Be Your Own Detective
Are You Missing These Business Blind Spots?
As a small business owner or independent professional, you actively establish numerous systems and protocols, along with various external marketing elements like your LinkedIn profile and website.
Over time, it’s easy to look at them, without really seeing them. That can be a problem, particularly as your business evolves. With that in mind, here are three ways I keep a fresh eye on my work:
1. Question past decisions.
Decisions we made about how to do something 3 or 5 years ago may no longer apply today. Better software solutions are invented all the time. Maybe your business focus has shifted. Or, maybe, there is an easier, less expensive solution available now.
2. Look closely – self-assess the parts of your business right in front of you.
Recently, a friend found a typo in her email newsletter that had been there for years – how could she have missed it?
To prevent this from happening to you, take the initiative to closely examine the areas of your business that you might be overlooking. If you’re gearing up to deliver a presentation you’ve given many times before, make sure to review it thoroughly one more time. Check your website—every single page—and ensure all buttons and links potential clients might click are working properly.
3. Know that the buck stops with you.
I frequently hear solo professionals say, “I don’t know how that works; someone else set it up for me.” That’s perfectly fine—I don’t expect you to understand every technical detail or how to make changes. However, you need to take the time to review the work you’ve outsourced and ensure you know what should happen and when. Document everything so you can refer back to it later!
Keep your eyes wide open.
It’s easy to fall into a comfortable groove when running your own business. That can be a good thing; just make sure your eyes remain wide open!