Lazy Leverage

Staying Organized: Part One | Lazy Leverage #11

In this episode, I team up with my Chief of Staff, Binsi (@BinsiDevadasan), who has been an integral part of my journey for the past 7 years. As our team expands globally, we've begun to document our "best practices" to onboard and share with new talents. Our first discussion centers on mastering organization through the effective management of inboxes, a crucial skill in today's interconnected work environment.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Introduction to the art of staying organized, especially when managing a diverse, global team.
00:00 - Discussing the pivotal role organization plays in handling global talent efficiently.
00:35 - Unveiling the four fundamental principles of staying organized in any setting.
00:49 - The critical importance of managing inboxes for optimal organization.
01:17 - Evaluating the role of digital tools like Apple Notes, Clickup, and email in staying organized.
01:47 - Finding the right balance between relying on tools and maintaining an organized workflow.
02:21 - The necessity of establishing a robust system to underpin organizational efforts.
03:05 - Incorporating the 'Getting Things Done' (GTD) method by David Allen into daily routines.
03:31 - Emphasizing the 'capture' aspect of GTD to efficiently clear the mind and track tasks.
04:28 - Exploring how organizational methods have evolved with technology and workplace demands.
05:53 - How tools facilitate the GTD method, particularly in capturing and processing tasks.
06:11 - The significance of promptly capturing tasks and effectively monitoring inboxes.
09:06 - Addressing the challenges posed by platforms like Slack in capturing and organizing tasks.
13:06 - Strategies for 'cleaning your brain' by externalizing tasks and thoughts.
15:25 - The critical practice of regularly processing your inboxes to maintain clarity and focus.
17:28 - Differentiating work and personal inboxes, and managing each to prevent overlap and confusion.
23:29 - Identifying the three types of work and how each impacts our approach to organization.
23:58 - Wrapping up with insights on the overarching importance of being organized about your work.
If you're navigating the complexities of managing a global team or simply looking to enhance your organizational skills, this episode is packed with actionable advice and proven strategies. Binsi and I delve into the tools, methods, and mindsets that can transform how you approach work and productivity.
Stay connected for more insights and strategies by following @MatznerJon on Twitter and subscribing to our newsletter at lazyleverage.beehiiv.com.
Next Episode Teaser:
Tune in for "Staying Organized - Part Two," where we'll continue our exploration into effective organization strategies, tackling the challenge of managing the chaos of emails, Slack messages, texts, calls, and DMs. Discover how to bring order to the chaos and keep your workflow smooth and stress-free.

Building High-Performance Sales Culture | Lazy Leverage #10

Dive into an insightful conversation with Kiwi Rene (@thekiwicowboy), whose sales achievements are nothing short of legendary, having converted over 50% of his appointments into sales.
In this episode, we explore the art and science behind identifying exceptional sales talent and cultivating a dynamic sales culture that not only aims for targets but consistently surpasses them. From the front lines of sales to the strategic planning behind successful team building, Kiwi Rene shares his comprehensive insights into creating an environment that fosters competition, growth, and success.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Introduction: Kiwi Rene's Sales Mastery
00:12 - Starting Points: The Professional Journey
00:32 - Overcoming and Embracing Challenges
01:11 - The Unique Job Ad That Made the Difference
04:05 - Cultivating Professional Growth
08:59 - Elements of a High-Performance Sales Culture
13:03 - Leadership's Impact on Talent Attraction
16:23 - Work Joy and Relationship Building
17:02 - Closing Thoughts on Sales Culture Excellence
Kiwi Rene's story is a testament to the power of innovative leadership and a strong, supportive sales culture. His insights are invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their sales team or to cultivate a more dynamic and successful sales environment.
Stay Connected & Informed:
Don't miss out on future episodes and the latest insights. Follow us on Twitter @MatznerJon for real-time updates and discussions. Plus, for more in-depth analysis and exclusive content, subscribe to our newsletter at lazyleverage.beehiiv.com.
Next Episode Teaser:
Prepare for "Staying Organized Part One," where we'll explore effective strategies for maintaining organization and enhancing productivity. Whether you're looking to improve your personal efficiency or streamline team operations, this episode will provide practical tips and insights to help you achieve your organizational goals.

