One of the first things I ask new recruits before I employ them is, ‘do you have a plan?’ This is because I’ve found that people with a plan of where they’re going are way more engaged in their jobs than those that are just jumping from role to role, following the cash. This is the same way I feel about business. If you don’t have a plan, then you’re just going in circles. You’re going to just jump from one place to another and you’re not going to start to kick some serious goals for years. That’s why having a business plan is one of the best things you can do.
Taking You from Point A to Point B
A business plan lets you map out exactly what you want to do and how you want to deliver your services. It lets you work out exactly how much cash you need to get started. If you don’t have a business plan, then you’re probably going to throw significant amounts of cash into your business and not really know when you’ve earned it back. When you take the time to plan out your steps, it really focuses your business’ direction.
Following Your Own Path
Taking the time to map out your business’ products and services will show you if your ideas are something unique, or if you’re just following what other people in the industry are doing. Even if there are other people offering the same services as you, mapping yours out in a business plan will focus your products in a way that makes you stand out, rather than just being another bloke offering the same as everyone else.
Getting Your Foot in the Door
A business plan will show you exactly where you can leverage your existing contacts in your chosen industry to help you get your business started. Most businesses, especially new ones, rise and fall through the networks that are made and the relationships that are built up in the industry. Until you get on your feet and your reputation starts to drive your business, you need to be able to find a way to connect with people and sell them what you’re offering. A good business plan will help you to focus your message and make those conversations easier.
Starting a business is a tough road to travel down, and making sure that you have the best tools in your wheelhouse will set you up for success. Having a business plan is one of the best first steps you can take to make sure that you create something you’re proud of. It will win clients hand over fist, and set you up for years to come.
