I want to talk about efficiency, especially if you run a service-based business that involves repeatable processes like onboarding clients, explaining your services, hiring new people, and delivering your service.
We all understand the importance of having Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). By clearly publishing your SOPs, your customers know exactly what you do and don’t do, which helps attract the right clients and saves you time by avoiding unqualified leads.
But here’s a strategy I bet you’re not using that has significantly impacted my efficiency: addressing common pain points with one-minute videos.
For example, issues like getting access to a client’s site or preparing them for our onboarding process are predictable. I tackle these by creating short videos that greet the client and outline what they can expect next. This is automated, like an email sequence, but more personal and engaging.
Even with smaller tasks like publishing an article to help a client rank, we send them an existing article which explains how it benefits them.
But for consulting, I might say, “Hey, awesome! You’ve signed up for a Power Hour with me. Before we start, here’s what we need from you. Please provide access to the necessary information and book a time through my Calendly link. We’ll record our session, send you the notes, make recommendations, and our team will kick off a Basecamp project to execute these strategies.”
Similarly, for podcast hosts, you can automate messages that guide your guests.
After they book a slot, your CRM can send a video saying, “Hey, I’m thrilled to have you on my podcast. Here are a few things to prepare: be in a quiet environment, use a good microphone, and think about three questions you’d like to be asked. This ensures our community resonates with your insights.”
Consider all the repetitive aspects of your business where this can help you.
You can package these into one-minute videos, link them to your CRM, and automate their distribution. This way, when something happens, like publishing a client’s article, they automatically receive a video explaining its importance for SEO and what they can expect next.
The best part?
This method can extend to virtually any part of your service delivery. For example, when a new project starts, a video can inform the client about the key milestones and what inputs we need from them to proceed.
When we publish an article for a client, another automated video explains the importance of the article for their SEO strategy and how they can track its impact.
So, take stock of the repetitive explanations in your day-to-day operations. Make a list of these points, create concise videos, and set them up to be shared automatically.
This approach not only saves time but also enhances the clarity and professionalism of your communications. I’m eager to hear how this strategy works for you.
What’s manual work that you can start automating with one-minute videos?