Lucy Spencer October 27, 2021 The popularity of operating a business following conscious business practices is growing. Businesses finally understand the importance of looking at the wider implications of their decisions. But how do the systems in a conscious business differ from those in a standard business?
At some level, they don’t. A conscious business needs to have artifacts such as production manuals and finance logs just as much as any other business. They understand that this leads to clarity around how the company operates. Yet every system in their company is focused on creating a people-centric business as they believe that it’s the people that create the success of the business.
The availability of process documentation and strong company values will make it possible for virtually anyone with the relevant skillset to take on new tasks along with greater responsibility so creating an empowered workforce. It in turn leads to greater development in the workforce, alongside increased motivation and happiness. This combination can foster both a resilient mindset where team members are confident enough to tackle any challenge and next level innovation.
Business practices in a conscious business will also champion open conversations and a willingness to learn from any situation. There is no such thing as a stupid question or idea. Whatever is raised enables everyone to learn, so there is no longer a set concept of right or wrong. Even mistakes are seen as an opportunity to find a better way of doing things. Everyone is encouraged to share their opinions in meetings, providing the possibility of obtaining different perspectives and so new options. Collaboration in this way is valued as a way to obtain the best results possible through great teamwork.
Similarly, just as much thought goes into the design of client-orientated structures in a conscious business, so clients receive as many benefits as possible from their relationship with the company. Sales processes focus on the problems that can be solved by the company’s products. This isn’t just a tactic to ‘close’ a sale. It’s done to start a long-term relationship that will be based on honesty and care. Clear communication channels are also created so a client can have a great experience with the company.
And it doesn’t stop there. Conscious businesses will also put processes in place to benefit the local community. This could range from product offers for those living locally to donating a percentage of sales to a local charity. Employees could also be encouraged to donate their time to a local school or community project. Widening the scope of people benefited by the company to include the local community both enables the company to make more of a difference whilst also allowing employees to obtain greater job satisfaction. It’s just another example of a conscious business using win-win strategies in their systems.
So, it’s not the systems themselves that differ in a conscious business, but the essence of the systems. All processes and procedures are created with the ethos of ‘do no harm’. In fact, they seek to benefit as many people as possible, championing collaboration and empowerment.
How will you adjust your systems to take on board a conscious way of being?
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