As a sole trader, running a business can feel a lot like spinning plates. Many do not consider all the different areas that you need to keep on top of when starting your own business as a sole trader, but there are many areas that need ongoing management.
This can take away from your core activities, which is why it is helpful to be aware of a few ways that sole traders can simplify business management. The tips in this post should help you keep on top of all areas, which can make the daily running of your business easier while improving your chances of achieving success.
Automate Repetitive Tasks
These days, there are many basic tasks that can be automated. Invoicing, payment reminders, emails, and bookkeeping can all be automated with the use of modern software systems, which can make a huge difference to the daily running of your business.
With the basic, routine tasks taken care of, it creates more time and energy for you to focus on core activities. Not only this, but automation can reduce human errors, which is a common issue with repetitive tasks.
Outsource Non-Core Activities
You can also outsource your non-core activities, which is a smart way to simplify and enables you to focus purely on core activities. Outsourcing is more cost-effective than hiring staff as you do not need to pay a salary and additional costs, but you can still get key areas of the business managed by specialist individuals and organisations. A few areas that are worth outsourcing include:
- Accounting
- Digital marketing
- Customer support
- IT support
- Social media management
Use Fuel Cards For Fuel Management
If you rely on a vehicle for your daily operation, it is a good idea to use a fuel card for management. It can be hard to keep on top of fuel management when you have to keep paper receipts, handle fluctuations in price, and track your mileage.
Fuel cards can simplify the process with the ability to track spending in real time, receive detailed monthly reports, and pay for fuel without cash or your own personal card. Not only this, but fuel cards can help you make savings with the option of a fixed weekly price or guaranteed savings at the pump of up to 10p per litre.
Schedule Admin Time
If you want to do everything yourself and keep your costs down, it is a good idea to schedule admin time into your weekly schedule. You do not want admin to build up, so you should make this an important part of your routine each week. By dedicating time to non-core activities, you can keep on top of everything and feel in control.
It can be tough as a sole trader when you have to keep on top of all areas of the business operation. This is often overlooked when sole traders get set up, but these non-core areas are just as important as the product/service you provide. The advice in this post should help you simplify business management to give you more time and energy to focus on core activities.
