I don’t know what it is, but if you Google “what is an SOP” or “SOP templates”, you will find the longest, most confusing documents, EVER. It’s no wonder so many of us think Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are ridiculously difficult and require way too much time.

Well, I’m happy to report they don’t have to be. It’s as simple as 1, 2 and 3. I really do mean it!

Step 1. Do this.

Step 2. Then this.

and Step 3. Finally, THIS.

Rewind. What are Standard Operating Procedures for those of you may be wondering? SOPs describe the step-by-step process to complete a routine activity. They can be in the form of a document, video, or tasks within your project management tool (e.g. ClickUp).

Tips on what to include in your SOPs:

• The steps or instructions to the task as outlined above (i.e. Step 1, 2 and 3). You can also include a combination of text, video or simages to map out the SOP.
• A sentence on the purpose of the SOP.
• Frequently Asked Questions. Now, this one is important. Any questions you are asked by your team members about a task, note them down and add it to your FAQ section within the SOP! And if you don’t have the time to do so, ask them to add it for you.
  

Keep your SOPs short, simple and sweet. You want anyone, and I mean ANYONE from a beginner to an expert to be able to understand it (for the most part, in the words of a goldfish).

Where can you organise your SOPs in business? Store it anywhere that is easy to share and easily accessible. A project management tool such as ClickUp is the perfect example.

To wrap it up, think of SOPs as your business encyclopedia. They save you the headache of explaining how to do XYZ over and over again to your clients or team. And they also help you to remember the process without a fuss!

If you’re looking for guidance with your Standard Operating Procedures, please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact me.