Ah, spring cleaning! We’ve officially entered the time of year when we are coming out of winter hibernation, changing our wardrobes, sprucing up our homes, and tackling projects in and outside of our homes. For me, spring cleaning goes something like this:
I talk and talk and talk about the need to spring clean for two weeks.
I complain about how I am too exhausted/busy to do it while simultaneously wanting to get rid of everything and buy new stuff I don’t need from the container store for another two weeks.
Then, I eventually get to it by creating a plan to tackle the pantry, closet, etc. in short doable projects.
And isn’t this how we sometimes manage our businesses? We talk about those projects (ad nauseum), we complain, and sometimes grow resentful of all that we have to do, and then we finally get to it. This year, I’m vowing to expedite my personal and business spring cleaning.
Plugging leaks in our business, making improvements, reviewing our fees, reviewing business subscriptions, or launching new services doesn’t have to wait until the end of the year to get ready for the new year. Indeed, now is a great time to spring-clean our businesses.
Evaluate Your Business Operations
Assess your business processes and workflows to identify areas that need improvement. Where can you be more efficient and gain more time for yourself?
Consider checking in with your favorite clients and asking for feedback on their experience in working with your business. Take that information, and work on improving your processes and workflows that will take the client experience to the next level.
Also, if you sell products, review your inventory, and identify what’s expired, outdated, or underperforming products. Dump the expired products, and consider a sales strategy to clear out the underperforming products.
Declutter Your Workspace
If it’s necessary to keep hard copies of your work, take a moment to take care of the filing you put off.
File any receipts or records that pertain to your more recent tax filing, and file the receipts and records that you will need for next year.
Archive old client documents and shred documents (e.g., old credit card statements) that include information that you do not want to fall into the wrong hands. Remember, decluttering does not stop at paper.
Clean your digital workspace, including your computer files, email inbox, and online accounts.
I know I’m not the only one with a crowded desktop of files I “temporarily” filed on my desktop. The decluttering not only leads to a clearer physical space but a clearer mind which will allow you to work more effectively and open up your creativity.
1. Talk to Your People
When I worked in corporate, end-of-year reviews were common, and your salary increase and potential bonus were discussed at the end of the year or at the top of the new year. With a small business, you have the freedom to create a new paradigm.
Do you have a top performer or a member of the team that you know you would miss dearly if they left? Have the conversation with them now to let them know you appreciate them AND demonstrate your appreciation.
Ask them how they are feeling, how you can further support them, and get their feedback about what they think is an opportunity for improvement for the business.
If you have employees that are underperforming, do not go another quarter without providing feedback and determining whether they need additional training or support. In addition, if there are any conferences or training opportunities that would enhance your employees’ skills and knowledge, consider making that investment.
As for contractors, now is a great time to review whether they are delivering what they promised. If they are not, have a meeting to discuss your concerns, and if there is no improvement take a look at your agreement and determine your recourse. We can assist you with reviewing the agreement with your contractor and determining the next best steps.
Once you’ve had your conversations, review and update your employee handbook and policies to ensure they are up-to-date and compliant with relevant laws and regulations.
2. Plan for the Future/Remember Your Plans for the Future
Quarterly, it’s a good idea to gauge your progress on the strategic plan you created for this year. If you are on track, congratulations to you, and you should reward yourself. If not, take a moment to determine how to get back on track. Were you too ambitious for the first quarter? What resources do you need to assist you with accomplishing your goals?
Also important is keeping your long-term business goals in mind. The strategic plan for this year should support your long-term goals. Every new opportunity should be measured against your long-term life and business goals. Some opportunities move you forward, some are distractions.
Lastly, keep in mind that all of this planning should include safeguarding your business so that those plans actually come to fruition.
a. Evaluate your business insurance coverage and update it if necessary.
b. Take a look at your client service agreements. Has a recent client experience revealed any deficiencies?
c. Have you protected your intellectual property, or are you waiting until someone steals it?
d. Do you have a succession plan? Have you thought about what would happen to your business and your personal assets if you were unable to work?
Check out our Business’ Legal Check-Up to make you are on track to realize your goals. And, if this very brief assessment reveals any deficits, we can assist you in taking action now.