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| Nov 14, 2007 7:23 am |
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re: A business plan - keep same subject - just reply please |
Drew Poland
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There are exceptions from time to time but really everyone should have something on paper. It doesn't need to be a 100 page monster. Most of us probably couldnt write that much anyway, either lack of wanting to or it's just such a small operation it doesnt demand it. It can be 5 to 10 pages. Hell, one or a few pages might work for you. Whatever it is though, you should have a plan and it should remain an active part of your business. It needs to change and be updated.
That said, how often are things going to change besides marketing and financials? after the first month are you going to replace your whole team and switch everything around? probably not.
Because of that, I have my own little system. I have a 3 ring binder and it serves as my "business/marketing toolkit." The contents change almost daily.. additions, subtractions. Because in my experience marketing is what changes the most and what I have to keep up to speed with. If something isn't working, it needs to go and a replacement needs to come in ASAP. It's sectioned off with dividers, and each divider serves its own purpose, either to be hardcopys of mailing lists/email lists or just house sample letters I send out often (refferals, sales, thank yous, etc). In the front, being of importance I have all my "planning" aspects. timelines, goals, budget. Things like that.
If you aren't into a business plan, that might be something that works better for you. It's more interactive.
I run a blog, http://www.businessplansblog.com if anyone wants to check it out. I just started it so there isn't a ton of content, but there are some helpful posts about business plans.
I'm certainly no expert, but from a small operation standpoint I think I'm qualified. I've won several business plan competitions (on the college level) and am learning more everyday. So if anyone has any questions, I will try to my best to answer them! :)
Drew
Private Reply to Drew Poland (new win) |
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