What in the world does business success have to do with dessert? Not a thing, because the proof is not in the pudding—it’s in the putting (the phrase has gotten corrupted over the years). The proof of something’s value comes in putting it into practice. This saying isn’t about dessert—it’s about execution. And execution can make or break a company.
We’ve all seen companies that increase their revenues dramatically, but still don’t turn a profit. There are companies in the market space today that have tripled their revenues because they have a unique selling proposition, or a great product. But if their execution is sloppy, they still can’t make a profit.
I’ve seen some companies try to compensate for poor execution with sheer effort. Their people work outlandish hours to get things done that they should be able to accomplish in a fraction of the time—if they were more disciplined in their execution.
How much time do the people in your business spend delivering your products or services? Do they need to be spending as much time as they are? Are they consistent in their approach? Are they “reinventing the wheel” each time they deliver a solution to a client’s needs? Or are they systematic and efficient?
Establishing and adhering to sound execution habits can have a dramatic positive impact on your gross margins. You can improve profitability significantly, and eliminate a lot of employee frustration if you make sure everyone know exactly what to do—and how to do it efficiently.
If you’re interested in a one-page “Execution Checklist” of ten habits that can reduce the time it takes you to manage your business by up to 90%, drop me a note and I’ll send it to you.
Or you can just kick back with a bowl of pudding and watch your competition pass you by.
P.S. Want to learn how more than 20,000 successful executives have made their companies more successful? Check out the Mastering the Rockefeller Habits Workshop coming September 20, 2011.