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Writer's pictureBrianna Dick
Jun 19

Streamlining Your Business: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

Running a successful dog training business involves more than just passion for helping owners and training dogs. It requires efficient business processes to ensure smooth operations and client satisfaction. In this guide, we’ll explore key steps to streamline your dog training business, leveraging insights from my 10 years of running an award winning dog training business.


1. Understanding Business Processes




Business processes are the steps your business takes to operate effectively. Examples include client sign-ups, payments, cancellations, and feedback collection. Simplifying these steps can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and customer satisfaction.


2. Define and Review Your Current Processes


Start by documenting your current processes, even if they are informal. Consider:

  • How do clients sign up?

  • What happens if they cancel or reschedule?

  • What is your payment and invoicing process?

  • How do you collect feedback?

Reviewing your current processes will help identify areas that need improvement. The BD Method emphasizes writing down these processes to get a clear picture of what’s working and what’s not.


STOP

Are you unsure what your processes are or how to put them in steps? That's okay. Go to ChatGPT type in and explain what you do and then ask "Can you create a step by step business process for me?" or "Can you simplify this for me so it's more efficient?"


3. Simplify Client Sign-Up


Ensure your client sign-up process is straightforward and user-friendly. This could involve:

  • Using online forms or systems for sign-ups.

  • Providing clear instructions on your website.


A seamless onboarding process reduces barriers for new clients and improves their overall experience. Remember, each step of the process we have to make out clients feel seen, heard and respected.


Here's an example of mine:


A business process for sign up

4. Implement Efficient Payment Systems


Automating your payment and invoicing system can save time and reduce errors. Consider using payment processors like:

  • PayPal

  • Square

  • Stripe

  • Venmo

  • QuickBooks


These systems can help you track revenue and manage payments more efficiently. The more efficient a system is, the less time money and energy you waste and can focus on things like meal prepping, having fun like a normal human being or enjoying loved ones.


5. Establish Clear Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies


Define and communicate your cancellation and rescheduling policies clearly. Automate confirmation and invoicing for cancellations to streamline this process.


Here's my example:


If someone cancels within 3 days of a session:


  • We remind the client of the cancellation policy

  • We confirm they want to cancel

  • We send out an invoice with the cancellation fee

  • If necessary, send follow-up availability. 


6. Gather and Utilize Client Feedback


Try it out and see how it feels, how your clients feel, and ask for feedback from trusted friends, family, or clients. Strong businesses are always striving to be better, so there are constant adjustments to be made.


Don’t be afraid to change things, especially during slower periods.


7. Integration and Adjustment


Once you have simplified your processes, integrate them into your system. This may involve:

  • Transitioning to email or website-based scheduling.

  • Using forms for client sign-ups

  • Involving a CRM system or some form of automation


If you feel like you're lost in the weeks as to where to start for your business, that's normal and it's an issue I address daily with entrepreneurs.

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Feel like you need specific feedback for your business?


Join one of my 1-on-1 programs








By Brianna Dick

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