The more things change, the more things stay the same.
This oft-repeated adage holds much truth. Even as we proceed full throttle into new, technologically advanced business models, many of us quietly hold tight to anchors of the way things used to be. It’s challenging to abandon the familiar, even if the familiar is proven inefficient and/or obsolete by exciting, advanced alternatives.
Is this true for you? As the business world zooms into future tense, are you left feeling tense about making changes? Are you clinging to behemoths of the way things used to be? Still paying rent for office space? Still telling yourself that having a place to go everyday makes you feel more professional? Still losing valuable time comparing prices on coffee service and janitorial needs? Is the more accurate phrase “the more things change, the more you stay the same?”
It’s time to make the foray into the model for modern business. This model is not constrained by leases or the demands of maintaining traditional office space. This model doesn’t have a strict dress code or a long commute. This model is nimble, responsive and positioned for success. The more things change, don’t you want to join them?
Here are some steps you can take to not stay the same.
Ixnay the leased office space.
Don’t renew that lease if your business does not require the use of a traditional, physical location. Begin strategizing now to transition to a home-based office by budgeting for start-up supplies, etc. Also, pinpoint a partner that can provide virtual office space when occasions arise in which you’ll need to host a meeting or invite colleagues or customers to a professional location. Today, you can access fully equipped, well maintained office space at nearly any point on the globe, on an as-needed basis. That’s so much more affordable and flexible than holding onto ye olde office space lease.
Hire virtual staff support.
As you transition away from the constraints of physical space, likewise relieve yourself of the constraints of doing it all yourself. Hire a virtual receptionist or virtual assistant to supplement your efforts, alleviate your workload and lighten your load. The days of doing it all all the time have changed; so should you.
Work your networks.
Step outside your office and your comfort zone by participating in new networking opportunities. Draw from untapped wells by joining a new organization, attending a conference or sponsoring an event you’ve never previously been involved with. By meeting new people, you’ll be introduced to new ideas that will help you discover more ways to make changes. Even as you shift from a traditional office, you’ll benefit from non-traditional business connections.
