With less than 10 weeks left to go in 2021, it’s probably a good time to start considering what changes or additions will help propel your business forward in 2022. Heck, I’m already thinking about it.
I bet one of the areas in a business that is probably most often overlooked or plain ole taken for granted is administrative support.
I know, I know, urghhhh! You don’t want to even think about it; and you’ve probably come up with a million, okay, let’s say a few reasons for not entertaining the notion. Reasons like, I can’t find “good” help, I can’t afford it, I’ve tried working with a VA in the past but it didn’t work out, I don’t need any help, I can do this, blah, blah, blah. How's this working for you?
I bet right now there are people reading my post cringing at the idea that they have a pile of administrative tasks they need to jump on but don't know where to start or worse don't have the proper help. Those items have been put off and put off and it’s now a breaking point. Moreover, we’re at the end of the year, your business is growing, new deals are in the works for 2022, and the list of to-dos keeps adding up. Seriously, it’s never-ending, right?
As a solopreneur, I too have administrative tasks. Why do you think I’m working on a Saturday! Hahaha...
Admittedly though I find the admin part a little easier because I’m an experienced pro at getting things done and I ENJOY it. However, it does take deliberate planning for me to get it all done. Even so, I can’t imagine the pain points felt by those who aren’t adept at the organizational piece.
Hence, whatever title you wish to call us admin assistant, virtual assistant, administrative partner, etc. a business owner still needs ‘good’, solid administrative support.
To get help or not to get help. That is the question!
From my many hours of research on the benefits of administrative support, I picked my top 5 favorites:
1. To work in your passions doing your own administrative tasks cuts into the time you have to devote to those core-revenue-generating initiatives Most of your time, at least 80%, should be focused exclusively on strategizing, planning, working with clients, and marketing and development.
2. Free time to kick back and breathe a little. This is part of why you [we] went into business for yourself.... or it should be. Ya mon!
3. Reduced stress a.k.a., for your sanity! Simply, trying to do it all yourself will eventually result in burnout. Not to mention the quality of your work may suffer. Contrary to what you believe, you CAN’T do it all yourself. I mean you can but WHY? Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should.
4. Partnership/Collaboration equals easier business. What’s the saying “two heads are better than one.” Sometimes it’s nice to have someone to toss around ideas. Still, for those speaking or client engagements that require pre and post-work, it’s nice to have a pair of helping hands to shoulder the burden.
5. Simplifying tasks. We all procrastinate about one task or another. Sometimes, it’s just because we’re busy. Other times, it’s because the task is not our favorite. Still, the work must get done. Psst. Hire the help you need.
It's a great idea!
Friends, we’re in the home stretch of 2021. Now is the time to start ensuring there is a line item in your budget for investing in the all-so vital administrative support you’ll need in 2022. I’m happy to help. Simply, reach out.
You're welcome.