and the identification of growth firms, the n ature of PEA-client relationships and factors affecting successful support, the nature of the PBAs' workload, and PEA staffing issues. The findings hi ghlight issues that might inform future policy developments. These include most particularly, the effects of the increased commercialisation of the PB A's job and the impact of PEA turnover. Recommendations are made regarding implications for policymakers and concerning areas for future research.