6 things to do when sales are slow…
When it comes to business, silence is not always golden!
BUT we can use it as an opportunity to shift focus towards areas in your business that are often overlooked (or neglected) during peak times.
Always wished you had the time to audit your systems or complete that half-completed course? Feel like you could improve your internal operations or might benefit from meeting new people?
Now's the time. Here are my top 6 things that you can do during the quieter periods of business (and don't worry, it happens to us all!)
1. Show your customers/clients love!
Use this period to deepen relationships with existing clients or customers—reach out, check in, let them know their business is valued. Now is not the time to neglect clients who are with you, or customers who are choosing to shop with you.
Building a strong relationship with your clients/customers can lead to repeat business and referrals.
What you can do...
- Check-in regularly
- Be transparent + honest
- Reward loyalty
- Ask for feedback to improve
- Personalise your communication
2. Refine your customer journey
Go a step further and reassess your customer journey. Is there room for improvement to enhance customer experience? Take time to understand the steps a new customer or client takes, from discovering your business to making a purchase. This will help you identify any bottlenecks or pain points in the process that need to be addressed.
- Map out your customer journey
- Audit the process - where can it be improved
- What is missing
- Onboarding clients, or nurturing new customers
- Improve customer service
- Follow up
3. Invest in your professional development.
Use this time to learn a new skill or deepen your knowledge in your field. This could involve taking an online course, attending webinars, one on one coaching or reading up on industry trends.
Alternatively, finish any half-started courses or things you have been meaning to come back to.
Those courses gathering virtual dust can be completed now, empowering you with new skills for future growth. Networking shouldn't be underestimated, either...
4. Expand your network
Attend events and make genuine connections—sometimes a handshake (or a hug) and a conversation are more powerful than an email.
Building relationships with others in your industry can open doors to collaboration, partnerships, or referrals.
Attend networking events, and join online forums to connect with other professionals!
5. Audit your systems + processes
Spending time assessing & modifying your internal operations helps you stay competitive, maintain high standards, and ensure that your business is operating at its best.
Things to audit:
- Efficiency
- Time
- Platforms / Tools
- Cost / Spend
- Risk
- Quality
- Innovation
- Scalability
6. Don't neglect strategic planning!
Take a step back and review your business plan, business plan, revise goals, and craft the strategies that'll help you achieve them!
Set new goals, develop marketing strategies, and plan for the future. This can also be a good time to review your financial plans and budgets.
