1. Organization: Clean and organize your shop! After a thorough cleaning, you should take stock of your inventory position so that you can order supplies in a timely manner.

 

2. Maintenance: If you can't remember the last time you've followed a manufacturer's recommended maintenance, then it's time to tune up your equipment. Nothing is more disastrous than discovering a machine problem in the middle of you peak season. Consult your user guide servicing guidelines.

 

3. Samples: Do you have samples to showcase your creativity and quality? If you don't have samples, or your samples could be described as "antiques," then it might be time to create new samples of your work.

 

4. Upgrade computers: With the recent advancements made in computing technology, it is imperative to seriously evaluate your computer and software. Download all recommended service packs, updates and releases to insure you are operating optimally. Regularly run anti-virus applications to ensure that your computer is virus-free. Most anti-virus applications will automatically scan your system for potentially crippling problems. Be proactive!

 

5. Update graphics: Are you printing with graphics from yesteryear? Remember that fashions, styles, trends and printing techniques are always evolving. If you look at any popular retailer, you will notice new inventory with each season. Potential clients will expect you to offer modern graphics in the current styles, so don't disappoint and risk losing opportunities simply because you don't have the latest art.

 

6. Hire:  Train new or seasonal help during your slowest season(s). You can always reduce hours if your help is not needed, but it is almost impossible to hire and properly train when you are in the midst of busy production flow.

 

7. Sales and Marketing: Do you want to increase your bottom-line results? How will potential clients learn about your services? Use virtual samples and low cost, high impact (guerilla marketing) techniques to create awareness about your services. Subscribe to free services such as Guerrilla Marketing  or Free PromoTips to access the skill necessary to cultivate a sales and marketing plan of action. It all starts with a plan.

 

8. Connect: Connect with your best clients before they seek you out. Create a new promotional campaign, send samples, pick up the phone. Don't wait and assume that existing clients will voluntary revisit you. This process also allows you to ask for referrals. Never underestimate the power of networking!

 

9. Education and industry involvement: Go to a tradeshow and invest in education. There are simple and effective ways to increase your profitability, reduce production times and create new profit centers for your business. Trade shows provide a great opportunity for you to learn, evaluate new technology & trends, and network with other professionals. At the least, you should subscribe to industry publications (and READ them!).

 

10. Offer something new: Be an innovator and offer your clients something new and different. Anyone can make artwork. Be the one's that create masterpieces! Keep an arsenal of ideas so you can provide clients and prospects with innovative ways to promote their company. You will be a hero!