Systematize Your Business
The more you can systematize your business, the more efficient it will become and the greater its profitability.
One example of a business that has done an exceptional job of systematizing their business, where they are able to charge lower fees and reach a larger market as a result, is Poke Community Acupuncture. They offer an inviting environment where clients pay on a sliding scale between $20 – $40 (plus a $10 administration fee for the first time) with no questions asked. Normally it can cost anywhere from $65 to $175 per session.
When you arrive, you write up your own receipt for the amount you will be paying for your session. You then take a laminated envelope, write your name on front with a dry erase pen, and enclose your cash or cheque and a duplicate of the receipt you just wrote up.
You then head into the community treatment area, grab a blanket and/or another comfy prop and make yourself at home. An acupuncturist connects with you and finds out how you have been doing since your last appointment. They reference notes that have been written in your folder. The reclining chairs which are extremely comfortable are spaced far enough apart that there is enough privacy for you to share your personal information. Meditation music also fills the room, which contributes to the layer of privacy during your conversation. This music is also very calming and individuals often dozed off once their needles are in place.
When you leave, the appointment book is on display with pencils and erasers as well as post-it notes so you can schedule your next session. At the top of each page is the name of the practitioner in case you have a preference. There are four acupuncturists who work at Poke.
I don’t know if owner Darcy Carroll ever read Michael Gerber’s book, “The eMyth Revisited”, but even if she didn’t, her business is a fabulous example of a business with highly effective and efficient systems in place.
What type of systems do you need to put in place in your business?
how cool! … what a great business concept… and thanks Jen for sharing this post today – i will definitely check out ‘poke’ next time i am in need of a acupuncture treatment…
I think they have a unique set up. Let’s see others others have something to say on this subject.
Great article Jen. Would not have thought of self check-in/check-out as a system but it truly is. Thanks for bringing that into my awareness. Very different business model for the personal services industry and yes, I agree, very much an e-myth outside the box style.