So, I know I need better systems in place, but where do I start?
The truth is there are many possible entry points – places to start creating systems. You can pick one that feels most comfortable to you or what makes sense in your circumstances.
You might start with something urgent or something simple or you might want to look at the big picture and be strategic in your approach. What matters most is that you just GET STARTED and get the wheels in motion.
Let’s explore six ways to start creating systems in your business.
1. IF everything feels hectic and you’re not even sure where to start…THEN Clear the clutter
Sometimes it’s the smallest things that create the most friction. An out of control inbox, confusing notifications, sprawling bookmarks, disorganized files with mismatched names. Clearing the clutter can be a refreshing first step to seeing clearly and working with more ease.
2. IF you’re spending too much time trying to order your tasks and things are slipping through the cracks…THEN use a project management tool for your daily work
If the way you currently manage your to-do list is a hodge-podge of sticky notes, calendars and physical planners, start utilizing a project management tool to go digital. Trello is a simple one to start, offering clear ways to organize your work if you’re a highly visual person. My personal favorite is Clickup. You can organize in simple board style just like Trello, but it offers so much more too.
3. IF there’s one BIG problem causing you the most pain…THEN tackle your most obvious problem
This is a tactical approach to make a big difference fast in an area that’s a hassle or drain on your resources. It might be manual data entry, sending follow-on emails, not having templates or scripts or an out-of-control CRM. Focus on fixing that area first.
4. IF you’re planning to hire or expand your team…THEN document your SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
Instead of trying to create something new, start by documenting your existing processes. SOPs give a step-by-step checklist and reference document for your most important recurring business processes. SOPs are not one size fits all – they can be written out or they can also be created using a screen-recording tool like Loom.
5. IF you’ve been in business awhile and you have systems that may need to be retooled… THEN do a business audit
Conduct a thorough audit of your business and your existing systems to understand where the gaps, needs and opportunities are, then build a plan to address these.
6. IF you’re redesigning your business – new business model, audience, or offerings….THEN create a strategic plan
Instead of taking a piecemeal approach, start from a mile high. How are you monetizing? What products are you selling? Create a product roadmap. How do you engage your customers from awareness to sales to onboarding to retention? Create a customer engagement roadmap. Then reverse-engineer to plan for the systems you need in place to support these activities.
Don’t get lost in the overwhelm
Even when you know where to start, incorporating systems strategically into your business can be overwhelming, time-consuming and let’s face it – it’s probably not where you want to be spending your energy. That’s where I can help as your OBM, by deeply understanding your business and your goals and creating a well-oiled machine to support your business operations.
Interested in working with me as your Values-Based Online Business Manager? Let’s talk! I’d love to learn more about you in a free Discovery Call.