Over-planning and Doing Nothing

This guest blog is by Raul Colon.

It’s easy to get stuck in the minutia of planning when building a social media and online presence strategy; especially when you are a resource-strapped small business.

As a small business owner I know how easy it is to become overwhelmed and immobilized by planning and over thinking projects like these. It’s important keep things in perspective and take it step-by-step.

Here are a few helpful hints on how to avoid inaction that I’ve picked up along the way.

Blogs– Blogs are a plentiful and free resource. I draw from them when I need inspiration or advice when beginning a new project. Simply do a search for blog posts related to your next goal and the tips you receive will reward your effort. I’ve found most bloggers to be responsive to questions posted to their entries. In fact, if you have a blog for you business, posting questions or asking for feedback from your readers is an excellent way to engage with your audience – and potential clients.

Twitter– When I cannot get clarification on something I run a search on Twitter or even ask publicly if someone can relate to my problem or situation. There are always people willing to help and share their knowledge. In fact, Twitter is my favorite tool for instant feedback.

Forums- There are many online forums aligned to your industry and to your project. Participate in a few and the pace will pleasantly surprise you.

Offline Network - Engage your offline network to leverage whatever effort or project you are undertaking. Remember social media is about being social. Even Skype can’t replace quality face-time. 

Family & Friends – What better place to find fresh perspective and valuable information than family or close friends? They might just give you that motivation you need to make it happen. If you are starting your social media presence, these are the first people that can help build your network of trust via all the available channels.

Books – As far as I’m concerned nothing beats sitting down to read a well-written book. On many occasions I have been able identity a pattern in a business situation thanks to one of the tomes I have read in the past. And if the subject matter isn’t work related you might be able to clear your mind from business and accidentally find a solution.

General Recommendations

Always be careful about the type of information you share online when searching for a solution. You don’t want to hand your idea to someone else that might have the resources to pull the trigger fast than you and run with it.

Be weary of advice from self-proclaimed online experts, gurus, swamis, or what have you. Always go to the people you trust first and see what they recommend.

Don’t be afraid to fail. Take action and remember that if you don’t succeed you’ve gained invaluable knowledge to better prepare your next attempt.

Just because you are active does not mean you are being productive. Make sure to map out clear goals and align those goals to every effort your small business makes (including your social media efforts).

Now, take that first step towards executing on your next project!

If you still feel uncomfortable in moving forward I highly recommend this video of Robbie Vorhaus on how to manage crisis.

Are you a perfectionist? What steps do you take to keep your projects running?

Feel free to share your thoughts on how would you approach over-planning in the comments area. 

Raul

@ConsultantRC

Raul Colon is the founder of CIMA IT Solutions, an IT & Business Consulting practice that helps clients align there business goals with technology resources. Prior to Founding CIMA IT Solutions, Raul worked for American Systems in their Information Security private sector practice. Prior to American Systems, Raul worked for KPMG's Information Risk Management Practice. Raul also holds the Certifed Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and CGEIT certifications from ISACA.

Posted by Yelena Kadeykina
Monday, 29 November 2010