However, just knowing how a business works is often not enough ' you need hands-on experience, too. Lack of this will show up, especially if an opportunity is given to you to prove yourself on the job. However, it may not be the best idea to experiment with untested management theories in a 'live' work situation.

The best way to gain experience is by:

• Volunteer or even freelance work in charity
• Participating in a family business
• Involvement in local charity or social/environmental improvement work.

Such work gives you a chance to acquire managerial and general people-related skills under non-threatening circumstances.