Build Your Business - Business Resolutions for 2019

2019 is here and it's time to start making changes. You may be planning to work out more, eat healthier, or pick up more books rather than your phone, but what are your goals for your business?

In addition to setting goals and making resolutions for yourself, it's important to look ahead to the new year for your business. If you're stuck on some business resolutions, we've got a few ideas here to help you get started making 2019 the most successful year yet!


Utilize Technology 

It goes without saying that technology and social media are constantly shaping the way we live and work. Facebook, Instagram and Twitter can change the game when it comes to your marketing. There are of course strategies on how to best use these platforms to your advantage, but the bottom line comes to using them. If you aren't posting, you aren't reaching your audience, who in turn isn't reaching your business.
According to Property Me, videos are the way to go for real estate, and you don't have to reinvent the wheel every time you hit the record button. Use your client's most frequently asked question or an old blog post and turn it into a quick two-three minute engaging video. Studies show that these videos can create 4 times more listing inquiries. For more ideas on how to use video and social media for your business, check out Property Me's list here.

Keep Learning 

Embrace change. It's going to happen no matter what, so you may as well be on the upside of it. To remain relevant and effective in the industry, you have to stay current on its news. Of course, make plans to attend conferences and trade shows, but also remember to interact with your peers and colleagues. Listen to what they are talking about and what questions they are asking. See if you can do your own research and answer their questions. Staying up to date will not only help you maintain business, but it will also show your dedication and passion to your industry - one of the best selling points there is.

Stay in Touch 

It's no secret the real estate is a referral industry, so let others do the work for you! Whether it's a quarterly newsletter or a handwritten birthday card, find what works best for you. USA Today recommends trying to stay in touch with clients at least two to three times a year. Also consider creating a special online group for your clients where your customers can come to ask questions about your industry. Even though someone may not be selling their home every year, they will also have neighbors and friends that will need assistance, and if you stay top of mind, you will stay at the top of their recommendation list.


Make Plans 

Setting goals is easy - sticking to them is harder. According to Forbes, 80% of people have ditched their new year's resolution by February. There are ways to combat this though! Forbes says some ways to make your resolutions stick is to make a plan and develop a time frame. If you're looking to improve your work-life balance, set time limits on your phone, or take one day, sit down with your calendar and make dates to take time for yourself. It's also important to set reasonable time limits for your goals. You can't expect to grow your social media ten-fold in just a months, so be realistic with your expectations so you can see how you've improved.


Reflect 

While it's great to make resolutions in the new year, it's better if you schedule time to reflect on and re-assess your goals. Make a plan each month or each quarter to look back at your resolutions and check in to see how you are progressing. If you notice that you start slipping, make plans to improve. If you're flying past your goals, set new ones so that you can continue to improve and grow throughout the year.

Whatever goals you make for your business in 2019, you're bound to be successful because you're already thinking ahead! Happy planning!