jan mar feb mar March Create a social media content calendar through June using your apr Valentine’s Day event as a model and national and local events as inspiration for themes. Think about your weekly and daily posts, but leave room for topical and timely content too. Make sure only 20% of your posts feel promotional, and 80% provide value or drive may community and engagement. Contact the charities you researched and identify two with whom you want to work. Find out whether they are willing to work with you. JUn Repair broken links and correct other problems with your website so it’s professional, simple and functional. Cross-link to related pages within your site. JUl In this month’s newsletter, offer a discount offer or small free item for customers who post on social media their favorite aspect of your business. Ensure they know they must tag you to receive the offer. aug Also, include one piece of industry and/or local news as well as one insider-peek as to how your business operates. If you haven’t already, design a formal client reward program for bringing in referral business. sep Host your party. Have A clients show up early to establish a good tone before the B and C-listers arrive. Share ideas, and center the event on showing a behind-the-scenes look at your business. Answer questions oct and deal with complaints honestly and openly. Don’t mention the referral program just yet. You want them focused on how your business works and how much you appreciate your customers instead of feeling like they’re at a sales pitch. nov Send out a post-part email highlighting these three topics: • Sincere thanks for attending • A request for one area of improvement for your business dec • Details of your referral program A YEARLONG GUIDE FOR SMALL BUSINESS GROWTH 7