There are three important reviews that small business owners should do at the start or end of the year. These annual reviews are a good idea for any business, but they should be done on a regular basis to keep the company on track and improve its overall performance.

While conducting business reviews can be difficult, they can be very beneficial. If you plan carefully, you can achieve your goals. But without a roadmap, you’ll be left wondering what to change and what to do differently next year. This is the best time to take stock of your business and your financial future. You can make a plan for achieving your goals, and get the support you need from your staff and customers.

Products and Services

You should look at your core activities and products and services and determine what has made them successful (or what wasn’t successful in the past year). You should also consider any potential new products or services to meet the needs of your customers. Conduct a market analysis and find out what improvements are necessary to grow your business.

Financials

Whether you’re a small business owner or a freelancer, reviewing your numbers at the start of the year will give you the necessary perspective to make your business a success. Reviewing the financial and accounting figures of your company is a crucial step many small business owners avoid. It’s an opportunity for you to gauge your company’s progress and make sure your plans are on track. Developing a plan for your business’s financial situation is an important part of your annual review.

People and Processes

In addition to reviewing your market and finances, you should also be focus on the people and processes that matter most to you. An objective evaluation of your team and the processes that are in place to help them work effectively can lead to a better work environment, better employee engagement, better employee retention and the ability to attract the quality new employees you need.

If you need help taking stock of your business or would value an external opinion, seek out a mentor or business coach for an unbiased point of view.