If you haven't already started the business planning process for
2012, don't panic! There's still plenty of time. Taking time out to
review your progress and plans is always a good investment - just
follow our 5 essential tips to get your year off to the best
possible start.
1. Involve Everyone
Involve all your team in the first stages of the business
planning process. Those on the front line - delivering customer
service, processing orders, handling your accounts - have valuable
first-hand experience and their ideas can really make a difference
to your bottom line. Not only this, but involving your team helps
them feel engaged, motivated and committed to your ongoing
success.
2. Keep an Open Mind
How often do you find yourself thinking "That won't work for us"
or "nice idea - I just don't have the time"? It's all too easy to
dismiss ideas as being irrelevant or impossible for your business,
especially if you're going through the planning process for the
umpteenth time. But to be truly successful in the 21st century,
innovation is key. See what ideas you can borrow and adapt from
successful companies outside of your industry, and be open to new
ideas.
3. Look for Ways to Go the Extra Mile
Sometimes, surviving tough economic circumstances means going
the extra mile. Loyal staff and loyal customers are two things
you're going to need in 2012, so what can you do to step things up
a gear? Look for ways to surprise and delight those closest to your
company - and don't think that always means spending more.
Something as simple as a personal email or phone call can make a
real difference, and could help you through hard times.
4. Take a Fresh Look at your Competitors
Reviewing the competitive landscape is one thing that you should
definitely be doing as part of your business plan for 2012. But are
you using an outdated list? It's easy to think you're keeping a
close eye on your competitors, but remember that business models
shift. Don't just look at companies who offer the same products and
services as you, think about it from your customers' perspective.
What alternatives do they have when deciding where to spend their
money, if they want the same result?
5. Review your Skills
When was the last time you undertook a skills audit? Gaps in
skills and understanding can mean missed opportunities - especially
in the fast-moving world of online business. Use the MyReloop
survey tool to assess the skills and experience in your
organization, then use your profile as a basis to fill gaps. This
needn't mean expensive courses - something as simple as a few
in-house training sessions delivered by internal champions can work
wonders in a short space of time.
Do you have any tips of your own to add? We'd love to hear them
if so - what has worked for you? Let us know by leaving a comment
below.
