Even though we know the benefits of systemising more of our business, who really wants to do it?
Here are 3 easy ways to get your team systemising more of your business:
1. Start small
Ask staff to draw up a checklist or flowchart that shows the key elements of the process. This is easier than writing a detailed procedure (ugh!), and the summary checklist or flowchart can be used as a discussion tool to flesh out more detail where needed.
2. Start positive
Resist the urge to focus on a problem area. Start with a process that works well as your team will be more comfortable showcasing an area they feel good about.
3. Use their efforts
Make sure you use what they have prepared positively, ...
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How to make discussing performance easier
John Petry, a participant on one of our training courses, gave us this great idea and has generously allowed us to pass it on ever since.
Every Friday, John gives out the 'Chocolate Fish Award'
A chocolate fish is given for the most outstanding act by an employee during the week.
Outstandingly good, or outstandingly bad.
The Chocolate Fish Award is usually fun and has some serious benefits, it:
recognises achievement regularly and positively
makes it OK to acknowledge mistakes, and encourages "what to do next time?" thinking
provides staff with a neutral name and way to discuss performance - “oh you must be aiming for this week's chocolate fish" Or "what a doozey! That will be this week's winner for ...
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Take the Test - how clear is your strategy?
It is essential to have a clear strategy that everyone in your business understands and can contribute to.
Take this simple test to see how clear your business strategies are:
A) Ask your staff these 4 questions:
What are the 4-6 things that make us different from our competitors?
As a business what key things do we really excel at?
What are our main current business priorities?
In your job what do you think are the most important things you need to achieve?
Would your strategies get an A+ for Clarity?
B) Review their answers.
How consistent are they? Can you see any themes running through the answers? Do the themes resonate with your core business strategies?
C) ...
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