Executive
Summary: Mistakes
to Avoid
Here are several common mistakes that can
make your executive summary less effective:
- Lacking a specific focus
- Too long and wordy, and failing to get
to the point
- Trying to be all inclusive (it should
be a powerful summary)
- Failing to demonstrate a special or unique
opportunity
- Failing to outline the terms of the investment
sought
- Failing to generate enthusiasm in the
reader
Some suggestions to combat these problems:
- Limit your executive summary to a maximum
of 3 pages (at the very most)
- If possible, attempt to present your
executive summary on 1 or 2 pages
- Focus on the opportunity you are presenting
your investor and explain why it is special
- Make certain that the opinions and claims
in your executive summary are fully supported in the other
sectionsÊof your business plan
- Attempt to use only concrete facts and
figures that explain your business concept, market niche
and financial projections
- Don't forget to include the details of
your investment (the amount you need, what you will spend
it on, and the return you offer your investor)
- Keep your reader in mind - why are they
reading the plan and what response/action to you hope to
generate?
For more information on writing the executive summary section
of your business plan:
Email
us at BizPlanIt if you have comments or suggestions about
our Virtual Business Plan.
|
