Do I need a business-plan writer?

(FSB Magazine) -- Dear FSB: I am a software entrepreneur who is starting a new venture based on preventing identity theft. I want to create a business plan to show to potential investors and lenders. Should I hire a consultant to write it for me? And how do I find a reputable one who won't steal my idea?--Vilay Luanglath Huntersville, N.C.

Dear Vilay: A surprising number of experienced entrepreneurs have made the mistake of running their businesses without a written plan - and failed to achieve their long-term goals as a result, says Jan King (jankbking.com), author of "Business Plans to Game Plans: A Practical System for Turning Strategy Into Action" and founder of eWomenPublishingNetwork in El Segundo, Calif. Creating a plan now is a smart way to keep focused on your mission.

If you want to scare up millions of dollars in startup capital, hire a professional, perhaps from an established national firm such as GrowThink (growthink.com), she says. Otherwise write the plan yourself.

"The process helps you clarify your thinking," King says. You can get free advice from the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE.org) or the Small Business Administration (sba.org).

Some entrepreneurs rely on non-disclosure agreements to protect their ideas, but using one won't help you if you can't afford to sue violators, King says. Your best protection is to show the plan only to those you know and trust.

Once you enter the marketplace, copy-cats may still try to steal your idea, but if you put off launching your business, someone else may get to it first anyway.

Would you trust a professional with your business idea? Did you write your own successful business plan? Post your thoughts on the Ask FSB blog.