To-Do List to Grow Your Business

Counselor Magazine introduced its 2011 to-do list on how to help grow your business. Check it out and see if you're doing all you can to compete in this tough market:

• Client Connections
  • Improve customer service by asking customer what they like or don't like, conducting surveys and routinely following up.
  • Don't be afraid to let bad customers go. Customers that take up more of the company's time than the revenue them bring in are not worth that time. Dismiss them without burning bridges.
  • Start a referral program for networking opportunity. These types of programs also offer incentives and a personal touch for your clients.
  • Host an open house to bring in current and potential clients. This is a great opportunity to offer promotional products to remind them of your business.

    

• Internal Operations
  • Depending on your business and your clients, it's a good idea to have at least one multilingual staff member.
  • Create a financial cushion. Try to keep enough money set aside for your business to run a whole year without making money, so if the worst were to happen, you would be prepared.
  • Initiate a sales incentive program to add energy to the sales team and improve business.

• Marketing
  • Come up with your elevator pitch and perfect it. Be able to connect with your audience in thirty seconds or less.

    

  • Speak at a networking event to boost you company's visibility and portray you as an expert in your field.
  • Exhibit at both industry and non-industry trade shows with unique and eye-catching trade show supplies.
  • Distribute an email newsletter to help customer retention and create a resource for your customers.

• Technology
  • Make new connections on Facebook and other social media outlets through tactics such as games, contests, and prizes.
  • Create a mobile app to show your customers that you are up with the latest technology.
  • Revamp your website with fresh content. Create eye-catching designs, quality copy and easy navigation.
  • Target your audience with search engine optimization and marketing.