Are you ready to be your own boss?

Posted on August 28, 2008

Many of us will often consider this concept, especially when considering a career change. However, few of us will act on this impulse and fewer still will see it through. For the folks who intend to “see it” through completing a detailed business plan is an important first step.

When building a house, the blue print is what will get you started and help you stay on course. The blue print that will assist you in purchasing a new or existing business will be your business plan.

Currently, as Director of Sales & Marketing for ShipOnSite, Inc and as a former commercial lending officer, I will provide some guidance as to the contents of the business plan. Certainly, there are plenty of resources available that provide general advice and specific recommendations with regards to preparing a professional business plan.

Here are a few suggestions on what to include within the content of the Business Plan:

Executive Summary: business opportunity, description and loan request

Company Background: history, objectives and ownership

Services/Product line: description, comparisons and delivery

Industry: profile, size, market growth, competition

Marketing Plan: pricing, competitive advantage, distribution channels

Operating Plan: location, facility, equipment, suppliers/vendors

Management: principals, structure

Goals: keys to success, future plans

Financial Assumptions/

Projections: balance sheet, income/expense

» Filed Under Business Opportunity

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