Empowering Healthy Business Podcast Episode 5: Creating a Business Operations Playbook with Chris Gwinn
In this episode of the Empowering Healthy Business Podcast, host Cal Wilder sits down with Chris Gwinn, founder and CEO of Great Lakes Advisory, to discuss how to create a business operations playbook that drives clarity, efficiency, and growth.
Chris explains that a business operations playbook is more than just a manual. It’s a living document that outlines your company’s key processes, roles, and performance expectations. By creating one, businesses can reduce confusion, onboard new team members faster, and scale operations without losing control.
Why You Need a Business Operations Playbook
A business operations playbook helps ensure that everyone on your team is aligned. Instead of relying on memory or verbal instructions, teams can refer to standardized procedures that improve consistency. Chris shares how successful businesses use their playbooks to identify bottlenecks and boost accountability.
Cal and Chris also discuss common mistakes to avoid, like overcomplicating processes or skipping documentation altogether. They recommend starting with core functions like sales, customer service, and fulfillment, then building out the playbook over time.
How to Start Building Yours
To begin, Chris advises business owners to map out each workflow visually. Then, convert that into step-by-step documentation that is easy to follow. Tools like screen recordings and templates can speed up the process. Importantly, your business operations playbook should evolve as your company grows.
They wrap up with a message of encouragement: while building a playbook may seem time-consuming, the long-term payoff is worth it. A strong playbook can enhance performance, alleviate stress, and provide you with more time to focus on growth.
About the Empowering Healthy Business Podcast
The Empowering Healthy Business Podcast is for small business owners who want to build profitable, scalable companies without sacrificing well-being. Learn strategies to grow your business and improve your life.
Check us out at www.empoweringhealthybusiness.com.