There is a distinct difference between learning about small business through conversations, classes, books, or articles and learning about small business by swimming blindfolded in waves of hot and cold water. There are responsibilities, risks, and opportunities that dare you to be prepared and challenges that want to pull you closer to employment within the safety nets and lifesavers of larger organizations.
One thing that I’m becoming more aware of is the weight of different hats involved with entrepreneurship. I believe most people wear multiple hats, and this is a good thing when resources are limited and tasks need to be completed. It would be nice to believe that the only barrier to getting things done was having the time to do it; however, even with more time it becomes important to get efficient with that time.
A good reason to wear fewer hats is to give yourself more time to focus on the reasons you went into business in the first place. At any moment, I can have on a marketing hat, a sales hat, or an accounting hat; however, I must always be thinking about delivering on our mission. If we want to continue building a platform and continue supporting value creation, then growing and sustaining revenues will also be top of mind.
Prioritizing the order of these hats can be simple to understand, but it can also seem more like a puzzle when it comes to execution.
There are two things that make prioritization simple to understand. One is to spend time on your most business-critical tasks. Another one is to spend time doing what you’re best at. Both options may require support.
Keep On the Hat
Patience – Some days are extremely productive, other days can feel like juggling above water, and some days will feel like juggling below water. I find that this option can ignite creativity and increase awareness of where you need the most help. If you must keep on the hat, then you must find ways to become an excellent time manager. I’m still finding value in the SBA’s Participant Guide to time management.
Train and Delegate
If you already have employees, then identify the tasks that do not require your direct input or talents and provide a development opportunity them.
- Write out a process that gives clear steps on how to complete the task.
- To improve quality, create a checklist or job aid with steps to double-check.
- Follow up to ensure expectations are clear and cover any questions that arise.
- Be open to improving the process with feedback from employees.
Hire
In business, there is a little thing called “capital.” Your budget may allow for managed staff or support based on seasonal volume or services. If this is the case, consider exploring ways you can create value in your business with Leap Here.
- Long- or short-term access to flexible support or staffing options.
- Opportunity to recruit for full-time employment with professionals from various experience and education backgrounds.
- Partnering to strengthen an inclusive professional community.
- Solutions and processes that can be maintained or duplicated as needed.
These are just a few thoughts and resources to reference for maximizing time in a year that is already moving fast. We wish you a Peaceful and Prosperous 2019 as you continue to move forward!!!
Our Vision:
Our vision is to be a connecting and reconnecting platform for people, companies, and nonprofits that contribute to the economy and benefit society.
We’re excited to be moving toward our vision and executing on our mission by partnering with a local small business that does tax and accounting services. We will provide them with flexible support through the tax season.
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