2020 is almost history, and most of us are saying, thank God! It has been a tough year for many, and the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically affected many businesses. Despite the challenges, many of you have persevered and continued to serve your clients, finding new and innovative ways to communicate, such as Zoom.
While my business had its best year ever, things began slowing down a few months ago and look to continue that way into January. But several new clients are coming on board to replace those who have postponed their projects. Tragically, one prospective client died just days before Christmas.
With a new year on the horizon, it’s time to look ahead and think about what you would like to accomplish in your business and set some goals. Perhaps you would like to reach a specific financial figure in 2021 or step up your service level to existing clients. Consider expanding the services or product line you offer clients and prospects or get to know their wants and needs at a deeper level. Vow to go the extra mile because people value good service over just about anything else. I was reminded of this truth while Christmas shopping a few weeks ago.
I encountered two situations that made me stop and think about how we conduct business. First, I stopped at a beauty supply store/salon to pick up some products for my wife. The shop was closed in the middle of a weekday morning. During the height of the Christmas shopping season. Hmm, I thought, as I read the “by appointment only” sign. They just lost out on a sale, I thought to myself.
The second stop was a massage/spa facility, where I planned to buy a gift certificate. The doors were locked with the lights off. There was no sign in the window and no one at the front desk. It could be the only person working was with a client, so they locked the doors, but how would someone know that? Again, during the middle of the day. One week before
Christmas. Well, they just lost a couple of hundred dollars in sales, I mused.
Driving away, it struck me that these small businesses collectively lost several hundred dollars’ worth of business. All because they were not open during the height of the Christmas shopping season. From just me, not to mention others who may have also stopped by and had the same experience I did.
But here is the takeaway. How much business do you and I lose when we fail to return a phone call, answer an email, or reach out to a new prospect? Take the lesson I learned from encountering two closed businesses and apply it to your business. Look for those missed opportunities, and don’t let them pass you by.
I challenge you as we wind down 2020 to re-examine your commitment to your customers and clients and ask yourself, “what can I do in this new year to step up my game?” For some of you who saw COVID-19 wreak havoc on your business, you may have to become even more innovative to get off to a good start in 2021, as the pandemic begins to wane. You may have to continue redefining your new normal for your business until things get back to normal. I am optimistic that 2021 will be a great year, so let’s jump in feet first!
Dave Ficere is an Author, Editor, and Ghostwriter with over 30 years of experience in broadcasting and writing. When Dave is not writing and editing manuscripts for clients, you can typically find him narrating and producing audiobooks.
“Bringing Your Story to Life” is more than just a tagline at Ficere Writing Solutions. We provide clients with top-notch writing, editing, and audiobook services to get your book or audiobook ready to publish. Our portfolio of services includes: Ghostwriting books, editing book manuscripts, and narration and production of audiobooks.
To learn more about how Ficere Writing Solutions can help you and your business, click HERE.
#business #opportunies #Goals #COVID19 #2021
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