This part of the business plan is all about you and why you would be good at running a business. It’s to prove to the person reading the business plan that you are capable of running a business and understand what it takes to succeed. I would have a look at your C.V. and pick out the parts which relate to your new business.

If you have previously been in business I would use this as a starting point as you would definitely know what it’s like.

After deciding what legal structure to take you can amend the below paragraph in bold and copy it into the business plan template

Lesson 6

Personal training and experience

I have previous self-employment experience as a xxxxx and, although this was not related xxxxx in any way, I feel it has given me invaluable experience and confidence. I am aware of the responsibilities of being self-employed and appreciate that a great deal of time, effort and hard work must be put into my business, in order for me to succeed.

Similarly if a family member has been self employed or i had worked closely with someone who has been self employed, I would include a statement saying.

Although I have not been self employed myself I have been closely involved in the start up process with a family member/colleague. This has made me aware of the responsibilities involved in self employment and appreciate that a great deal of time, effort and hard work must be put into my business in order for me to succeed.

If you have been employed in a similar business and now are going self employed yourself, I would write.

During my time working for xxxxxx I have gained a vast amount of knowledge of the xxxx industry. I have a comprehensive knowledge of xxxx and will take these standards into my own business.

If you gained customer service skills in a previous job and they are relevant to the business, I would shout about it in the business plan. You could write something like

During my time as a sales assistant for xxxxxxxx (see C.V.) I have developed a polite manner and a friendly personality which will be required when dealing with members of the public. I am customer focused, and comfortable dealing with a diverse customer base. I have good numerical skills and I am also comfortable negotiating prices for stock/equipment with suppliers.

Or

Although I have no previous self employment experience I feel I have the necessary skills to succeed in business. My time at XXXX and my time at, xxxxxxand have given me practical experience. My time at xxxxx gave me sound customer care skills and the experience of training staff.

If you have done any courses in business I would also include these or any other courses you think is relevant.

I have recently attend xxx business course ran by xxxx. This has given me a valuable insight into what it takes to run a business.” I have also completed an xxxxx course which has given me the skills I need to enable me to run my business.

If you have a lot of works experience which is relevant I would include a small summery.

My previous work experience is as follows;-

Position Company

Senior Retail Guard xxxxxx LTD
Security Manager xxxxxxxx LTD
Senior Supervisor xxxxxxxx Care
Sales Assistant xxxxxHardware

All this information about your self will give the reader confidence in your skills and ability. If you don’t have any of this works experience or skills then don’t feel disheartened. I would just concentrate on your good personality and your willingness to succeed.

You could write about your hobby

I am a focused and responsible individual who has good networking and social skills. I have many accomplishments which have been achieved through “your hobby”. This discipline has taught me dedication, motivation and persistence.

If you have none of the above and no training or works experience then I would seriously reconsider going into self employment.

Do you have you own suggestions or paragraphs which could help someone? Please leave them in the comments below.