Does Your Business Need a Workout?

I was working out at the gym today.  Out of necessity, I’ve been developing more of a system, seeking out the machines that will strengthen muscles to support my back and increase flexibility. 

And it’s been working.  But it took a painful six-week recovery from a severe muscle spasm in my back to focus my attention on a solution. 

Oh, I’d worked on my abdominals before (needed to support the back—not to impress anyone),.  Unfortunately, I had a history of hurting myself doing sit-ups and crunches on the floor at home, and so I tended to avoid that part of working out. 

But now I’ve discovered a really good “abs” machine at the gym.  And for me, the machine provides a more defined range of motion that yields better results.  Actually, I discovered a “family” of machines that will help me achieve my objectives.

I’ve got a system.

And then the parallel hit me.  OK:  having built a company and having advised many others, I know systems help a business run more smoothly.  Seems to help my body run more smoothly, too.

And then the second parallel:  pain is the impetus to change for both body and business.  In both cases, implementing or improving systems, processes, procedures can improve functionality – and reduce or eliminate pain. 

So:  does your business need a workout?

I don’t mean, “the process of a debtor’s meeting a loan commitment by satisfying altered repayment terms” (www.yourdictionary.com).

I mean:  does your business need a workout – a solution to what’s causing inconsistent product or service quality, backorders to your customers, chaos and rework that your customers may or may not see – but which affect your bottom line? 

The workout will involve building your management muscle:  designing and implementing better processes, improving communication with employees, vendors and business partners, and adopting a “build then maintain” mindset. 

Not sure what I mean?  Hey, let’s meet at the gym and talk about it.

 -- Steve Caccavo, Founder of Constructive Business Solutions™, draws on his years of entrepreneurial experience to help owners strengthen and grow their small and mid-size businesses. © 2011 by Constructive Business Solutions™, a division of Positive Employment Practices, Inc.