In a recent episode of The Business Compass podcast, we spoke with Andrew Gibson, author, coach and founder of Business Services Leeds. With years of experience supporting the NHS, charities, and growing businesses, Andrew brings clarity to the real-world challenges faced by leaders and managers across sectors.
In this blog, we unpack key takeaways from the episode, including solution-focused coaching, outcome-driven delegation, powerful storytelling, and sustainable business development. Whether you’re leading a team, running a charity, or building a business, Andrew’s practical insights can help you create momentum and long-term growth.
What Charities and Businesses Have in Common
Shared Challenges:
- Limited Resources
- Operational Complexity
- Pressure to Perform
Key Differences:
- Budget Flexibility
- Decision-Making
Practical Tip: No matter your sector, train your team to recognise and build on what’s already working before searching for new solutions.
What Is Solution-Focused Practice?
The Four Pillars:
- Focus on What You Want
- Leverage Others’ Perspectives
- Describe Before Acting
- Use Time Wisely
Workshop Example: “Best Year Ever”
Andrew encourages teams to imagine what success would look like a year from now—and then reverse-engineer the small steps that will get them there.
Actionable Takeaway: Use solution-focused conversations in team meetings to set goals, track wins, and reduce overwhelm.
Delegation: Moving from Tasks to Outcomes
Common Pitfalls:
- Delegating tasks instead of outcomes
- Holding tight control over every decision
Solution-Focused Delegation:
- Define the Outcome
- Empower Execution
Example: Instead of saying “Post on social media three times a week,” say, “Grow engagement and share meaningful client stories.”
Actionable Takeaway: Give your team ownership of the result, not just the job. This fuels innovation and engagement.
Storytelling in Business: More Powerful Than You Think
Why It Works:
- People remember stories, not service lists
- Real stories build trust
- They provide proof of value
How to Start:
- Use real client feedback and case studies
- Focus on the client’s journey
- Keep it concise and relevant
Actionable Takeaway: Start collecting stories. Use them in pitches, networking, and on your website to show—not just tell—what your business can do.
Networking the Right Way: Help First
Andrew’s Principles:
- Give First
- Be Consistent
- Avoid the Hard Sell
Top Tips:
- Introduce people within your network
- Share useful resources or ideas
- Use storytelling to illustrate what you do
Actionable Takeaway: Approach networking as a long-term investment. The more people you help, the more value returns to you.
Starting a Business? Start Small
Common Mistakes:
- Overinvesting too soon
- Taking on contracts before you’re ready
Andrew’s Approach:
- Begin with what you already have
- Focus on your first paying customer
- Grow as demand grows
Actionable Takeaway: Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start with your skills, your network, and one clear offer.
Marginal Gains: Small Steps, Big Impact
Why It Works:
- Easier to implement
- Builds momentum
- Creates a culture of progress
Practical Tip: Identify one small thing your team could do 1% better each week, and commit to it.
Final Thoughts
Andrew Gibson’s insights offer a practical roadmap for anyone seeking to lead better, communicate more effectively, and grow sustainably without burning out or breaking the bank.
To listen to the full conversation, tune in to The Business Compass podcast on Apple, Spotify and our website.
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