The last few years have undoubtedly been difficult for many businesses for many reasons including Covid, Brexit and the cost of living crisis.
So this year, it’s time to get things back on track with some clearly defined goals and intentions for your business.
1. Reflect on last year
Look back at what went well and what didn’t. Look at your successes and figure out how you can repeat them, also look at what didn’t work so well, try to determine why and how to prevent it happening again.
2. Planning is essential
If you want your business to not only succeed but grow as well you need to plan.
If you don’t already have one, make a plan for your business, set goals and work towards achieving them.
Make sure that your goals are S.M.A.R.T
– Specific
– Measurable
– Achievable
– Relevant
– Time bound
Review your plan as often as you need and make sure that you follow it throughout the year.
3. Keep an eye on the money
It can be easy to take your eye off the ball but in business, money really is the bottom line. Often it can feel like things are going well, however, until you check the figures you won’t know for sure. Keeping an eye on how things are going financially on a daily or weekly basis also allows you to react quickly to any financial issues and plan accordingly.
4. Get up to speed with online marketing
Your online presence is your most important marketing tool, always make sure that your website is the best it can possibly be… It is often the first point of contact that a potential customer will have with your business.
In terms of social media, planning is the key. Make a monthly plan for your posts, you don’t necessarily need to stick to it, but it will at least give you something to post if you’re stuck for ideas.
5. Find a mentor
Running a business can be stressful and lonely, so finding a mentor can help you stay on track. It could be another business owner and you could mentor each other, or a business growth specialist, or even a business advisor from your local council.
Find the right person and share your goals and plans with them and vice versa, agree to meet regularly and help each other stay focused. Not only will this help keep you on track, but you will also have someone to bounce ideas off.
If you need help with creating business plans, understanding the analytics, or any aspect of marketing a business, get in touch with our team. We’d love to have a chat with you and help you have a great 2024.
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