All the traditional New Year resolutions — like exercising more, starting a new hobby, or getting more organized — are tried and true ways to start another year off with a bang, but as a small business owner, what does the new year mean for you
This next bit sounds cliché, but then again, clichés exist because they’re true: Taking the time to refresh your business for the new year can go a long way (think business tactics, client retention, additional revenue streams).
You may not even realize you’re stuck in certain ruts until you commit to exploring some new goals.
So on top of all your end-of-year reflections and number crunching, it’s smart to brainstorm ways to freshen up your business.
To help you do just that, we put together six tips to keep your business out of ruts in the new year…
Think “New”
First things first: You need to start thinking in terms of “new”— as in what you can add to your business. What would boost your energy and enthusiasm?
Start small (the best goals begin with baby steps!) with the following questions:
- What new services or classes would you like to offer?
- What new packages can you create?
- What new products can you sell?
Give Your Online Presence a Makeover
A simple revamp of your online presence will give you that “New Year, New You” feeling, which is never a bad thing.
This January (or even before!), take the time to update your website or social media pages. Try new layouts or add a blog to your website, or add a new logo, new font, or new colors you’ve been wanting to try. (Have fun with it!)
And don’t forget about Instagram and Facebook. Brainstorm a few fresh social media campaigns to help pull in new clients in the new year!
Stay In the Know On Industry Trends
What’s “in style” is always changing, especially for folks in the beauty, hair, and fitness industries. So it’s smart to stay on top of new trends and learn how your industry is shifting as a new year begins.
Take the time now to read up on blogs and newsletters to make sure you’re up to date on what’s working and not working in your industry. Look at other successful businesses in your area — what’s different about them? What can you change about your business to be more successful?
Learning new perspectives and trends is an easy way to keep things fresh!
Refocus Your Strategy
Whether you’re a new business owner, or you’ve been in business for years, it’s always a good idea to stay in touch with your overall business plan. This involves writing down the problems your business solves for clients, market research, financial plans, and more.
As the new year approaches, take the time to step back from the day-to-day duties, and zoom out to look at the overall course of your business.
- Think about your identity as a business (what makes it unique, its strengths and weaknesses)
- Look at your target market (who’s your ideal client and why?)
- Think about the services you’re offering (relate what you offer to your clients and to your business as a whole)
Don’t worry about writing an essay on your business strategy, but jotting down a few bullet points can help realign your business focus in the new year.
Treat Yourself (Even More!)
As a small business owner, it’s easy to forget to reward yourself from time to time. You work hard, and you deserve to recognize your hard work.
Did you cross something off your to-do list for the new year? Reach a milestone you never thought you’d hit? Go ahead, treat yourself, and keep track of those small wins!
Pro Tip:
One savvy way to treat yourself and build a business relationship for the future is to trade services with another local business in your area. For example, if you’re a hair stylist or barber, you can treat yourself to a little self-care — maybe a facial in exchange for giving a facialist a haircut. This opens the door for future partnerships and cross marketing opportunities!
Simplify Your Business
There are bound to be things that are more complicated than they have to be when it comes to running your business. To help keep yourself from going nuts, it’s wise to occasionally take a step back from your day-to-day business and think about what drives you crazy and what you can do to simplify it.
The right booking software can help remove some of those day-to-day frustrations. If you’re noticing constant no-shows or late arrivals, our email and text reminders can help. Dread the awkward tipping moment? Our built-in payment processing allows you to text clients their bill.
And don’t forget, now is the time to get rid of any junk that might be hindering your day-to-day. This could be a piece of equipment you use that you’ve been meaning to upgrade, or maybe there’s a pile of clutter around your salon or studio you’ve been meaning to get rid of.
Whatever it is that complicates or slows down your day, the new year is the perfect time to address it.