One thing that has stood out to me over the years when meeting with potential clients to discuss opening a new business is that very few and when I say few, I mean less than 40% of them have actually sat down and drafted a business plan in any shape or form before they attempt to set it up. Even though they may have a clear idea in their minds about what their business is, putting pen to paper can be a challenge but when they do, they may discover that even though their initial idea is good, adjustments may be required to make it a reality.

So what is the point of the business plan and why do you need one?


An important part of setting up your own business is getting your mission statement down. Some dispute the value of writing a mission statement claiming that it is a waste of time and once written, it is never referred to again so why do it?


So you’ve checked out the competition and determined who your target clients are (local or virtual), so the next few tasks require action on your part. It’s time to put your money where your mouth is and get this show on the road so to speak! Success or failure depend on your next steps and many who have tried to make it as virtual assistants found that this was the part that let them down as they were not prepared enough.


In my town I see businesses come and go so quickly I almost miss them. One week there will be a great little shop selling the most amazing hand-made items but the next time I drive past it, it houses a team of lawyers. Many businesses die within the first six months of opening mainly due to a lack of forethought and planning. How can you potentially avoid that mistake and make a success of your business? Well, before you consider setting up a business, any business you must think  about budget, goals, clientele etc while at the same time being careful of unrealistic expectations. What you need is a business plan.