Every successful team has a playbook—and your business should too. Whether you’re scaling fast or just getting started, a business playbook keeps your team aligned, your operations smooth, and your sanity intact. Think of it as your company’s “how we do things around here” manual.
So, what exactly should go in it? Let’s break it down.
1. Your Mission, Vision & Core Values
Start with the heart. Your mission explains why your business exists. Your vision describes where you’re headed. And your core values? They’re the rules of the road—how your team behaves and makes decisions.
🔑 Why it matters: It sets the tone for culture, hiring, and decision-making.
2. Company Overview
This is your business at a glance. Include:
- What you do
- Who you serve
- Your USP (unique selling proposition)
Keep it concise, but powerful enough to onboard new team members or wow a potential partner.
3. Key Team Roles & Responsibilities
No more “who handles this?” confusion. Outline:
- Each team member’s role
- Reporting structures
- Key points of contact
Include both job descriptions and real-world responsibilities—because they’re not always the same.
4. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
This is the meat of your playbook. Document your repeatable processes so that anyone can follow them. Think:
- How to onboard a client
- Your content publishing workflow
- Customer service protocols
Use bullet points, screenshots, or videos to make SOPs user-friendly.
5. Brand Guidelines
Keep your branding consistent with a quick-reference style guide. Include:
- Logo use (and misuse)
- Colors, fonts, and tone of voice
- Messaging do’s and don’ts
Add templates or swipe files for emails, social media, and proposals.
6. Sales & Marketing Strategy
Spell out how you attract and convert leads. Your team should know:
- Ideal customer profiles
- Your customer journey
- Key campaigns, offers, and messaging
Keep it updated as your strategies evolve!
7. Tools & Tech Stack
Avoid the “What’s our login again?” chaos. List all tools your team uses with:
- What each tool is for
- Logins (store these securely!)
- Training links or cheat sheets
From project management to CRM, this section keeps workflows humming.
8. Crisis Plan or Contingency Guide
When the unexpected happens, your playbook becomes a lifesaver. Include:
- Emergency contacts
- Steps for handling PR issues, system outages, etc.
- Financial safety protocols
Think of this as your business’s fire drill instructions.
9. Onboarding Checklist
Make it easy to get new hires up to speed. A checklist could include:
- What to read first
- Training sessions to attend
- Tools to get access to
Include a welcome message or team intro video is a great way to start.
10. Growth Plans & KPIs
Where is your business headed, and how do you measure progress? Include:
- Quarterly or annual goals
- Key metrics to track
- How results are reviewed
This keeps everyone aligned on what “success” looks like.
Final Thought
A business playbook isn’t just a boring binder. It’s your secret weapon for scaling smarter, leading better, and sleeping peacefully at night. Start with a few key sections, build as you grow, and revisit it often.
Your future self (and your team) will thank you.
