Buying space for your business isn’t a one time transaction. You have to constantly update, develop, and evolve your premises to suit the operation you’ve put together. As time goes on, and you add more employees, more services, and make more products, you’re going to need a whole lot more equipment and space!
This means you’ll need to customize your workspace to truly suit your business’ needs. Naturally this will involve a lot of changes over the years, but you can set up right from the beginning using design tips like these. The more you consider now, the better the budget you’ll build, and the longer your initial efforts will last.
Research Materials The materials you’re going to use need to be sourced ethically, have a low transport footprint, be of high quality (making them last around 25 to 50 years longer), and look good at the same time.
Well, in a dream world you’d be able to accomplish all of these things in one go! However, in the real world, you may need to discount a couple of these elements to ensure you get the right materials for your needs and budget. You may not want to, but you’ve only got a limited amount of cash (and material availability) to really work with.
So, do some research into the companies you want to work with and see what the next best thing is. A good sourcing organization will make it clear where they get their materials from, and will work on a quote by quote basis regarding how much they’re going to cost.
Use a Cubicle Layout for Privacy Setting up cubicle walls is good for initiating a sense of privacy within the workplace. When you have separate cubicle spaces for your employees to work in, you give them a space each to their own.
While this may seem like an issue for the social aspect within your office, it doesn’t have to interrupt natural workplace relationships, as long as you have other social areas for your employees to spend time in. This is easy to create with common areas, a break room, and proper facility toilets. However, a cubicle setup does ensure better productivity. Without the feeling of eyes on you, work tends to go a lot faster.
You also encourage your employees to be themselves; cubicles allow people to put up their own photos, desktop knick knacks, and other novelty items. If these items can be contained to one space, and are unlikely to be knocked or moved around, employees will feel safer bringing them into work. Control over the space is amazing for encouraging a sense of workplace loyalty too!
Soundproof Meeting Rooms Just one meeting room is fine if you have a small operation, but two or more is good for medium sized enterprises. Ensure that these spaces are soundproof; anything that goes on within them should be contained to attendees only, even if the contents of the meeting isn’t all that private.
It sets a precedent for privacy in the workplace, which is only further encouraged by the cubicle setup we mentioned before. And soundproofing also means the rooms can be used as quiet spaces for people who need some time to themselves.
If your employees have laptops or tablets they can use away from their usual desks, they can take them into a soundproof room and use the space to maintain their mental health while still getting the job done. As a business owner, this is the best attitude to promote.
Reinforce the Floor Making your floor stronger is the best thing to do when you’re working with heavy equipment, such as construction equipment or heavy case printers, like a 3D printing unit. You can invest in access mats to help support the load, ensuring the natural floor beams live to see another day.
This also works if you have outdoor real estate; passing a pipeline or conveyor belt across your property needn’t be difficult with primed flooring beneath it. If you regularly need to transport materials, preparing the ground is essential for optimized performance and a decreased need for long term maintenance.
As such, it’s a good idea to invest in equipment like this to prepare your business for the future. You never know what equipment you might need to bring in one day, as a result of expanding your product line or the complementary services you provide.
Install Skylights for Increased Light Skylights in the workplace ensure a constant stream of natural light and spectacle. From a mental wellbeing viewpoint, this goes a long way to keeping your team’s collective mood at a high.
Not only does it let in some natural light and scenes, it also means you have less to spend on airflow quality. If you can open a skylight, you can let in fresh air from a central location. Plus, glass isn’t unusual in an office setting, so if this is the workspace you’re going for, it won’t be hard to get a skylight or two installed!
You can also use a skylight to incorporate a modern design into your workspace. After all, using glass and other transparent materials can bring in a greener image, and is more easily decorated regarding items like hanging plants or hanging glass decorations that fit your brand colors.
Think About the Human Body How ergonomic do you need the space to be? For example, how long will people be standing around, if they’re working at counters or doing quality assurance on conveyor belts? Similarly, if people are going to be sitting for long periods of time (usually more than 2 hours at a time), can you support their back and shoulders?
This is where ergonomically made furniture comes in. You shouldn’t just invest in second hand office furniture from wherever you can find it. This is where you don’t skimp on the budget, no matter how small it may be!
After all, if someone is comfortable enough to work for 8+ hours, they’re going to get a lot done! That means tasks will likely be completed ahead of deadlines, and may even net you a few bonuses here and there.
Incorporate a Social Area Finally, it’s best to think about a communal area that everyone can use, regardless of how many people are on break at one time.
