If you are like most small business owners, you wear multiple hats in your professional and personal life. These ‘wardrobe changes’ often mean that there is just never enough time to check the items off your to-do list that are not urgent, but, are still crucial to the success of your business.
One productivity technique known as the “Power Hour” can help you work through those items that have been on the back burner for the past several weeks or even months.
The Power Hour was created by bestselling author, Gretchen Rubin, who explains that “once a week, for one hour”, you should work steadily on the nagging chores that you can’t seem to find the time to tackle.
For business owners — to use the Power Hour, you’ll need to designate one hour on a specific day of each week to tackle a nagging item on your business to-do list.
Organization
Look around at your physical surroundings to see what is out of place. Are there documents that need to be shredded, mail that needs to be sorted or items that need to be donated?
Conquer digital clutter by removing files or APPS that you no longer need on your computer or mobile device. Back-up electronic files and organize emails into folders so you can access them easily in the future.
Encourage your employees to get their desks in order as well — less clutter and more focus will help improve business-wide productivity.
Customer service
Reach out to your customers in a meaningful way. This could take the form of sending or responding to emails, phone calls or social media messages. You could also use this time as a brainstorming session to come up with ideas for a customer service campaign for your organization.
Networking
Don’t underestimate the power of connecting with other entrepreneurs. Designate a specific day of the month to reach out to your contacts and meet with them in person if possible.
Networking can not only help grow your referral business but can also provide a mentorship opportunity to help you improve as a small business leader.
Improving your Brand
When was the last time you reviewed your brand messaging — self-critiquing your logo, tagline and other marketing materials? You could also use your power hour to post to social media, update your website or blog or order promotional materials for your business.
Continuing education
You may need to take courses to upgrade your certifications and ensure that you continue to provide expert service or advice to your customers.
You can also use your Power Hour to read blog posts or listen to podcast episodes that can give you the exact information you need to succeed in your business.
Bookkeeping
For most business owners, bookkeeping is a necessary evil. Why not save yourself the hassle and contact us at RBQ to take care of all your accounting needs. That way, you can use your weekly Power Hour to focus on other areas of your business!
If you are a small business owner and are in need of accounting and bookkeeping services, call Remote Quality Bookkeeping™ today.