Growing your business is a never-ending process of evolution and becoming.
So when I talk to you about systems in this video, don’t get overwhelmed. All I want you to do for now is have an idea about where you need to go next.
When you’re first getting started, it’s easy to spend most of your time simply reacting to what happens.
And that’s fine – at first.
But as income increases and your impact intensifies, getting key systems in place becomes more and more important.
I’ve been running one business or another for well over 20 years, and I’ve coached a number of businesses in all kinds of different industries.
If I’ve learned anything, it’s that It takes a LOT of energy, and stamina, to be an entrepreneur. Getting key systems in place that provide automation, simplification, or streamlined processes can really help.
But how do you know where to focus first?
Begin by building systematic processes around these three areas.
1. Your Time.
This may seem obvious, but I want you to think of it in a new way. In particular, I want you to be more intentional in setting aside time for planning, and reflection.
Making decisions is an energy-draining activity, so doing the planning (and deciding) up front can make a huge difference in your effectiveness.
I do this on a quarterly, monthly, weekly and daily basis. In the video I’ll share a few examples with you about how that can work.
2. Your Peeps.
You have all kinds of people wanting some of your time – and your energy – every day. If you’re a solo business owner, that means you’re dealing with customers, vendors, suppliers, and more all the time. How do you know who to attend to first?
Your first priority should be your current clients, making sure that you’re delivering what you’ve promised. Do you have systems in place for this?
Your second priority should be your FORMER clients, those who’ve already purchased from you in the past. Having a system for keeping in touch can provide a steady influx of repeat business.
Once you have those systems in place, begin working to systematically connect with potential clients and new customers through list building activities – marketing online and offline. This could be things like setting up trademark talks, attending and following up on networking events, or implementing a social media routine.
3. Your Boss!
And yes, that means you.
As you’ll see in the video, I’m talking about a lot more than “self care”.
Not only do you need systematic ways of taking of yourself as a human being, but you also need to take care of yourself as a business owner. That means everything from ongoing training, to support and accountability.
There are many layers to each of these areas, of course. But as your business grows, if you’ll focus on getting systems in place for these three, you’ll have a solid foundation for healthy, sustainable success.
Now I have a question for you. :)
This is what I think of as ‘clean up’ work. So which of these three areas are solid in your business? And which one do you feel like you need to focus on most in the next 90 days?
This takes a while.