October checklist

October 6, 2015 by Andy Crow @ Chorus Business Advisors

Chorus Checklist 

Is it really October already? If you’re like me you are wondering where this year has gone. There are probably things that you were planning to do for the business but haven’t got round to doing yet. So take a look at our October checklist to see if you could boost your profits before the Christmas rush.

1. Perform a social media audit

Are you using the right platforms? Where are your customers interacting? And, crucially, where are your competitors advertising? There’s no point investing time in Facebook and Twitter alone if the latest trends are Instagram or Pinterest. Consider social media training so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Consider your audience

Though social media is vital, don’t ignore a huge group of potential customers who may not be using it. Over-55s are more likely to be influenced by reading blogs, shopper feedback according to new research. The so-called ‘grey pound’ is often neglected as brands focus on social media platforms. So be prepared to use traditional methods such as local papers and magazines.

3. Review your payment systems

The CEO of Starbucks credits their chain’s renewed growth to investment in digital technology. Are you offering contactless payments? Can you add the recently launched Apple Pay to your payment terminals? Keeping up with the latest changes shouldn’t be a headache and will pay off in the long-term.

4. Analyse your printer

Printers take up space, waste paper and cost you in maintenance and ink. Make sure you lease them rather than buy one. Ensure you switch them off when you can. What’s more, you can download free apps to help manage your energy consumption across your devices.

5. Check out new technology

HP has launched new laptop, desktop and all-in-one PC products with small businesses in mind. They say they want to help smaller companies who may have little or no in-house IT staff, avoid security risks while keeping up with new trends in workplace technology.

6. Save on business energy

With current low prices, now is a good time to look at your utility contracts. Also switching to energy-saving equipment can save on your bills, and there may be funding to help you make the change.

Chorus Business Advisers have recently been saving clients an average of 25% on their business energy bills. If you would like a free quote or advice on any other matter contact us on 0845 867 1263 or visit our website www.chorusadvisers.co.uk