For online service providers, managing your time is detrimental to your business and mental health. Here, I've prepared a little breakdown of the tasks you should be looking at ahead of the festive period to ensure your clients are happy AND you get the time of you need.
1️⃣ Update your booking calendar
If you offer online services, ensure that your calendar is blocked off during your 'time off' over Christmas.
2️⃣ Communicate with your clients
If you haven't already, let your clients know your working hours over the festive period and when/how they can get in touch with you, if needed. Don't forget to let them know your expected return to work day. TIP: To be extra organised, book in your regular calls for January in advance to prepare you for any unexpected incoming work after Christmas.
3️⃣ Time-block
I've been doing this recently and it has been a life saver! I didn't realise how much time I was wasting flicking between tasks and loosing my focus. I have started to time block similar tasks which has helped keep me very structured throughout the day.
4️⃣ Client appreciation
Depending on your business (and the amount of clients you have), a little gratitude goes a long way. If you're an OSP (online service provider) sending Christmas cards to your clients to thank them for their work and continued support is a great way to show this!
5️⃣ Plan for January before you finish up
I plan the majority of my workload each month for the following month. This helps me keep focus and know where I have time spare for additional work. I'd strongly advise that you plan your January workload by the middle of December so you're hitting the ground running as soon as you're back.
6️⃣ Set your goals for 2024
Spend a little bit of time reflecting on 2023. What worked, what didn't? What would you like to change? Any new services? Make a plan for 2024 and set yourself some goals. TIP: Update your vision board so you can visualise your dreams!
"Before anything else, preparation is the key to success."
These few hours you will spend planning, will save you so much time in the New Year!
Happy planning!