Knowing When It's Time to Hire Help for Your Business

As a small business owner, you're always aiming to grow. But as your business expands, you might find yourself wondering if you need an extra pair of hands. Before you rush into hiring, it's essential to take a step back and evaluate your situation. Let's break down three crucial things to consider before bringing someone new on board.

A few years ago, hiring virtual assistants became quite the trend. Everyone seemed to have a VA for this and a VA for that. While it can be tempting to jump on the bandwagon, it's important to take a hard look at your current workflow first.

For many of us, the ins and outs of our business are locked up in our heads. We know how everything runs because we've been doing it ourselves for so long. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it does mean that if your operations are chaotic, adding another person to the mix can exacerbate the problem.

So, ask yourself:

• Do I operate off a to-do list?

• Is my schedule well-organized?

• Do I often forget tasks or have to reschedule meetings?

If you're disorganized, now might be the time to tidy things up before hiring help.

Once you're organized, it's time to dive into the nitty-gritty of what you do daily. This step involves a process of self-evaluation that can take anywhere from a day to a month. The key here is to document everything you do, no matter how small.

As you go through this phase, you'll find that some tasks are things only you can do—think high-level strategy, key meetings, or specific services that require your expertise. But, there will also be tasks that someone else could handle. Common examples include:

• Social media posts

• Blog posts

• Newsletters

By the end of this process, you'll be able to sort your tasks into two categories:

1. Tasks only you can do

2. Tasks someone else can help with

With your tasks sorted, it's time to get specific about what a new hire would do. Start by detailing the tasks someone else will handle. Outline how frequently each task needs to be done, the expected standards, and any nuances they would need to know.

Questions to consider:

• How often should social media posts go out?

• What's the schedule for newsletters?

By the end of this phase, you'll have a job description, a to-do list, and even some training materials ready. This preparation will be invaluable as you bring someone new into your business. They’ll have a clear understanding of their role, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve set them up for success.

Hiring help can be a fantastic step towards growing your business, but timing and preparation are everything. Make sure you're organized first, know exactly what tasks you need help with, and have a clear job description ready. By following these three steps, you'll be well on your way to successfully integrating new team members into your business.

Remember, I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. Don't forget to like, follow, and subscribe for more tips. Good luck on your journey!

Winning in a Competitive Market: Tips for Businesses

In the world of business and personal achievements, competition is a constant presence. For those of us who are naturally competitive, the concept of playing to win is ingrained in our very being. We often believe that there's little point in pursuing something unless we're aiming for excellence. This mindset is foundational not just in personal endeavors but also in the corporate world, where the mantra "execute with excellence" underlines the importance of putting your best foot forward. Yet, this value is tested most when faced with competition in your market.

Let me share a story about a local business that was thriving, with great brand recognition and customer loyalty, until a competitor moved in close by. This competitor, sharing a similar passion but nothing proprietary, began to eat into the market share, eventually leading to the original business’s withdrawal from the market. This isn't a tale to scare you but to highlight a reality: the market is ripe for competition, and anyone can replicate what you're doing.

The question then becomes, how do you handle competition? While some, like Gary Vee, advocate for ignoring competition and focusing on your own game, there are three strategies I've found particularly effective in navigating and succeeding in competitive markets.

1. Do Your Homework

Before diving into a new venture, it’s crucial to survey the landscape. Understand who your competitors are, what they excel at, and where they might be lacking. Consider the market share they hold and how you might persuade their customers to give your service a try. A thorough evaluation can save you the headache of formulating strategies reactively and instead allow you to enter the market with a well-informed, proactive stance.

2. Focus on Yourself

Echoing some wisdom from Gary Vee, obsessing over competitors can distract you from your own goals and strategies. Remember, there's a reason you started your business—perhaps it was a gap you saw in the market, or a unique skill set you possess. Whatever the reason, pouring your passion into your venture and focusing on operational excellence can lead to success and progress. It's about running your race, staying patient, and consistently doing the right things.

3. Celebrate Your Differences

Every business has something that sets it apart. Maybe it's the way you communicate with customers, or perhaps it's an above-and-beyond service you offer. Identifying and amplifying these unique selling points is crucial. Take a moment to list down what makes your business special and think about how you can communicate these differentiators through various channels—be it blogs, videos, or newsletters. Highlighting what makes you distinct not only attracts customers but also fuels word-of-mouth marketing, further setting you apart from the competition.

Conclusion

Facing competition in the market is inevitable, but how you deal with it can make all the difference. From thorough preliminary research to a steadfast focus on your unique mission and celebrating your distinct qualities, there are strategies to not just survive but thrive. Embrace competition as an opportunity to refine your business, highlight your differences, and focus on delivering with excellence. The journey might be challenging, but the rewards of growing your business on your terms are immense and fulfilling. Remember, in the vast playground of business, there's ample space for those who are prepared, passionate, and proudly distinct.