We’ve made it to the end of the year! Now it’s finally time to sit and reflect on how to tackle this upcoming year and make some new resolutions for our businesses. Here’s a list of things to consider when hopping into the new year.

Reflect and conquer

One of the most important things you can do to ensure future success is to create SMART goals for yourself and your business. These are “Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-based” goals that are realistic and manageable. Create specific goals (whether it be percentage increases in certain areas or a personal number you want to reach for your business) and a deadline to achieve it to keep your business on track. Revising any previous goals or plans are also important in measuring your progress and planning for the future.

Celebrate new beginnings

An online presence is essential to business success in the 21st century. In 2019, 97% of customers searched online to find a local business (Source: Hubspot) and used it as their primary source to find local shops to visit. Prioritizing the launch of a website could play a large role in bringing more traffic to your shop and getting your brand seen. Consider adding information about your business’ history and background and all contact information to intrigue potential customers and encourage them to visit your business.

Adding a blog to your website is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and therefore bring more traffic to your site. Blog posts allow for connecting with potential customers through the sharing of valuable information and also positions you as a knowledgeable leader in your sector. Find the publishing pace you’re comfortable with and add a blogging section directly to your business website to increase your chances of success.

Out with the old, in with the new

If you already have a website launched, consider revamping it for the upcoming year. Whether it be to redesign the aesthetics or to add new components, it’s important to have a website you’re proud of due to its impact on customer attraction. Make sure all of your information is also up to date, especially any contact information or important FAQs.

Another aspect to consider redesigning is your physical store. Now that it’s a new year with new beginnings, consider adding fitting decorations or changing your window display to reflect your business’ hopes and wishes for the upcoming year. You could also change your banners and signs to help celebrate or to advertise your brand and any sales you may be having. These will be the most effective tactics in drawing in new and returning customers from the streets.

Wish your customers a happy new year

A business wouldn’t survive without its customers, so be sure to express thanks for your business’ success over the past year. This can be with postcards through a mailing list or emails through a subscription list, or even by adding a thank you message to a banner on your website. Another idea is to post a sign in your store that returning customers and employees can see.

Here’s a list of new year greetings you can send to your customers, employees, and team for helping keep your business a success.

Sources:

• https://www.hubspot.com/marketing-statistics
• https://smallbiztrends.com/2019/12/new-year-greetings-for-business.html
• DreamHost