Writing a business plan

Writing a business plan

First of all, congratulations for deciding to go in to business. The business plan is one of the first documents that you should complete.

Whether it is to apply for finance, attract a business partner or to give you a clear path to achieving your business dreams, ensure that your business plan achieves what you set out for it to do.

What needs to be covered?

Executive Summary

Think of this as a short paragraph as to what your business is and what it sets out to achieve. The purpose is to make your business proposition understood by others.

Business Description

Similar to the above, but in more detail describing the business purpose, the products/services it will provide and its overall structure to achieve the business goals.

Market Analysis

This section is dedicated to the research that has been undertaken to underpin the decision to go in to business. It includes market research, competitor research and customer research. It is useful to use a SWAT analysis here.

People & Processes

Here it’s useful to outline the people and processes that will be used to run the business effectively. Organisational charts and process maps are good to use here.

Marketing Plan & Sales Strategy

How will you attract customers/clients? In this section it is important to describe the activities that will take place to attract customers to enquire and then to buy.

Financials

Reveal the financial goals and expectations of the business in this section as this proves the financial viability of the business. Profit and loss, cash flow and balance sheets are good models to use.

The above should give you a few pointers when writing your own business plan. This is an exciting time for an entrepreneur and is the starting point for running a successful business.

If you require help with writing your business plan ahead of starting your ServiceMaster Restore franchise, speak to a member of the Franchise Sales team today on 0116 275 9005