I don't like cheese but...

This commercial always makes me laugh.

In The Weeds?

A common problem among many growing businesses is getting caught in the task rut. With business steadily coming in it is easy to get consumed in those tasks that are necessary to get the job done. Being caught in the weeds as many call it can cause your business to plateau and not realize the potential growth opportunities that exist. Many companies become growth addicted and feel that a year with no growth is essentially a loss. So they forge ahead bringing in even more business which comes with even more work. Now they are not just caught in the weeds they are lost in them.

The problem starts when the tasks run the business instead of the business running the tasks. In busy times operational processes tend to be thrown aside in order to get the work done. This can lead to a chaotic work place which can disengage even the best employees. The following are a few ideas which can be implemented to keep the company from becoming a stagnant loss.

1. Have a Plan.

Plan where you want to be in 1, 3 and 5 years time with your business. In identifying this you can recognize those operational needs and changes which will be necessary to keep growth moving smoothly.

2. Review Processes.

Be sure to regularly review your operational processes. Over time they need to evolve with the business.

3.Slow Down in Order to Speed Up.

When the business has plateaued there is a good chance something needs to change, The type of change and how it is to be implemented cannot be understood when you are buried in tasks.

4. Transparency.

Be transparent with your employees. Let them know where the company stands presently and show them where you want the company to be. Having everyone on board is the only way real change can be accomplished.

5. Have the Uncomfortable Conversations.

Everyone in business recognizes that you cannot avoid these. Whether it is dealing with an under-performing employee or challenging a client, these conversations tend to be pushed aside in busy times.

6. Evaluate and Adjust.

Just because you develop a great strategic plan to get to point B, it does not mean this plan will get you there, The best plans involve periodic evaluations of progress and subsequent evolutions of various plan executions.

7. Baby Steps.

Some plans never see the light of day because their creators are too worried with drafting the complete and concise strategy. Start with small wins and build from there,

Keep these in mind to help your company stay on the upward swing on the growth curve.