How to Keep Your Business Busy Year Round

Most businesses have a measure of seasonality. Some go almost dormant through the fall and winter months, but there is something you can do about it. If you market yourself year round, you’ll be busy year round. And remember that most forms of advertising do not elicit immediate response. It will take several marketing messages to reach your target. The job cycle from initial ad to last job generated from a specific ad campaign could be several weeks or several months. Follow these additional tips to keep busy year round.

Don’t Blame

Sure, it’s easy to blame the public for not responding. It’s even easier to blame “the economy.” But the truth is there are still plenty of people out there who want or need your services and have the means to purchase. Change your marketing message and try again. Consider hiring a marketing expert to improve your advertisement response rate.

Invest

I’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating. Now is the time to invest in your business. If you view purchases and marketing as expenses and not investments, you must change your viewpoint. Every dollar spent should focus on generating a positive return on investment. Companies that invest in their business now will see short-term results, but will also be poised to take on more business as the financial state improves in the months and years to come.

Diversify

Some of the most seasonal and weather dependent businesses have found a way to keep busy year round. Garden centers offer everything from fall mums to teaching indoor gardening for the winter months.

If you find yourself with time to spare don’t twiddle your thumbs. Clean the store room, write newsletters ahead (then you have them ready when you’re too busy to write), do some internet marketing, write thank you notes to your best customers, or volunteer your time and resources for a good cause.

Be Transparent

Remember that relationships are more important now than ever. People will come to your business for more than what you sell. They come because of who you are and what you stand for. And because they like you and enjoy doing business with you. Your brand image and personality should shine through in all your communications. Let people know which charities you donate to and what values are important to your organization.

If you’re actively working on your business, hold yourself accountable, diversify, and build quality relationships, your business will boom year round.