You did it! Congratulations on making it another year as a small business owner! As we head into 2022, now is a good time to reflect on your business' progress over 2021 and plan how you want it to move forward in 2022. Are you wanting increased success in the new year or more opportunities to enjoy the success you've achieved? Since 2022 adds up to six, here are six of my personal business New Year’s Resolutions for my small business owners!
1. I will attract clients vs. customers
If you find yourself looking at your schedule and dread some of the names that you see or don’t look forward to the experience you have with a certain customer or pet SPEAK UP! If the client is too irregular, if they fail to respect you and/or your policies/concerns, don’t feel pressured to service them. Kindly let them know that you all are not a good fit. 9/10 times they will shape up if they respect you or find someplace else to go. Think about who your target audience is and set expectations with potential customers before you book them. That way you can be proud of who you take on! Also, always know your worth!
2. I will make time for networking
Putting aside time to attend networking events is something that every business owner should do, but time/life constraints and workloads can make this difficult. However, many industry events provide a calendar in advance giving you the opportunity to block out a weekend in 2022! Events are filled with networking opportunities; educational classes and you can save A LOT of money stocking up on supplies in person! Also, expos are a great way to meet some of your favorite online friends in person! Trust me, an expo weekend is a GREAT excuse for a mini break and a great way to make lasting relationships! Save your tips or try to set aside a percentage of your income daily, is an easy way to save for an expo weekend.
3. I will find ways to give back
People always talk about networking on the business side, but we must build other networks too. You want your business to be instilled in a community that reflects your values. In 2022, consider mentoring someone else, volunteering your time for local organizations, or attend an event in your local community. Giving back can be an extremely fulfilling way to show your support and connect your business to real people who need your help! Local networking is great word of mouth, which is great for your business and personal reputation!
4. I will not emulate more established businesses
Sometimes it can be intimidating to know that there are more established business competing with yours: in your area and online. However, DON’T let this scare you away from establishing your own brand. Focus on how you can bring something new and different to your area/market aside from those businesses –don’t spread yourself thin by trying to compete with other brands. Focus on where you are and continue to provide something unique to your clientele.
5. I will leave 20% of my day open
One of the bonuses of owning your own business is that you get to set your own hours. But we all can be guilty of neglecting ourselves in the hours we set — sometimes we work late, have children and so many factors that cause us to overlook ourselves. In 2022, make sure to commit to keeping around one-fifth of your day open as often in the week as you can. Try to block out at least 20% of space on your calendar each day. This way, you can say yes to self-care, family nights, exercise, dinner dates, or simply time to decompress after work. Mark a few random days off or limit business on one day, a few times a month. Remember, Burnout is not good for you, your business, or your personal life. Setting boundaries, knowing when to take a break, and asking for help are all great ways to beat burnout and practice self-care!
6. I will think long-term
Remember when Covid hit? Some of our businesses were deemed “non-essential” and we were forced to close. We spent time trying to get appeals and waivers to stay open, fearing what will happen next. Or, what if you suddenly get injured? Would you be faced with not being able to take time off to heal properly? Think outside of 2022! Write out what you’d like to see your business and personal life to become. Plan to save, budget and be prepared for emergencies! Include both personal and professional goals. Think about what you can do take to make those goals and dreams reality.
I know it can be hard to stick to your resolutions, but with these actionable and measurable goals, it’s not so bad! If trying all six gives you too much pressure, at least try to choose and try three of these resolutions. You then will be fostering the attention and care that both you and your business deserve in 2022! Happy Everything!
-Juanita
Juanita is the owner of Grooming by Juanita; a cage free, one on one salon located in Pennsylvania. Juanita has been in the Pet Industry since 2011 after a lengthy background in Marketing and Sales. She adores all dogs (no matter how large or small) and takes pride in giving quality grooming every one of them with a loving and caring approach. During her career, Juanita learned with hands-on training under seasoned groomers as well as from time in corporate training in New York City. She also studies media and marketing in her spare time. Juanita stays up to date with grooming trends, products, and technology by continuing education, creating content as well as networking with other groomers worldwide. She takes great pride in her work and is a ‘quality over quantity’ groomer. She believes a big part of being a professional groomer is knowing your clients and dogs; that can help us all build successful and consistent businesses. Juanita is a believer that there is always something new to learn!