New Year’s resolutions can (and should) be applied to your small business each year. The best way to grow is to evaluate and update your business plan, reallocating funds where needed, and tending to the little things that may have been overlooked throughout the year.

Your business may be on track, and you may be feeling pretty good about all you are doing, but it will still strengthen your business to take the time to create a few new goals. A healthy business will continue to grow, gaining revenue and increasing its bond with clients. 

How to Update Your Business Plan and Create Resolutions for 2022

Reread Your Initial Plan:  Refresh yourself (if it’s been a while) on your most current business plan so you have a starting point.

Emphasize the Clients’ Needs: While your clients are choosing to have their pet groomed, they are choosing you for a reason. You want to build bridges and create a bond with every client that will keep them coming back. To do this, your clients need more than an appointment; they need an experience. Consider all the ways in which you can update your environment to help make each experience one that will build your business by word of mouth - the best marketing you will ever get. A fresh coat of paint, new chairs, offering treats and water, are all simple ways to give your business a facelift.

Offer Training: Every employee should be trained to ensure that each client feels important. From the moment they walk into your door, your employees should know the best ways to make them feel comfortable.

Find Something New: Reach out to other animal-driven businesses in your area and create an event together that will increase business all around.

Don’t Forget to Forecast Sales: Pay attention to any trends in the previous year’s sales. Were some months better than others? Look for potential reasons (holidays, for example) and create a forecast for this year.

Create Opportunity: You are ultimately trying to make more money every year. After looking at monthly trends from last year, decide how you can increase your business during these peaks and lulls. Offer package deals, rent your space (if possible) to a private trainer or pet photographer to boost your bottom line (and give clients more options).

Sell More Than Shampoos: Become the one-stop-shop for both grooming and picking out pet keepsakes. Cards, frames, and heartbeat recordings can all increase your revenue and the client’s experience.

Love Your Business:  Remember to love what you do. Making tails wag and clients happy is a privilege, and you are able to do so each and every day.