If you have some money to spare, it may be tempted to invest in a business. Usually, as an investor, this will not mean you own and run the business – although it might. You will probably own shares in that business, and the number of shares will depend on the size of your investment and what you have agreed with the managing director of the business.

Investment can be a wise decision as the business could become very successful and your shares will become more valuable. You must be prepared for a negative outcome though, as not all businesses succeed. Even if they do succeed eventually, they may not succeed at first, so be prepared to be patient – and potentially put some more money into the business, if you can. It’s probably not something to spend your life savings on and it’s sensible to have some money to fall back on, should the business get into financial difficulties.