A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is like a playbook for your business. It’s a written, step-by-step guide that explains exactly how to complete a task the right way. Whether it’s bringing on a new employee, backing up important files, or handling customer requests, an SOP ensures that work is done consistently — no matter who is doing it.
Why SOPs Matter
Think of an SOP like a recipe. Instead of depending on memory, your team can follow the instructions every single time. This creates stability and confidence. SOPs also make training new employees easier, prevent costly mistakes, and free up your time as a business owner so you’re not answering the same questions over and over again.
The ROI of SOPs
- Save time: Tasks are done faster because employees know the exact steps.
- Save money: Mistakes are reduced, and processes don’t have to be redone.
- Consistency: Customers receive the same level of service every time.
- Scalability: When you grow, new team members can get up to speed quickly.
Examples of SOPs
Here are two simple examples of what an SOP looks like in real life:
Example 1: Employee Onboarding SOP
Goal: To make sure every new employee feels welcomed and has the tools they need to succeed.
- HR emails welcome letter and forms before the first day.
- IT sets up computer, email, and software access.
- On Day 1, HR greets the new hire, collects signed forms, and provides a handbook.
- The Team Lead introduces the new hire to the team and gives a tour.
- The Team Lead assigns a first simple task before the end of Day 1.
- HR checks in at the end of Week 1 to answer questions.
Example 2: File Backup SOP
Goal: To make sure company files are safely stored and recoverable if a system fails.
- Every Friday at 4 PM, IT runs the backup software.
- Select all shared company folders.
- Save backup to both cloud storage and an external hard drive.
- Confirm backup success in the system log.
- Store the hard drive in a secure cabinet.
- Email the IT Manager confirming the backup was completed.
Start With a Template
Instead of starting from scratch, you can purchase ready-to-use SOP templates. These templates are available in both Microsoft Word and Google Docs so you can edit them to fit your business.
- Employee Onboarding SOP Template — $19
- File Backup SOP Template — $19
- Bundle (both templates) — $29
Buy Onboarding Template Buy Backup Template Get the Bundle
Need Something Custom?
Every business is different. If you’d like an SOP designed specifically for your company, our Elevation Specialists can work with you one-on-one to create and customize SOPs tailored to your processes. This saves you hours of trial and error and gives you a professional-grade playbook for your team.