If January is a slow month for your business then it is a great opportunity to put some structures/processes in place to increase efficiency. Psychologically it is a new beginning and therefore should be taken full advantage of.

 

Here are a few tips.

 

1. Tidy up any loose ends from last year and archive/dispose of all unnecessary files, emails, paperwork etc. i.e. don’t let 2010 linger over 2011.

 

 

2. Review what worked well last year including lessons learned and use this as input to your plan for 2011.

 

 

3. Review and list last year’s best customers and remind them of your existence and the fact that you would be more than happy to discuss their needs for 2011.

 

 

4. Time is your best asset so use it wisely. Simply ask yourself, is this task bringing me closer to my goals? (Yes, document some goals).

 

 

5. Consider/research some hardware (e.g. iPad) or software (e.g. Mind Map) that will increase efficiency.

 

 

6. Review your online portfolio e.g. Website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn etc. Do they need improving? Assign time every week to this portfolio and monitor its success.

 

 

7. Attend at least one big and 3 small networking events.

 

 

8. Subscribe to some new blogs with Google Reader to develop your knowledge and skills.

 

 

9. Review your current fitness level and diet and improve if necessary.

 

 

10. Review your training plan and take at least one course in 2011.

 

In summary, take full advantage of the fresh start a new year brings.