Build a Business, Not a Job

One thing as an entrepreneur you should be midful of as you are working to make your business grow, is to always be mindful to distinguish the actions that help you build a business not create a new job. There is a big difference. Building a business means your actions and initiatives are always going toward building an organization that can exist without you in the end. Making a Job is just the opposite. It is building a series of tasks and responsibilities that will not be complete without your input or oversight. The problem with creating a new job, is that most people grow to loath their jobs. In fact a recent study by Careerbuilder.com reports that 4 out of 5 workers do not consider their jobs their dream job or do not like their job. 4 out 5!

Here is how to make sure you are staying on track on building a business:

Develop processes for the business to operate: Don’t just do the work, document it and simplify the steps so that you can hand it to someone else in the future to support.

Learn to Delegate: This is tough for any entrepreneur. We always believe we care more and will do it better. That is find when it is just you, but when your business is growing you just cannot do everything. Here a tip delegate the routine tasks like the research and data analysis tasks. Also, look to delegate the things you are not an expert on. Such as web design, accounting and marketing. If you can get to this phase you are well on your way to building a business.

Plan for growth: Entrepreneurs get so wrapped up about the details that sometimes lose the big picture. So when growth happens, the company is not prepared. Always keep in mind the tools, resources and processes that will be needed to allow your business to grow. Does everyone need a Blackberry device at first? Probably not, but you may find in the future that it may be the best way to communicate. So plan for that day.

Implement a Strong Board of Directors: Sometimes board of directors are made up of a persons running buddies and there is nothing wrong with that to a point. As long as those running buddies can add some value to the direction of your business. You need a diverse group that have been apart of companies at your stage and also in all the stages in-between. Their insight and direction can prove to be invaluable.

Ask the Question: At the end of the day ask the question, If I was on a trip and lost my cell phone for (5) days will my business still be able to operate without me? If the answer is ‘No’ you have some work to do.

Things you can do on you (5) days away from your business:

- Take a (5) day CEO training seminar
- Lead a church mission
- Take the family on a vacation
- Go on a date with your husband or wife
- Read a leadership development book