Resolution & re-solutions

The word “resolution” is from the Latin solvere (to loosen, release, explain). Its original meaning “a breaking into parts,” has remained as it developed the sense of solving a conflict, and of image detail. The term “New Year's resolution” (1780s) drew from the “determined” sense of the word (resolute). The word "solution" (a solving) is from the same Latin root. 👀

• Resolution (loosening or breaking into parts; solving a conflict)
• Resolute (being determined)
• Re-solution (solving again)

And this leads into this week's first topic...

The problem we solve most often for clients

Don’t know why we listed this as “one” problem — since we problem-solve for a living, but if there is one recurring problem presented more than others it’s organizing/planning. Business owners wear so many hats, have only so much time and so much to do — and they’re focused on their unique service or product (as they should be). Lots of plates spinning. Lots of challenges.

Then something breaks. Someone quits. Mistakes happen. A negative review.

Having a plan or system — and backup plans and systems — can be the difference between a thriving business and one whose doors are closed. The true value/character of a business (or person, for that matter) is determined by how challenges and problems are faced and solved. It’s almost that simple.

👉🏻 So what problem do we solve most often? We help clients break tasks and projects down into parts (resolution) and take a new look (again) at how to solve particular problems (re-solutions).

We find most business owners have a great plan for the big picture, so we help consider some of the smaller pictures — reviewing the systems/tools they have (or do not have) in place, and making recommendations for how to maximize productivity and efficiency.

Most often, we’re assisting with digital solutions for online businesses. So here are the questions we frequently find ourselves asking:

• Do you have a good website? Good = functioning; updated design; mobile responsive; easy for customers/clients to navigate/sign up/contact. A good website is a non-negotiable these days — and it doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Don't be afraid of refreshing an outdated design.
  
• What do the analytics say? When have you last reviewed analytics for your website, social media, email newsletter, etc.? If you’re too busy with new customers to review analytics, good for you! 👍 If not — look at the analytics. It's (most of the time) FREE information! Who is visiting/engaging? What drives the most traffic/generates the most interest? What pages/posts/content do visitors look at or ignore? Do visits/likes convert to sales?
  
• How do you provide support? When a customer needs assistance or has simple questions about your services or products — is it difficult for them to reach you? Is it easy? What is your response time? Are you prepared with answers? On a related note: How open are you to soliciting feedback from your customers?
  
• How are you using social media? Do you ignore it? (bad idea) Do you have an intentional plan and schedule posts in advance? (good idea) Are you sharing interesting/compelling/valuable information? Are your social media profiles up to date? Confession: We're great at doing these things for clients, not so great for our own business — but we are resolutely working to change this.
  
• Do you have a CRM? How do you manage your relationship with customers? Do you have a system to keep up with leads and conversations with potential new customers? If you have a drawer full of business cards you've collected through the years (but never followed up), you need a CRM. It's not too late to start.
  
• What would you like to learn? Do you intentionally set aside time for continuing education opportunities? Do you make time and space to step outside your comfort zone? When is the last things you learned something new that took your business to a new level?

The productivity question we're asked most often

Again, not sure why I listed this as “one” question (we get lots of questions about productivity). But here's something we're asked a lot: How do you keep up with passwords?

The answer: 1Password is a life saver. We use it to generate and store strong, unique passwords for every login. We also set up vaults where clients can securely share their logins. The security gives us peace of mind and the app makes it easy to retrieve passwords when needed. There are other options (LastPass, Bitwarden, LogMeOnce), but 1Password is a great solution for us.

The tech we use

We're Apple all day. It's an ongoing conversation in the tech world (Apple vs Microsoft), but we chose Apple long ago and are quite loyal. The cost is higher, but everything works. Our current setup:

• iPhone 12 Pro with magsafe case and ZAGG glass screen protector
• iPad (12.9 3rd gen) with smart keyboard and folio case
• Magic Trackpad
• Magic Keyboard with numeric keypad
• Logitech Master MX 3
• Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless charging station
• Satechi 10,000mAh Power Bank
• Seagate Backup Plus 4TB
• Airpods Pro
• 2019 Macbook Pro 32G Ram
• 2017 Macbook Air
• 2017 iMac

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