For those of you who over analyze things, sorry, but this blog just ain't for you. Move along... For the rest of us, review and reflection can lead to better business outcomes.

After working in the magazine publishing business for over 15 years, I've seen first hand the arduous process of writing, editing, designing, proof reading and approvals that happens for every page in every issue of every magazine. When done well the work looks easy and seamless, when done wrong the letters start arriving from retired school teachers with thoughtful and thorough scoldings.

Those letters really suck.

Embarrassing as they are...

Wouldn't it be worse if no one told you?

Think about that for a moment.

I'll wait.

The reason why this is such a poignant example is because it hits home in an uncomfortable way for most businesses regardless of industry. When your business success is based on presenting a polished professional presence having even small errors can seem enormous and leave a lasting negative impression.

But it goes far beyond errors in magazines or on websites. Thoughtful review and analysis of your business systems as a whole on an ongoing basis is going to be key to staying relevant, keeping up on crucial business trends and also make sure you are presenting to the public your best possible image.

Here are 5 areas of business that could use a 2nd glance, or third or fourth.

Collateral Materials: Do your printed pieces contain accurate, current and symbiotic information? Does everything contain similar messages, layout/design and reflect the modern image of your branding?
Website and online presence: Is your website updated, accurate and contain relevant updated information? Do the pages and links work? Have you Googled your business to see if there are online errors about your business?
Budget/Pricing Strategy: Have your business needs changed in such a way that you need to reallocate budget? Is it time to review costs with current vendors and/or source new vendors? Do you need to adjust your pricing strategy to reflect cost changes or competitive challenges?
Trend Spotting: Are you staying educated on your competitor's new products? Do you keep up on new developments in technology, manufacturing and distribution that could benefit your business? Are you looking at new materials, new product lines or new business opportunities?
Sales/Marketing Strategy: Do you have new competing products or services within your sector? Has your ideal customer changed, evolved or altered how they consume your product or service? Are you still able to reach them effectively with your current sales and marketing strategies? Has your source of leads dried up or are your closing percentages lagging?

It may seem like a lot of unnecessary work when the thought process is so often, "do it once and then forget about it!" but I assure you it is well worth your time and attention to monitor and make slight corrections rather than "letting things get away from you", as my mother says. Keeping your materials and business systems current in an ongoing fashion is going to create a fine tuned business flow that builds momentum. The results are a business that is never behind the times, caught by surprise or left in the dust.

What are you doing in your business to stay ahead of the competition? Do you have additional tips?

For help in keeping your business relevant and generating new customers, contact me here!