As the calendar turns from spring to summer, it is normal to start thinking about summer vacations, camp schedules, and preparing for the emotional, off-to-college-send-offs in August. 

All of the above (and more) can distract us from our business — if we let ourselves become distracted. Instead of thinking about the summertime as an unproductive time for your business, I would argue that it’s a great time to get focused and set yourself and your business up for the second half of the year. Keep the following in mind:

1. 1. 1. Simplified Schedules: As temperature rises, people feel more inclined to stay indoors and work remotely instead of attending business seminars or networking events. This presents a unique opportunity to get on a zoom call and/or grab an iced tea with someone that you haven’t seen in a while or have been meaning to connect with.
      2. More Personal Touches: Scheduling 1:1 in the summer allows you to be casual in dress and approach. For example, going to a park or hanging out poolside in the community allows conversations to flow more freely and on a deeper level than in a restaurant or public hall. These more personal conversations, I have found, are more memorable — and it is natural to do business with people who you remember and like. 
      3. Build Momentum: Just because others slow down or take a long pause doesn’t mean that you have to. Summertime has always been a time for reflecting on business: what’s working and what needs to be corrected. I often get new and innovative ideas for seminar topics and presentations when I am taking walks or during unscheduled time. My clients benefit from the reflective time that I take to examine my business in a deeper and meaningful way. 

Business owners and entrepreneurs face significant hurdles right now. Besides typical day-to-day challenges that arise in any business, there is also the impact of world events such as tariffs and wars on the other side of the ocean. While it is important to understand the potential impact of macro events, it is more important not to dwell or have it overwhelm your strategic thinking. Remember that controlling your business and understanding the drivers of your business model will allow you to maximize your company’s valuation. 

Continuing the personal communication between you, your customers, and your vendors keeps your business moving forward. The summertime “doldrums” doesn’t mean you have to stop your routines of communicating and corresponding with key constituents that drive your business plan. The calendar does not dictate how you run your business. Your daily routines and habits ensure steady influence.

Take-away: If you are experiencing some doubts as to the next steps you need to take for our business to reach potential and would like a free diagnostic on your business, reach out to Brian at bcalifano@cfosystemsllc.com.