In our previous articles this month, we have considered the What, When, Where and Why of S.O.P’s, why you need them in your business and systems for self-employed business owners.
So, now we turn to developing your first system.
Writing your first S.O.P might seem like a daunting task but it really isn’t. Basically, you are creating a super checklist to perform a task.
Here are steps that will help you get started.
Most S.O.P’s are in a text format, but other formats can include flowcharts, audios and/or videos. These formats can also be combined; however, the goal is to keep it simple.
A simple text format is used to create a document that is short, cognisant, and targeted for routine tasks. This is a great format for the solopreneur small business owner.
It can look somewhat like a to-do-list with bullet point sentences giving detailed instructions.
Have a close look at who your audience is; (or potential audience if it is just you at the moment). Do they have prior knowledge of your business and how you operate? Are they up to date with the terminology used in your business and will they understand it?
This may sound like a no brainer but will the people using it have your reading level. Now is a time to consider this as you may wish to add or supplement the text with pictures, diagrams, audios or videos that will help.
Are you the right person to be writing this? Do you know the detailed steps of this process?
Unless you truly know these steps such as the knowledge of what could go wrong, what is safe and what is not and whether you can write it accurately, you may want to hand this over to someone more qualified.
Don’t be shy in asking for assistance in creating your document. It is normal to interview others and gather information that will help in the writing process.
If your audience consists of individuals who are very savvy of the process and just need a short checklist of updates, then a short list of bullet point steps may be all you need.
Keep the goal in mind. Ask yourself questions like:
Keep in mind these following points.
The document will have 4 sections to it.
Now go ahead and write your first draft.
To make this task easier, download the free template we have created for you. Just follow the prompts!
“I started my own business in 1995. The Self Employed Business Academy gets it. Clear, concise, and actionable information. You may be in business for yourself, but with the self Employed Business Academy at your fingertips, you won't be by yourself"
Ed Carey, AMG, LLC