Latest Articles
- 10 Tips for Creating a Data Goldmine
I have been working with many clients who have their information in a database but are unable to get the information they want or know where to find it. Usually the culprit is a series of issues that come together to create the perfect storm of inefficiency. The tips below will help you to prevent this storm and maximize the information in your database to increase productivity and profits.
- How to Make More Money in 2012 with Data Driven Decisions
I have mentioned in many of my articles about metrics. Things we use to measure success and how far you are from reaching your goals. Data is much more than that – it is a valuable tool to make solid business decisions. It also helps you to save as well as make money. Below are some of the metrics you can use to help grow your bottom line in 2012.
- Why Effective Reporting Makes You Money
Many organizations today rely heavily on their technology to get things done. This is something that will become increasingly important as we move into the future. Those who have learned to leverage the information they have can effectively market, close sales, produce their products or services quicker and save money on maintaining those customers. One way to achieve this is through effective reporting.
- Top 10 Reasons Why You Need a Bookkeeping System
As technology progresses it is becoming increasingly important for companies and non-profits to track their information. In a previous article I discussed how to maximize your customer relationship management software. This month I am going to talk about your bookkeeping system. These two areas tend to be neglected by a new business or existing businesses using an effective system that is too difficult to maintain. Either scenario will cost you money, time and sales. Below are the top 10 reasons why you should use a bookkeeping system.
- 7 Ways to Keep Your Database from Becoming a Digital Clothes Hanger
As part of the new reality, organizations are doing more with less. This translates into reduced staff, resources and in some cases office space. This has created the necessity to examine how organizations can use technology to be more efficient. One way is to purchase Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. Doing a thorough research process and testing prior to buying your system. Once purchased, I encourage you to take the necessary steps to avoid it becoming a digital clothes hanger – aka an unused treadmill. Here are some tips on how to avoid this dilemma for yourself.
Micro Management Costs Money
One of the fastest ways to sabotage effective delegation and employee moral is micro management. Some of the clients I work with are uncomfortable about passing over work because they feel they can do it better or quicker themselves. If that is the case then the manager is missing the point. Managers should “manage” the workflow of their employees not do the work of the employees. There is a great article that Jim Sandler of The Alternative Board gave me called “Who’s got the Monkey“ by William Oncken, Jr. and Donald L. Wass. This article is a discussion about not taking responsibility for your employee’s “monkey”. If you are interested in a copy of this article send me an email at cmc@crollorganizing.com.
How can you avoid this trap? By having the following:
• The right person for the job
• The proper training and resources for the employee
If you do not have a human resources person then it would be worth your while to use an outside service to help screen candidates. Using a service helps reduce the expense of hiring and turnover. Make sure you provide a list of duties and responsibilities for the strafing services so they can send you qualified candidates. Having a list will also help you with training the person and give you a measure to track performance.
Invest the training time upfront. Good training allows you to hand over the reigns with confidence. After all you are the manager and are costing the business valuable time and money if you do not utilize your employees correctly. If you feel the urge to micro manager ask yourself why. Below are some questions to help you get to the root of your apprehension:
• Is the employee the right person for this job?
• If not, do they need additional training to be able to perform the job?
• Would this person be more effective in a different capacity in the company?
• Do I need a different person for this job?
• Have I given the employee the proper tools and resources to complete the job successfully?
Answering these questions will enable you to address the issue and get you on the right track to utilizing your employees. For more information about delegation visit http://crollorganizing.com/Blog/Blog.
Please email your questions to cmc@crollorganizing.com.