It’s a good question, isn’t it?

If you are a CEO, company president or business owner, it’s only a good question if you periodically ask yourself if you are in control of your business. 

As the head of your company I am sure you want to be in control rather than just think you are in control. 

Business life seems more chaotic today.  Which only adds to the challenge of being in control of your business. 

If you talk to other business people chances are they are working night and day, even weekends, just trying to get through this uncertain economy.  Those business people need to be complimented on their work ethic and will to survive. 

But most of these business people are working as though they were an employee instead of holding the title of CEO, company president or business owner.  They may think they are running a business but they aren’t truly running it.  Rather the business is running them.  They are being reactive rather than proactive.  It’s like the infamous example of the hamster continually running along on the wheel inside.  It’s accomplishes nothing really.

No matter how hard you are working or how busy you are take time to think through your business.  Make it a regular part of your business schedule.  Taking time to think through your business is just as important as all the other meetings on your business calendar.  Don’t use the excuse that you don’t have time for such things.  Make time. 

The business people who will prosper and survive during these difficult times are the people who think strategically about business and not just do tasks. 

Questions to consider:

- How can the sales process be improved? 
- Are we talking to the right prospects? 
- Are we monitoring our business costs? 
- How can we better motivate our employees at a time when we are asking so much of them? 
- What aspect or area of the business do I need to get a better grasp or understanding of?
- Who do I need to interact more with?  Why?

Your ability to understand your business, define the problem and solve the problem is what control is all about.  Even in this difficult economy, your success will be determined by how focused and in control you are with your business.

How do you stay in control of your business?  Share your thoughts.