Opinion and advice is not only desirable but an essential contribution to our personal and business growth and development. Of course I would strongly support this view because I make living as a business adviser and consultant. As such I work within a very strict code of conduct and ethics (see www.iib.ws). Giving advice whether solicited or unsolicited should always be based on sound knowledge and experience.
The reason I raise this is that an associate of mine has recently updated their website with some new services, and sent an email to some 'friendly' contacts; including several business advisors (Note: advisors don't charge for advice but this should not affect the basic premise regarding quality and validity of advice given)to review the new offerings and whether they saw a market for such sevices.
One recipient, a business advisor replied almost instantly. His email was very terse, as follows 'Having to scroll down on the first page of a website to see what it's about is a big NO NO! Suggest you refer to a professional! He had been gracious enough to supply a link to a 'Professional Web writer' My associate followed the link - and found, on opening the site, that it made no sense whatsoever! It almost certainly would have done had she scrolled down the page a little, but following the 'expert advice' given that was, of course, a big NO NO!
To summarise,this missive has several morals.
1. Don't even think about offering advice or opinion without understanding what is being asked of you.
2. Don't offer advice you're not qualified to give.
3. Always check your facts.
4. Be very wary of FREE advice.
