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The Getting Things Done workflow is a very powerful approach to managing the actions and tasks that we need to accomplish every day. It may not have occurred to you that it is possible to apply the 5-step workflow as a framework for your business.
That is, clients and customers are inputs like any other, and as such you can manage them as you would an e-mail.

Apply the GTD Workflow to your business

The system itself is quite simple, and can be handled with a tool like HighriseHQ, Salesforce, or any other customer relationship system - or with a pencil and paper. You can adapt these basics to whichever system you currently use.

1. Collect - This first step is handling the initial lead, whether it comes in via advertising or a sales call, you collect as much information about the client and their situation as you can. Are you getting the right information? Are you asking the right questions?
2. Process - In step two the client’s wants and needs are analyzed and possible solutions are generated.
3. Organize - Create a proposal based on selecting the best of the possible solutions.
4. Review - Also called “the pitch”, go over the proposed solution with the client, presenting the features and benefits of the solution. This is also the step where objections will be raised. Since an objection is a request for more information, it enables you to further examine the client’s needs and determine the need behind the need. This will allow you to further customize and personalize the solution.
5. Do - Ask for the sale. Whatever business you are in there comes a time to close the deal and ask the client for their business, and then complete the transaction. Implement your solution and ask for a referral.

How could you implement this very simple framework in your own business? Do you currently have a formalized sales process in place? What do you suppose a workflow system like this could do for your training and retention expenses?

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