How to strategically plan for your business’s future

Business planning can save time and money in the long run. Refresh your fundamental values, key growth areas and sectors you want to target. Sharing your business plan with your employees can help to direct and motivate them as well.

A business plan should be a flexible and dynamic template that changes with the industry. Say goodbye to your static method, and hello to a continuous business planning cycle. Here are a few tips on how to create a strategic business plan for your future.

Keep it simple!

Employees and investors are unlikely to read your business plan if it’s long-winded and tedious. Keep it simple with a one-page document that is easily digestible and accessible. Use a list format to present your marketing aims, mission statement, objectives, strategies and action plan.

Update and change it

You should refresh and check in with your business plan every few months or so. Remind yourself of your goals and identify which direction you want to go in.

Potential investors will want to read your business plan to see how you would use the money and allocate resources. A business plan is not just for investors – it should forecast the lifespan of your business.

Consider taking out a small business loan to prepare for future expansion, equipment, refurbishments and any unexpected expenses. Preparation is essential.

Go digital

Two-thirds of managers reported an increase in productivity from their remote workers. Video conferences are great for having a personal face-to-face meeting without the added travel cost. Digital communication is an innovative industry that businesses need to invest in!

Going green is becoming more important

Consumers are starting to notice green companies and want to purchase products that have environmentalism at heart. More than 70% of consumers are willing to pay at least 5% more for sustainable products. Don’t get left behind – invest in green products now.

Furthermore, renewable energy is becoming more affordable and can save you high costs later down the line.

Think about automation where possible

Automation processes can drastically increase the productivity of your workforce. Automate mundane tasks that distract your workers from the more important, urgent work at hand. Many industries are using automation services to store email templates and perform tedious customer service responses.

Take the time to identify which processes need to be automated before launching into a new automation strategy—research how your competitors use automation to improve workflow and develop a strategic approach.