3 Processes to Put Your Business on Automatic Pilot

Click here to listen. . . I often talk about implementing systems in your business to keep everything running smoothly. Lots of people talk about systems and processes, but very few actually explain what that means.

Last week, I was *out* of the office for 5-6 days recovering from surgery. During that time, systems which I instituted months ago kept things running so smoothly that most of my team didn't know about the surgery until after I was home from the hospital (where I spent 3 days).

Here's an example of something you can, and should, institute in your own business -- no matter your industry:

1. Place a buffer between you and prospective clients.

Create a process whereby prospective clients do not speak with you until they've spoken with someone else on your team.

Your team member should schedule the call on your calendar and gather info about the prospective client, including: why they want to speak with you (are they looking to purchase your service or sell you something?), what is their website (so you can get some background info beforehand), how long will the call take (unless you have a process for this -- mine is a 20-minute "Get Aquainted" call), etc.

If you don't yet have a team, create a questionnaire which does the above and ask prospects to complete and return it 24 hours before your call.

2. Create a "New Client Welcome Packet".

Can you imagine if every time I had a new client, I had to discuss the same "welcome" speech and guidelines around working together? AHHHHHHH!

Instead, I've created a "New Client Welcome Packet" which every new coaching client receives and which outlines our relationship, what to expect from me, what I expect, fees, confidentiality stipulations, etc. Once we decide to mentor together, this is the first thing every client receives and our first coaching call doesn't happen until this has been signed and returned.

3. Create a schedule for your marketing activities.

Different members of my team are responsible for different aspects of my marketing activities: posting articles online, posting articles on my blog, sending out press releases, etc.

I've created a strategic marketing action plan which includes who does what, when. There are certain things I do weekly (write my ezine on Mondays, for example), even daily as well as my team. By having a schedule, everyone knows what needs to be done when, and by whom, and I don't have to *remind* anyone.

And, just as importantly, when unexpected things pop up, we have a backup plan so that my clients and readers continue to receive the service they're used to.

Your Next Action Step

What processes can you create and implement in your business starting today? What one thing can you decide will be done on a certain day every week (by you or, preferably, a team member)?

If you're overwhelmed and confused about HOW exactly to create processes and systems which put your business on automatic and let you make money while you sleep, go on vacation or, if required, recover from surgery, you'll want to check out my 90 Day Intensive Online Business Mentoring Program.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? Please do! Feel free to reprint any article or tip on your website, newsletter or message boards. Please write: Leading small business expert Sandra Martini is the "Automatic Business Coach." Sandra delivers simple proven, yet innovative, ways entrepreneurs can implement processes and systems to create a waiting list of clients while giving them more money, time, and freedom in their businesses. For free articles, free resources and to sign up for her free audio mini-seminar "5 Quick & Easy Ways to Put Your Marketing on Autopilot" visit www.SandraMartini.com.