Is there such a thing as over-automation?

For me, this past month has been pure Honeybook, newsletter and website management for my clients. I think I told you this last week, but since I was already setting up Flodesk for someone else, I decided to try it for myself, and give Constant Contact a break for a minute. I love how pretty Flodesk is, but I'm trying to decide if I can do without a “library”, one place where you can keep all your photos and graphics. Or maybe I just haven't found the library yet. Hmm. Might be time to hit up the help desk. I am a particular fan of help desks, probably because I AM one!

Automation is a tricky subject. I always get a little bit of pushback from it, because my clients worry that they're going to lose the personal touch. If you didn't write it just that minute is it really you? Yes. It's your words, the ones you use every time you respond to an inquiry, or a appointment request. Your words on the automated brochure. You're good.

Read: Streamline Step #2 - Automate

On the other side of that is over-automation. For example, scheduling a unpaid balance reminder for the day after it's due. One too many appointment confirmations. Sending the same guide, unrequested, more than once. Anything that's going to cause more work or friction for you and your client. Backtracking and apologizing is never pretty. You want to make your customers feel taken care of, instead of pressured. A fine line, but a real one!

When you can do all the things, you want to do everything. But it's important to make the distinction between what's possible, what's necessary, …and how you would personally feel if it was happening to or for you. Sometimes less is more, even when it's more, you know? Something to think about.

What other advice or help can I give you that will save time in your business and improve your profitability?

Click the button below to let me know what you need!

I’ll talk to you soon,

Elizabeth