Jan. 3-9
design Find yourself with a bit of downtime? Catch up on others’ sign designs, practices, new approaches, processes, etc. You can also update your designs and projects on your website, post to your blog and share on social media.
organizing Reorganize your production area. Clear out vinyls that can be stored or thrown out. Check the status of your basic vinyl colors and related items, and make a list of anything that you need to order.
Jan. 10-16
customers A personal note to your best clients thanking them for their business and asking them if there is anything you can do to improve service is a good way to show that their business is appreciated. And, if you do it in January your letter won’t get mixed up with all the typical season’s greetings cards.
design Take a deep dive into your WIP list, and make sure you don’t have any straggler projects stuck in permits, on hold or at any of the various other sticking points. Try to push jobs with tricky clients forward based on the turn of the new year.
Jan. 17-23
cleaning You can always clean up the drop material that has accumulated.
supplies Update your supply costs by checking online or physical catalogs, discussing adjustments with suppliers, and adjusting job pricing accordingly.
Jan. 24-30
pricing Get rid of old quotes since your costs to produce them have undoubtedly risen. Also, update your pricing lists. software, website and marketing to reflect the new pricing.
goals Set goals for key team members: three short-range and up to five long-range goals for the year. As part of the process, discuss why the goals are important, how they will be measured and the resources required — and bear in mind the advice below.