So the kids are back to school. Now what? It’s the perfect time to take charge of your business and ensure your best possible end to 2018!
You’ve taken some time to relax over the summer (hopefully), and you’re returning to work with a clear head and a focus on growing your business.
Setting a plan in motion for how you’re going to communicate with past, present and future clients and referral partners for the rest of the year will help keep you on track. This is your step-by-step schedule detailing what you’re going to discuss and how for the next quarter or so.
Of course, it’s great to have an annual plan ready to take you into the New Year, but starting by time blocking communications over the next quarter is more manageable, especially if this is your first communications plan. It doesn’t have to be set in stone, but a goal without a plan is just a wish, right?!
Start by writing down some topics that have proven popular for you when communicating to your target audience in the past.
Three must-have communications methods to include in your plan:
1. Social media posts – at least three times per week on three platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram will cover your bases)
2. Blogs – at least monthly to continually build your expert status
3. Database emails – at least monthly to your clients as well as key referral partners
Consistency is key. It truly is what you do day in and day out that will have the greatest positive impact on your business.
Try something new
It’s also important to step outside your comfort zone and try new things with your plan, such as starting a podcast/video blog, creating a new marketing postcard/flyer, or even targeting a new market you haven’t set out to conquer before.
If you don’t have a plan, it’s difficult to ensure all your bases are covered. And revisiting that plan every quarter is essential to ensuring your efforts are paying off. And, if not, this enables you to quickly change course so you’re always getting the best bang for your marketing dollars.
And if planning and writing aren’t your strong suits, you can always enlist the services of an expert who can help ensure you’re on the right track. Answers to your questions are just a call or email away!