Another year has started and although we tend to place high expectations on setting personal 'Resolutions' for the year upon ourselves, how many sit down and apply the same thought to our business?
While the New Year is ramping up it's a good time to take a few moments and plan some key deliverables to and from your business. Here are a few Ideas to get you started.....
People
Performance Measures - Start the year by introducing measures. If you don't have a sound review and performance process in place it will be difficult to manage non-productive staff as well as have sound measures to reward those that are performing well.
Non Performers - If you have staff members that have let you and your customers down during last year, do not let it go on this year! No one likes to have to performance manage poor performers, but your business and your other staff will suffer if you do not address the issue and give the person the opportunity to improve or move on.
Growth - What areas of the business do you want to grow? Are there areas of your business that you may need to reduce or remove in order to help you to grow? Always remember that in growth you must share and update information to your customers and most importantly - Train your staff!!
Process
If you have poor performers make sure you follow the correct process of taking them through the consultation process and giving them the opportunity to improve. Don't rush this process as it can (and will) be used against you.
Customer Service Processes - Every business should have a procedure manual (hardcopy or online) of how each service offering should be carried out. If you don't have them how can you expect your staff and services to be consistent?
Technology
Review the technology that you rely on - Did you have product quality or delivery issues due to break downs? If you can't afford to replace, look to seek advice of how to manage gradually leasing or replacing slow or old technology.
Don't attempt to do all of these at once. Select a few that you know are really needed (those are the ones you normally have put off or in the 'Too Hard' Basket).
If you need assistance or are unsure how to do any of these, seek professional advice, it doesn't have to cost you money as there are many mentors and other business professionals that would be glad to offer you advice.