Original posting March 12, 2013
Have you ever heard the saying: ‘you are only as good as your last performance’ or if you have played on team sports you have likely heard this: ‘we are only as good as our weakest player’… can I say both of these statements stand true for OBM’s managing successful online businesses!
The tip this week is the only way to be successful as an OBM is to have the support YOU need in place to ensure the tasks are being implemented as they ought. Many times, as the manager we think that all the support for the business needs to be for the business owner. This is simply not true. As a matter of fact, the only way to truly support the business is if you are fully supported as well. Here are 3 key support elements you MUST have in place for your success:
1. Systems and Automation – let’s face it, if we can set it and forget it, this just makes life easier. So look at every process in the business and determine to find a way to automate it. I bet if we had a chat I could find at least 5 things you do in the business that could be automated. When you have the correct system in place and implement automation you are supported fully in that area because you no longer have to think about it.
2. Processes – once something is out of your head and in a process now you have full support in implementing that task in a more timely manner.. when we have to figure something out or make a decision every time we do a task it is inefficient, especially if that task is repetitive or if we want to pass it along to a team member.
3. Team – I tell everyone, my VA has one role: ‘To make me look good’. Now I say that a bit tongue and cheek.. but I am pretty serious about it. If your VA’s work doesn’t meet your standard of excellence or if they add work to your plate by forever having to be chased down, or make mistakes that are unnecessary, you are not being supported by them. Everyone on the team should know and understand the role they play on the team and how it affects the team as a whole. By keeping that clear with everyone you create a solid support structure.
Now back to the saying: we are only as good as our weakest player; you can only effectively manage as good as your support is in place. If you are missing any of these 3 then there is a good chance that true success in that role is going to be a challenge.