Book Review - Work The System by Sam Carpenter
The Simple Mechanics of Making More and Working Less
In 2009, I had read more than 100 books. Typically one per week since then!
But, recently, I have a hard time recalling even one useful idea from each book, except those favorites. The lessons weren't sticking and were quickly being forgotten. That moment became a turning point in my life.
I realized that for ideas and lessons from books to stick, I needed to start writing some summaries and blog posts about each book. I need to review them, organize them, make them actionable. To turn them into something my clients and I could actually use in life.
And so in 2023, I am starting to create book summaries based on my highlights. Plus a to do list of actionable steps for others to use these summaries and if they read the book or not, put the theories into practice!
Hope you Enjoy this Weeks Book: Work the System by Sam Carpenter
This weeks sponsor is The Networking HUB: Monthly 2nd Wednesday 7 pm Free to Attend! Frank Agin puts on this event and it is filled with business owners from around the country! Zoom opens 30 mins early and 30 mins late for even extra connecting time!
The Power of Feedback: How One Entrepreneur Transformed His IT Company with "Work The System"
Picture this: John, a passionate entrepreneur, had been running his IT company for a decade. Despite the long hours and dedication, he felt trapped in a never-ending cycle of operational chaos. Deadlines were missed, clients were frustrated, and his team seemed constantly overwhelmed. Then, during a casual coffee break, a junior developer hesitantly shared some feedback about the company's procedures. That feedback became the catalyst for a transformation John hadn't imagined.
"If you own a business, your mission is to work hard but not long, to reduce the workweek significantly, and to make more money than you require." - Sam Carpenter
Inspired by this feedback and the quote above, John delved into Sam Carpenter's "Work The System." The book wasn't just about business; it was about viewing life as a series of systems. By refining these systems, one could achieve more while working less. It was the solution John had been searching for.
Understanding "Work The System"
At its core, "Work The System" emphasizes three critical documents: the Strategic Objective, General Operating Principles, and Working Procedures. These aren't just fancy terms; they're actionable tools that can transform how a business operates.
1. Strategic Objective: This is your North Star. It's a clear statement that outlines your long-term goals. For John, it was about becoming the go-to IT service provider in his city while ensuring a work-life balance for his team.
2. General Operating Principles: These are the core values and guidelines that dictate how you operate. For John's IT company, it meant transparency with clients, continuous learning, and fostering innovation.
3. Working Procedures: These are detailed guides on how specific tasks are executed. After receiving feedback, John realized that many of the company's procedures were outdated or inefficient. By refining them, the company could ensure consistency and quality in their service delivery.
With these tools in hand, John embarked on a journey of transformation.
John's Transformation Story
After reading the book, John held a series of feedback sessions with his team. He learned that many felt the company's procedures were redundant, leading to wasted time and resources. One developer mentioned how a particular software deployment procedure was causing delays. Another talked about the inefficiencies in the client feedback loop.
John took this feedback to heart. He began by documenting the company's current procedures, then identifying areas of improvement. With his team's input, they refined each procedure, ensuring it was efficient and up-to-date.
A few months later, the results were evident. Projects were completed faster, client satisfaction rates soared, and the team felt more empowered and less stressed.
"Management must focus on improving systems and not performing the work or attending to rising issues." - Sam Carpenter
This quote resonated deeply with John. He realized that by improving the company's systems, he was not only enhancing operations but also empowering his team to take ownership and innovate.
For Entrepreneurs Looking to Work Less and Make More
If you're an entrepreneur feeling overwhelmed by operational chaos, take a leaf out of John's book. Start by understanding your current systems, gather feedback, and then refine. The "Work The System" methodology isn't just about business improvement; it's about achieving a balance where you can work efficiently, earn more, and enjoy life.
Remember, every piece of feedback is an opportunity for growth. Embrace it, refine your systems, and watch as your business transforms.
This story of John and his IT company serves as a testament to the power of feedback and the transformative potential of the "Work The System" methodology.
If you're on the entrepreneurial journey, consider this your sign to pause, reflect, and refine. The path to working less and making more is paved with well-defined systems and procedures. Hope you enjoyed this story interpretation!
Now for the action items and to-do list for your business! The masterclass is below, based on the notes from this book, these action steps are your takeaway!
Not part of the “paid” Membership yet? Get a post like this once a week for $10 per month, receive actual business coaching in the Growth Intentions Membership NOW only $1500 for the year! Questions: Book a time with me Here!
Masterclass: Building Your Company's Critical Documents Using the "Work The System" Framework
Welcome, valued client! As you've taken the step to invest in this masterclass, you're about to embark on a transformative journey for your business. The "Work The System" methodology is a powerful tool, and I'm here to guide you through crafting your company's critical documents. Let's dive in!
1. Strategic Objective: Crafting Your North Star
Your Strategic Objective is the guiding light for your company. It's the vision that will steer all your actions and decisions.
How to Create a Strategic Objective:
Self-Reflection: Begin by asking yourself where you envision your company in the next 5-10 years.
Market Analysis: Understand your industry's trends and where you fit or want to fit in that landscape.
