As a business owner, to say you’re busy, is an understatement…your business is your life. From managing employees, to maintaining quality products and services to meeting your Customers’ needs, it’s a lot. We’ve pulled together five tips to keep in mind in 2018. It’s about taking the time to evaluate, prioritize and delegate for the year and beyond.
1. Set realistic goals. The beginning of the year is a perfect time to set your sights on what you would like your business to achieve in the year ahead. While, it’s important to challenge your business, it’s also important to set realistic and attainable goals. “S.M.A.R.T.” goals stands for: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely. There are many free templates and guides online to assist you in getting your business goals on paper. Just search “SMART goals” and you’ll be able to find a tool that is most helpful and applicable for your business.
2. Look for opportunities to delegate. There are only so many hours in a day and so many days in a week. This year, make it a point to delegate work and responsibilities to your employees. Additional communication and direction upfront may be necessary, but it can free up time for other important business priorities in the future. Additionally, employees will appreciate the additional responsibility and trust you’re putting in them.
3. Expand your digital reach. Digital should be included in your marketing strategy. From updating your site and making sure it’s mobile friendly, to connecting with your Customers and followers on social media, it’s important to weave digital engagement into your overall strategy. If you’re new to social media, specifically, Facebook®, they have marketing tools and a tutorial, Blueprint, to help you get started. The tutorial will take you through the basics of building your social presence.
4. Make connections. We’ve all heard it—network, network, network. From networking with other small business leaders to networking with new clients or Customers, this could be a full-time job in and of itself. Besides learning what others in your community are doing, there’s an opportunity to gain insight from other business leaders and develop relationships with them.
5. Consult your ERIE agent. Whether you’re growing your home business or expanding to a second location, it’s important to make sure you have the right coverage to fit the needs of your business (employees included). Set up some time to talk to your local Erie Insurance Agent soon.
