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Running a business is challenging, and making mistakes is part of the journey. However, some mistakes can cost you more than others. In a recent episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, Sandra Henderson, a seasoned photographer and systems strategist, shared five common mistakes business owners make and how to avoid them. Let’s dive into these insights to help you streamline your operations and enhance your business efficiency.
Mistake 1: Not Data Mining Through Your Contact Form
One of the biggest mistakes is not utilizing your contact form to gather essential information. Sandra emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions to identify whether a client is a good fit for your services. Go beyond the basics of name and email. Ask about their budget, venue, and style preferences. This helps you determine if you can meet their expectations and saves time by filtering out unsuitable leads.
Mistake 2: Not Using Autoresponders
Autoresponders are a game-changer in client communication. They ensure that potential clients receive immediate responses, making them feel valued and supported. Sandra uses HoneyBook to automate personalized emails, including details like the client’s name and event date. This not only saves time but also keeps clients informed and engaged from the start. Implementing autoresponders can drastically improve your client management and free up your time for other critical tasks.
Mistake 3: Spending Too Much Time on Emails
Emailing back and forth can consume a significant portion of your day. Sandra suggests setting up an online booking calendar to streamline appointment scheduling. Tools like Calendly or your CRM’s calendar feature allow clients to book sessions at their convenience, reducing the need for endless email exchanges. This approach respects your clients’ time and simplifies the booking process, leading to increased efficiency and better client satisfaction.
Mistake 4: Complicating Processes with Too Many Platforms
Using multiple platforms for similar tasks can overcomplicate your workflow. Sandra admits to having used various tools like Trello, ClickUp, and Airtable simultaneously, which led to confusion and inefficiency. She now relies on just a few essential tools—HoneyBook for client management and Asana for project management. Streamlining your tools to those that integrate well with each other can simplify your processes and save you money on subscriptions.
Mistake 5: Limiting Payment Options
Offering limited payment options can hinder your ability to get paid promptly. Sandra highlights the importance of providing multiple payment methods to accommodate different client preferences. Whether it’s credit cards, PayPal, or other methods, making it easy for clients to pay can lead to a 12% increase in sales. Simplifying the payment process ensures you receive payments faster and improves overall client satisfaction.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance your business operations and client experience. By refining your contact forms, utilizing autoresponders, minimizing time spent on emails, simplifying your toolset, and offering diverse payment options, you set your business up for success. Implement these tips to streamline your processes and focus more on what you love—delivering exceptional service to your clients.
More from Sandra
Sandra Henderson is a systems strategist, HoneyBook Educator, photographer, and host of the Keeping It Candid podcast. As a neurodivergent entrepreneur who navigates chronic illness life, she takes a unique approach to utilizing systems, workflows, and automations to help her run two different businesses while still being able to give her mind and body what they need. Her goal is to use that same approach to help photographers and wedding pros create strategic systems for their businesses so they can continue to thrive no matter what life throws their way
- Instagram: Life is Beautiful London | Simply Sandra Yvonne
- Masterclass: https://simplysandrayvonne.ca/masterclass
For more insights and practical advice, connect with Sandra Henderson through her social media channels and check out her masterclass for a deeper dive into creating efficient business systems.
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