I reached out to some of my fellow business owners to get their tips on how to end the year strong. Take a few that are easy to implement and do them now. Here are the ideas…
Paige from Breezy Quarters
- My strategy is to use what I have on hand, make gift deals easy to understand and at low price point.
- Lots of good clear signs to help people show without having to ask too many questions.
- And customer service above all things – and during the holidays that means gift wrap!
Kellie from Blackstone Accounting
- There are a lot of scams going on right now. When in doubt ask a tax professional.
- Also, now is the time to start collecting W9s from anyone who will need a 1099 (anyone who was paid $600 or more for services).
- In addition, there’s a bunch of stuff from my Learning Center: https://www.blackstoneaccounting.com/blog.
Bet from Fresh Bet
First off, all readers get a 20% off your order with coupon code FB20. My tips:
- Bring seasonal items in earlier than you think because people shop early for the season.
- Don’t be afraid to mark down slow movers to free up inventory dollars.
- Treat everyone with personal care.
- A problem with an order requires a phone call and this so impresses the customer that often they become very loyal longtime customers.
Terry from Baked by Terry
My tip for ending this year Strong is … Give back to the Community who supports you. I do this throughout the year and especially during the Holidays by donating Gift Certificates for raffles and fund raisers. I also am donating some Cake boxes and Pie boxes for a local church dinner fund raiser. I support other local small businesses by donating cakes for grand openings. Now granted I would love to do more, but as a very small business there is limits. My tip is essentially… Give back!
Elian from High Impact Business
- Take a quick look at all your social media profiles, website and google listing. Is the info correct, do the links work, are your open hours correct?
- Plan to use the “shop small” and “support local” phrases a lot. With this crazy coronavirus year, we all need as much help as we can get.
- Be sensitive to those who might not feel comfortable shopping. Offer phone orders, delivery, and mailing services. Post in your social media and on your website about what you are doing to keep your shop clean and germ free.
- Offer gift certificates and promote them often.
Danielle from Bowtiful Blessings
The end of the year, is such a busy time for small business owners. We do so much more than the big box stores and never get near the recognition or admiration for what we actually accomplish. Don’t let that get you down! Enjoy your business, enjoy the holidays, enjoy seeing your business flourish right before eyes, because in the end of it all, you can say you did that. You made it happen.
Life will be crazy so plan accordingly. Have the family on board, prep a few meals (or get take out/delivery) so you can take a night off. Try not to burn oneself out because you want to enjoy the holidays as well, trust me.
Breathe, it’s ok to not get all you had imagined done. In all honesty, no one but yourself probably knows what you didn’t get done that you had hoped to and we beat ourselves up about that. Don’t do that. Take pride in all the work you do get done, and do your best – all while remembering that you are the reason the business is there and if you don’t take care of yourself, how will your business last?
Amid the blur of the last minute to do’s, the end of the year duties, the excitement of the holidays, and all else that pertains to owning your own small business, don’t lose sight of the big picture. While the end of the year can bring great sales and boost confidence (all good things), one must not lose sight of what the coming months hold – the slow season begins and sales begin to fall. Be sure to plan accordingly so that your business can thrive and survive during this down time.
The end of the year is a perfect time as well to evaluate where your business stands, what are some areas for improvement, and also future goals for the coming year. Make your goals specific, measurable, achievable, and relevant to your business.
Use the slow time in the coming months to rest, renew, and rejuvenate your business so that you can make your next year of business, your best one yet.
