The problem with running your own small business is that there never seems to be enough time. Even though you have the drive and energy, there are simply too many details that require your attention for you to complete them all.
Wouldn’t it be nice if there were two of you?
The Germans use the word, Doppelganger, to describe someone’s double while we, in the US, use terms like clone or alter ego. While all of these words have negative connotations, business owners are simply looking for people who will administer the policies and procedures of their company will the same vigor and thoroughness as themselves.
Unfortunately, this task is a fool’s errand as it is simply impossible to find an employee who will have the same dedication as an owner. A more plausible solution is the use of technology to help a small business owner keep track of compliance by his manager.
For example, a Human Resource Information System (HRIS) is an excellent monitor and gatekeeper of the HR process. Not only can it provide practical guidance when the owner is not available, it can also monitor the completion of specified HR tasks. The owner can then simply review a list of reports to monitor the HR activities of his subordinate managers.
There is one more benefit. While two of you would make your life easier and the world a much better place, you’d still have to share the credit with your twin. Consider a computer solution; it doesn’t suffer from the same need for recognition.
