5 year-end business tips

Here are a few year-end tasks that will improve your business in 2013.

1. Create a business plan.

You won’t have time to focus on this in the new year, so you’ll fall into old routines. Set targets, quarterly, monthly and even weekly objectives. Hold yourself and your team accountable by re-visiting these objectives and the status of completion in your meetings throughout the year.

Read: Canadians expect year-end bonus

2. Create a marketing plan.

Outline the strategies and tactics you’ll use to generate revenues in three areas: Clients, Prospects and Centres of Influence. And not all marketing strategies are expensive. A marketing tactic can even be a plan to keep regular contact with these connections so you remain top of mind.

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3. Forecast the next 12 months.

Estimate next year’s revenues, asset growth, insurance policies placed and profitability. Revisit these objectives throughout the year so there aren’t any surprises.

Read: Measure your business progress

4. Plan your 2013 holidays.

Blocking off time in advance for the year ensures guaranteed rests – and makes you work harder on the days prior to your planned holidays. You need a mental rest to help you and your business success.

Read: 7 steps to smarter holiday spending

5. Share your plans.

Find someone to act as your accountability partner. Communicate regularly with this person over the next 12 months. It can be helpful to have an outsider’s opinion on your business.

Jordan Rosenberg, B.A., is a coach with The Personal Coach in Toronto.