Imagine one day you wake up, jump out of bed, and are excited about starting your day. You head toward the kitchen to pour yourself a cup of coffee and sit down to the table. As you stare into the distance while taking your first sip of java, your excitement turns into anxiousness as you think through all of the things you need to get done that day. An overwhelming realization that you can’t possibly get it all done starts to envelop you.
As you work in your business, you receive an unexpected avalanche of new business and become easily overwhelmed, primarily because you lack systems and resources. If you’re doing everything yourself, it occurs, at some point, that you need assistance and must delegate or outsource to keep up with the rising demand of new business.
The reality is that your business can only grow to the maximum amount of work you can personally handle. Conquer the overwhelm by using these simple steps:
- Make your possibility become a reality through planning. When planning, identify metrics to include your ideal revenue and number of clients. Determine the client or revenue thresholds which will serve as indicators to let you know when to hire additional resources. As you get close to those thresholds, you will easily spot when it’s time to add additional support.
- Systematize specific functions. Typically, businesses are categorized into marketing, production/operations and administration. Remember to systematize each area by designing specific processes that work even when you’re not there. You may be able to streamline your functional areas with automated systems and save the staff for other areas that require human intervention and interaction.
- Always Be Recruiting. Most business owners make the mistake of starting the hiring process when they are in need of someone. The problem with that tactic is that it puts you at a disadvantage in multiple ways, including lack of bargaining power and pressure to make a snap decision.
When recruiting, consider staffing alternatives first. Getting the job done does not necessarily mean hiring regular full-time employees. Independent contractors, virtual assistants, temporary agencies, interns and automation can give you the flexibility and cost-effectiveness you need to manage your growth.
Several things happen when you’re consistently keeping an eye out for talent:
- Improve your bargaining position. You’re in a better bargaining position because you’re not pressured to hire right away giving you a leveraged opportunity to make the best hire.
- Keep your budget balanced. Rather than hiring a full-time employee from the beginning, you may utilize a vendor for just a couple of hours a week which would help you make your growth plan a reality and keep your budget balanced.
- Grow your network. Another advantage for consistently keeping an eye out for talent is that you expand your network. While you may not be ready for someone who has extensive experience today, keep them in your network. When you’re ready, tap them on the shoulder to join your team.
By following these simple strategies, you will grow your business with less effort and achieve that big plan for your small business.
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