Tuesday, December 19, 2006

5 Tips for Effective Business Planning

5 Tips for Effective Business Planning
 
  1. Clearly define your business idea and be able to succinctly articulate it. Know your mission.

  2. Examine your motives. Make sure that you have a passion for owning a business and for this particular business.

  3. Be willing to commit to the hours, discipline, continuous learning and the frustrations of owning your own business.

  4. Conduct a competitive analysis in your market, including products, prices, promotions, advertising, distribution, quality, service, and be aware of the outside influences that affect your business.

  5. Seek help from other small businesses, vendors, professionals, government agencies, employees, trade associations and trade shows. Be alert, ask questions, and visit your local SCORE office.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Interesting post. I'll keep it in mind, because I want to run my own business some day. I've thought about it, and I think I'd like to buy a business instead of starting one from scratch. My only problem is that I'm unsure about the approach. Should I buy a franchise? A non-franchise? Home-based? I'm unsure. Any suggestions or advice? Thanks.