Running a small business is a big job. To be successful, you need to constantly re-assess and adapt your methods to keep up with changing demands and economic environments. These simple strategies can have a big impact while allowing you to focus on the big picture.
1. Make Your Meetings Count
They’re essential to working with a team but business meetings can also become a hindrance if you’re not careful. Make each one count by following these practical tips.
Keep it Short
There’s no need to limit productivity by discussing something that can be sent in an email. Try to keep your meetings as brief as possible and save questions for the very end to keep things moving.
Make it Relevant
Mandatory regular meetings are not always the right time for team-building exercises, sharing a funny video or handling problems that only affect one or two employees; save those for one-on-one meetings and special events. Instead, stick to the basics and cover what’s actually important to keep everyone engaged and show that you value their time.
Stay Flexible
Meetings for the sake of meetings can be a huge waste of time and they can also frustrate employees. If you typically meet at a set time but there’s nothing important to discuss that week, send out a memo instead. You can use that time to send out personal emails or have an in-person chat to check in with your employees instead.
2. Hire a Virtual Receptionist
No matter what your business model, service or product, a virtual receptionist can be a huge asset for you. In many small businesses and startups, it’s normal for the key players to handle multiple tasks. However, answering phone calls, taking orders and scheduling appointments are jobs that can (and should) be delegated to someone who specializes in this area.
Better Customer Service
Receptionists are trained to provide quality customer service to everyone who contacts your business. These skills don’t come naturally to everyone but a qualified virtual receptionist will have the necessary tools to ensure positive and productive interactions with your clients. This results in happier customers who are more likely to become loyal to your business.
More Time for Specialized Tasks
Chances are, you have significantly more important ways to spend your time at your business. Some tasks simply can’t be delegated to others, so you’re stuck pulling long hours trying to get everything done. Hiring a virtual receptionist is a cost-efficient way to help you accomplish more.
No More Lost Business
When you or a team member are stretched too thin, your customers can experience unanswered calls, long wait times or no returned messages. When this happens, you’re likely to lose that potential business, which can be a serious hit to your bottom line. With a better customer experience, you’re more likely to keep those clients instead.
3. Take Social Media Seriously
If you’re not active on social media, you’re already one step behind. Utilizing this type of advertising can make a huge impact on the influence your business has and the number of potential customers you can reach.
Assign a Social Media Representative
Staying up to date with postings, comments, responses and trends is a big job. You need someone handling your accounts on a daily basis to use social media to its full advantage. Assign or hire someone who has the experience, knowledge and wisdom to craft attention-grabbing posts for your business.
Get to Know Your Competition
Take note of the accounts of your top competitors and find out what they’re up to. What tactics are gaining them more visibility and followers? (diazepam) What are they missing that you could implement to set your business apart? Use this information to help you build a sound social media strategy.
Keep an Open Mind
Depending on your ideal customer demographic, you may feel that some social media platforms aren’t worth your time, especially if they’re unfamiliar. However, branching out can help you gain new customers while boosting your overall online presence and influence. Talk to an expert and take the plunge; it could be the smartest move you make for your business.
If you want to keep your small business moving forward, it takes hard work and the right strategy. Give these tips a try to help you make the most of your time and resources.
About The Author
