2022 turned out to be a bit different than we expected and, in the end, it turned out pretty good – mostly!

Year-end is always a great time to think about what’s worked for you and what hasn’t. So much has changed in our industry as a whole, but since you are an entrepreneur, thinking about and planning for the year ahead is always timely.

Remember, if you keep doing what you’ve always been doing, you’ll keep getting the same results. Switch things up a bit, and you’ll get different results.

Here are a few ideas – in no particular order – to help you prepare for 2023. Some will take you just a few minutes and some will make you think. That’s intentional!

Client Lists

• Verify mailing and email addresses with clients
• Identify your top 20 clients and reach out to them directly – just to say hello and, of course, thank you

Website

• Do you have your own site?
• If yes, consider how often you look at it. It should be weekly at minimum to keep the info fresh and relevant.
• Does it reflect what you do best? And does it have your contact information? (Yes, really, I’ve seen some that don’t!)
• Don’t forget to ensure the link to your site is in your email signature.

Social Media

• Are you active on social media? If not, consider it. There are many resources to help you get started.
• If you are active, what topics gave you most traction? What gave you the least? Take a moment to come up with new (weekly? Monthly?) topics for next year and plan ahead.

Marketing

• Is your client list current, including personal email and snail mail addresses? It’s important to take some time each month, if not each week, to maintain your list. It is your most precious resource.
• Do you have thoughts on adding more clients and how you’re going to go about it? Are there any opportunities for grassroots marketing and networking that you haven’t taken advantage of?

Numbers

• Fees: evaluate your fee structure and make changes for 2023. One thing is certain – you have proven your worth over the last couple of years! And don’t be shy about raising your fees!
• Plan how you are going to switch from non-preferred to preferred, higher-commission partners. Rehearse switch-selling.
• Which clients are your best clients? Are you asking for referrals? Well over 50% of new clients come from referrals. Are you thanking those clients who give you referrals?
• Think about which clients are wasting your time (i.e. your money). Do you want to “fire” them? Don’t be afraid to let them go!

Most importantly, if you’re going to take the time to make a plan, be sure to make yourself accountable. You can share your plan with a colleague and schedule check-ins (even if it’s with yourself).

Do you have any additional ideas you want to share? Let me know! You can find me at jgoldman@dt.com.