A DEBRYSHIRE business coach is working with companies across the county to help them become more profitable and efficient during the credit crunch.

Neale Lewis is a member of international business coaching firm Action Coach and works with companies to help them achieve their goals, fulfil their potential and maximise the success of their businesses.

He offers one-to-one coaching as well as fortnightly group meetings and three-monthly planning events, at which businesses set themselves goals for the coming months.

Neale, of Rodsley, Ashbourne, believes there is room for improvement in almost every business and that sometimes it is the simple changes that result in the biggest difference.

He said: "I've worked with a range of businesses, from accountants and architects to shopkeepers and restaurants.

"Sometimes, it is difficult for a business owner to see themselves where improvements can be made. As an outsider, with many years' experience in business, I can see where changes can be made and will sit down with the owner to discuss what issues might be frustrating them.

"We then give them the tools they need to make those changes or will refer them to the right people or organisations."

Having previously worked for brewer Coors and in sales and marketing within the hospitality industry, Neale has a wide experience of helping businesses make the most of their potential.

After leaving Coors last year, he joined Action Coach and spent two weeks training in Las Vegas last winter and another week in April this year. He has just completed his executive training course, allowing him to work with larger companies.

Neale said: "No matter what the business or how big it is, there are always areas which can be improved."

Every two weeks, Neale runs a profit club, which provides members, most of whom have small one-man concerns, to meet and discuss ideas to develop their businesses and share the challenges they may be facing.

Neale said: "Running a business can be a lonely and isolating occupation at times and it can be really beneficial to meet with other people in the same position, especially at the moment when times are a bit harder."

Another feature of the Action Coach programme is the growth club – a quarterly event during which business owners listen to a series of presentations and set out their goals for the coming 90 days. Their business coach will then follow up to find out if the aims are being met and, if they are not, discuss why.

Neale also writes a regular blog giving tips for businesses and the latest news and advice in the business world. Visit www.thebusinesscoach1.blog spot.com to read the latest post.

For more on his coaching services, visit www.action coach.com/nealelewis, call 01335 330933 or e-mail neale lewis@actioncoach.com

The next growth club event is at Makeney Hall, Milford, on Wednesday, January 14, and will focus on how businesses can stay in good shape during the credit crunch.