Now is the time to start planning for 2012. It is not that far away and this is a good time to start thinking about what you want to continue or discontinue in 2012.
Some things you want to consider:
- Revenue goals- start thinking about what is working well for you and what is not. Look at how you want to continue what is working well into 2012. Decide what you would like your revenue goals to be in 2012 and what you need to do to make that happen. Start crafting your business plan today- you probably will not complete it today but start seriously thinking about how you want the business to move forward.
- Are you going to raise your rates at the beginning of the year? You need to prepare your customers and should start doing that in late November. If you need to update marketing materials and you website schedule the time to do that now. Keep in mind Nov/Dec are busy months for everyone. Scheduling time with you web master and marketing folks will help ensure a coordinated release of new pricing and that you have the right materials when you meet with that prospect on January 2.
- Are you going to continue programs/classes you are currently holding? If they are working well and you enjoy doing them it is a great idea to continue. Take a look at the 2012 calendar and decide when/where you want to hold the classes.
- Are you going to discontinue programs/classes you are currently holding? If you are you can always schedule a ‘last time ever’ promotion. You may pull in those folks that have been putting it off and put some extra revenue into your pocket as you leave 2011.
- Do you want to create new classes? You have 5 months, put it off and it will suddenly be Dec. 30 and the class(es) will not be created. Put time on your calendar now to devote to creativity. Set a goal to have the class ready to roll out on a certain date. Remember you have to plan time for marketing, beta test, revising content before the class goes live.
- Do you want to create new product? Follow a similar process to creating a new class. There are other things to consider and build into your timeline- packaging creation, setting up an affiliate program, do you want other companies/venues to offer your product for sale, getting reviews from respected individuals… Plan all of that into your schedule.
- Do you want to discontinue product that is not selling well? Don’t just toss those left over CD’s into a corner. Have a sale! If the content is still relevant have a fire sale and sell as many of those CD’s/books etc. as you can before you release the new product. Consider using these products as giveaways during speeches, for great referral partners or for great clients.
Do your products make good holiday gifts? Consider putting together packages to encourage gift giving. Put time on you calendar to complete the packaging, marketing etc. or you may find the holiday season is upon you and you missed the window of opportunity.
Start planning today to meet your goals in 2012.
