Write a business plan: step-by-step

This section should describe the specific activities you intend to use to promote and sell your products and services. It's often the weak link in business plans so it's worth spending time on it to make sure it's both realistic and achievable.

A strong sales and marketing section means you have a clear idea of how you will get your products and services to market.

Your plan will need to provide answers to these questions:

• How do you plan to position your product or service in the market place? For further information - see how to create your marketing strategy.
• Who are your customers? Include details of customers who have shown an interest in your product or service and explain how you plan to go about attracting new customers - see know your customers' needs.
• What is your pricing policy? How much will you charge for different customer segments, quantities, etc? See how to price your product or service.
• How will you promote your product or service? Identify your sales process methods, eg direct marketing, advertising, PR, email, e-sales, social marketing - see sales an marketing for start-ups.
• How will you reach your customers? What channels will you use? Which partners will be needed in your distribution channels? See how to reach your customers effectively.
• How will you do your selling? Do you have a sales plan? Have you considered which sales method will be the most effective and most appropriate for your market, such as selling by phone, over the internet, face-to-face or through retail outlets? Are your proposed sales methods consistent with your marketing plan? And do you have the right skills to secure the sales you need? See more on the sales process.