If you’re looking for a tool that can help you streamline your blog and help you support your team as you grow it, then SOPs are that tool. SOPs are standard operating procedures that help you to do things the same way each time. In today’s episode we’ll discuss why those SOPs are super useful whether you have a team or not, how to document them and the top 5 SOPs to get started. 

What an SOP is and why you need them 

• SOP stands for standard operating procedure
• An SOP identifies how to accomplish a specific task in your business
• It’s a how to document to share with a team member to accomplish a task
• An SOP provides clarity around a task and the purpose behind them

Everyone who owns a business needs a standard operating procedure. 

How to document them

• One of the biggest mistakes is overcomplicating an SOP
• Store these SOPs in your project management tool of choice (we love Asana!) or start in a Google doc

Every SOP needs:

• A title (ex. how to pin a blog post on Pinterest)
• The purpose of the task
• Any resources (access to programs or tabs they’ll need open) – use direct links if helpful!
• Date created and date last updated
• Document the step by step process for the task. Use Loom to record a video of you doing the work OR list the steps in bullet points

Why are SOPs important

• Reduce inconsistencies in your work 
• Reduce brain power needed to complete your work
• Sets you up to be able to hire 

5 SOPS bloggers should start with

1. How to export edited photos from photoshop or lightroom (including any export settings and instructions for naming images)
2. How to create pins for new blog post on Canva
3. How to reply to comments on blog
4. How to find a keyword for your blog post
5. How to fill out a recipe card

Want more? Check out my episode on standards and systems your food blog needs from earlier this year and our Blogger to CEO section on the blog.