We’re on the cusp of a new year, staring back at the triumphs (and hiccups) of 2018 while looking forward to the clean slate 2019 has on offer. It’s a time of merriment, reflection and anticipation, a time when we vow to do better and be better in the coming year.
Most of us will make a resolution or two — exercise more, eat less, stop blowing our snow into the neighbor’s driveway. (Sorry, Frank!) But while you’re making your personal pledges, don’t forget to set some resolutions for your small business, too.
Here are a few to get you started.
Explore Lesser-Known Social Media Platforms
The world of social media doesn’t begin and end with Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. From Quora to Reddit to MySpace (yes, really!) and beyond, there are plenty of established and up-and-coming social media platforms that might be right for your small business.
In 2019, take a few lesser known platforms for a test drive. You may be able to tap into an entirely new customer base!
Give Print Media a Shot
While it’s true that newspaper readership has declined significantly in recent years, print media as a whole is alive and well.
Advertising in niche publications such as industry-centric magazines and trade journals makes it simple for you to connect with an audience that is already searching for your products and services. You’ll also stay top of mind for longer, appear more credible and have the freedom to create ads that really “pop!”
Make Professional Development a Priority
No matter how good you are at what you do, there’s always room for improvement. Prioritizing professional development helps you stay on the cutting edge of your industry and several steps above your competition.
Whether you register for a web-based course, find a mentor or take your seat in a traditional classroom at your local community college, set aside a few hours a month to help yourself become a better small business owner.
Improve Your Customer Relationships
Your customers are the lifeblood of your small business. Without them, you’re just another clever name in a business directory. So don’t you think it’s time to show them the love they deserve?
In 2019, make a resolution to improve your customer relationships. Take the initiative to read and respond to their reviews and recommendations, be more accessible, and give your patrons the royal treatment. When you can foster a connection, they’ll keep coming back — and they may even bring their friends!
Boost Employee Morale
If you’re lucky enough to have a team of employees helping you do what you do each and every day, you know how important they are to your small business. But do they? Sometimes, even the best business owners get busy and forget to take the time to appreciate those who helped them get to where they are.
Whether your employees are low on morale (and high on stress) after the busy holiday season or still whistling while they work, make sure you’re regularly rewarding them for a job well done, treating them with kindness and being the boss you’d want to have if you were in their shoes.
Here’s to a Fantastic 2019!
There’s nothing like a fresh new year to make us feel like anything is possible. The potential is almost palpable. Set your small business resolutions now and regularly check in with yourself to make sure you’re staying on track. Whatever you do, vow to be great in 2019!
There’s no time like the present to start thinking about the future — get in touch with Mischa Communications now and let’s start making plans for 2019 and beyond!