2021 was another challenging year for individuals, families and for businesses.
Just as it felt like we had taken big strides forward, it now feels as though we have slipped backwards once more. However, it is really important for all of us, whether personally or from a business perspective, to take stock and focus on the future and the positives.
A New Year is often a time when people reflect on the past year, and look forward with optimism and reflect on the the opportunities that a fresh start can bring. This is perhaps even more important than last year!
So business owners, take stock and assess your plans for 2022. Perhaps it is time to look forward with an optimistic mind set with the goal to finding and seizing the opportunities that will start to present themselves as the country and economy start to move back to some normality (at some point!)
Here are a few questions or issues to mull over:
1 – Our clients told us that lockdown was an opportunity (even if forced on them) to look at their business and identify waste and inefficiency that they had not had time to do before. What are the areas of your business that are chipping away at profits, or slowly undermining customer service etc?
2 – It seems that the biggest challenge for many businesses right now is the retention and recruitment of good people. There really is a ‘war for talent’ going on in most markets. How can you make your employment offer more compelling? Extra perks, flexitime, bonus schemes, less hours or more holiday? Do you have a great culture where team members really feel a part of something that is achieving great things?
3 – Many businesses are looking to grow as a way to recover from the last 2 years. But ‘more of the same’ growth isn’t always a good thing. Our mantra is “get better, not bigger”. How can you improve what you do? New products? Improved service? A clearer focus on who your best team/clients and suppliers are?
4 – For many, the reinvention of their business to serve clients online, work from home, or find new ways to operate, meant that they invested in new technology. What new technology could you use to revolutionise your business?
Our key message to you for the New Year is to look forward with optimism. Plan for success and take time to make sure you and your team are fit for the challenges of 2022.
If we can help with any of this, please just pick up the phone call us on 01752 220979, email us at mail@markholt.co.uk or message us through our contact form here and let us know.