I’m writing this post on the day British Summer Time ended. Almost as a compensation to the thought of months of dark winter weather ahead, we got an extra hour in bed when the clocks were put back – bliss!
The four seasons of the year are a good metaphor for the different stages a business needs to prepare for.
In the Spring we sow the seeds hopefully and care for them tenderly. In our businesses we spread the word about what we do, meet new people while out networking; and spruce up our marketing materials and website. Maybe even re-branding to create an extra splash!
Summer is a time for growth. Just as plants thrive and develop strong roots with the right mix of sunshine & showers, so a business becomes established with planned follow-up and keep in touch campaigns to strengthen relationships.
Harvesting in the Autumn, truly a season of plenty! Also a time to set aside surplus stores in readiness for more meagre pickings of the season that will surely follow. Reaping the rewards of a carefully managed business that has designed and taken constant and consistent action for growth.
Icy winds blow and bare branches shiver through the dark months of Winter. Animals & humans wrap-up warmly or hibernate, drawing on reserves saved in more plentiful times. In business, this is the season for consolidation, for looking at what’s working and what isn’t. Making plans for and anticipating what the new year will bring.
Unlike in nature, the seasons in our businesses aren’t as clearly defined, nor can they be neatly contained in three month segments. But they do exist and, as a business owner, you need to be constantly preparing for what’s coming next.
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