(BPT) - Sponsored by Office Depot
If you're a small business owner, then you're well aware that the end of the year is an extremely busy time for customers, employees, vendors and of course, yourself. And while there is much to do to keep business going, it's critical to schedule some extra time to thoroughly review the past 12 months to evaluate performance, review company resources, and plan for what is needed to start the new year on the right foot.
Here are three steps you can take to help your business thrive in 2022.
1. Look back to take stock
An end of year wrap-up review is ideal for all areas of your business. This can help you learn from successes and missteps before moving forward with new year plans.
- Do a goal assessment. For goals that weren't achieved, ask yourself what you could have done differently. Were the goals overly ambitious or did unexpected events cause inventory delays or staffing issues? Do you need new strategies for 2022? For goals you did meet, it's important to celebrate and show appreciation to your staff, partners and customers who made it possible. Need ideas for thank-you gifts? Check out gift ideas for everyone on your list available at Office Depot.
- Assess employee engagement. Employee satisfaction and loyalty are key in driving company success and growth. Consider checking in with your employees via a survey or one-on-ones to gauge morale and identify areas of opportunity for the business.
2. Where are you now? What's working and what isn't?
How are current processes and programming working for your business? Where do you need to adjust? Do you need to implement a technology upgrade, or invest in better organizational tools? Do you need to declutter certain storage areas or workstations? The end of year is an ideal time to purchase business solutions, as you can deduct business expenses on your 2021 tax return for eligible purchases made by December 31.
Essentials to help your business stay more organized and run smoothly include:
- Upgraded computers and printers
- File folders
- Storage boxes and file cabinets
- Paper shredders
- Cleaning supplies
With efficiency and speed needed to close out the year strong, consider getting last-minute items your business needs fast from Office Depot. The company recently introduced a '20-Minute Pickup Promise,' offering customers the ability to pick up qualifying online and mobile orders in-store or curbside in just 20 minutes or get $20 off their next qualifying purchase.*
Plus, select Print and Copy Services are available for same-day pickup if the order is placed before 2:00 PM. Same-Day Print Services are excluded from 20-minute pickup.
3. Set smart goals and create action plans with the right tools
Plan concrete, achievable goals for your business for 2022, both short-term (monthly or quarterly) and long-term. Can you break larger goals into smaller steps, so you'll be able to see measurable progress throughout the year? Involve your staff in brainstorming goals for your business. Consider purchasing organizational tools to help stay on track, like calendars and planners.
Even in the midst of busy times, the time you take to review the past year, modify and set goals for the next 12 months can help to open up new opportunities for a successful future.
*Curbside pickup is available in most stores, subject to state and local regulations. Orders must be placed 1 hour before store closing. If your order is not ready in 20 minutes, you will receive an email, within 48 hours of placing your order, with a coupon for $20 off your next qualifying purchase. Certain exclusions apply. Excludes tax. No cash back. See email for coupon terms and conditions. Office Depot reserves the right to modify or cancel the offer at any time.