Writing Stuff Down: How to Change Your Business | Lazy Leverage #9

Join Brian and me as we explore the impact of leadership, adaptation, and the artful approach to business, drawing from Brian's experiences in the Marine Corps. We discuss the critical role of documentation, the innovative Team Wiki, and how effective communication is key to a thriving business environment.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 Introduction and Reunion with Brian
00:10 Reminiscing Old Times and Lessons from CrossFit
00:44 The Beauty of Wikis and Immersion Systems
01:15 Transition from Marine Corps to Civilian Life
01:29 The Birth of Team Wiki
02:19 The Importance of Process Documentation
02:49 The Struggles of Transitioning to the Private Sector
04:25 The Power of Written Communication
04:27 The Role of St. John's in Shaping Perspectives
06:09 The Impact of Combat and Classics
07:36 The Power of Emergent Systems
07:51 The Importance of Ground Truth in Business
09:10 The Role of Leadership in Shaping Company Culture
11:20 The Importance of Understanding Your Employees
15:02 The Role of Team Wiki in Streamlining Operations
26:54 The High of Problem Solving
27:13 Transitioning from Shooter to Leader
27:21 The Role of a Leader in the Marine Corps
27:51 The Pitfalls of Being a 'Fixer' Leader
28:56 Understanding the Importance of Systems and Processes
31:58 The OODA Loop and Decision-Making
33:17 The Role of a Leader in Resource Management
33:36 The Importance of Open Communication and Feedback
14:55 The Power of Decentralized Command
43:02 The Value of Fiction in Understanding the World
Subscribe to our podcast for more insights on leadership and business transformation. Share your thoughts with a review and stay connected for updates and exclusive content by following @MatznerJon on Twitter and subscribing to our newsletter at lazyleverage.beehiiv.com.
Next Episode Teaser:
Don't miss "Building High-Performance Sales Culture: A Talk with KR" for strategies on creating a dynamic sales team that drives success and cultivates a culture of high performance.

Output Thinking: Buckets (Part 3) | Lazy Leverage #8

In part three of my insightful conversation with @BetterCeo, we dive into the final installment of our discussion celebrating the launch of his new book, "Output Thinking." The conversation takes an unexpected turn right from the start, as I find myself disagreeing with Jon within the first 30 seconds. Our focus on the 'buckets'—essential outcomes for any organization—reveals profound insights into aligning business strategies with the owner's ultimate goals.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - We begin with an introduction and a light-hearted disagreement on the concept of 'buckets' in business.
00:00 - Exploring the fundamental 'buckets' that represent the outcomes organizations strive to achieve.
00:58 - Discussing the eighth bucket, highlighting the paramount importance of aligning the business with the owner's visions.
01:55 - The significance of setting clear, actionable goals for both business and personal growth.
02:14 - Delving into the four primary objectives of business owners: flexibility, leisure, financial prosperity, and meaningful work.
08:54 - Examining how emotions play a crucial role in business operations and decision-making processes.
11:29 - An overview of the seven buckets focusing on customer satisfaction and sales effectiveness.
14:00 - Understanding the sustaining buckets related to people management, financial health, and information dissemination.
15:45 - The critical importance of communication and efficient information flow within an organization.
17:30 - Strategies for fostering effective communication in the workplace.
18:30 - The need for discrete communication policies to enhance organizational coherence.
19:09 - Insights into the 'Information Bucket' and the significance of a consistent meeting rhythm.
19:12 - The 'Cafe Bucket' - a look at compliance, administrative support, and facility management essentials.
19:52 - Discuss scaling strategies for sustainable company growth.
20:21 - Strategic insights with Peter on navigating business challenges.
22:17 - The imperative of adopting respectful communication etiquette in business.
24:38 - Cultivating a culture of output thinking and systematic efficiency.
27:58 - The role of Notion and similar tools in establishing a system-focused organizational culture.
32:56 - Concluding thoughts and a final push for the "Output Thinking" book.
Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful discussions. If our conversation today sparked new ideas or helped you see your business in a new light, we'd be thrilled to hear your feedback—please leave us a review.
Stay connected for the latest episodes and exclusive insights by following ⁠@MatznerJon⁠ on Twitter and subscribing to our newsletter at ⁠lazyleverage.beehiiv.com⁠.
Next Episode Teaser:
Don't miss our next episode, "Writing Stuff Down: How to Change Your Business," where we'll explore the transformative power of documenting processes, ideas, and strategies. Learn how the simple act of writing can drive clarity, alignment, and significant growth in your business. Stay tuned!