A social area doesn’t have to be a table and a few chairs, with a microwave and a fridge nearby. This is the most common setup, as ‘break rooms’ allow an employee to take control over their time, diet, and overall health. However, you can build a social area with more cohesion, and even add a sense of fun!
To do this, think about ways to make the space great, rather than standard. A vending machine, for example, is a good addition to any social area. You should also consider popular activities for relaxing and unwinding.
Building a business from the ground up is more than metaphorical development. It’s about figuring out the best use of your budget and the space it can buy you. So, if you have a plain building to work with, customizing it to suit your needs won’t be impossible.
Don’t just decorate and buy some furniture – you need a plan that also includes elements like those above. Remember, any kind of commercial real estate is going to be highly customizable, so don’t let physical limitations prevent you from putting together the workspace of your dreams!
Ever since 2018, Kartra has remained a cornerstone in my digital toolkit. I have used a lot of different tools over the years for different clients and projects, but Kartra has always stood out. Furthermore, not only have I been a loyal user, but I’ve also proudly taken on the role of an affiliate for them. And the journey does not end there. In fact, I am now a certified business and technical expert partner with Kartra! So, when I received an invitation to a recent Kartra affiliate webinar, I jumped at the chance. And what did I learn? Kartra has released a number of new and impressive updates. As a result, I am excited to dive into these and share my findings with you.
Campaign Marketplace Kartra’s newly revamped Campaign Marketplace is everything you’ve wanted and more. Imagine the ease of tagging your listings with specific keywords and having the ability to quickly find a campaign you need. It’s a game-changer, especially for creators.
Team Collaboration Tools Kartra has taken team collaboration to the next level. If you are working with a team, the new collaboration features will be your best friends. See who is online, track tasks, and have a digital room where every team move is visible.
Analytics – Real-time Funnel Tracking This one’s a treat for those of us who love diving into the numbers. Kartra’s new real-time funnel tracking means you can monitor customer actions and flow as it happens. Perfect for those moments when you want to make on-the-fly tweaks to boost conversions.
The Handy Recycle Bin We’ve all been there—accidentally deleted something and wished for an undo button. Enter Kartra’s Recycle Bin. Retrieve any deleted item in a click, saving you from any unforeseen digital disasters.
Campaign Instructions Setting up campaigns just became a lot more straightforward. With in-depth step-by-step guidance now a part of Kartra’s offering, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a smooth setup experience.
Dark Mode For the night owls or those of us who just prefer a darker screen aesthetic, Dark Mode is here. Work late into the night or simply switch to a dimmer, more eye-friendly mode.
Special Offer for My Readers If you’re considering giving Kartra a try, I have a little extra treat for you. When signing up using my affiliate link, you’ll get a 30-day trial and be sure to enter the coupon code: PROSAVE40 and you’ll get a 40% discount. This will give you an exclusive discount to kickstart your Kartra journey.
Remember, it’s not just about getting a great tool, but also about maximizing the value you get from it. Happy exploring!
Picture your ideal online business as a welcoming, cozy home. Think of your strategy as the intricate blueprint, laying out every nook, cranny, and sunlit room. What about digital tech? It represents the sturdy foundation, bricks, and beams, crucial to the structural integrity. To put it simply, just as a home needs both a design and materials, a thriving online business depends on the harmonious blend of strategy and technology.
Utilizing Digital Tech without a Strategy? That’s like building a mansion on Jello! Kartra, a comprehensive online business tool; HighLevel, a platform enhancing customer relations; and ThriveCart, a trusted e-commerce solution, are pivotal digital marketing tools adopted by numerous businesses. These platforms are vital resources, but without a robust strategy in place, even the most efficient of them can falter.
For instance:
Jumping onto Kartra without a well-defined sales plan? That’s akin to investing in a state-of-the-art smart TV, but having no channels or streaming subscriptions to enjoy.
Implementing a CRM like HighLevel without understanding the complete customer journey? It’s like buying a top-tier oven but being clueless about baking.
And a Strategy Sans Digital Tech? Imagine a detailed blueprint, but no land or materials to bring it to life. Sure, you could draft the most impressive plans for your online venture. However, without the necessary digital implements:
Your groundbreaking email marketing campaign? It’s stranded without a fitting automation tool.
That ambitious webinar series you’re excited about? It risks staying in the dark, without the correct platform.
The Perfect Union: Digital Tech and Strategy When you synergize these elements:
Efficient Workflows: With the right technological backbone, tasks aren’t just expedited; they’re streamlined.
