Are you ready for fall?

Whether it’s still triple digits in your neighborhood or the kids are already back to school, the world of social media and marketing is looking ahead to the fall season. The Pumpkin Spice Latte will be available on August 28 -- earlier than usual -- and before you know it, Halloween candy will start to appear on the shelves.

So whether you’re ready or not, it’s time to make your plans for fall. There are a number of ways you can prepare for this busy season, and take advantage of exciting opportunities to grow your business. Here are some of our favorites:

Think about Back-to-School as a New Year’s do-over

Many people look at Labor Day and the back-to-school timeframe as a second start to the year. Gretchen Rubin talks about September as a chance to take stock: “Back-to-school is a time of self-evaluation and reflection--and also a time when I feel the urge to buy myself some new office supplies.”

It doesn’t matter whether you’re in school, have kids in school, or haven’t sat in a classroom in decades -- can you use this time of year to give some fresh thought to your business, your goals, and how you’re approaching the future?

Connect with Resetters

Fall in the Northern Hemisphere brings a change from the hectic, sunkissed, activity-filled days of summer. For many people, it’s also a time to come back to a routine, reestablish a rhythm, or refocus on habits. This is the perfect opportunity to introduce your product and explain why it will help them achieve their goal of better health, wellness, or satisfaction. And if you combine this opportunity with an incentive, promo, or giveaway, it’s even more likely that you’ll convince those fence-sitters and bring in some new customers and excitement!

Events, Events, Events

The fall season is full of reasons to gather - from a celebration that the kids are back in school, to a festive bonfire or harvest party, to the beginning of the holiday season, people are coming indoors and seeking community, alongside warm drinks and hearty snacks. You’ve also got the energy of football and tailgate parties, a great opportunity to meet and connect with new people. Take some time at the beginning of the season to plan at least a few events that you’ll host -- and ask your best prospects and referrers if they’ll host one too. Soon enough your calendar will be full of opportunities!

Plan Ahead

The winter holidays will be here before you know it -- so don’t get stressed, but DO get focused. Every conversation you have in the next few months is a prospect to become a customer at holiday time -- whether they’re shopping for themselves, gifting a friend, or cashing in some gift money. Be thoughtful in your conversations and start to lay the groundwork for upcoming promotions or opportunities - and then be sure to follow up!

Need some help to keep track of all of your business activity? Traktivity is your secret weapon!