As long-time readers know, I am a believer in the value of
planning. I am convinced that any plan is better than no
plan, and that most small businesses do not spend enough
time deciding where they want to go, or grow.
Sometimes, I am told folks "don't know how" to write a
business plan! And, from a technical perspective, that
might be true. But these same people know how to plan a
vacation, a celebration or a party. You can do this!
Begin your planning by reviewing last year. Start with what
you earned, and how many customers you served. Look for
patterns and ask questions. The data may be in your
accounting program, in your files, or in your appointment
book, but you do have what you need to begin planning for
the new year. Use that data!
Next, dream a little. How much money would you like to make
in 2015? How much do you want to work? Considering your
clients base--do you want more of the same, or do you want
to make some changes? Simply decide what you want for the
coming year.
Then, the part that terrifies most of us. Decide how you
will make it happen. Do you need to raise your fees, do
more marketing, or learn new skills? Do you need to hire an
assistant, or up-grade your equipment? Do you need a coach
to mentor you?
Planning is a three-part exercise. Start with what you
have, choose some targets for the year ahead, and devise a
plan to make it happen. Yes, you'll make mistakes, and of
course nothing will go exactly as you planned. That's
called life. It is NOT an excuse to avoid planning.
A plan will focus your time and energy. Any plan, even
notes on a scrap of paper, will give you a sense of
direction. Before the new year gets away from you, write a
plan! A year from now, you'll be glad you did.
planning. I am convinced that any plan is better than no
plan, and that most small businesses do not spend enough
time deciding where they want to go, or grow.
Sometimes, I am told folks "don't know how" to write a
business plan! And, from a technical perspective, that
might be true. But these same people know how to plan a
vacation, a celebration or a party. You can do this!
Begin your planning by reviewing last year. Start with what
you earned, and how many customers you served. Look for
patterns and ask questions. The data may be in your
accounting program, in your files, or in your appointment
book, but you do have what you need to begin planning for
the new year. Use that data!
Next, dream a little. How much money would you like to make
in 2015? How much do you want to work? Considering your
clients base--do you want more of the same, or do you want
to make some changes? Simply decide what you want for the
coming year.
Then, the part that terrifies most of us. Decide how you
will make it happen. Do you need to raise your fees, do
more marketing, or learn new skills? Do you need to hire an
assistant, or up-grade your equipment? Do you need a coach
to mentor you?
Planning is a three-part exercise. Start with what you
have, choose some targets for the year ahead, and devise a
plan to make it happen. Yes, you'll make mistakes, and of
course nothing will go exactly as you planned. That's
called life. It is NOT an excuse to avoid planning.
A plan will focus your time and energy. Any plan, even
notes on a scrap of paper, will give you a sense of
direction. Before the new year gets away from you, write a
plan! A year from now, you'll be glad you did.
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