Mistakes To Avoid As A New Entrepreneur
By: Derek Coppess

A business plan is a vital part of any entrepreneur’s toolkit to help them establish their company’s vision and goals. It can also help them identify their target audience and develop their strategy for growth.
Getting started in business can be very challenging for new entrepreneurs. They might not have the necessary skills to develop a successful plan. In addition, they might make some common mistakes that other entrepreneurs make. Members of the Young Entrepreneurs Council agree that there are many common mistakes that new entrepreneurs make when it comes to developing their business plans.
1.Too Long Business Plan
A long, 500-plus page business plan is not ideal for new businesses as it can quickly lead to outdated ideas and changes. Creating a one-page business plan has been shown to be successful before. It can be very useful in helping establish a company’s vision and mission statements.
Some companies never need a business plan during their time and instead use other methods like a business model canvas. Doing this every couple of years to ensure everything is still going smoothly.
2. Underestimating the User Acquisition
Due to the never ending competition in the market, it is more important than ever that entrepreneurs focus on their target audience and develop compelling messaging that will stand out. One of the most important factors a company should consider is finding a solution to solve a burning pain point for their consumers. However, finding other non-saturated channels that will allow them to reach their target audience is also important.
Although it is possible to build a great product, it is also crucial that a company’s distribution strategy is focused on breaking through the noise and reaching its target audience. This strategy can help them get to the consumers who need the most from their product.
3. Trying to Make the Perfect Plan
Another mistake new entrepreneurs make is trying to create a perfect business plan by following a checklist of all the necessary steps. Doing so will prevent them from starting their business. Instead, start with a basic business plan and work on it as you go along. Even though you might not know what to expect, taking notes and making adjustments along the way can help keep the plan simple.
4. Not Looking into the Target Market
New entrepreneurs will go into business not knowing who their customers are. Without this information, they will have difficulty understanding their potential customers and making an effective marketing strategy. Having a clear understanding of their target market can help prevent them from having a hard time reaching them.
Before starting a business, new entrepreneurs should thoroughly research their target market. This step involves gathering information about their potential customers’ needs and buying habits.

Derek Coppess is an entrepreneur who has a proven track record of sourcing and successfully navigating through the market. Unlike his peers, he doesn't follow a traditional path to success. Instead, he focuses on finding ways to improve the quality of life in his community. He is also a passionate coach and mentor who helps teams reach their goals.
Derek has been recognized by his industry for his achievements. Multiple times, he has been featured in the Grand Rapids Business Journal's "40 under Forty" issue. He was also named as a "Newsmaker of the Year." In 2013, he was also named an Emerging Entrepreneur by the Downtown Alliance of Grand Rapids.
Derek is a highly involved developer who focuses on the entire life cycle of a real estate investment. He has a deep understanding of the multiple facets of the industry, such as construction management, property investing, and finance. His experience has also allowed him to build strong relationships with multiple investors and develop effective marketing strategies.
Derek Coppess is a creative person, which is why he enjoys working on projects that involve the transformation of run-down structures into vibrant new spaces. One of the most appealing aspects of real estate development is the ability to produce something from nothing. In addition to that, other perks include meeting new people and discovering the spirit of an old structure.
About the Creator
Derek Coppess
Derek Coppess is an entrepreneur & real estate developer. He has over ten years of experience in urban planning development. Derek's expertise lies in enhancing the physical and environmental components of city structures and surroundings.



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