Q: I have a great idea, but no idea how to execute it. What do I do?

A: You need a consigliere. the mafia term for the right hand, the adviser, the person who gets stuff done. All visionaries need support to make their ideas a reality, and you need to find someone who will be by your side in business to execute your killer idea.

The common misconception when you start a business is that you have to do it all yourself. Don’t! The most powerful people have an inner team making shit happen. In business, that executor is often the COO (chief operating officer). They will help keep the idea moving and keep you motivated in your goals.

Be constantly on the hunt for this co-founder: they will get you far. Or maybe you just need production-level support. How do you find these people? Go out and start talking. People are often afraid of sharing their ideas for fear of disapproval or even theft, but the best way to galvanise support is to share your big vision. Those who are able to help will offer to do so; those who can’t will at least spread what you’re working on via word of mouth.

But how do you know who to talk to? I like to break down my big ideas and list the key features. In the early days of Beautystack, I needed an app development team and funding. I wrote down the skill sets for those people, what I needed from them and how they could help me. I wrote down the profile of who the perfect person would be and how they could fit into my business. This helped set the bar high for my co-conspirators.

I did this groundwork before I met a single person. Once you know who you’re looking for, tap into your networks and spread the word to find someone who fits. The idea is the fun part. Then you have to build the team to help you get there.

• Send your questions for Sharmadean to bossing.it@theguardian.com