As one of the toughest years in recent memory draws to a close we are all looking forward to a little rest and relaxation and to spending some much valued time with our family and friends.
The lead into the holiday period also provides the ideal opportunity to reflect on the year past. It allows us to (or at least try to!) put some perspective around what we’ve done over the past 12 months, and to think a little about what we’d like to achieve in the year ahead.
While no one knows what changes 2009 will bring, the only thing for sure is that we will all be a year older! Rather than worrying about a host of things we cannot control, perhaps the more relevant question is, what are we going to do about it?
To make sure 2009 is a great year for you, here are a few suggestions to ponder over the festive period.
1. Critically review your progress over 2008. As tough as it has been, take the time to learn from what has happened (or perhaps what has not happened). Hold a planning day, involve your key people, go off site and “come to grips” with how your business is really going. You might like to consider asking an external professional (for example, a trusted PDM/BDM or a business coach/mentor) to facilitate this process.
2. Only after you have completed the step above can you develop your 2009 plan. Make sure you put it in writing (include what’s going to be done, by whom and by when) and communicate it to your staff and business network.
Also think about a few personal things you’d like to achieve next year and ensure you balance your business life with your personal one. Set some personal goals (committing to spending more time with your family, perhaps; getting fit; contributing to the broader community; reducing your golf handicap . . . whatever!). Surely you have earned this right?
Aim to have your 2009 plan completed by January 31 at the latest and give someone you respect the job of keeping you accountable to your plans.
3. Contact all of the people who have helped you during the year and thank them for their support. Include not only your staff, “A” class clients and alliance partners, but also your wider business network – the management teams from your dealer/licensee and product suppliers as well as your service providers.
You might even like to consider formally surveying your best clients to ensure you truly do understand how they are feeling and how you may be able to add even further value going forward.
And as an aside, a “Dear Valued Client” letter will no longer cut it – your clients expect (and in many cases demand) personalised and proactive communication.
4. While every client in your practice deserves to be treated fairly and with the utmost respect, not all clients deserve to be treated equally. Your “A” class clients must receive your “A” class service – after all, they’re paying for it!
Review your segmentation model and the services you offer your different categories of client and ensure your best clients are receiving your premier services.
5. Your people are one of the major assets of your practice. Great staff are extremely hard to find – make sure you’re looking after them. And money isn’t always the answer!
For your consideration and from all of us at Business Health, please accept our very best wishes for the festive season. Thank you for your support and help during 2008. We look forward to doing it all again next year!