Output Thinking: Systems (Part 2) | Lazy Leverage #7

In this episode, John (@BetterCeo) and I continue our enlightening conversation on the transformative power of "thinking in systems" within your business. We delve into the untapped potential lying dormant in many companies, discussing how encouraging employees to adopt an owner's mindset can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and growth.
This chat is particularly special as we celebrate the launch of John's new book, "Output Thinking," which is currently available for pre-order. Join us as we explore the practical steps to systemizing your business, drawing examples from a diverse range of sectors, including law firms, veterinary clinics, and tax companies.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Introduction to our discussion on "Output Thinking" and its importance in business systemization.
00:37 - John provides an overview of output thinking and how it can drive efficiency and growth across various business sectors.
02:29 - We discuss the critical role of systems in fostering business growth and the benefits of systemization.
04:34 - Exploring how systemization streamlines business operations and contributes to overall success.
07:33 - The synergy between systemization and outsourcing, and how it affects business scalability.
07:44 - Discussing the impact of systemization on the process of business acquisition.
10:07 - Addressing the roles of fear and laziness in hindering systemization efforts.
12:03 - The importance of aligning systemization with individual skills for optimal performance.
13:58 - A deep dive into the different types of systems: recipes, dances, and creations, and their applications in business.
16:11 - How systemization enhances business efficiency and facilitates consistent output.
18:08 - The long-term impact of systemization on business growth and innovation.
21:14 - Wrapping up with a look forward to the future of systemization and a teaser for the next episode, "Output Thinking - Part Three: The Eight Buckets."
Interested in more insights and tips on systemizing your business for success? Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode. If you found value in our discussion, consider leaving a review and sharing it with your network.
For the latest updates and exclusive content, follow @MatznerJon on Twitter and subscribe to our newsletter at lazyleverage.beehiiv.com.
Looking forward to our next deep dive in "Output Thinking - Part Three: The Eight Buckets," where we'll explore the nuances of business systemization further.

Output Thinking: Outputs (Part 1) | Lazy Leverage #6

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John and I discuss the essential ideas from his new book about Output Thinking.
He explains that many obstacles in business, particularly barriers to scaling, often stem from a lack of clarity about expectations.
The role of employees, he argues, is not merely to do work, but to produce outputs.
This requires a shift from traditional org chart thinking to a more systematic view, where the emphasis is on the results or outputs of each role.
However, this output-focused approach should consider 'shadow' or 'phantom' outputs, unanticipated actions that aren't officially part of someone's job but contribute value.
The discussion covers the importance of recognising the variability in people's ability to deliver outputs, and the critical role of managing these outputs.
Output-thinking is presented as the key that lets workers play to their strengths, ultimately leading to more efficient and successful businesses.
00:00 Introduction and Discussion on Output Thinking
00:59 Understanding the Importance of Output Thinking in Business
01:13 The Role of Employees in Output Thinking
01:55 The Misconceptions about Job Creation and Output Thinking
02:20 The Frustrations of Business Owners and the Need for Clear Expectations
03:23 The Different Types of Outputs in a Business
03:45 The Nature of Labor and its Relation to Output Thinking
05:00 The Impact of Output Thinking on Employee Satisfaction and Identity
05:58 The Connection between Output Thinking and Systemization
09:06 Understanding Phantom Outputs and their Impact on Business
11:31 The Role of Outputs in Sales and Marketing
33:54 The Promise of Output Thinking and its Benefits

Giving Feedback to Global Talent | Lazy Leverage #5

Binsi and I discuss the importance of effective feedback in any work relationship, focusing on a method they refer to as 'Stop, Start, Continue'.
We suggest asking feedback on what one should stop doing, start doing, and continue doing.
Various practical situations were discussed including how to handle challenges of disorganized workflows, lack of one-on-one feedback, and dealing with unexpected calls or tasks.
The discussion also stressed the importance of fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them, as well as pushing employees to take on challenging tasks to enhance their skills and knowledge.
The 'Stop, Start, Continue' approach is suggested as an effective tool to improve professionally.
00:00 Introduction to Feedback in Professional Settings
00:30 Personal Experiences with Feedback
01:07 Cultural Differences in Feedback
01:21 The 'Stop, Start, Continue' Feedback Method
01:34 Practical Examples of 'Stop, Start, Continue' in Action
02:50 The Importance of Written Communication
09:48 The Impact of Feedback on Personal Growth
10:36 Implementing Feedback Systems for Better Organization
14:08 The Power of Proactive Communication
16:27 The Value of Challenging Tasks and Continuous Learning
17:40 Conclusion: The Importance of Regular Feedback

