As the temperatures drop outside, it’s time to focus on warming up.
No, I’m not talking about sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace (as inviting as that sounds). Instead, I’m talking about having the same mindset as top athletes before an event. No matter the sport, what is the one thing athletes all have in common? They all warm up and have a pre-event routine.
Do you know what happens when athletes don’t warm up or follow their pre-event routine? Best case: they don’t perform to the best of their ability; worst case: an injury occurs. The principle is no different in business; if you go in cold, bad things can happen.
Here is a simple routine that is a great way for you and your company to get ready for the new year:
- Review your website. Since many companies fail to review their website on a regular basis, they never see problems or information that is no longer accurate. Since your website is often your first chance to reach your clients, it should be a top priority to inspect what is being broadcast to the masses.
- Inspect your safety net. Are your computer systems ready to handle another year? Even if they are, do you have a backup plan or disaster recovery plan in place? Don’t wait until it’s too late: make sure your company can still function under a worst case scenario.
- Take a headcount. Do you have the right people – and enough of the right people – in place to meet or exceed your goals for the upcoming year? If not, what’s your strategy to build your team?
- Review and re-set goals. Are your goals for the upcoming year clear and widely known? Remember, every team member – from the top to the bottom – can impact your year positively or negatively so everyone needs to be reaching for the same goals. Make sure your entire team believes in what you are doing and believes the goals they are reaching for are attainable and realistic.
- Take a deep breath. You’re ready to perform!
As long as you follow these simple steps, stay focused, and work your plan, you will be on track to reach your goals!