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.
Planning – Start The Year Off Right!
I know that for everyone in the country this is a tough time right now. But within this economic climate lies opportunities. What better way to discover these but through planning. All businesses should have a business plan with long and short term goals. Everything you do should be contributing to these goals. If you have not done so, now is the time to examine where you want your business to go.
I will be working with Criss Ittermann, owner of Eclectic Tech, to revamp, brain storm and reexamine Croll Organizing. I will also be speaking with my accounting professional and sales coach Debra Pearlman, owner of DP Sales Pro, to continue development of my business. All of these plus marketing, administration, customer service, public relations, etc. are the arms and legs of Croll Organizing. Just like a person can not walk if the body does not work as one unit, same goes for your business.
Here is a basic outline to get you started:
• Write down your goals for the next 1, 3, 5 and 10 years.
• Examine the cash flow that would be needed to accomplish those goals.
• Work backwards – What would have to happen next to make those goals a reality.
• Create an action plan to do it.
• Review with professionals during this process so you do not waste money, time and energy.
Your success depends on good planning. All businesses should have a lawyer, accountant and financial advisor. Many accountants can either help with the advisor part or direct you to the right person. You will also need someone you can trust to help you get started setting up your workflow, marketing, public relations and website. If you already have these look at what is working and what is not. Track everything so you can make good decisions.
Work with your team to help you realize your dreams and goals. A wonderful resource to find local talented professionals is the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. One thing I have learned as a business owner, you can not do it all by yourself!
Thanks for the recommendation. I'd say that every business needs a "board of directors" -- the nice thing about being a "sole-proprietor" business is that I don't have to take minutes during my board meetings -- but I do indeed have an unofficial board. Cindy is one of the people I'm proud to have on my board. And I'm proud to be on hers.
So who's bringing the donuts to the next board meeting? : )
I'm also finding it's invaluable to have people, both paid and unpaid, that I can discuss the overall issues in my life with. As a sole proprietor, personal issues are as intertwined with my business as business issues are with my personal life. For example, if my car breaks down it's both a professional and personal disaster. A school delay can cost me dearly. There's very little resources for delegation, and the only things I'm delegating are office-related tasks. And during school vacations, it's HARD to concentrate. I have to feed a family of 4-5 people 3 square meals a day and try to find peace to make phone calls. Doesn't work out as well as it should, so it's a blessing that it's a slow period anyway.
For those of us who need to squeeze every minute out of our busy week, Cindy's advice and training is absolutely invaluable. I'd be past my eyebrows in piles, and I don't think I'd be able to do the planning I've been doing lately if it weren't for Cindy helping me carve a few more miraculous hours out of every week. Less is falling through the cracks, and even my billing usually goes out on time. Thank you Cindy,
And happy New Year everyone.