Brandy Adamson - Strategist & Coach

Dear Coach,

It is the New Year and rather than make empty resolutions I want to set realistic goals that I can meet, that will make a difference in my business.  Any suggestions on what I should do? ~ Therese M. Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Dear Therese,

Thank you for your question.  Since I don’t know where you are in your business and where you want your business to go in 2012, I will share business tips and reminders that

Business Registration

If you have not registered your business with the state and the IRS as a business entity, you want to do that immediately.  If you aren’t sure which business entity to select, the IRS has information on the tax benefits of each business type.

Certifications & Registrations

If you are interested in securing government contracts or public bidding opportunities, you want to apply for registration as an M/W/DBE firm as most government contracts require the use of minority firms.  You also want to begin building relationships with prime contractors as potential sub-contractors for projects.

When you win contracts with the government, you will need to be registered in the government contract registration system.  The Savane Group can assist you with applying for your certifications as well as registration this www.thesavanegroup.com.

Administration

Running a business requires that you focus on business development and delegate tasks.  Get your support staff in place.  If you don’t have an assistant, you want to hire someone.  This person can either be on staff or a person that provides administrative support virtually.  For more information on the pros and cons of hiring a virtual assistant read http://mashable.com/2011/12/17/virtual-assistants-pros-cons/.

Accountant

If you don’t have an accountant, you want to hire an accountant to maintain your books, prepare your monthly financial statements and annual tax returns.  There are many companies that provide bookkeeping and accounting services.  You want to compare rates and services as well as guarantees offered for tax preparation.

Networking

You want to be strategic when you begin networking.  Networking is about exchanging information and building relationships.  Build on relationships you currently have with other executives.  As you think about networking, think about executives whose companies fill service gaps as it relates to your business.  Introduce yourself and your company to them with a proposed collaboration plan.

Business Development

Set 3 goals for 2012.  You want the goals to be clear, concise and reasonable.  Write your goals down and keep them in mind as your operate your business.

Keep us updated on your business progress in 2012.  In the event you want to enlist the assistance of an Executive coach, you are invited to visit my site for more information about coaching and how it correlates to your success.  www.brandyadamson.com

As the year new year has arrived, most individuals began to reflect on 2011 and explore what they could have done differently to have a different outcome for the end of the year.  Whether starting school, starting a business, writing a book, relocating, making improved food and exercise choices, we all want an improved life.  As you look at your 2011, what would you have done differently?  Don’t become disheartened and think that all is lost.  Now is the time to devise a realistic and attainable 2012 HOT LIST.  This is a list of 3-5 goals you want to accomplish in 2012.  The goals don’t have to be long and complicated.  I prefer that the main goal be simplistic in nature and easy to remember and the sub-goals will go into more detail.

For example – Loose 15 pounds by June 30, 2011

That goal is specific in nature with a sensible deadline.  The sub-goals to this main goal would include:

Get a workout partner or trainer

Establish a workout routine

Improve food choices

I challenge you to create your HOT LIST for 2012 – whether personal, educational or professional goals, do not limit your possibilities.