Some say that time is the most valuable commodity there is. Every week there is only 168 hours; how a small business owner spends each one can have a significant effect on the success of their small business. These days almost every task can be outsourced to some degree, so it’s important that business owners have a realistic understanding of their goals and priorities and mix of work/life balance they want to achieve.
Is a boring, mundane task taking an hour out of your day every day? Do you enjoy doing certain tasks within your business or at home, but don’t have enough time to enjoy them properly? It’s these questions which are paramount when deciding where to best spend your time. Below are some easy tasks which can be outsourced for both your business and home life, ultimately freeing up valuable time within your week.
Social media management
With many businesses having a presence on multiple social media platforms, updating them all with the relevant marketing materials and content can be a long and tedious task. Thankfully there are numerous providers out there who maintain and assist business owners with the management of social media.
From increased social reach and engagement, to content suggestions and data analytics, websites such as Hootsuite & Social Flow provide users with the necessary tools for efficient and effective social media management.
Administrative tasks
Administrative tasks such as website maintenance, customer support, analytics and bookkeeping are necessary tasks in order to keep your business active & running in the market place. Instead of painstakingly spending hours upon hours attempting to do these tasks yourself, freelancing websites such as UpWork or a support and analytics business like Zendesk provide a platform for you to connect with individuals who are skilled in various areas. Whether it’s a graphic designer for your new logo or a bookkeeper to maintain your accounting ledger, you’re likely to find someone capable on these type of websites.
Cooking
If after a long day you dread having to go home to prepare a meal, there are various companies which deliver ready to eat, or ready to cook meals to your door. This isn’t limited to take away options either, with companies such as Hellofresh & Youfoodz delivering ingredients or pre-prepared meals to you. With an average of 1 hour being spent cooking per day, if this isn’t your cup of tea, this hour may be better spent on developing your business or simply having some down time to recharge.
Financial management
Are you noticing the finances of either your business or personal life getting out of hand? Are you struggling to understand financial aspects of your business? Either insourcing a CFO or engaging a financial advisor can assist with managing both your business and personal finances. Insourcing a CFO or a good business advisor can take the pressure off you, which may allow you to focus more on business development and winning new work. If investment returns and retirement often play on your mind, engaging a professional financial advisor can relieve you of this stress.
If you wish to discuss ways you can best utilise your time and build your business, feel free to contact and discuss with your local Accru office.
By Chris Rae, Accru Melbourne