When trade business owners think about systems, the first thing that comes to mind is, “That’s a whole lot of work!” You’ll only have to invest time in setting up these systems once. In the long run, it’ll literally save you hours.
Systemisation is something we take very seriously in our own plumbing business. These systems are in the form of flow charts, with one flowchart being developed for each task in the business. From booking a job to following up payment from customers. You name it, we’ve got it.
Systemising your business will also allow you to step away, whenever you want. Take that family holiday you’ve been dreaming about. Take an afternoon off for some personal time. You can do it knowing your business will run exactly the way you want it to.
Here are 4 basic steps to systemise your trade business:
1. Plan
The power of planning should not be underestimated. Planning where you want to be is critical to success so set aside a couple of days to formulate a plan. Start with your company vision and mission. They can assist you in developing effective strategies to achieve your goals and objectives.
2. Develop
In a week, get both your admin staff and tradesmen to write down everything they do, every day. This will be your starting point. Start developing step-by-step systems for the tasks they do the most such as ‘booking a job’. Once these are completed, you can move on to tasks that may only be completed once a week or once a month such as ‘chasing up customer payment’.
3. Test
Once you have developed a system, give it to a staff member (or do it yourself) to follow along with when completing the relevant task. Get them to correct errors or add in anything that is missing.
4. Grow
When good business systems are deeply ingrained in every aspect of your business, it’ll run smoothly and effectively even if you’re not there to look after it. PLUS, staff will be more productive therefore making the business more profitable!
Systemising does require a strong commitment and enormous amounts of time. It’s worth it because the end results can be a game changer for your life and your business.
What’s next?
- Join our Kick-Ass Tradies Facebook Group, for access to trade business specific conversations, tips and resources, plus a like-minded community of tradies.
- Book a 15-minute Game Plan Call with Andy, owner of Dr. DRiP plumbing and co-founder of Lifestyle Tradie, to clarify your priorities and get clear action steps.