Drafting: Write a preliminary vision statement.
Feedback Loop: Share this with trusted advisors or team members for feedback.
Finalize: Refine your statement until it's clear, concise, and resonates deeply with your company's core mission.
Example: "To be the leading sustainable fashion brand in North America, merging style with environmental responsibility."
2. General Operating Principles: Your Company's Core Values
These principles are the bedrock of your company's culture and decision-making process.
How to Establish General Operating Principles:
Brainstorm Session: Gather key team members and list down values and beliefs that resonate with your company's ethos.
Prioritize: Not all values will make the cut. Choose those that are truly fundamental.
Document: Clearly articulate each principle. Make it actionable.
Consistency Check: Ensure these principles are reflected in your company's current operations and culture.
Review: As your company grows, these might evolve. Make it a practice to review them annually.
Example: "Customer-Centricity: We prioritize customer feedback and adapt our services to meet their evolving needs."
3. Working Procedures: The Blueprint of Efficiency
These are the step-by-step guides that ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency in your operations.
How to Formulate Working Procedures:
Task Listing: Identify all key tasks and operations crucial to your business.
Detailing: For each task, break it down into detailed steps. Think of it as writing a recipe.
Tools & Resources: Specify any tools, software, or resources required for each procedure.
Standardization: Ensure there's a standardized method for each procedure. This is crucial for consistency.
Feedback Mechanism: Once drafted, have the actual people who perform these tasks review the procedures. Their hands-on experience will provide invaluable insights.
Training: Don't assume everyone will know how to follow the new procedures. Organize training sessions.
Review Cycle: Set a periodic review, at least annually, to update and refine these procedures based on feedback and changing tools/technologies.
Example: Procedure for Client Onboarding in a Digital Marketing Agency:
Receive client inquiry via email.
Use CRM tool 'X' to log in the inquiry.
Assign a sales representative to schedule a discovery call.
Post-call, use template 'Y' to draft a proposal.
Once the proposal is accepted, onboard the client using platform 'Z'.
Assign a project manager to guide the client through the next steps.
*Full SOP library coming soon to the Growth Intentions Coaching Program!
Final Thoughts:
Crafting these documents is not a one-time task. As your business evolves, so should they. The beauty of the "Work The System" methodology is its adaptability. Remember, these documents are living entities. They grow, adapt, and evolve, just like your business.
As you implement these steps, you'll find that not only does your business operate more smoothly, but you'll also empower your team, leading to increased efficiency and job satisfaction.
Thank you for investing in this masterclass. Here's to working smarter, not harder!
Extra Resources
Unlocking Business Mastery: The Power of Systematic Thinking
Owning a business isn't just about grinding day in and day out. It's about working intelligently, not endlessly. “If you find yourself trapped in your business, you don’t truly own it; you're just employed by it.” — A Modern Business Proverb, Inspired by Michael E. Gerber
For those in the corporate world, the objective isn't just clocking in 40 hours a week. It's about delivering exceptional results, climbing the corporate ladder, and truly making your mark. “Every moment and dollar squandered is a missed opportunity. An opportunity for growth, for impact, for change.”
It's easy to get lost in the noise, to rant about things beyond our control, or to dwell on the world's injustices. But true power lies in channeling that energy into actionable change. Remember, inaction is a decision in itself. So, every day, make decisions that propel you forward.
Point-of-Sale Posture: This is about being proactive, about tackling challenges head-on. It's the mindset that ensures you're always ready, always on the front foot. With the right posture, you pave a clear path forward, letting your well-defined systems handle the intricacies. “In all your endeavors, resist fleeting distractions. Stay true to your foundational documents. They're your anchor, ensuring you don't drift away from your goals.”
Communication is the lifeblood of success. It's not just about talking more; it's about meaningful interactions. When communication flows, quality naturally follows.
Prime Time Insights
Everyone has a Biological Prime Time (BPT) - that sweet spot in the day when their productivity and creativity are at their max. It could be the serene mornings for some or the tranquil evenings for others. This prime time is the key to all of your actions. It's when you should be drafting your Strategic Objective, General Operating Principles, and Working Procedures.
“Treasure your BPT. It's when clarity strikes, when focus is unwavering. Post initial documentation, these hours remain golden, reserved for tasks demanding utmost concentration.” ~Suzanne Taylor-King
Then there's the Mechanical Prime Time (MPT). This isn't about our biological clocks but about dedicated time slots for refining systems, be it in business or personal growth. MPT doesn't just happen; it's carved out intentionally. “Throughout your workday, constantly evaluate your actions. Ask yourself, 'Is this pushing me towards my goal of achieving more while working less?'”
I would love to have your insights & feedback below and in The Chat! Suzanne
When you are ready to work with a coach and have a mentor in this entrerpeneurial journey, I would love to invite you to a conversation!
Our Next Book is Keep Going by Autin Kleon
This weeks sponsor is The Networking HUB: Monthly 2nd Wednesday 7 pm Free to Attend! Frank Agin puts on this event and it is filled with business owners from around the country! Zoom opens 30 mins early and 30 mins late for even extra connecting time!