Much like a tulip bulb you plant in the fall in anticipation of a dazzling spring show, the rewards from growing a small business also require effort and patience. But it’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks, that the “planting” gets pushed aside and the flower never grows.
As a small business owner, you are likely involved in every aspect of your company. From purchasing to hiring to invoicing, there is probably nothing you don’t touch in some way. For sure, it’s not easy to find the time to nurture your business. But there are actions you can take to help you shift your attention – to work ON your business, not just IN it.
Here are 5 tried-and-true time saving measures you can take right now to start making your business bloom:
1. Schedule it!
It seems so easy, but is it? Are you doing it? Take a look at your calendar for the next week, or next month. How much time have you allotted specifically for marketing and growing your business? Chances are the answer is zero. You’re probably looking at a calendar packed with client or vendor meetings, but what about your business? Does it have a meeting?
Start by blocking off dedicated time to work ON your business. Pick a day and time and make an appointment with yourself. Start with small, manageable chunks that you schedule regularly throughout the month. And when the appointment shows up? Take it! Treat it like you would a meeting with a potential customer. You’ll be surprised at how effective this simple action can be.
2. Find an Accountability Partner
Finding someone to keep you on track can be as low-key as asking an employee, friend or spouse to hold you accountable for your commitment, or as ambitious as working regularly with a professional business coach. Many business owners find that their needs fall somewhere in between. They’re looking for a short-term solution to energize, motivate and propel them forward.
One option is a two-hour power session with Owner Amy DeLardi at Infinite Web Designs. What’s a power session? It’s an ultra-focused one-on-one session with someone as passionate about growing your business as you are. It’s a cost-effective way to be held accountable without committing to expensive, long-term coaching. Read more about a two-hour power session.
3. Sign up for an Event
Much like signing up for a race can keep you motivated to train, signing up for a business event can keep you motivated to finish up marketing tasks you’ve been putting off. Maybe it’s a networking event, giving a talk at your local library or running a table at a local fair… preparing for an event can give you the push you need to update your website, print new business cards or work on your 30-second pitch. You might even surprise yourself with how much you can accomplish to meet a deadline.
4. Delegate!
Are there things that take up your time that you could have someone else do? Delegation may not come naturally. After all, it’s a complete change of pace from the startup phase of your business. But successful delegators know that without offloading some of your work, there will simply never be enough time to focus on growing your business.
Letting go of control and trusting that things will work out the way you want them to is a shift in mindset that may take practice. But, it’s a mindset well worth cultivating. Especially if you want to get out of your own way and start working ON your business.
5. Work Backwards!
A well-crafted marketing plan that clearly states your goals is a valuable tool in more ways than you might think. Not only will it set long-term targets, it will help you determine smaller short-term steps to keep you moving in the right direction. Not knowing what to do is as counterproductive as not having the time to do it.
Be intentional about your plan and set smart goals. Then use it to work backward and set dates for the smaller tasks you will need to accomplish along the way. A good marketing plan can act as a road map for tapping into accountability.
And if you find that you can’t do it alone, know that Infinite Web Designs has got your back. From website design to social media management, our team of experienced professionals can provide innovative solutions to all of your marketing problems. No matter how big or small your project, we are committed to providing consistent quality and creative energy. Contact us today.
One thing is for sure. Doing nothing will not yield results. Isn’t it time you started nurturing and growing your small business?
Infinite Web Designs is an innovative CT website design and digital marketing company located in Fairfield, CT.
