Managing Unexpected Surge in Demand (Boundaries and Systems)

This week we have been talking all about telling stories to create relationships, and then using systems to foster those relationships. When we do these things, we create strong connections with our clients and customers and engage in meaningful conversations in order to solve their problems and meet their needs.

But what about when it works? What happens when you experience an unexpected surge in demand? Yes, I’m talking about what happens if you find yourself so busy that you are on the brink of feeling overwhelmed – or perhaps you’re already there.

The first thing you need to do is look at what could be causing that surge:

Effective marketing
Loss of a key employee
New key market
Closure of a competitor

These things are not all good or all bad, but they can happen unexpectedly – and then you’re left asking, “What do I do now? How do I handle this sudden influx of business?”

Here’s what I say: The best time to handle the unexpected is before it happens.

WHAT? Handle the unexpected before it happens? YES! Because you CAN do it!

When you envision what you want for your business, take time to look at what is on the horizon and then ask, “What could get in the way?” and “What will I do when this happens?”

Because MOST unexpected things can be planned for – even if we don’t know the specifics.

When it comes to an unexpected surge in business, you need to have four things in place. You need:

Systems
Time Management
Clear Boundaries
Communication

When you have these four things in place for your business, you’ll be able to handle that surge and grow your business – no matter what unexpected reason brought it your way.

Of course, there are still a few things you need to watch out for:

Overbooking yourself
Storing all the information in your head
Doing a task yourself because it is ‘easier or faster’ than explaining it to those who support you

It can be easy to succumb to these pitfalls when you’re busy – but if it happens:

Press the pause button and remove yourself from reaction mode
Leave your office or workspace and allow yourself a place to think clearly
Reach out to advisors
Prioritize what must get done now and what can wait

There are very few of us who wouldn’t want a surge in business, but preparation is what will make the difference between handling it well – or it becoming a complete disaster.

So, if you’re thinking to yourself, “Bring on that business surge! I’ve got those four things in place, and I’m ready to go!” – FANTASTIC!

And if you’re thinking, “Well, I’ve got a few things I need to tighten up to be prepared,” – that’s also FANTASTIC! Being able to see the strengths and weaknesses of your business is a skill to be commended. (And now you know what you need to do!)

Because remember: “In life, the only thing that you can expect is the unexpected; the only surprise is a day that has none.” (Yes, that quote is from Joan Rivers – who knew that she was not only funny but incredibly smart, too?!)