A business is like an iceberg. The top, floating above the water, is all of your products and services. While this is the most visible portion, it is not the majority of the iceberg.
Below that top section is 90% of the business. The people, culture, tech, automation, systems, management, quality control, and more are all there, supporting the 10% that is poking above the water’s surface.
Many business owners don’t take the time to establish the support system needed to ensure their products and services genuinely flourish. This is why so many great ideas and fantastic products don’t get out of the planning stage and why 45% of businesses don’t make it to the five-year mark.
You don’t need to fall into this trap. Below are three steps you can take toward building a firm foundation from which your business can grow.
Establish Documentation
Taking the time to document business policies, processes, procedures, and specialized knowledge is a vital support to any business. Not only does documentation make onboarding easier, but it also builds consistency in your company.
Clear, accessible processes and procedures:
- Create business continuity
- Increase efficiency and profitability
- Mitigate risk
- Ease the onboarding process
- Make training simple
- Improve retention rates
- Preserve and perpetuate company culture
Usable and thorough documentation creates a foundation on which a company can thrive.
Ensure Systems are Used
Documentation is only as good as it can be used. Here are some key elements that you can do during the documentation process to encourage your staff to follow the processes and procedures laid out:
- Make your documentation concise.
- Use a platform that all can access.
- Make it uniform.
- Give instructions.
- Cater to different learning styles.
Once you’ve laid out the documentation, follow these steps:
- Involve your employees in the testing and implementation of these processes and procedures.
- Get and use feedback.
- Work out any issues encountered.
- Make using processes and procedures a standard practice by using them yourself.
Fill in the Gaps
With well-laid-out processes and procedures, you can fill in the gaps in employment with greater efficiency. Training is a snap when you have all of the systems your company uses right at your fingertips. Additionally, when onboarding is easy, you can hire employees that better match your company culture – because you know that you can train them to perform their duties perfectly.
Would you like more information on how to create effective processes and procedures? Founder and CEO of Business Success Consulting Group, Adi Klevit, recently recorded a webinar that lays this all out for you. Click here to watch this free resource.
We are here to help you create a strong foundation from which your company can thrive. Contact Business Success Consulting Group today and let us know what challenges your business faces.
