You realise that running your own business comes with a tonne of responsibility, from keeping your finances in order to checking stock is on track. Your mind can often be pulled in a million different directions all at the same time, so it is important that you implement strategies to make your productivity smooth and efficient. There are many different elements to your business that you really need to keep on top of, so outsourcing some of your work isn’t a bad idea at all. Whether you are running a small or medium business all of these simple ideas can quickly be incorporated into the day to day running of your business. Using just seven simple steps you could align your focuses, find an effective quality control method and keep your marketing campaigns running seamlessly. Don’t be fooled though, there are no easy shortcuts in the business world; you won’t get a break or a chance to switch off. You will however, find better ways to run your business and complete your daily to do lists. So give all of these notions a try and see how well your business does when you focus on the finer details.
1. Inventories and Quality Control
Your business might be at risk of losing money if you don’t keep a solid grasp on your inventories, stock and quality control. You want to make sure that every product goes out to the consumer in the best possible condition and that you aren’t over stocking and causing a backlog in your warehouses. You should consider contact 3pl companies; they can offer everything you need to get your high quality products to your customers. From secondary packaging needs to detailed inventory managements, there will never be a stone unturned when it comes to the production and distribution of your goods. This type of professional service will save you a lot of time and headaches when the numbers don’t quite seem to match up; allow the experts to step in and take control of your stock, so that you can continue to be creative.
2. Social Media Scheduling
If you are looking to streamline your productivity and save yourself a tonne of time, then you really need to look into social media scheduling tools such as Buffer. You can schedule Facebook posts, Tweets and Instagram pictures via the app instead of having to log on and post something new every single day. Once a week you could set up your posts so that they roll out smoothly and consistently to your target audience. Just don’t forget to engage with them and reply to comments once in a while, so that you keep them hooked to your brand.
3. Digital Marketing Wizards
Wasting money on digital marketing methods that aren’t working for you can really cause your finances to take a hit. Instead of trying and testing strategies that may or may not work, you should consult some digital marketing experts. They will be able to assess your business individually and let you know the methods that will work best for you. Taking their advice and leaving them to work their magic, will mean you save money in the long run and you cause less stress to yourself.
4. Accounting Help
Let’s face it; you are the brains behind your entire brand and business operation. You aren’t a number cruncher or mathematician per say, so you might need an extra hand working out your accounts. Don’t get caught should with paying your tax bills on time or paying off your wholesale bills. Hire an accountant that can keep track of your earnings and profit margins, so that you can stick to doing what you are good at. An accountant will also be able to write you letters of recommendations if you ever want to apply for a loan, get a mortgage or want to rent a property.
5. Wholesale Research
Are you getting the best deal possible from your wholesaler? What worked for you three years ago might not be the optimum decision for this moment in time. Keep carrying out plenty of research and explore your options when it comes to bulk buying. Don’t settle for the familiar, always seek out better deals and save yourself some money.
6. Hire More Employees
If you find yourself getting stressed out, feeling overworked or having too many things to do on a daily basis, then you might want to consider hiring some more help. You might be reluctant to pay out extra money for full-time employees, but it might be worth saving your stress levels. If you can hire a small team of well-rounded individuals who are knowledgeable and passionate about your industry, then you will have hit the jackpot. Your company will be well on its way to expansion if you can expand your team and broaden your horizons.
7. Stay Focused and Consult Your Business Plan
Try not to veer away from your original business plan too much. You might be tempted to seek out new opportunities and expand your company quickly, but don’t forget what your initial goals were. Stick to your business plan closely and consult it anytime to start to feel disheartened or demotivated. A business plan is there to help guide you through the difficult times of building a business, so keep it close by at all times.
You could have a more cost effective and smooth running business in the next month as long as you realise the importance of smoothing out the kinks in your productivity. You won’t wake up to instant results overnight, but in time you will soon notice how quickly and easily your business can be adapted and tweaked to make a well-oiled machine. Don’t be afraid to outsource some of your workload or hire more help around the workplace. Even though you want to, you simply cannot do it all; it’s just not realistic. As long as you remain optimistic about your abilities and stay focused on your business goals you will be right on track for a slick and smooth business.