Systems Integration: Platforms, especially ones like Kartra, aren’t mere utilities – they form interconnected digital ecosystems. Paired with a strategic vision, every module, from lead acquisition to final sale, operates in perfect harmony.
Staying Ahead: Digital trends are ever-evolving. Armed with an agile strategy and versatile tools, you’re always ahead, never playing catch-up.
Together, let’s chart a course in the vast digital expanse. Tackling the online business realm alone can feel overwhelming, like navigating a maze without a map. But there’s no need to go it alone.
Customized Tech Support: I’ll guide you in selecting and tweaking the best platforms aligned with your objectives. We’ll ensure everything clicks, be it the holistic marketing prowess of Kartra or the relational finesse of HiLevel.
Synchronized Strategy: In collaboration, we’ll craft a roadmap to ensure every digital asset you deploy is primed for optimal outcomes.
Continual Assistance: Given the dynamic digital domain, I pledge to keep your strategy and tools synchronized, relevant, and cutting-edge.
Become an Ally: Your Digital Tech & Strategy Connoisseur! Beginning your journey or keen on expanding your current digital footprint? Traversing the online business terrain is thrilling yet intricate. With the right blend of tech and strategy, success is not only within reach—it’s the new benchmark. Eager to bolster your digital stature?
Tailoring tech and strategy to your unique business vision? Let’s commence this collaborative odyssey. CLICK HERE to get started.
Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I might earn a commission if you make a purchase. There is no extra cost to you. Thank you for your understanding!
Managing a workforce is tough. It’s the reason many successful businesses eventually end up hiring human resources departments. As a small business owner, you’re unlikely to be able to afford to hire your own HR staff, which means the challenging task of managing your employees falls entirely on you. Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can make human resources admin easier. Below are just 5 useful hacks that could make hiring and managing your staff easier
Start an employee referral program
An employee referral program can be a great way of turning your existing staff into recruiters. It involves rewarding employees with a bonus or some other kind of benefit in exchange for helping you find new staff. Why is it such a great strategy? Firstly, employees are likely to hire people they know and get along with – allowing these new recruits to more easily integrate into the team. Secondly, it empowers your employees and rewards them for it. Finally, it can save you time and money looking for applicants. All in all, it benefits you and your team.
Hire boomerang employees
What happens if an employee wants to come back? You shouldn’t allow them to, right? Wrong. Employees that leave and want to come back later (aka ‘boomerang employees’) can be great hires. They already understand how your business operates and therefore require less training. The fact that they came back also shows that they valued something in your business they couldn’t find elsewhere. Of course, if they were a nightmare employee, you probably shouldn’t invite them back. However, if they were a good employee, it makes sense to welcome them back as it could have major benefits.
Customize employee benefits
Not every employee is going to be drawn to the same benefits. Something that several employers are starting to consider is a customizable benefit package. This could include giving employees the choice to work from home or work from the office, letting them choose between monetary or non-monetary bonuses, and potentially even curating a unique choice of employee discounts for them to use (some employees may prefer a discounted gym membership, while others may value discounted cinema tickets). Such packages could help you to attract more talent and keep employees loyal.
Automate/outsource your payroll
Paying employees can be one of the most important jobs as an employer, but also one of the most tedious. Fortunately, there are many tools nowadays that can automate the process. There’s also the option of payroll outsourcing solutions – allowing you to pay someone else to take care of your payroll without having to hire a full-time team member. Either option is better than manually doing it yourself and could even reduce errors.
Keep job ads wholly positive
A big mistake employers make when writing job ads is focusing too much on demands of the job rather than the perks. Job ads can be particularly self-destructive if they focus on what they don’t want from an employee (i.e. ‘remote work not optional’ or ‘no timewasters’). It is better to keep job ads wholly positive and focus more on what you can give employees. Why? Because this is how you are going to attract the most high quality talent. The most high quality applicants already know they can get a job at most places and therefore will seek out the companies that have the best benefits. If your application comes across negative in tone or lists few benefits, you could scare off the best people for the job.
If there is one thing that the internet has had a significant impact on, it is the workforce. And while that was seen to the extremes during the pandemic – what has happened after has been brilliant for millions of businesses and workers.
The ability to work from home was forced upon most people, and businesses saw how much more flexible they could be. They saw better profits because they had fewer overheads, and what’s more, is that the global talent pool opened up.
But if you haven’t had experience running a remote and flexible team, it can still be a challenge. So for any small businesses that are growing their team or people stepping into the role of managing a flexible team – here are some tips.
