I’m so frustrated with my consulting work. Should I leave to start my own company?

APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chairman Karren Brady answers your career questions.

Here she gives the reader advice on how to maintain a good relationship with your manager while addressing an uncomfortable subject.

Q: I love my job, but I’m finding it increasingly difficult to work at my current company because of all the processes they insist on, which seem to be more about checking boxes than actually making things easier or more efficient.

I’ve been thinking about opening my own business as a consultant and using the contacts I’ve made to gain clients, but I’m afraid the company will try to stop me from doing that.

I don’t want to leave my job until I know I can make my own business a success, but I also don’t want to tell my bosses about my plans until I’m sure I can make them work. What should I do?

Shauna, via email

A: It sounds like you are frustrated with the inefficiency of your current company.

Have you considered addressing your concerns with your manager?

Explain that you have noticed that certain tasks are not being delivered as successfully as you think, and bring constructive ideas to the meeting to demonstrate your proactive approach and commitment to finding solutions.

It’s also great that you’re thinking about using your knowledge and experience to start your own company.

Before taking action, I recommend consulting a professional about any implications of “poaching” contacts.

It’s crucial to get the right advice to ensure you’re not breaching your contract.

Once you have a clear understanding of what you can do, you can proceed with confidence.

I agree that it’s best not to discuss your plans with your boss until everything is in order to avoid difficulties.

Starting a business requires planning and consideration, so take the time to create your business plan, including finances and marketing.

Good luck!

• Have a career question for Karen? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.