10 ways to... spring clean your business

  1. Review your business plan. Be honest - are you on track to meet your targets? Consult with peers or a business mentor and update the plan with realistic objectives for the coming year.
  2. Are you making the most of your time? As an owner or manager, you are critical to the success of your business and should use your time in the most valuable way. If you are doing too much administration, for example, either delegate or consider employing someone to do it for you.
  3. Look at the output of your employees. Are you drawing effectively on their strengths and aptitudes? Think about ways to improve motivation and increase productivity - perhaps you need to set fresh targets, review job descriptions or organise training.
  4. Tidy your work environment. Out-of-date or disorganised paperwork, or stock that is not selling, waste space and slow you down. A clear and organised workplace can cut wasted time and boost productivity. A day spent clearing up can also leave you and your staff feeling prepared for the year ahead.
  5. Evaluate the equipment you use. Are you using your tools, machinery or IT system to their full extent? Look at using spare capacity to improve your output and make your business more competitive. If your equipment does not meet your demands, consider updating or replacing it.
  6. Try and improve your cashflow. Get your books in order and put processes in place for prompt billing. Speak to your bank about credit facilities, see if you can reduce office overheads, work out whether you can pay off loans and talk to your accountant about spreading the cost of investments and claiming tax relief.
  7. Review the arrangements you have with suppliers. Are you getting the best products at the best price? Get quotes from other suppliers to see if you can get a better deal, then renegotiate with your existing suppliers. If they cannot compete, consider moving on.
  8. Take a look at what you offer. Be honest about which products and services are selling and which are not. It could be time to review prices, jettison lines that are not selling or introduce new products or services.
  9. Refresh your marketing strategy. If you are losing market share to your competitors, perhaps you need to review your image or unique selling point to win new custom. Research your market and plan ways to make your offer more appealing.
  10. Breathe new life into your sales technique. Are you and your staff directing your efforts towards customers who are likely to buy? Are you building good relationships? Note the improvements you and your staff need to make, set challenging but realistic targets and take a fresh approach to selling.