About Your Systems

The word “systems” is being thrown around a lot lately in business circles. The person most responsible for this is probably Michael Gerber. Gerber wrote a classic book called The E-Myth Revisited. If you haven’t read it you should.

Gerber discusses the difference between a technician (think personal trainer) Vs. managers and entrepreneurs. He makes a great case for business owners to spend time working on their businesses rather than just in it.

One of the best ways to work “on your business” is to create systems for the different areas of your business. This goes for you whether you’re a one man show or you have a team.

I was recently reminded just how important having these systems in place was.

Quite honestly, I got really lucky.

For years I had a “right hand woman” working with me on the day to day business operations named Sam. She is very talented and has a unique gift for creating, documenting, and organizing systems. She helped to make systems for all that we do. Everything from handling a new lead to “surprising and delighting” new clients on their journey.

Unfortunately Sam recently decided to take another opportunity and wouldn’t be able to continue in the same capacity. She still plays a big role on the team and is an asset but she wouldn’t be doing the day to day handling of things.

All I can say is thank God for the systems she created!

A lot of moving parts have developed in the last 9 years of business. Had we not had these systems in place, it would have been a nightmare making the switch.

Thankfully, one team member stepped up and we hired another to help during this transition.

While there is always a learning curve, the two team members handling the day-to-day now have very clear and easy to understand checklists, flow charts, and even videos for all they need to do.

If you are lacking systems, I urge you to get started now. Here are some places you may want to start.