Every year, millions of us start January with the best intentions of sticking to our resolutions. Yet, according to studies, most of us have ditched them and reverted to our old ways by the first week in February.
Perhaps it’s time to set yourself a resolution you stand more of a chance of sticking to. One way to do so is to choose one that impacts your business.
Brokers are a hard-working and committed bunch and they are fiercely protective of their profession. By choosing a resolution that really matters they’re much more likely to stick to it.
As such I’ve compiled a list of resolutions to consider.
Firstly, like all businesses, brokers should look to reassess their business models for 2016, undertake a SWOT analysis and make a new business plan that can become your business blueprint.
Given the new regulation coming into play in March, re-assess your regulatory status and your compliance regime to ensure it is fit for purpose.
Resolve to make 2016 the year you make the most of your time. Regulatory changes and an ever-increasing market will keep you busy so make sure time is not being wasted. Outsource anything that is too time consuming or has low value return for the time spent.
Look at your staff and internal procedures to ensure operations are running as smoothly as possible. Ensuring training and competency are in place – as well as record keeping– will be helpful here.
Go through your customer records and utilise technology effectively to engage with them and keep up to date. A good CRM system will help you to keep in regular contact with clients, thus retaining their custom, with very little effort from you.
Unsubscribe to all junk email or newsletters that offer little of interest to you. Only read publications and see people who can add value to your business - learn to say no to time wasters.
Finally, it’s important to make sure work doesn’t overtake your life. Get the right work/life balance and ensure you spend time with your loved ones.
Now, let’s try and keep to these resolutions all year and make 2016 your best year yet.
