Small Business New Year Preparations

Only a few days before the new year is here!!!! Following are a few ideas, tips to help you prep for 2019: 

Get Organized:

• Create New "Paperwork" Folders - Whether creating folders for hard copies, and/or folders on your computer, create your 2019 folders to start the new year. Identify general categories such as; Finances; Advertising; New Products/Services; etc. Creating these folders will keep you organized in the new year. 
• Holiday Clean-Up - Schedule a few minutes each day to file documents, emails, and complete other tasks to clean up your desk and your desktop. Workspaces are another area to focus on. Organizing equipment, tools, and supplies will reduce the time required to complete tasks in the new year.

Create a schedule:

• Say no to procrastination - There's a lot to do, but putting off even the simplest of tasks only creates more work in the new year. Get those 2018 receipts together, clean up workspaces and prepare for the new year. Encourage employees to do the same so everyone can return from the holidays with a renewed energy. 
• Set deadlines to complete year end work - Setting a deadline to complete your year end tasks will keep you motivated to complete the work. Setting the deadline before the holidays will ease your stress when at home with friends and family during the holiday season. 

Prep for a fresh start for the New Year:

• Inventory your supplies, materials and products - Completing an inventory will help you with your taxes and create a new year inventory from which to start the new year. (Hint: You may find some great deals on supplies during the holiday season to stock up for the new year)
• Make strategic purchases - Retailers often offer great deals during the holiday season. Review your technology needs and look for opportunities to replace aging computers, and equipment. Check with your tax advisor to see if making investments will help with your taxes. 
• Review your strategic plan - The end of the year is a great time to review your  business strategy. Identify what is working, and what is not working to help you grow your business and your bottom line. Review successes from the year and recognize your accomplishments and those of your employees.

Happy Holidays!!!!! 

---