Posted by The Key to Keeping Your Business Thriving
In the world of small business, staying ahead isn’t just about the next big idea; it’s about making sure you’re not left behind in the digital dust. You might not think about technology every day, but it’s crucial for keeping your business alive and kicking.
There are businesses of all sizes unaware that at any moment, the Grim Reaper of commerce and industry will sweep in and pull the plug. And what is the ailment that would lead to such a fate? Lack of awareness of the need for technology to stay ahead of the competition.
There are businesses that still rely only on pencil, paper, 10 key calculators, and other relics of the last century. Nothing wrong with these old school tools to quickly capture ideas that come to mind. But once you bring those ideas to life, how will your business use technology to take your business to the next level?
The Clock is Ticking…
The best of your competition is already light years ahead of you in the technology race, especially those who are using generative AI platforms like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT, among other offerings from Google, Amazon, IBM and so on.
Even managers and executives of midsized and large corporations have career paths stuck in the mud because they, too, have no technology plan for their roles and responsibilities (I have a follow up article addressing larger corporations, so stay tuned). This is why analytics consulting companies McKinsey & Co and Gartner Group showed that the majority of digital transformation projects fail for lack of vision and leadership.
What can businesses do to cancel the appointment with the Grim Reaper?
Technology Planning is the Key ‘Sauce’
Think of technology as the secret sauce that gives your business an edge. You might be doing just fine with your trusty notebook and calculator, but there’s a whole world of simple tech tools that can make your life easier and your customers happier.
Here’s the deal: while you’re jotting down notes, your competitors might be zooming ahead with smart software that can do everything from scheduling appointments to managing finances. And guess what? It’s not as complicated as it sounds.
Simple Steps to Tech-Up Your Business:
1. Know Your Business Inside Out: Write down what you do every day, like telling a story from your point of view. This helps you see where you can save time with a little tech help.
2. Check Out Your Tools: Make a list of all the gadgets and apps you use, why you use them, and when you started using them. There might be newer, easier tools out there waiting for you.
3. Match Tasks with Tech:
– If there’s a job you’re doing without tech, ask yourself: is there a tool that can do this faster?
– If you’re already using tech, see if there’s something better. You can even make a simple chart to compare what’s out there.
For example, if you own a salon, you can use tech to find the best deals on hair products, book client appointments, keep track of your stock, and even see how you stack up against the salon down the street.
Contact Me
I know, it sounds like a lot, especially when you’re wearing so many hats in your business. But that’s where I come in. With over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped businesses big and small get friendly with technology. Let me help you send the tech boogeyman packing and give your business a fresh start. Drop me a message before it’s too late.
Affluent Blacks of Dallas 