Time is money. Therefore, it makes sense for business owners to outsource help with company needs such as payroll, human resources, marketing and more. However, some business owners will leap blindly into a new service in search of relief but not understanding the service itself.
How Does the Widget Do What It Does?
Ever see someone that has gotten upset after buying an item that did not function as they expected? Then after finally taking time to read the product description they realize it was never meant to do that function in the first place? This is a common practice amongst all consumers alike.
When approaching a service, while it’s important to look at what the end goal is, it’s good to have a general idea of how it does what it does. We’re not saying you need to be as knowledgeable as the people providing the service, but if a service does C, it’s good to know Step A and Step B that result in C. This way you understand how it works and why it gets the results that it does.
Explain It to Me in Layman’s Terms
When talking to a service provider, ask them to break down how the service works. Get past the sales speak that focus on ROI and instead learn the steps in the service. Just as you explain to your customers how a product or treatment works, ask a service provider to explain it to you.
Focus on building an understanding of:
- How it works
- What you’re looking for (ROI) and timeline to get there
- When you’ll receive updates on progress
- Costs and frequency of costs
- Any policies that might be associated with the service.
It’s Up to You
Just as you know the ins and outs of your company, you have a responsibility to know how the services and tools you invest in work. This way you know if you’re getting the most bang for your buck and not spending money unwisely.
edited by Raymond Rose