Whenever you come across successful entrepreneurs, you’re bound to think about what makes their businesses tick? Is it the capital, the marketing strategy, or the planning?
Actually, it’s all of that. And when all of that is combined into a well thought out document called a business plan, success is just a stone’s throw away.
A business plan delineates your vision. It answers questions like what your goals are, how your business aims to help society, and most importantly, how it aims to solve the problem you’re focusing on.
So in a way, it’s your version of why you’ve set up what you’ve set up. But that doesn’t mean it can be vague. There are a few key elements that it should touch upon.
What are these key elements, and how can you write a proper business plan? Let’s find out.
Element 1: Business Summary & Organizational description
A summary is the gist of the business expressed in a few lines. It explains the reason behind the existence of the business, and thus, it must be included. Similarly, the organizational description explains the sector in which your company will operate, and this information is also a must.
These descriptions should be very specifically given in the business plan because this is what investors focus on.
Read – How to attract investors to your business?
Element 2: Product line description & Target market size
Describing your product line is essential since it explains your product’s usefulness and the value it will add to the consumers. In terms of market size, you’ll need to conduct a thorough analysis to defining what sections and size of the market you’re focusing on.
It should explain your selling strategy, positioning strategy, and your competitors. Such a detailed analysis will help you in attracting investors.
Element 3: Management & Financial elements
When it comes to details like team size, job profiles, business operations, etc., you should be completely transparent. This shows you have a clear vision. Financial aspects too should be defined precisely through proposed balance sheets, projected income and cash flow statements, and other financial data.
Element 4: A proper conclusion
Don’t make the mistake of leaving your business plan without an appropriate conclusion. Close it through a couple of supporting documents that describe your organization’s viability. You can add previous contracts or any other legal statements here as well. However, take care not to come off as impulsive. Think before attaching any documents.
Things you shouldn’t include in a business plan
Experts suggest that a business plan that’s based on unrealistic goals is doomed to fail. Everyone likes optimism, but there’s a thin line between being optimistic and being delusional.
And as an entrepreneur, you need to understand the difference between the two. You need to understand that money isn’t the only reason to start a venture, and once you accept this, you’re good to go.
Wrapping it up
In addition to defining the aforesaid elements, you need loads of confidence and patience to take your business to new heights. If you’re about to launch your venture, we suggest you pull up your socks and get ready to give it everything you’ve got.