By Evan Vitale
As we’re just a week away from the end of the year and a fresh start to a new year, it’s hard not to look ahead and think “this year, it’s going to be different!”
Really? Will it be different – and better – for your business in 2017?
What will change in order for your business to grow? A new president? New foreign trade policies? A change in tax code on federal, state and local levels? In all seriousness, the BIG picture changes won’t happen overnight and probably won’t have a big impact on your business in the upcoming year.
Therefore, instead of waiting for someone else to “improve” your business, YOU need to take the necessary steps to forge ahead. Here are some suggestions that will help get the creative juices flowing for bigger and better improvements for your business in 2017:
- Improve your online presence. This includes updating your website; creating a blog and writing more fresh and helpful blog posts on a regular basis; get active – and more active – in social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, etc.
- Improve your current marketing techniques and update your marketing plans for 2017. There are probably a few things you can improve upon and some new things you can try during the upcoming year to generate more foot traffic and more sales.
- Hire a salesperson / marketing person to attend networking events on behalf of your company; make new contacts; and knock on a few doors to generate more enthusiasm for your business.
- Attend one or two industry trade shows. Not only will this help you learn more about your industry, but trade shows provide great networking opportunities for you and your business.
- Get more involved in your local community. Attend local or regional chamber meetings to get a better feel of what’s being done to help local businesses on a regional, national and international level.
- Volunteer some time with a local charity. Anything you can do will be greatly appreciated. Financial donations are also welcomed, but a warm body helping is good for everyone (especially you and your staff).
Above all in 2017, you really need to make an effort in stepping out of your comfort zone. That’s when things really start to happen for you and your business.
Here’s to a great 2017 for you and your company!