By Amanda Bala

2013… another year is here. The question is, are you ready for it? We all know that people make resolutions each year (many of which are broken by the end of January). But what about from a business standpoint? What resolutions can you make as a business owner that will help you to grow and prosper in this New Year? In addition, how can you keep those resolutions achievable so you are not one of the many that fall victim to breaking their resolve before the month is even up?

First of all, keep it simple. Set goals that are attainable. Next, write your resolutions down and keep them some place where you can look at them often. By doing this, you will constantly be reminded of what it is you want to achieve. Finally, share your goals with others. Whether it is staff, friends or family, by letting others in on what you are doing, it holds you accountable to keep going.

When figuring out exactly what resolutions to set for the year, it is good to reflect back on the previous year. How was 2012 for your business? What things happened, both positive and negative? Did you accomplish all that you wanted to?  If not, what happened that stopped you? Use all of this information to set your new goals for 2013.

What kind of resolutions should you make? Well, that is obviously dependent on your business. However, here are three good resolutions that can be used by just about any business owner.

Build your business. Let’s get right to it. It is now or never. Get those numbers that you want down on paper. If you are looking to gain X number of clients, write it down. If you are looking to do X amount of sales, write that down as well. Be realistic, but also push yourself a bit so that you work hard to achieve your goals.

Spend and waste less. Look at your business and find ways in which you can reduce waste and lost energy. By reducing the amount of paper you use and turning off unused equipment and unessential lights, you will be surprised at the amount of money and energy you can save.

Be a better communicator. When dealing with clients and staff, it is always amusing how much can get lost in an email. Even if the email is received, it is not always taken the way it is intended. Be sure to follow up with a phone call or additional email if you have not heard back about your inquiry in a timely manner. In addition, don’t rely solely on email. Sometimes we get lost in all the technology that is available to us. However, when something is really important, take the time to sit down and discuss it, face to face.

So, there you have it. Don’t be afraid to push yourself. This is your life… your business. Get out there and make it happen this year! Happy 2013!

By Amanda Bala

Does the upcoming year fill you with anticipation of productivity and motivate you to achieve your best business year yet?  Or does it fill you with an overwhelming sense of dread and worry about how you will accomplish all that you desire for your company?  Hopefully, it is the first, but if not, then this is the article for you.  We aim to help you with a few simple ideas that can help you to a better, brighter 2012!

As with any new beginning, one of the most important things you can do is to set a list of goals for your company.  Make sure that the goals are attainable, yet challenging.  You do not want to set impossible goals that you have no way of obtaining.  However, you do not want the goals to be so easy that you will achieve them all by February.  These should be long term ideas that will keep your actively working to achieve them throughout the year.

During this upcoming year be sure to reach out to your existing clients.  Show them how special and important they are.  Maybe try and create an exclusive offer just for them.  Remember that they are the reason why your company is where it is.  If not for their business, you would not have yours.

Figure out your best time of day.  Every person has a time when they are focused and not as easily distracted.  This is the time when you will be the most productive.  Try and use this time to your advantage.  Work these hours, if you can, and it will save you time.  You will find yourself getting more accomplished and wasting less time.  As we all know, time equals money.

Try to avoid continuously checking your email and voicemail throughout the day.  On a normal day, it is more time effective to pick a couple of times to check your email and voicemail and reply to all of the messages at one time.  Again, your time is valuable.  Do not waste it.

One of the toughest things about having your own business is knowing when enough is enough. Do not spread yourself too thin.  Say no if you are too busy.  Though the better alternative is too seek out help.  Hire someone to assist you with smaller tasks or areas that you may not be an expert in.  If you’re spread to thin your work and business will suffer.

The New Year should hold the hope and promise of a great year for your company.  Manage your time, set your goals, and work to achieve them and you will have your best year yet!  Happy New Year from Delicious Marketing!