Business Basic For Solopreneurs – One Page Business Plan

Many solopreneurs don’t have a business plan and don’t think they need one. While you may be able to operate your business without a plan, it is a good idea to have something to follow. I’ve come up with a simple format for a one page business plan that can be very helpful for keeping you focused. This plan doesn’t take very long to write, especially if you already have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish. This is a simple format that you can use as is or modify to more effectively suit your needs.

Purpose of The Plan

Write one sentence that explains the purpose of your one page plan. It may be something like… “The purpose of this plan is to serve as a daily operating guideline to keep the business on track with the big picture as well as both long and short term objectives.” It’s your plan, so you can create it for any reason you like.

Business Structure

Explain what the business structure is currently and any plans to change that structure. For example, you may have a sole proprietorship now and plan to incorporate once your revenue reaches a certain point. Just state that succinctly. This plan has no extra wording or “fluff”.

Mission/Vision/Purpose

Explain very briefly what your business does, in terms that reference the reason you are in business. This is your mission, vision and/or purpose. This section could incorporate or consist of your elevator speech. Remember to keep the big picture in mind and convey that as clearly and concisely as you can.

Products & Services

This section will summarize the products and services you offer. One part of this section might list product and service categories, while another outlines how those products and services will be delivered. The format of this section will vary depending on the type of business you have. Keep it as simple as possible. You’re just looking at an overview, not every detail.

Marketing

Outline the general marketing techniques you will use. You might want to briefly explain how prospects are taken through your “funnel” and what specific marketing you will focus on at each level of the funnel. For example, you may have general marketing efforts that funnel prospects into a consultation, direct them to a website or get them into your store. This will vary depending on the type of business you operate.

List any general objectives, strategies and qualifying activities you use.

Financial

Simply list your specific financial objectives and any general strategies you will use to achieve those objectives.

This plan does not have to be elaborate. It is something that you can easily look at every day to keep you focused on the path you want to travel and the results you want to achieve. Take some time to create a simple, one page business plan today.