Start the Year off Right with These 5 Unconventional Approaches

Getting ready for 2024? Don’t just review last year’s results and set new goals! Try these unique approaches to start the year as well:

1. Say goodbye to problem clients: Not every client is worth keeping. Sometimes it’s best for both parties to part ways. Be willing to let go of clients who cost more to serve, are rude to your team, or would be better off with a competitor. By freeing up time and resources, you can focus on finding clients who appreciate your services and align with your business values. Eliminating difficult clients shows your team that you value them and boosts employee engagement and retention. Offering alternatives to clients who may have outgrown or no longer align with your services, shows them that you have their best interests at heart.

2. Invest in your team’s growth: Evaluate your team’s skills and ask them about their growth goals. Plan for and provide additional training and mentorship opportunities to help them develop professionally. Also, reevaluate your incentive plan and ask your employees what kind of recognition and rewards they value (it’s not always just about the money). Make sure you have plans in place to acknowledge and appreciate their hard work throughout the year.

3. Evaluate your community engagement: It is a wonderful time to consider how you want your business to show up in the community. Engaging in the community not only helps to strengthen your relationship with customers, but also positions your business as a social good. Active involvement in the community can take the form of sponsorships, volunteering, or donations, and not only does it enhance your business’s reputation, but it also fosters a sense of unity, respect, and trust. This type of engagement tends to resonate with customers and employees, increasing their loyalty and potentially attracting new clientele.

4. Purge and declutter: Start the year with a clean slate by getting rid of old emails, files, and paper clutter. This not only streamlines processes and increases efficiency but also brings mental clarity and reduces stress. A clutter-free workspace leads to a more productive year.

5. Plan your vacation in advance: Without intentionally scheduling time off, you’ll likely end up without a break at all. Set boundaries between work and personal life to prevent burnout. Planning vacations ahead of time gives you something to look forward to throughout the year. Communicate your vacation plans to your employees and clients and identify the measures that need to be in place to keep things running smoothly while you’re away. This allows you to step back and trust your team, creating a more efficient business overall.

As we enter a new year, take action to set yourself up for success. Which approach will you embrace?

Sharon Lewis AdviCoach