Communication
Communication x 3 and then some. If there are miscommunications within remote teams, things can get tricky quickly. While there is a joke about a video call or a meeting that could’ve been an email – sometimes conversation via video is best.
All of your team members might have a preferred way of communication, and if that is the case, you will need to learn that and accommodate them. People generally give their best work when they feel comfortable and accommodated.
Try weekly calls, check-in emails, direct messages, and being open to being contacted when needed. See what works, see what doesn’t, and streamline it. Keep in mind you might only realize that there is an issue when something goes wrong. Proactiveness and vigilance will help.
Talent Pool
The job is the job, and the tasks are the tasks. But you have the ability to design the team, and this gives an incredible amount of flexibility.
Don’t stick to the regular recruiting methods; instead, make use of all of the platforms online that can help you put together a literal dream team. Go to specialists like a marketing staffing agency, a content writing agency, and more to hand-pick the best people for the job.
You’ll have access to a wealth of skills, and what’s best is that they are likely already vetted.
Using a global talent pool will mean that you and your team will be flexible on working hours – which can be beneficial to night owls and early risers alike. Don’t be afraid to split jobs up into parts so that you can have two or more people per task, allowing for part-time and ad-hoc people too.
Reimagine the team, and build it as you see fit.
Trust
Freelancers who were working from home or across the world ahead of the pandemic have always had a level of trust that people who went from office to home didn’t have. Trust is one of the most important parts of being able to have a flexible team. The only way you can build trust is to show it and act like it.
Focus on the deliverables, be able to talk through issues, and avoid micromanagement and constant check-ins when they just are necessary.
After you build the team, let them work on their strengths and get on with what you have to do.
I’m incredibly happy to inform you that I’ve recently become a Kartra Certified Partner, Kartra Certified Business Consultant, and Kartra Certified Technical Expert.
This accomplishment is a significant milestone in my business, and I am excited to explore the numerous opportunities that these certifications will provide for both myself and my clients.
For those who are unfamiliar, Kartra is an all-in-one marketing platform that simplifies online business operations through features such as email marketing, sales funnels, memberships and much more.
Why I’m Excited About Being a Kartra Certified Business Consultant
As a Kartra Certified Business Consultant, I offer my clients in-depth business analysis, strategic planning, and coaching. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for growth, I’m able to create robust digital marketing campaigns that drive results, increase conversion rates, and maximizes revenue.
This certification also provides me with access to a select community of professionals, enabling me to collaborate with fellow industry experts and stay up-to-date on emerging trends and best practices.
The Benefits of Being a Kartra Certified Technical Expert
As a Kartra Certified Technical Expert, I have the expertise to help clients in implementing, maintaining, and maximizing their Kartra-powered online presence.
I’m prepared to tackle any technical challenges that arise, ensuring that businesses can fully leverage the platform’s capabilities without incident.
My technical knowledge enables me to tailor the Kartra platform to each client’s specific requirements, ensuring seamless integration with their existing systems and processes.
This means I can provide comprehensive, end-to-end support, allowing clients to focus on growing their businesses.
The Power of Certification
Having certifications as both a Kartra Certified Business Consultant and Technical Expert means I can offer a unique, holistic approach to digital marketing. I can address both the strategic and technical aspects of online business operations, ensuring that my clients receive well-rounded support and guidance.
By combining my business acumen and technical prowess, I can empower businesses to fully harness the potential of the Kartra platform and achieve online success.
Looking Ahead
I’m ecstatic about the opportunities that these Kartra certifications will provide, and I can’t wait to apply my knowledge and skills to help businesses thrive in the digital world.
As a Kartra Certified Partner, Business Consultant, and Technical Expert, I am dedicated to staying current on industry developments and constantly improving my skills.
A Special Offer for You
If you’re interested in learning more about Kartra and how it can revolutionize your online business, click here to explore its features and benefits. Please note that this is my affiliate link, which means I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you decide to sign up through it. Take advantage of this exclusive offer that grants you access to Kartra for 3 months at the low price of just $99. Once your 3-month trial ends, continue enjoying Kartra’s benefits at a discounted rate of $99/month, saving you $20 each month.
To express my gratitude for using my link, I’m excited to offer you a free 45-minute strategy call at no cost. Once you’ve signed up through my affiliate link, simply schedule a call with me, and we’ll arrange the 45-minute session. During our call, we’ll dive into your business goals and discuss how Kartra can help you achieve them.
Seize this opportunity to jumpstart your digital marketing journey with expert guidance and support! Take advantage of Kartra’s features and tools to grow your business!
