Back-to-basics checklist for your business

We all know the rhythm of going back to school (whether for your own kids or when you were a kid): school supply shopping, new shoes, new friends, and new rhythms after summer vacation. Going back to school often offers a time to “reset” our lives and start fresh, but do we as business leaders also take the time to step back and “reset” our business lives?

Get a fresh perspective

Here are a few ideas for ways to get a fresh start in your business:

Set aside time away from the business to think "about" the business. We recommend a half-day away from the office.

• Strategy – Do you have a clear vision for where you’re going? What might you need to do differently based on the changing landscape?
• Execution – Do you know the top 3-5 priorities for the next quarter? Do you have the right rhythm for follow up and discussion?
• People – Do you have the right people in the right seats? Are expectations clear? Are you managing each person how they need to be managed?

Assess your processes

• Do you need to formalize some processes?
• Are there areas to grow efficiencies or improve operations?
• Review your accounting processes and internal controls.

Get better visibility into your data

• Do you understand and trust the financial reporting you have? Talk to your accounting leader and external accountant.
• What other information would be helpful to know? How can you get it? What would change with the right data analytics in place?

Understand the major problems your business is facing

• Do you have a way for problems to come to your attention? What employee reporting mechanism(s) do you have in place?
• Are you dealing with problems and concerns or just avoiding them?

Identify your risks

• Do a cybersecurity checkup.
• Meet with your risk advisor to review your situation.

Get outside input

• Talk to your existing trusted advisors.
• Hire a consultant.
• Form an advisory board.
• Join a peer group.

Invest in yourself

• Read a new book.
• Sign up for training.
• Commit to time away from work.
• Build personal relationships with family and friends.

In conclusion

While it’s not practical to do everything on the list, choosing a couple of things will help you start proactively working on your business and provide a fresh start for the fall. Here’s to a fresh start!

For more information about improving your organization or leadership, contact Daniel White using the information below.