April is right around the corner. It may seem as though the first quarter of the year flew by. Entrepreneurs might find that things really are moving quite fast. There is always something to do, and nearly always some new project to complete — or crisis to overcome. As you prepare for the next quarter of the year, here are some things any entrepreneur can do in April:
1. Take Stock of the First Quarter
April is an excellent time to see where you are at. Look back to the business goals you set at the beginning of the year. Look at your other entrepreneurship goals, and see where you are. You might discover that your business plan needs a little tweaking. Perhaps you have gone off track. Use this time to take stock of where you are in relation to where you want to be. Prepare to make the changes to either get you back on track, or adjust the plan so that it fits the new reality.
2. Re-Launch Your Web Site
During February, you should have tested your web site and noted where changes could be made. In the month of March, you should have had the web site updated and re-designed as needed. Now that your web site is ready to go, re-launch it. Unveil it to the members of your network with a little fanfare. Have a contest or two. Submit a press release to a wire service. Do a little social media blitzing to get the word out about your great new web site.
3. Update Your Records System
Hopefully, at the beginning of the year, you set up your records system and your accounting software. You may need to update your system. Sometimes, about this time of year, it is easy to start getting sloppy with tax receipts and mileage logs. Quickly assess that state of your records system and make sure it is working well. Then, make sure you have filed everything properly. Doing a periodic check will prevent you from having to deal with a bigger mess down the road.
4. Consider Your Office Space
If your business is growing, it might be time to consider your office space. If you have a home office, make sure that your office is clearly marked. There should be an obvious difference between your office and the rest of the house. Not only is this important if you want to take a tax deduction for the business use of your home, but it is also wise from a productivity standpoint. A dedicated office space is important for any entrepreneur. If you are at home, you can add some physical indications of your office location, including inexpensive screens, or by moving your office to a nook. You might have even grown enough to justify taking up an entire room of the house for your home office.
If your business is outgrowing your home, it might be wise to look for reasonably priced office space elsewhere. Many towns have offices for rent. You can rent space in a building — or rent the entire building. Figure out how much space you need, and what you can afford. Make arrangements to set up in your new space as soon as possible.
This post was included in the Totally Money Blog Carnival. Thanks!
Miranda is freelance journalist. She specializes in topics related to money, especially personal finance, small business, and investing. You can read more of my writing at Planting Money Seeds.