The Pros for Using Templates and Checklists

A lot of self-employed small business owners are sole proprietors that work by themselves or with clients (Affiliate Link) and don’t feel the need to make a checklist (Affiliate Link) or template of what they do on a regular basis since they are the only ones doing the tasks.  Though, if they get sick or busy, the tasks are not completed.  Then, they feel overwhelmed and anxious, frustrated that they can’t finish their projects. I am here to convince you that making templates and checklists (Affiliate Link) is critical to your small business. Below are the pros of using templates and checklists (Affiliate Link).

The Benefits of Making Templates and Checklists for Your Small Business

Pros

• When you have a template or checklist (Affiliate Link) of all the steps for a particular task, you can stop during the process and allow yourself to do other, more time-sensitive tasks.
• You can see where the steps can be improved, where the process is most effective, and where it is less efficient.
• You will see the big picture and how it fits into your business.
• You can give the checklist (Affiliate Link) to a subcontractor to complete the tasks.
• Reducing errors on your tasks.
• It will increase your productivity and speed up the steps.
• Checklists (Affiliate Link) will remind you of things you and your staff may not have done.

It takes a little more time to set up the checklist (Affiliate Link) or template initially.  I know what you are thinking; this is a Con, right?  But, after the setup process, it will save you time whenever you need to do the task.

Tips on making templates or checklists:

1. Start by making a list of each step while doing a project. Write down each step, and use colored markers (Affiliate Link) or pens (Affiliate Link) to indicate the different areas of templates.
2. Then, use the checklist (Affiliate Link) or template the next time you do the project.  Add and modify steps you may have missed or need to elaborate on and write them down.
3. Type it up and revisit it when you do the task again. Spending the time now will help you see the patterns of the steps and may even help you determine a better and more efficient way of doing the project.
4. Have a colleague or friend review the process with your list to see if it works. Watch how they complete the tasks. Is there anything that needs tweaking?

Feel free to check out our other posts:

• To-Do Blog Checklist for Every Small Business
• The Pros of Creating Procedure Lists and how to Start Yours Today
• What are the Quickbooks Online Pros and Cons
• The Pros and Cons of Cloud Storage
• Making A Small Business 1099 Tracking Sheet

I hope with these pros of using templates and checklists (Affiliate Link). I hope I convinced you to take the time, and make templates and checklists (Affiliate Link) for your tasks.  It will help you in the long run.  If you don’t believe me, try it and see.

If you need help breaking down the process and creating checklists or templates, I have over 20 years of experience doing both and would help you break down the process into easy-to-understand steps.  Click here for more information.

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Visit Microsoft Business Startup Checklist for more ideas.

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Please note these are affiliate links through Amazon, and at no additional cost, I will earn affiliate fees if you decide to make a purchase.