des moines, iowa and beyond

workflow & systems strategist

3 Easy Tips to Start Your Workflows

Business

When it comes to setting up and defining workflows, I know that it can feel overwhelming. Especially if you don’t have a type-a bone in your body! (hello creative darlings!) Luckily, it doesn’t have to be complicated, so let’s break it down into 3 easy tips for starting your business workflows.

When defining and documenting your workflows, you are simply writing down what you are already doing. No pressure and no right answers. Once you complete these initial three steps, you’ll be in a position to streamline and up-level your business, all while gaining time back in your days!A lot of business systems and workflow conversations tend to be focused on software and technology tools that help make them more efficient. Which is 100% true. However, I also have noticed that this tends to be a deterrent to some people to get started. Your workflows and business systems do not need to be fancy, complicated or expensive.

While certain digital and ‘fancier’ tools can certainly benefit you, it is a myth that you have to use them to have efficient workflows that truly work for you. When I started my business, I used to use the tried and true pen and paper method. I carried around my 3-ring binder with everything I could possibly need in it. Workflow trackers, client notes, design boards, you name it. It might sound a bit silly now that we are more digital, but it worked (and still would if I needed it to).

Don’t get sidetracked by the shiny digital tools. We’ll get there, but let’s start simple and analog. Last week I shared what a workflow is and the differences between the various pieces that make up our business systems. It might be helpful to refresh your memory before we dive into these 3 simple tips for starting your business workflows.

  1. Brain Dump: Start with your process or service name, then think through what that looks like. Write it all down. You don’t need to worry about getting super detailed right away. Start with what comes naturally, then go back over the next few days and add in more detail as you’re able.
  2. Identify What’s High Touch: Once you have everything written down, go through and highlight the areas that absolutely require you to do them and the ones that can be automated or templated. These can be things like your contract signing, invoicing, payments and receipts being sent to clients (automated) or emails you send often. The remaining items that you have to do, high touch tasks, move to step 3.
  3. Draft Your Workflows: Now, you know what parts of your workflows are high touch and require you to take action. Draft a workflow template to track where each of your projects are along that workflow. Download your free E-book and worksheet to help you get started!!

Having your workflows on a worksheet or in a system like HoneyBook or even Trello or Asana is a game changer.

Your time is precious and valuable. Don’t spend it on things that you don’t need to. Let’s get you laser focused on the tasks that add true value to your business and client experience. That is where you will start to feel things fall into place and see efficiencies.

Xoxo,

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