For Day 2, I want to share with you ideas about creating systems and automating processes. This will look and feel different for everyone because each of us have our own way of doing things. The key is to find what works for you! If you’re looking to try something new, grab my affiliate link to the products or services and give it a shot.
AUTOMATE WITH SYSTEMS
Are you the CEO of your business or are you working in your business? Do you know one of the secrets to being a CEO of a great company? Systems and automation. While many CEOs may have started on the ground floor and learned every process, they have learned that the only way to scale and grow their business was to build systems then delegate and automate the process. As the CEO, you can’t possibly be expected to do the daily tasks that are required in your business. If you are, you are not the CEO; you’re merely a high-level employee of your company! Imagine giving someone a handbook that outlines how to do every process and procedure the way you wish it to be done. Putting processes and procedures together creates a system. And many systems can be optimized and automated with the correct business tools. Now you might wonder, what are the correct tools? The correct tools are the ones you will use! Use whatever works best for you and be careful of S.O.S. (Shiny Object Syndrome – that’s an entirely different subject to read about!) However, it doesn’t matter the industry you’re in or your plans, this level of efficiency should be a goal.
Automating procedures into processes, and processes into systems, streamlines the daily functions of your business. It alleviates bottlenecks and allows you to focus on revenue-generating tasks like client-facing duties, sales consultations, and marketing functions. Have you ever felt like you were wasting time performing repetitive, but necessary tasks? At that moment, you may have felt that you could be doing something more important that could bring your company more revenue. If this feeling is becoming more persistent, think about automating the process. When processes, workflows, and systems are automated, you may find more time to focus on the things that matter most.
KEEPING TABS ON YOUR FINANCES
Be honest. Do you enjoy ‘keeping the books’? We all know it’s necessary. However, most business owners do not enjoy doing it and find themselves stressed out thinking about bookkeeping. Financial recordkeeping and reconciliations should be a monthly routine. Aside from hiring a bookkeeper or accountant, one tool that may help is using software such as QuickBooks or Wave Accounting. For details and tips, read my blog posted on Day1. As recommended, make this a monthly routine so that you will not be overwhelmed at the end of the quarter or end of the year.
MANAGING & MONITORING LEADS
Has it ever seemed like leads are filling your pipeline so quickly and at the busiest moments of your business? This process can be automated. Leads are a part of your sales funnel, and you want to be sure to respond to each new opportunity. Having these leads or inquiries pointed to one platform is key. It could be your email but a CRM like Dubsado or HoneyBook is a great tool for automating the process. You may think it’s easier to let your leads contact you via private message or text, however you’re inviting a lack of boundaries. In time, things will become overwhelming and confusing. You will spend more time splitting your focus & time in the various platforms, not to mention you’re teaching potential clients your time is not valuable. Simply invite leads to send you an email or if you have a website, send a link to your contact form on your website. Using auto-responders, FAQ links, and email templates can be helpful tools.
Having a system in place will allow you to then monitor your leads. With a CRM, the data is more readily available and can help with the sales process, marketing perspective, and financial positioning.
CLIENT ONBOARDING & OFFBOARDING
After the “Yes” in the sales process, you want to WOW your new client with a great onboarding experience. In a CRM, entering the client’s information is usually all that is necessary since the workflow has, more than likely, already been built out. Items like the proposal, contract, invoices, and appointment reminders can be turned on and automated.
Similarly, offboarding should be a seamless experience. It aids in getting great client reviews. Things like sending a thank you note after completion of a project with links to various social media platforms can make the offboarding experience exceptional. Simply scheduling a follow-up with the client in your workflow can be done and generally makes clients feel very special.
The automation of processes and systems in your business don’t have be overwhelming. It can be as simple as creating email templates, tweaking your workflow, or scheduling appointment reminders. Technology is a tool. It doesn’t mean your business shouldn’t have a human component. Automation just allows you to reallocate your time and focus on what you feel matters more.
As always, I’m here to help you take the next step in your business journey and it all starts with strategy. So because it’s a new year, mention code PCM to receive 22% off when you schedule a Strategic Planning session with me. Click HERE to book your session today. In the meantime, for Strategic Success: Plan, Consult, & Manage!