Those who have spent any amount of time in business can attest that it doesn’t just happen because one is lucky, or one has a great product. Even a product or service that saves the world would likely fail without those 3 P’s!
Planning – the act of mapping out the end point, the methodology and the strategies are first in importance, I believe. I paint a mental picture of the first P for my coaching partners and clients by asking, “how long will it take to get to the next party?” Responses vary but most begin with “…what kind of party, where is it, who will be there…?” Exactly the point! If you want to get to a destination, you must first have clear knowledge of WHERE you are going, therefore know the end point. Certainly the next step is transportation method(s) and speed, but that’s process. So work first on the end, have an absolutely clear picture in your imagination, in your notes, and in your everyday actions!
Processes – with that clear direction firmly in place, now we decide on the transportation mechanisms, the steps involved in reaching the endpoint, the fuel and maintenance of the tools. Using the analogy of tools and mechanics, we can likely relate a bit better. For example your processes will include those transportation objects like marketing vehicles such as newsletters, flyers, web ads and others. Your processes will include distribution strategies and tactics as well but be careful to not allow any one of the P’s to become larger than others. Your processes need to be clear and balanced so your team or associates can understand and help reach the goals and endpoint. Communicating the processes is important and it is critical that you articulate the processes. Many business owners don’t take the time to articulate and seem to believe that it is “just easier to do it myself” rather than take the time to teach and document so others can assist.
People – are key in your success! Sure some might disagree but I would say to those, “when is the last time you sold a product or service to the state of California, or Chevron Oil, or your local machine shop?” Careful, that’s a trick question. Your work with, sell to, buy from, associate with, communicate with and deal with PEOPLE, not corporations or companies or governments. So this would imply that our people skills and communications need to be honed in and caring for the people we work and play with in order to be successful.
As a business coach, I work daily with my clients to achieve successful and sustainable business growth by applying this principles. Let me know what you do to build your business or how I might assist you to develop your P’s.
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