Step by Step

Step By Step

I met with my cousin’s husband before Thanksgiving. It was not to go over holiday planning, like who was bringing what dish, but about government contracts. They have been successful in getting government contracts for their business, and I was investigating this for True North Business Consulting, LLC.

I learned about GSA, The General Services Administration is the central location for contracts- if you are interested in federal government contracts then you need to register with the GSA. Our discussion though was focused on the intensive request for proposals (RFP) that needs to be completed. This is the advice I want to share.

The government looks for processes-explainable steps that will bring results. And what the government looks for is what is usually wanted in the private sector, too. For example, True North Business Consulting offers mediation services. I would describe it as a five step process:

1. Speak to each side to get a sense of the issue and see what times they are available to meet.
2. Schedule a meeting(s)
3. Meet individually , if necessary
4. Come to an agreement
5. Create contract with review by outside counsel

My challenge to you is to think of your business as a process. What steps do you take with your service? Can you explain them and write them down?

The holidays are a great time to take a look at your business and focus on what system you are using.