OUTSIDE EYES PART II

The previous article (Outside Eyes, Part I) established that an effective strategic plan (1 to 2 pages) carries far more weight than many give to it.? An effective strategic plan is truly the high-level map through the “business forest,” allowing a capable team to move efficiently and effectively with guidance from eyes in the sky, far above the trees.? Outside eyes can help the team avoid hazards and delays, not only because they work from the strategic plan but also because they see from a perspective of experience and wisdom.

In this article, we look in on the journey of Janice and Dwight as they wander through the forest of their business operations.??

Their journey began in The Sea of Startup and took them through The Positive Cash Flow Desert. Summiting The peaks of Break-even, they finally enjoy their journey through The Meadows of Operations & Stability.? Things seem to be okay for them, with singing birds, fluttering butterflies, and flowers abuzz with productive bees.??

Dodging trees and navigating the trail in the best way they know how, they sidestep poisonous plants and ugly bugs as the thought strikes Janice, “How big is the forest I see ahead, and what lies within?”? In reality, around the bend and just inside the entry to the thick forest is The Market Shift Bear.

Seeing the forest (but not beyond the edge) they remain busy with the tyranny of the urgent activities of each day.? Should they go beyond the lovely, mostly peaceful meadow? Should they ask for help to prepare and enter the forest?? What lies beyond and within?? Is the risk worth the rewards that await???

Their strategic plan requires they move forward, and it also contemplates that their limited experience increases risks of delay, unknown dangers, and potential death without more experience, improved preparations, and a guide who has traveled the forest and can ensure safe passage. A bear killer.

Your search for the right guide at the right time might actually increase the tyranny of the urgent activities of each day and add stress and distraction to the business that you don’t want to take on. Here are some helpful tips that will help make the decision easier.

1. ? ? ? Understand what you need or what you seek from outside help.

In the same way that you probably kept a “to-do” list or project notebook in the early days of business, return to the habit of writing down your hurdles, questions, and problems that need attention.

Getting the business frustrations out of your head and onto paper is not only a healthy practice but it is also what you will refer to when you prioritize your action plan.? Whether or not you work with a guide, your business challenge journal will be one of the most valuable tools in your travel bag.

In the event that you have a sit-down with a guide, you will be prepared to help them understand the situation and problems, allowing you to spend more time refining the action plan and required resources.? In many instances, just meeting with a guide to review and prioritize the challenges can be enough.

2. ? ? ? Consider your budget.

Your budget determines the type of help you should seek.? As a rule of thumb, we recommend that our clients look for a 10X return on fees they spend for consulting and advisory services.??

If you are fortunate to find a capable consulting group that offers group coaching, it is a little-used resource that can kick back some amazing returns.? Take advantage of free consultations where the consultant makes an investment in the relationship by hearing your concerns and providing a fresh perspective.? This is where your written list will come in handy, helping you to get the most out of the time you spend together.

As a result of an effective planning meeting, you should have a prioritized action list.? That action list can be taken back to your team or it can be used to determine whether specialized help from the consulting team will shorten the implementation curve, increase momentum and retention, and reduce overall costs.? In any case, it should always give you a return on the investment you make in working with an outside guide.?

3. ? ? ? What does Success look like?

Just with setting your budget and trying to get that 10x ROI there may be hidden details that would still be considered a success. Leadership is often a topic people seek guidance?on. You might desire a fresh perspective on how you can improve your leadership style. That will definitely result in an increase in your business but might not have a direct result a key metric.

No matter where you find yourself in your business journey, give some thought to whether it’s time for outside eyes on your business.? If your journey isn’t enjoyable overall, then it might be time.??

Our specialized eyes can provide you with general guidance as well as impactful and fun support in the world of customer experience and your customer service leadership.

Till next time when we look in on Janice & Dwight and what awaits them in the forest.

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