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Reliable Systems: Improve your ability to get things done
A system involves a series of interdependent tasks that ensure a process will have the desired outcome. We use systems all the time without being aware of them, until something goes wrong.
Systems take the burden off us to remember every detail with which we are bombarded daily. For example, we wrote tasks into a “scut book” during medical school and residency so that critical details of patient care did not fall through the cracks.
We need systems as we transition because most new businesses fail. Hope is not a dependable strategy. We read about patients’ conditions before treating them because we know that winging it does not work reliably. People who do not use field-tested systems risk failure, regardless of the strength of their ideas or the passion behind their purpose.
Those who transition to non-clinical careers know that it takes multiple contacts to build the long-term relationships you need to succeed. Investing up-front in reliable systems allows you to build your new career secure in the knowledge that you are doing what you promised to do. A reliable system is like a great intern, allowing you to leverage your talents, knowing that tasks will be accomplished on schedule.
Would you like to:
- Keep track of important details without burdening your memory
- Automate repetitive tasks
- Leverage your limited time to focus on the things that you do best
- Expand the number of people whom you serve
- Convert prospects into raving fans
- Collect the fees that are owed to you
- Work smarter rather than harder
- Delegate tasks to others, knowing that they will be done and not boomerang back to you
Having reliable systems can help you accomplish all of the above goals and double or triple your chance of success. You will be amazed and delighted with the difference that reliable systems can make in your life. Once you start “thinking systems,” you will find that there is no turning back. Systems will magnify your productivity because you will be able to explain to others how you do things and outsource to them things that used to require your judgment and hence your time.
Dr. Cohn has developed systems for developing new services, managing and tracking projects, delegating tasks to assistants, publicizing his services, screening prospective clients, building credibility and trust, providing examples of what he does, convincing prospects of the benefits of working with him, keeping people informed of new services that he offers, following up with people who have expressed interest in working with him, handling and tracking e-mail, delivering on his promises, filing information, backing up files, collecting payment, and making sure that the correct amount in estimated taxes is paid quarterly. Having systems in place saves him over ten hours per week.
If you would like a complimentary copy of The Physician’s Twelve-Step Guide to Enlightened Project Management, please click here. Dr. Cohn also has written about the power of systems in “Embracing Complexity,” in Better Communication for Better Care and in volume 3 of the Business of Healthcare, “Improving Systems of Care.”
If a surgeon can implement a new system or two, SO CAN YOU. If you would like to speak with Dr. Cohn for a 15- minute complimentary evaluation regarding your needs for implementing reliable systems, please click here.