As 2016 begins, many people are working on creating New Year’s resolutions for themselves in order to better their lives. Why not make some resolutions for your business? There are simple steps you can take throughout the year to make a big impact on the success and efficiency of your company. Here are some examples of goals you can put in place:
Get Networking
Make it a goal to get your company and yourself more exposure in your field through different types of networking. Online networking using sites such as LinkedIn is a great place to start. Target groups within your industry and groups that may have potential customers. Research other websites for your field that are more specific to your core audience. And don’t be afraid to come out from behind the computer screen! In-person events, from trade shows to conferences, offer great opportunities to mingle with others. Every conversation with a new person is a possibility for networking, so put yourself out there!
Modernize your Communication Plan
While it is easy to get stuck in your ways when it comes to different business methods, communication technology is one you should work to stay up-to-date with! With how quickly updates are made, falling behind in this technology means falling behind your competition. One of the most recognizable changes you can make to your communication system is adopting a VoIP phone system through a company like Nextiva. VoIP allows your phones to run through the internet, providing crystal-clear sound, along with special features like voicemail to email and unlimited calling to USA and Canada. The benefits of cloud-based communications continue to grow, and with Nextiva, you can make a smooth and quick transition to the system.
Give Back to the Community
The obvious benefit to a corporate volunteer program is being socially responsible and making a positive impact in the community. But that’s just the beginning! By encouraging employees to be involved, you can develop teamwork skills among the participants in a fun environment, where they do not feel the pressures of their paid jobs. Being socially responsible also attracts dedicated employees to your workplace; if people care enough to seek out companies that volunteer, they are likely to be just as caring with their work. Lastly, volunteerism improves corporate visibility. From sponsoring events to participating in holiday drives, it gets your company name in the public realm in a positive light.
Learn to Let Go
It can be difficult to let go of programs, services, or employees that are not pulling their weight, but it is beneficial to examine what tools are helping your company grow, and invest in them instead. Do some cost-benefit analysis on areas you have reason to believe are not providing the most output for the resources they require. While it can be emotionally straining to break partnerships or business relationships, in the end you need to put your company’s well-being first. Invest in things that increase output and efficiency, and cut those that do not.
Will you be setting any of these resolutions for 2016? The new year is a great time to set new goals and make progress in your personal life, as well as in your business. Be realistic and create a plan to improve efficiency and output in your company, starting with some of these ideas!
About the author:
Staci Matt graduated from the University of Richmond with a Bachelors of Arts in International Studies. She began working on her marketing career both full-time as well as freelance blogging. She recently transitioned to Nextiva to support the channel and event marketing team. In her spare time, she enjoys tennis, traveling and spending time with family and friends.