Peter Hires an Assistant (Part 4) | Lazy Leverage #4

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Peter and I talk about maximizing the productivity of remote assistants.
The conversation explored the concept of speed to tasking, which focuses on reducing the friction between wanting a task done and getting it to the assistant in an organized manner.
They also stressed the importance of using structured instructions and communication for task delegation.
They introduced a military-style five-paragraph format for giving instructions and discussed the role of AI in refining thoughts. The conversation emphasized the importance of balancing convenience to the employer with effectiveness for the assistant, noting that what might be convenient for the employer could be complicated for the assistant, leading to potentially increased error rates.
00:01 Introduction and Catching Up
00:25 Reflections on the NARPM Conference
00:50 The Role of Software and Global Talent in Property Management
01:06 The Impact of Headcount on Profitability
01:47 The Growing Demand for Global Talent
02:13 Hiring an Assistant and the Concept of Speed to Tasking
03:39 The Challenges of Delegating Tasks
04:30 The Importance of Building a Habit of Delegation
07:18 The Impact of Becoming a Parent on Work Habits
09:08 The Concept of Speed to Tasking
09:22 The Importance of a Ticketing System for Task Management
15:36 The Benefits of a Kanban Board for Task Management
23:17 The Challenges of Communicating Tasks Effectively
26:37 Conclusion: The Value of Writing Good Memos

Peter Hires an Assistant (Part 3) | Lazy Leverage #3

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Peter and I discuss our experiences with hiring remote talent. Peter details his recent experience of hiring a personal assistant from the Philippines, and the successful onboarding process he followed, influenced by my advice and experience.
We emphasize the importance of clear instructions, creating an environment for trust and success, setting realistic expectations from the outset and the willingness of the new hire to learn and adapt.
We discuss various tools and software helpful in remote setups, and stress the need for personal connection to foster a harmonious remote work relationship.
00:00 Introduction and Controversy
00:13 Hiring a Personal Assistant
00:49 The Hiring Process
01:35 The Interview and Selection
02:48 
The Importance of Vibe Check
03:38 Starting the Work Relationship
06:18 Building Trust and Setting Expectations
09:29 Assigning Tasks and Ensuring Productivity
16:34 Payment and Compensation
17:44 Conclusion and Reflections

Peter Hires an Assistant (Part 2) | Lazy Leverage #2

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Peter and I explore the effective methods to source candidates, with a primary focus on the Philippines, while also shedding light on hiring from different parts of the globe depending on the job role.
We discuss the importance of using a system like JotForm or a basic ATS to stay organized when handling numerous candidates is highlighted.
An emphasis is placed on the need to hire full time rather than part time due to cost-effectiveness while considering the candidate's English proficiency level for certain roles.
The hosts further provide guidance on candidate disqualification and share helpful preparatory steps, such as conducting a time audit and creating an online resource point with all pertinent information to facilitate smoother onboarding.
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
00:09 Discussing Hiring Options and Preferences
01:06 Understanding the Importance of Hiring from Different Regions
03:56 Exploring the Different Levels of English Proficiency in Hiring
07:18 The Importance of Cultural Fit in Hiring
08:54 The Process of Posting Job Ads and Screening Candidates
08:59 Discussing Full-Time vs Part-Time Hiring
15:54 Preparing for Onboarding and Success with New Hires
16:15 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Peter Hires an Assistant (Part 1) | Lazy Leverage #1

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Peter and I discuss the nuances of offloading tasks to an offshore assistant.
We outline the importance of considering the areas where time is consumed the most, such as scheduling, email management, data collection for KPI, and basic design tasks through platforms like Canva.
Our conversation offers practical examples and turns theoretical concepts about needing an assistant into tangible tasks that an offshore hire could handle.
We also highlight how reducing even tiny friction points can save substantial amounts of time for executives.
00:00 Introduction
00:21 Discussing the Need for an Assistant
00:53 The Role of Offshore Talent
01:13 Identifying Time-consuming Tasks
01:31 The Importance of Documentation
03:50 The Role of an Assistant in Scheduling
04:40 Email Management and Efficiency
05:20 The Role of an Assistant in Home Management
06:16 The Role of an Assistant in Task Completion
06:49 The Role of an Assistant in Content Management
09:35 The Role of an Assistant in Scheduling Revisited
12:10 The Role of an Assistant in Data Collection
14:13 The Role of an Assistant in Convenience
16:21 The Role of an Assistant in AI Utilization
16:57 Conclusion and Next Steps