Essential SOP Tips for Small Business Entrepreneurs

Here’s an example of two articles from different writers following the same standard operating procedures (SOPs). If you read through them, you’ll notice they have a similar writing style, design, image placement, and SEO skills. That’s the power of SOPs!

Alright, let’s get into it. Here’s your simple step-by-step guide to creating SOPs using Google Sheets and Google Docs in Google Drive.

Step One: Pick Your Process – First, identify the task your SOP will handle. Choose a repeatable and standardized task like cleaning the office or setting up equipment.

Step Two: Open Google Drive – Head over to Google Drive, the place where all your drafts live. If you don’t have an account, just create one.

Step Three: Create a New Google Sheet – Click on the ‘+ New’ button and select Google Sheets. This will be your overview of all your SOPs, linking to the detailed procedures.

Step Four: Write the SOP Using a Google Doc – Break the process down into clear, detailed steps. Aim for clarity and make it foolproof. If you think you’re over-explaining, you’re just right.

Step Four and a Half: Format & Organize – Make it easy to read. Add an SOP title, department, responsible employee, last update date, purpose, expectations, related topics, and a step-by-step execution process.

Step Five: Review and Refine – Congrats on your first SOP! Use it yourself to complete the task, then review and refine it based on your experience.

Step Six: Share and Implement – Share your SOP with your team and put it into practice. Update it whenever your procedures change, which could be monthly or quarterly, depending on the SOP.

And there you have it! You’ve just set your SOPs in motion. Using SOPs when training new employees will surprise you with the consistency and efficiency it brings.

SOPs are all about doing the extra work now to save loads of time later. They streamline business processes, automate mundane tasks, standardize operations, and increase accountability. Plus, they help you scale and build teams quickly and reliably.

Don’t wait until your business is overwhelmed—make SOPs a part of your strategy today!