Top Ten Reasons Every Business Needs a Playbook

Anyone who is familiar with team sports is also familiar with the concept of a playbook.  For those of you who aren’t, here is a simple definition:

playbook: a book or collection containing detailed descriptions of the plays that a player or team may run in games.

A playbook is essential to the success of a sports team, as it supports the overall strategy that the coaches and players are committed to implementing.  A playbook is a proactive way for a team to increase its odds of winning throughout the entire season. The playbook tells each player what to do, when to do it, and informs what everyone else on the field or court will also be doing at that time. The plays are carried out consistently and become more efficient and effective as the season progresses.  The playbook is truly one of the most important tools in sports, regardless of the game.

A Playbook in the Business World

In business, a playbook is equally as important. Traditionally it has been called the policy and procedure manual or the handbook.  Ideally, regardless of what you call it, it serves the same purpose as a playbook.  As a business productivity coach, I have worked with hundreds of businesses & entrepreneurs, and have seen both the good and bad when it comes to operating with, and without, documented processes and procedures.  

Here is my list of the top 10 reasons every business needs a playbook!

1. A playbook clarifies the strategy of the business so that all team members are moving towards the same goals.
2. A playbook defines everyone’s individual roles and responsibilities to eliminate duplication of work or lack of ownership.
3. The playbook allows a business to be proactive versus reactive.
4. A playbook helps every individual see the value they bring to the team/business!
5. Onboarding new team members becomes more efficient and provides clarity from the start.
6. A playbook helps create the right balance between structure and creativity.
7. A playbook helps identify opportunities for automation and delegation, allowing the team to work smart, not always hard.
8. A playbook documents all systems, resulting in the potential to reduce mental load, free up time, overcome hurdles, and enhance progress.
9. A playbook ensures consistency in the customer/client experience, which is often more important than the quality of the service provided!
10. A playbook adds monetary value to the business, from an exit/succession planning perspective.

If your business is operating without a playbook, or has a stale and outdated version collecting dust on a shelf, there is no better time than now to create, refine, or revise your business playbook. Time to make it a winning season!

Don’t know where to start in crafting your playbook?  Let’s schedule a time to chat so I can help set you on the path to success.