With all the articles on wrapping up the year, setting goals for next year, and the holidays around the corner, it can feel like 2013 has already ended.
Like many of you, I still have several things I want to accomplish before the year ends.
One of the questions I regularly get from busy entrepreneurs like you is “what can I do to hit my goals before the end of the year?”.
Whether it be hitting your sales goals, completing that project or injecting some cash into your bank account – it is possible. This is the time of year when I see folks start to slow down, assume everyone else is busy or decide to wait until next year.
Here is what I know to be true: what you accomplish in the next 6 weeks is going to be reflected in your bank balance next year AND getting them off your plate now will allow you to focus on 12 months of business growth, and more importantly, revenue in 2014, not 10 or 11 (which is what will happen if these uncompleted goals linger any longer).
I do have some tried and true business growth strategies that will help you finish 2013 with a bang and ensure you are poised to make 2014 the best year yet.
Here are three to get you started:
#1: Leverage the holidays to drive sales!
December and January are big sales months for business (if you let them be). Everyone is making and breaking resolutions (lose weight anyone?), making life-changing decisions (new house, new career, make more money) and they need your help to make it happen.
I hear you saying but Kim, everyone is so busy and people don’t want to spend money. Here’s the thing, helping your prospects make the decision and commitment NOW will enable them to go into the holidays with that weight off their shoulders knowing that when the New Year starts and the kids are back in school- you, your system, your product are there to support them in accomplishing their goals.
Think about how the holiday season plays into your business plan. What does your target market want more than anything else around this time of year? Speak to their desires and their pain, and help them achieve their goals.
#2: Cross a major project off your to-do list.
Carrying around unfinished projects weighs you down physically, mentally, and emotionally. Don’t let your to do list get in the way of serving the people you are meant to serve and being more profitable.
Pick one item from your to-do list and use the next 6 weeks to get it done. Here are some project ideas to consider:
– Create marketing calendar
– Launch (or relaunch) your website
– Set up your entity
– Create your product funnel
– Hire a virtual assistant
– Plan for 2014
– Create a new course or product
– Start your blog or newsletter
It can be anything. Just choose one project to complete within the 6 weeks and commit to getting it done. Crossing even one thing off your to-do list will reflect in your bank account next year (and make you feel awesome that is done and not nagging you anymore)!
#3: Express your gratitude to your clients.
The holidays are a great time to communicate your gratitude to your clients, colleagues and team members. Send a handwritten note to thank them for working with you and being in your life (sending chocolates or other goodies is a nice touch!).
Stand out from other business owners by eschewing a card featuring your company’s logo or your business card (they usually end up in the trash and make it about YOU when it really is about THEM) in favor of a more personalized card or note.
So, there you have it: 3 powerful action items that – if implemented correctly – will help you make December and January your most profitable months yet.
What strategies have you used to keep up the momentum during the holiday season? Please share them here.
Wonderful read. will check back often.