When the calendar ticks over to January 1, there is that sense of a fresh start that no other time of the year can muster. Taking this feeling - and channelling it into your small business - can be crucial in efforts to better prepare for the 12 months to come.
With that in mind, here are three new year's resolutions that should be a top priority for your company:
Learn more about your customer base
The new year can be the most opportune time to survey your customers and gain better insight into what they want from you. Of course, this should be tackled delicately, as no one likes being forced to submit feedback or being bombarded with emails asking their opinion.
However, if it's done well, customer feedback at the start of the year can help your business better tailor its services for the months to come.
Update your technology
Using outdated systems and software is only viable for so long. If any technology you use hasn't been kept in prime condition over the previous 12 months, the start of the year can be when your small business gets back to the cutting edge.
Using outdated tech is likely to slow down your overall processes. For example, if you want to get the best out of CashManager from Accomplish, making sure your computer is up to scratch will allow it -and any other small business software you use - to run as smoothly as possible.
Evaluate staff
A small business which doesn't have the most streamlined workforce can waste a considerable amount of money. The new year is the best time to check staff productivity and see how it matches up with the effectiveness of the company.
Whilst those difficult conversations are never pleasant, keeping someone on board who could cost - rather than make - your business money is no good for either party. Furthermore, prolonging the process will only let sentimentality creep in, and effect how you judge the best interests of the company.