Habits
Habits, in simple terms, are a pattern of behavior acquired by frequent repetition. These exercises provide a roadmap that, if followed, can ensure you stay on track and don't get distracted by the next lustrous thing that comes into view. For example, many successful people rave about their morning routine. I challenge the morning routine are purely habits they have identified that start their day on a good foot and with a positive mindset. If you set yourself up for success with habits, you move ahead on a good foundation for the day.
Back in my younger years I wanted to be a poker dealer in Lake Tahoe, NV. So it is only appropriate that I consider habits the Ace in the Pocket for success!!
Similarly, as I like to refer to them, thriving businesses implement processes and procedures (P&P) or their habits for success. Yep, routines that correspond to their corporate mission and values. Conversely, a company that operates without P&P techniques may drift offshore without an anchor, which can be dangerous in the choppy waters of competition.
Frequently I have been told by clients when I get more prominent, I will work on documenting what we do and how we do it. However, by the time you reach that level and need to recruit personnel, you don't have the time to go back and create this invaluable written documentation. Without these roadmaps, how do you expect employees to maintain or understand what it took to make your company successful and the brand you worked tirelessly to build. Essentially, you've left it up to them to make decisions and construct habits that may or may not benefit the organization. Good habits are like step-by-step processes and procedures with no room for personal interpretation. Easy to comprehend, keep on track, and most notably, repeatable. Bad habits come from past experiences, previous company dynamics, and personal beliefs. Lack of P&Ps gives energy to bad habits.
Why trust your business to what someone else believes is correct when you can create a positive foundation for success? Not sure where to start? That's where a business consultant with an understanding of operational efficiency can be the best partner. An advisor is removed from the operation but can look at all aspects from a different point of view. They then construct an outlined draft based on what is communicated and observed, identify the knowledge voids that come with automatically accomplishing tasks, and finalize them into a formal P&P manual.
However, we must state this is a living, breathing business document. What does that mean? As the company grows, evolves, and remains relevant in the industry, these P&Ps will need to be modified to stay updated on how the business evolves. I have often seen organizations create the manual and then not go back to see if it is accurate. In this situation it is almost better to not have one in place than one that is outdated with room for personal interpretation.
Want to learn more contact us and let's get started building new habits and your official processes and procedures corporate manual today! A good practice is only one decision away, and we are ready to help build a solid foundation and put that Ace in your company’s back pocket.