As you celebrate the holidays with friends and family, keep in the back of your mind, “the year is fast coming to a close.” Why should you be thinking that? Because you need to take time between now and the first of the new year to look back at how your business performed last year, what you want to change for the new year and how you will take steps to get there.
What can you do to plan for the end of 2013? Here are my tips:
- Deep clean of your office. Gather up the records and business papers for 2013 and prepare to store them once your income taxes are filed. Start the new year with clean file drawers and a clean desk.
- do you need new office equipment? There are many deep discounts this time of year and you could also have that item as a potential tax write off.
- Review your service contracts. Do they need to be revamped, rewritten or your prices raised? Have you started offering new services for which you’re not being compensated? Now is the time to implement new pricing plans if necessary.
Prior to the start of 2014, take a day off from your everyday business tasks and begin planning for your 2014 successes! What can you do? Here are a few things to consider:
- Seek out continuing education or certifications in your field. These may help you stand out from the competition.
- Consider working with a business coach. It is helpful to have an “outside” source with whom you can run business ideas past and who will keep you accountable to the goals you’ve set.
- If you’re going to start a new business in the new year, the time is now to lay the groundwork for that endeavor.
- Take time to lay out your hopes, dreams and goals for the upcoming year.
What will you do to make 2014 the best year ever for your business?