If you are a CEO of a software, service or subscription-based business, it has been proven that Q1 is the most important quarter to enable you to reach your annual goals. So why not come up with your winning game plan now? Here is a road map for you:
Look at your metrics and your financials – like revenue, profit, customer retention, new customer wins, associate retention, etc. What sticks out to you? Based on your key metrics and results, what are the top 2 programs that are working for your company? Can we continue building success in the coming year – what are the keys? Then, name the top 2 programs that are NOT working for your company? What do we do to change the curve in the coming year?
“A great accomplishment shouldn’t be the end of the road, just the starting point for the next leap forward.”
Harvey Mackay
For most B2B companies, the end of November and the end of December, are difficult in terms of lead generation. Save that for Q1. I will have a post for you in January with some marketing ideas. If we want a great start in Q1, we will have to be successful with what is already in our sales pipeline. For now, focus on sales – and winning what is in your pipeline already.
Losing any of your key people could derail your goals, so put some thought on plans you could launch proactively on associate work/life balance, flexible schedules and advancement opportunities. This will help with both existing associates and new potential hires. We had a candidate interview for one of my client’s open positions last month – and the candidate said the main reason he wanted to interview with us – is because our job description said that ‘we are committed to building a team environment and respectable workplace’.
Several of the companies I work with have implemented and amplified their social impact programs in their companies. Customers and associates increasingly have strong beliefs about being with companies who have a strong social focus, who want to be an active part of their community. Volunteerism, social impact investing, donation programs, inclusive policies, and environmental focus – are ways to demonstrate social impact, but there are many more. These programs will make your associates feel good, help you with hiring, give back to the community, increase brand awareness and have a direct impact on the bottom line.
You probably have a list of new products and services that you have wanted to launch in the past few years, but never go to it. Let’s pick one specific new program that you like, assign a leader to drive it, and let’s get it launched in the coming year! Yes, it will take some time, but the payoff could be significant for you. We should be conservative and realistic in our projections, but let’s be bold and get something out there that is new for you. I guarantee your customers and your associates will love to see you investing in these new areas of growth.
“What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.”
Ven Mclellan
The bottom line is this: Businesses that succeed in the coming year are planning for it right now. They know what they want to do differently, and they know what they want to focus on. If you can get your team together and make these 5 focus areas a priority for your business, you can ignite growth and company morale – and take your company all the way to the top!
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No matter your past disappointments or your current challenges – we have the energy, processes and proven tools to help you build the business you’re dreaming of. Let’s connect!
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