Newsletter; April 2025
Welcome to the new and improved Crum Consulting newsletter! Each month we strive to provide you with a variety of helpful resources, tips, and practices to support your continued success, both personally and professionally. Because we work with a diverse demographic of clients, industries, and backgrounds, we aim to provide content equally as diverse. If you have any questions, or if you would like to learn more about any particular topic, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! If you are a new client, please click here to fill out a consultation form, and we will be in touch to schedule a session with you.
Article Spotlight
The Right Time Mirage
Change is often viewed as a daunting endeavor, especially within the context of running a business. The illusion of the "perfect time" to implement change can act as a significant barrier, preventing meaningful progress and growth.
If you have any questions surrounding this month's article, or would like to further explore opportunities, please feel free to reach out to schedule a session with us! You can reply directly here if we have worked together in the past. If you are a new client, please click here to fill out a consultation form, and we will be in touch to schedule a session with you.
Sustainable Growth
Records & Information Audit
Conducting a thorough Records & Information Audit is a crucial step for business owners who want to ensure their operations are efficient, compliant, and secure. This process involves several key steps that, when implemented thoughtfully, can provide clarity, accountability, and ease in managing your business records. Let’s delve into the essentials of this audit process.
Firstly, determining the retention period for your records is fundamental. Each type of document has a different lifespan dictated by legal, regulatory, and operational requirements. Establish a clear policy that outlines how long each category of record should be kept. This policy should also specify the procedures for securely disposing of records that are no longer needed. This not only ensures compliance but also helps declutter your storage spaces, both physical and digital.
Next, creating an organized and efficient system for document retrieval is essential. An intuitive filing system, whether digital or physical, can save time and reduce frustration. This system should be designed with the end-user in mind, making it easy to locate the needed documents swiftly. Consistent labeling, indexing, and categorizing are key practices to adopt. And remember, the system should be scalable to accommodate the growth of your business.
Proper handling of records is paramount for maintaining their integrity and confidentiality. Training your staff to manage records correctly ensures that everyone understands the importance of these documents and how to handle them appropriately. This training should cover best practices for both physical and digital records, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, consistency, and confidentiality.
Security measures are non-negotiable in today’s digital age. Implementing robust security protocols such as two-factor authentication for digital files can protect your sensitive information from unauthorized access. For hard copies, consider secure storage solutions like locked cabinets or safes. Regular audits of these security measures can help identify and rectify any vulnerabilities.
Finally, backing up all records is a critical safeguard against data loss. External hard drives or cloud storage solutions can provide reliable backups for your digital records, while hard copies should be duplicated and stored in a separate, secure location. Regularly updating these backups ensures that your data remains current and recoverable in the event of an emergency.
By following these steps, you not only protect your business, but also empower it to operate smoothly and efficiently. Remember, the road less traveled is the path of partnership and support, and with the right strategies in place, you can navigate this path with confidence and ease.
Highlights
Sage Advice
Welcome to Sage Advice, an inspiring interview-style video series brought to you by Crum Consulting. In this engaging series, we delve into the minds of successful business owners who have navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Each episode offers a unique glimpse into their personal journeys, the challenges they've faced, and the triumphs they've celebrated. Join us as we explore the invaluable lessons they've learned along the way, and gather insightful advice for aspiring and established business owners alike. Whether you're looking to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit or seeking strategies to elevate your business, Sage Advice is your go-to source for wisdom and inspiration on the road less traveled.
Welcome to Sage Advice Episode 1! Join us as we chat with Cathy Wodarski, a seasoned sales and management professional, entrepreneur, and the first vendor member to serve as President of the Austin Human Resources Management Association. With a track record of growing businesses and building strong teams, Cathy shares her journey and insights on leadership, networking, and the power of understanding behavioral strengths as a DiSC® Certified Trainer. Don’t miss her actionable advice for personal and professional growth!
To learn more about Wodarski Consulting, reach out to Cathy at: cathywodarski@gmail.com.
Click the button below to view the full interview.
Beyond Business
Level Up Your Life Quest: Opportunity Edition, Part 2
Today, we’re diving headfirst into the infinite realm of opportunities. Picture this: You’re standing at the crossroads of Destiny Street and Serendipity Avenue. The air crackles with possibility, and your trusty compass (which suspiciously resembles a coffee cup) points north—toward Greatness Falls. Are you ready? Buckle up, because here come the tips:
Crafting Your Own Opportunities
Networking: Attend events, conferences, and workshops. Shake hands (or elbows, because hygiene) with fellow adventurers. Exchange business cards for lasting impact.
Problem-Solving: Spot a problem? Channel your inner Sherlock. Solutions are your golden tickets to the Chocolate Factory of Opportunities. 🍫
Innovation: Within your castle walls (or cubicle), seek gaps like they're going out of style. Fill them with your brilliance. 🌟
Collaboration: Find a partner-in-crime. Joint ventures are like epic team quests. Plus, you get to split the loot! 🤝
Continuous Learning: Stay curious. New knowledge is like finding a hidden treasure chest behind a waterfall. 🌊
Final Words of Wisdom:
Opportunities are often elusive—sometimes hiding in plain sight. Keep your eyes peeled!
Adaptability is your armor. Wear it proudly.
Embrace the unknown. It’s where the best loot lies. 🗝️
Remember, you’re not just chasing opportunities; you’re weaving your own epic tapestry.
Thank you for being a pivotal part of our journey here at Crum Consulting. We would be nothing without you, and your continued support. Please feel free to share our content with others to pay it forward. We relish in receiving feedback, so if you have any suggestions or if you'd like to share your opinion on any of the content we have provided here, please let us know! If you have any questions about anything we covered here, or if you'd like to explore potential opportunities with Crum Consulting, we are here for you! Reach out anytime!
"Should you find a wise critic to point out your faults, follow him as you would a guide to hidden treasure." -Buddha
Until we meet again, take care of yourself, and others. Thank you.
