It's an all too familiar story - business owners taking on too many roles in their company and, inevitably, not able to give their full focus to the business. A survey by Bibby Financial Services found that, for example, 65% help with the cleaning and a slightly lower number do the stationary order. Other common tasks include chasing payment, dealing with suppliers and securing finance. This is all well and good, but when it's being done in addition to their role it can become a burden and detrimental to the business.

Edward Rimmer, UK chief executive for Bibby Financial Services says, "People go into business because they have a passion for something and a good idea, but it is easy to underestimate how many different roles need to be taken on."