Looking back on 2011, I’m sure we are all reminded of the goals we meant to accomplish last year. Instead of letting this deter you for 2012, let it inspire you!
Some things that may have been on your goal sheet:
• Consistent marketing plan
• Building a presence on social media sites
• Create more organized business systems
• Find ways to reduce spending while still maintaining sales
• Update website more often
• Stay in contact with past clients
• Get an email newsletter going
I could go on. The reality is…these are hefty goals for a small business to handle on their own, all in one year. Most small business owners are the sales department, marketing department, accountant, social media guru, and web designer. However, there are only so many hours in the day, and just ‘running the business’ takes up most of them.
This year be a little easier on yourself. The above list is too overwhelming. Pick ONE or TWO items off that list and focus solely on them. Once they are complete, then you can move on to others. Think quality over quantity.
My recommendation: Look first at your budget from last year. What were you spending money on that worked? Failed? Didn’t even use? Trim back as much as you can, then apply the difference to your chosen area(s) of focus. Whether that means hiring a company to help, buying a nicer system to speed up processing, or testing out a completely new service.
As small business owners we need to learn from our mistakes. Looking back over our budget can sometimes be the best teacher. Be sure not to waste those important lessons. Whether you realize it or not, you spent a lot of money on them.
Wishing everyone a prosperous and efficient 2012!
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