It’s 2015. Have you started your list of resolutions yet? Don’t worry; there’s still time. Whether your run your own business or are looking to beef up your career in the next 365 days, there’s no shortage of resolutions to keep your business on track.
We scoured the web for the best advice so you don’t have to.
Hit your mark with better marketing.
Whether you’re looking to enter into a new market or create more loyal clients through social media, there’s almost always something you can be doing to improve the visibility of your brand or company, says AllBusiness Experts. And, you can consult with marketing and other small business experts for free at the Denver Metro Small Business Development Center. Consider that one easy resolution to put into action.
Use technology to your advantage.
Just like marketing, you can use research about yourself to reach personal and professional goals. Fast Company has a great list of self-quantifying apps to help you do anything from getting fit to being more productive—and sticking to them. And while you’re downloading those apps, Women’s Business Development Center CEO Emilia DiMenco suggests you take stock of the tech and IT you use each day. If you’re finding a longer list than you thought, triage it based on what you need to make your goals a reality. Keeping your technology up-to-date will make you more efficient in the long run.
Stop focusing on the what.
Forbes contributor Ian Altman says as you dive into 2015, focus on articulating why your customers and your coworkers need your help—don’t just give them a list of everything you do.
Get some feedback.
Kevin Eikenberry, consultant and author of From Bud to Boss—Secrets to a Successful Transition to Remarkable Leadership, says just about everybody wants to improve at work. Give your team regular feedback and advice, or seek it out from your supervisor, to help everyone meet their goals—and make your business stronger and more effective in the process.
But here’s the thing we know about resolutions: They almost never work.
How can you buck the trend?
The Harvard Business Review has a full plan of attack. Namely, set realistic goals. Then, share them with your friends, family and colleagues so that you can get the support and encouragement to keep yourself accountable. Finally, benchmark and make sure you’re checking in on your progress.
And as you’re making that list of resolutions, follow Entrepreneur’s advice to avoid setting yourself up for disappointment.
What are your business resolutions for 2015? Share with us on Twitter, Facebook or in the comments.
Sara Crocker is the communications manager for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
[Photo by: mt 23]
