Entrepreneur

1. Pick a business role model

We all have people we look up to and who inspire us - it’s good to learn from others who have been successful.

Choose a business role model. They could be someone who’s had a brilliant business idea, someone who’s managed to overcome challenges, or someone whose ethos and morals appeal to you.

Present your role model and their story, focusing on how they developed their business. Make a list of top tips you’ve learned from your role model.

2. Pitch your own business

Get your brain into gear and come up with a brilliant business idea!

Are there any gaps in the market for a product or service? Do you have an idea that would stand out from the crowd? Think about things that you’d use, or do something that represents you or a group you identify with.

Put your idea together and pitch it to a friend, family member or unit member, and ask your audience for their feedback so you can review it and evaluate your idea.

3. Finalise your business plan

Now it’s time to find out how to create a business plan and make one for your idea. It needs to include:

• A name and logo for your idea
• What type of business it’ll be, for example a social enterprise or limited company
• What support you’ll need and where you can find it
• How you’ll attract customers
• How profit will be made (if any)
• Who your target audience is
• How you’ll fund your idea

Use SWOT or SMART analysis to help you make decisions about what to include. Make it as visual as you can by using sticky notes, diagrams or flow charts. Business doesn’t have to be boring if it’s something that inspires you, so try to make your plans as inspirational as possible.