In today’s episode, Anna looks at the systems (routines, processes and tools) that can help free up your time and energy to focus on what really matters.
(1:02) “This week, we are kicking off with the exciting topic of creating systems in your business! Now, first of all, what do I mean by ‘systems’? I’m using ‘systems’ in the sense of the principles and procedures by which you run your business, and that includes processes, routines and tools, software and so on.”
(6:38) “Establishing a weekly routine. Now, I want to start with this one, even though you may not think of it as a system, but I can’t emphasize enough how important this one is, especially when you’re alone in your business. Because, rather than waking up every day and making it up as you go along, I know it sounds appealing and it was at the begging at least but it doesn’t get you results I can assure you. You want to get super clear on what your priorities are and then use time blocking, something you may have heard of and we can talk about more in the future, and careful planning to make sure that your calendar actually reflects those priorities.”
(14:05) “Finally, using accounting software, now, running your own business means checking your incomings and outgoings, sending invoices and chasing payments, filing accounts, and so on. There are lots of software solutions now, many designed specifically for freelancers or small businesses, that help you with all these steps – from pulling in all your transactions via an automated feed connected to your bank.”
*Resources mentioned during the episode*
Book a call to discuss the best fit for you– Apply for a free 30-minute consultation call where you can ask all your questions and find out how Anna can best support you, whether in your personal or your professional goals. onestepoutside.com/claritycall
Weekly Routine– Check out my article on designing your ideal week.
Work Flows– I’ve been using Screenflow for Mac to create videos of key processes and then I just keep them on Google Drive.
Creating Resources– I use Canva or brief my favourite designer on Fiverr to create simple but attractive resources.
Scheduling appointments– There are plenty of these calendar apps available so have a think about what functionality you want, and then compare the solutions. I’ve been using ScheduleOnce since the beginning, recently rebranded as OnceHub.
Social media posts– At the moment, I’m using a combination of Buffer, the native Facebook scheduler, and then recently Planoly for Instagram.
Email sequences– I’ve been using GetResponse since the start, with a combination of ‘auto-responders’ and ‘automation’.
Accounting software– I must admit that I used Excel for a long time but I have finally become a convert to technology and I now use FreeAgent.
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This is all about you, so Anna will be asking you for input, questions, feedback to help her create content that answers your needs and helps you with whatever you’re working on at the moment. Get in touch with any questions or suggestions at podcast@onestepoutside.com.
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