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Right now I am looking at the beginning of 2017, like someone who is looking out over the hill at a business landscape and I see opportunities everywhere. Here are some thoughts I am working on:
Disruption
In 2017, I see a lot of disruption occurring. I believe businesses are going to see processes much differently. At the present time, I am quickly moving to be in a better position. Right now, people are looking for ways to maximize on value. Today, people have so many choices and are actually spending lots and lots of time reading and dissecting information. People are looking for value and ways to maximize their time.
Closer to Clients
It really points out to me that I need to be more in touch with the people who use our services. I need to see where more value added processes can be added, so I stay on our clients’ radar. I think people are really looking for improved service all of the time.
Address Client Complaints
I think 2016 brought out a culture that no one had really anticipated. People wanted change in a big way, and they wanted to make sure their voice is heard. When people complained about poor service received, it was critical to identify the crux of the issue and ensure that type of service did not occur again in the future. In 2017, I plan to continue this process and make sure all client complaints are addressed promptly. I also found that the way the complaint was resolved had a direct effect on future business transactions and in most cases, these clients came back stronger because they understood that their needs were recognized and addressed.
Be More Influential
I need to make sure the people I work with are coming to work in a culture that creates a great experience for them and the clients we serve. I will be looking at areas that can help enhance a better experience and look for ways to minimize the issues that often can create huge distractions. Also, it is important to connect with networks outside of work: online and in person to make sure I do not lose track of the business landscape that is happening around me.
Manage Data
It is going to be more critical than ever to simplify the way our systems operate on data collection and reporting. In 2016, I learned how complicated this process can be and how it is imperative to get simpler today to make sure future changes can be implemented without significant programming efforts. I also learned the objective is to not go to a paperless environment. It is more about creating simple processes for people to input and collect data, analyze stored data and deliver information in a way that clients can use the information to make future decisions.
Marketing
Marketing is the sum of many items. I continue to look at ways to bring marketing functions together with sales and support. I am going to really look at specific goals/targets and find areas that I can build on. Right now, I am in the planning stages, and I plan to talk more about this important topic in future 2017 articles.
Summary
I think it is going to take a whole new approach on work roles and measurement. Today, I know I need to change the way I viewed the landscape than just five years ago. 2016 was a real game changer for me in the way I considered systems, processes, and clients. I am coming to 2017 with a lot of untested ideas, and I am looking forward to learning quite a bit in the next few weeks. Yes, weeks, not months. I actually plan on rolling up my sleeves and digging in. I think others like myself are anxious for 2017 and we are expecting big things.
Also, I think it will take a huge investment in time on listening. Often, I have put listening off to the side, but if I am going to be able to make adjustments quicker, I need to listen even more so I can make the best decisions possible.
Finally, I look forward to interacting more with the people who read and comment on my articles. I encourage people to connect and leave comments on my articles on Linkedin.
Have a Super 2017!
Thanks for reading,
