Paperwork and Procedures

Paperwork does not mean things strictly have to be on a piece of paper – a spreadsheet, a document or a database is better and more efficient way of handling day-to-day stuff. However, for sake of convenience, I still call it paperwork.

Every small and medium business venture has a perennial shortage of administrative staff. No wonder most businessmen regard paperwork with disdain and never get around to doing it. However, in my experience, impeccable paperwork goes a long way in running any business. If one keeps the procedures and systems in order, howsoever small they are, one has a chance to look back, analyze it, and improve.

Paperwork and outlining procedures is simple stuff. One does not need to go to an expert to learn it – just some common sense, dedication and self discipline is all that is needed. I was taught this by Dr. Niren Suchanti, Chairman, Pressman Advertising and my ex boss. He is the best management guru that I could have ever hoped for. Simple things like make a list of things to be done, strike them out as and when they are done, and check it at the end of the day.

You just has to do it once and gloat in the feeling of “accomplishment” it gives. The next day, you would automatically start your day with making a list, and lo, your paperwork has become a piece of cake. Easier said than done though. Even after making a to-do list, its stressful to keep looking at it and fretting. Once tossed on the side, in the “will look into it later tray” things have a tendency to forever remain there.

There are books, software, management programs and training seminars about getting paperwork (things) done but there is nothing like doing it right NOW for getting it done. However, I find, dealing with things one at a time, reviewing it periodically and keeping your in and out tray’s (real or virtual), clean and maintained is all that is needed.