Running a business or practice can be a daily challenge. Everyone else seemingly does it so easily, so why does it sometimes seem like so much hard work? Business owners don’t always have someone they can turn to for answers to daily frustrations, which is why more and more are looking to find a business coach. The most common issues revolve around people, money and time. In particular, the lack of it. This question and answer series of articles provides scenarios for practice and business owners to find answers to those frustrating situations.
Most small business owners become so because they have a particular technical or tactical skill and a desire to ‘be more’ than just an employee. The challenge for 95% of them is that, while they are experts at what they have been taught to do, no-one has ever taught them ‘the business of business’. It is this lack of knowledge, more than anything else which will hold back their business growth. It is the really smart ones who can put their hands up and say, “I have reached the limit of my current skill set and to take this business further I need to know and understand more and develop higher skills. The problem is ‘I don’t know what I don’t know.’” These are the ones who seek out knowledge – a guide, a mentor, a coach. They are the ones we love to work with as they are committed as much to their own growth as that of their business. And we know they will make a difference and change to their business and their life.
Q: I hear all this talk about systems and processes and know I should put them in place, but really don’t know the first place to start. What should a system look like?
This is one of those questions that falls into the ‘too-afraid-to-ask because-I-should-know-the answer’ category, and it’s one that many will be pleased you asked. So I will start by defining what a system is? It’s a way of performing any given task in a consistent way that will give a predictable outcome.
The next questions should be, in relation to a specific task, what does the system need to accomplish and who is responsible or accountable for the outcomes? Then get their buy-in and contribution to the development, because without that they will have little incentive or enthusiasm for its success. Now begin developing the system by stating the outcome.
Next: what are the resources that anyone driving this system will need? These may be as simple as a pen and paper, computer database, application forms, a script or any number of various resources, including people. What are the key elements or steps that need to take place, by whom and by when? Keep the steps simple. If a single step sounds complicated, break it down into smaller steps. Finally, define the standards by which you want this particular activity done. Standards usually relate to quantity and quality; how often, how many; what manner; courtesy and politeness, correctness of data and so on. Once it is done, it doesn’t mean you are done. You may need training (cue for a training process). You will need to ensure that you have understanding of why this system is being put in place. To have your new systems implemented seamlessly you will need to draw on your own bank of leadership and management skills. Systems need to be adopted not imposed if they are to be assimilated into your business. Your question is really such a big one, there is so much more to the answer than could possibly included here. Our business coaches and their clients dedicate weeks and months addressing systems and developing business systems strategies. This answer is just the tip of the iceberg but I hope it helps you get started.
Watch for Part Nine…coming next week!
Until next time…
P.S. Learn more about working ON your business–talk to the coach! Click here to connect with me!