Operational-ize means to put something into use or action. For the purpose of this post, I’m sharing ways to operational-ize your business in the context of systems and processes. Very simply, it’s all about bringing a sense of order, stability and ultimately, automation to get your business running efficiently. Recently, I’ve been working on key operational objectives because I’ve felt out of sorts with the all of the many activities going on in my business. It truly makes a difference and I love the new sense of productivity it’s brought me. WOOHOO!
An operational objective is a short-term goal that moves your business toward achieving its strategic goals. Here are a few that will get you started and surely support you in creating order, productivity and peace or mind:
Operational Objective #1: Use your daily/weekly task list to identify processes in your business.
Begin by categorizing similar tasks and activities together. You may begin to see repetition, routine and regularity taking shape. These are processes! You’ll even feel a sense of relief once you’ve identified your top three processes. Why? Now you have greater clarity about the actions that move your business forward everyday. Overwhelm magically disappears! How kewl is that?
Operational Objective #2: Identify processes that MUST be outsourced to a virtual assistant, web developer, blog manager, or other team member.
Remember your primary reason for being in business AND focus on doing just that. Outsource EVERYTHING else to your team members who are experts in their areas. Take it from someone who has learned this many times over: You do your clients a disservice when you try to be a jack of all trades in your business. Focus on your area of expertise and leave the rest to your team. Rely on your team to document the processes so your business runs smoothly if you have to be out of pocket for any reason. It works very well when you do! This is a “MUST-DO.”
Operational Objective #3: Clarify the systems that support your business operations.
Systems are the tools you use to support your processes. Think of software, hardware, equipment, and other resources that help you to be more efficient in your business. Email programs, social networking accounts, fax machines, computer, telephone, voice mail, cell phone, etc. — you get the idea. Making note of these systems is important so you’re sure they’re maintained, updated, upgraded and always working properly. It’s amazing how disruptive it is when anyone of your key systems fail to function by design. This is a “MUST-DO.”
Answer these questions to begin the process of operational-izing your business:
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What are you willing to do to operational-ize your business?
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What processes and systems do you have in place? How are they working for you?
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Which ones do you have in place that are not working?
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What one system and process you will outsource this week?
Do you remember why you started your business in the first place? Recall all of the reasons, knowing that each and every one is still VERY valid right now. Recognize the feelings that guided and inspired you. Reclaim your joy to keep these reasons fresh and relevant. Use tools like journaling and treasure mapping so these reasons are always at the forefront of your mind. 
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