Starting a new year with a new lockdown doesn’t come without challenges, but there are plenty of reasons to feel positive about 2021. This year let’s hope we have more opportunities for a return to relative normality. This will then certainly bring more opportunities for business growth, such as the people who have been lucky enough to accrue larger savings balances and the possibilities this brings.

It goes without saying that 2020 was a difficult year. Uncertainty was just about the only thing to be certain of, as everybody was forced to adapt to an unprecedented business climate. But by using what we’ve learned, we can take steps toward growth.

We’re here with you on the journey, so let’s cover some of our key points for making plans to grow your business in 2021.

Many of these apply to both your non YBS business if you have one, as well as your YBS business. 

1. Goal Setting

Be clear about what you want to achieve. The importance of setting SMART targets cannot be stressed enough. SMART targets are those which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-based. What is it that you need (or want) to get out of 2021? 

Perhaps you’re on a mission to grow your customer base, or increase business from existing customers, to build your reputation and raise awareness of your business and brand, or you may want to set a focus on boosting your staff training and development. Maybe your goal is to get your business into a position where you can spend less time at work and more time doing the things you enjoy. 

Whatever your goals may be, make sure you set them.

2. Creating a roadmap to your goals

Once you’ve established what you’re setting out to achieve, it helps to know how you intend to get there. Depending on what your goals are you’ll have different requirements, but consider which avenues and approaches are available for you to explore this year. 

How will your networking look in 2021? Do you have a plan for Social networking (where possible)? Have you thought about expanding your presence in the local community? 

If you’ve recognised staff development as a high priority, explore which courses are available and which are the right fit for your team. 

3. Making the most of your existing customers

It’s easy to be blinded by the allure of new customers, but business growth isn’t solely defined by taking on more clients. Customer retention is extremely important, and is underpinned by great customer service at all stages of their experience with you. 

When you’re unable to meet your customer base in person, it’s even more important to stay in touch and get to know them. Explore new ways of doing this in 2021, work on capitalising on cross-sell opportunities where you can, and focus on improving your understanding of your customers’ needs.

4. Measuring your results

When you measure your results and actively seek out feedback (and then act on it!) you’re able to discover opportunities for improvements and refinement. To paraphrase the “father of advertising” David Ogilvy, “Never stop testing, and you’ll never stop improving.” 

While he was referring to advertising specifically, it’s a sentiment that rings true for all aspects of business. Don’t rest on your laurels, while you may well be providing a fantastic service already, that doesn’t mean that there’s no room for improvement.

5. Utilising the YBS Agency Hub

Let’s be honest. There’s a lot to do and a lot to think about, but you don’t have to do it all yourself. The YBS Agency Hub can help you on your way to business growth in 2021. Whether you need support and advice, or customised marketing material, which you can order yourself, whenever you need it.

With ISA season approaching as the current tax year comes to an end, it’s an extremely important time for savings inflow. What better time to take advantage of the tools available to you in the agency hub?

By focusing on these key points you can create a solid foundation for a successful year, regardless of what 2021 might bring. 

We wish you all the best.

Here’s to a positive 12 months of fruitful growth.