As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it always seems that Q4 is upon us before we know it.

I'm Suzie, founder, and CEO of Lawson House, and today, I'm taking over the blog to share with you the five essential things I personally do to prepare my business for Q4 each year.

These simple habits have proven to be incredibly effective, and I invite you to steal them for yourself.

After implementing these strategies, don't forget to send us a DM at @lawsonhouseagency to let us know how they've worked for you!

5 Things I Do To Prep For Q4 Each Year

Here are 5 tried and true habits I return to each year to have a smooth Q4 and ensure things go well once Q1 arrives.

1 - Get Your Team’s Internal PTO Squared Away

In the final quarter of the year, it's common for team members to take time off for holidays, vacations, and well-deserved breaks. Whether you run an agency or any other type of business, it's crucial to plan ahead for how these absences will impact your operations. Start by having open and transparent discussions with your team about their planned time off. Encourage them to coordinate their schedules to ensure that essential tasks are covered.

Consider cross-training team members or hiring temporary help to fill in gaps during peak vacation times. By addressing PTO scheduling proactively, you can maintain productivity and minimize disruptions during Q4.

2 - Add Extra Buffer Time To Projects

Q4 is a season filled with holidays, family gatherings, and numerous commitments both personally and professionally. It's essential to recognize that people often move at a slower pace during this time. To avoid unnecessary stress and project delays, add extra buffer time to your project timelines.

Account for potential delays due to reduced working hours, client unavailability, or unforeseen circumstances. By setting realistic expectations and building flexibility into your project schedules, you can ensure that deadlines are met even in the midst of holiday distractions.

3 - Take A Look At Your Internal Marketing

While you're helping clients with their Q4 strategies, don't forget to assess your own internal marketing efforts. Evaluate your website, social media presence, and content strategy. Ensure that your branding and messaging align with your goals for the upcoming year.

Consider running holiday-themed promotions or content to engage your audience during the festive season. Q4 is an excellent time to refresh your marketing materials and plan for a strong start to the new year.

4 - Get Time On The Calendar With Each Team Member

As the year draws to a close, it's vital to touch base with each team member individually. Schedule one-on-one meetings to discuss their achievements, challenges, and goals for the coming year. These conversations can help you identify areas for improvement, provide feedback, and align everyone's objectives with the company's vision.

Taking the time to connect on a personal level creates a sense of belonging and commitment among your team members, enhancing their motivation and engagement as you head into the new year.

5 - Set Your Q1 Goals

While it's easy to get swept away by the flurry of activity in Q4, don't lose sight of the fact that Q1 is just around the corner. It's crucial to carve out dedicated time to prepare for the next quarter and set your Q1 goals. This proactive approach ensures that you hit the ground running on January 1st, rather than playing catch-up.

Consider what worked well in the current year and what areas need improvement. Define clear, achievable objectives for Q1 and outline the action steps needed to accomplish them. By planning ahead, you position your business for a successful start to the new year.

Need Help With Your Marketing In Q4 or Q1? We’d Love To Support You.

We’re officially taking on clients for Q4 and Q1. If you’d like to work with us on your website, branding, or marketing strategy – simply schedule a call. We’d love to chat with you!