Lesson 1
Defining Your Value and Audience
Clarify the problem you solve and exactly who is paying you to solve it.
The core value proposition
Most plans fail because they are too broad. Focus on one specific problem and one specific customer. Write this sentence: 'I help [target customer] solve [problem] by providing [your product/service].' If you cannot fit your business into that structure, your model is likely too complex.
Identifying your target
Be specific about your audience. Don't say 'everyone'. Say 'small business owners with 1-5 staff who struggle with payroll'. The more niche your target, the easier your marketing becomes. Research your competition. Who else offers this? What are they missing? If competitors are expensive and slow, can you be affordable and quick? Define your 'Unique Selling Point' (USP) clearly. This is the only thing that matters when a customer decides between you and someone else. Write this down in bullet points at the top of your page.