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- Robert Krummer, Jr., chairman of First Business Bank in Los Angeles
Business Plans
Let’s face it, business plans are the proverbial “monster under the bed”. Nobody likes them – well, no one we know, anyway (oh, yes, there is Matt Sullivan, but more on him later). But – and here’s the “eat your vegetables” speech – they are a very necessary part of running a successful business.
In Canada, 80% of all small businesses launched this year will be gone within five years; 96% within ten years. Yikes! Now where’s the monster?
The inherent challenge for entrepreneurs is that their business is launched on their personal and professional strengths. Many don’t realize that all aspects of business need to be nurtured to be successful: the accounting needs to be up-to-date and accurate; smart, effective marketing is vital; and relationships need to be built and maintained with suppliers, customers, colleagues, and employees.
A business plan solves these issues. It forces entrepreneurs to look at all the pieces and PLAN – there’s that word again – how they’re going to address each area, not just those they are most comfortable with.
Conduit Coaching is here to help. We have several options to offer entrepreneurs who have resolved that this is the year for the plan:
Guided Business Plan Development Program
The Business Plan Template
Good for you! This won’t hurt a bit. We’ve developed a simple, self-guided template to take you through the process of evaluating your business and devising a plan. It’s a 24-page document that addresses all of the sections of a business plan and each section includes some helpful information:
- Definition of the section
- Purpose and value of the section so you don’t have to wonder, “Why am I doing this? Is it actually important?”
- Length
- Key points to address
- Ideas and questions to get you started
- Tips and hints for writing the section, how to get the most value out of the section, and what to do with the information
Who knows, it may actually be (gasp) fun! Yes, hours of entertainment for only $20.
Tailored Plans for the Professional
Industry-specific templates are also available for mortgage brokers and wedding planners. Contact us if you’re interested in these or other industry-specific versions.
Guided Business Plan Development Program
For those who prefer a bit of help, motivation, or support during the planning process we’ve developed the Guided Business Plan Development program. Let’s face it, this can be a daunting exercise and a little guidance can come in handy.
“Who provides this guidance?” The program draws on the experience of two business-planning professionals: Mary Ellen Sanajko and Matthew Sullivan, MBA, founder of Sullivan & Associates Ltd. Together, they provide all the support and information you’ll need to write a great plan.
The program includes:
- One hour of initial business coaching with Mary Ellen
- Four 90-minute one-on-one meetings with Matthew where you will be guided through the business plan writing, addressing topics specific to your business
- An in-depth business plan template and a revenue forecasting spreadsheet
- On-going customized support during the program via telephone and email
- On-going feedback on your prepared drafts throughout the process
- Professional critique of your final business plan.
With the support of two highly-qualified professionals, you are guided through the business plan writing process, making it efficient, effective, and – oh no! – maybe even enjoyable.
Work at your own pace! Finish your plan in four to eight weeks.
Contact us if you’re interested in learning more about this program.
