There are many ways to start a business. Here's the way we recommend. It's called the "Business Overview." It's quicker and easier than the business plan, yet still outlines the essentials while avoiding "business plan paralysis" which keeps a goodly number of great ideas from ever getting started.
THE OVERVIEW
#1. Start with a MISSION STATEMENT. This describes the business. What you do. Why it's done. What makes your business unique. Clue: Is it something better, cheaper, faster? Why a customer/client wants to do business with you. The benefit to the consumer. Your statement becomes a guide for the direction and decisions you make regarding your business and the future of your company. Clue: Avoid general statements like "We give good service." Instead, use specific statements like "We train our staff in the latest customer service methods."
#2. Follow with a STATEMENT OF PURPOSE. This describes your vision; in essence, a description of your business when it has reached its full potential. Project a time 5 years into the future.Include things like revenue, number of staff or personnel, location of office(s), activities, reputation, recognition, plus your lifestyle, perks, benefits and outside interests. Don't hold back. Be willing to dream.
#3. Follow with a POSITION REVIEW. Where you are with your business idea at this moment in time. Include things like how much money you have to start your business; how much money you will have available each month to invest in your business until it starts making a profit; the source of future capital: friends, relatives, loans, investors. What you see as the next step(s) in the development of your business. How you plan to accomplish the next step(s). Clue: What assistance are you likely to need for your business?
#4. Follow with a BIOGRAPHY of yourself and partners, if any. Include particulars about experience relating to your business and any talents, skills and attributes you have that you may not be using. Be willing to be immodest, List your strengths and weaknesses. Clue: Include areas where you think you might need assistance in owning and operating a business.
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Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Business Survey
The EDGE Center is collecting business data to help develop a new economic plan for Western Palm Beach. The plan will be presented to the Palm Beach County Commission to assist with planning and financing of new infrastructure (streets, lighting, sewers, bridges, sidewalks, parks, recreation, street scape's) in Belle Glade, Pahokee, South Bay and Canal Point.
For many years the people of the Glades have complained that they didn't get their fair share of County financing to make the improvements needed to encourage economic development. The EDGE needs your help in collecting the information needed to justify County financial assistance. You can help by filling out the attached survey form online when we receive your input we will send you a $25.00 gift certificate that can be redeemed at participating retailers in the Glades.
SURVEY click here.
For many years the people of the Glades have complained that they didn't get their fair share of County financing to make the improvements needed to encourage economic development. The EDGE needs your help in collecting the information needed to justify County financial assistance. You can help by filling out the attached survey form online when we receive your input we will send you a $25.00 gift certificate that can be redeemed at participating retailers in the Glades.
SURVEY click here.
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