One month into 2013: are you following a business plan?

Time flies when you are having fun (Stagers always are!), and we are already a month into 2013. Those who know me know I care very deeply about those who have made the commitment to their Staging business. That is why I thought I would once again share some tips for this year’s business plan. Business Plan 2013: Tip 1. How to Create a Powerful Value Message and Why it Matters You’re at an open house together with a Realtor® you’d like to form a business relationship with when a visiting broker stops and asks what brought you there. “I’m an Accredited Staging Professional®,” is likely your response. Unfortunately, that description will not spell out the value you bring to a transaction to the consumers and even many real estate industry professionals you tell it to. In today’s tip I thought I’d share with you how to make sure every message you deliver, whether delivered in person, print or online, is as effective and powerful as it should be. No matter how you meet a consumer or real estate industry professional – in person, through your blog or website, and even Facebook and Twitter – it’s essential to make sure that the messages you provide instantly give a vivid picture of what you do and the positive impact of your work. Read More Business Plan 2013: Tip 2. Quick Guide to Successful Branding A brand is essentially a company’s expression of identify and especially a statement of its uniqueness compared to similar businesses in the marketplace. Often branding is referred to as the proper development and selection of a logo and even website design. Read More Business Plan 2013: Tip 3. Start Planning by Using Financial Forecasting, Budgeting and Monitoring Do you run your business with a close eye on your financial situation? You should. In our industry, revenues typically fluctuate from month to month. Read More Business Plan 2013: Tip 4. SWOT and Gap analysis What makes your company stand out in your marketplace? Are there are issues facing the real estate industry that may come to impact your business next year and beyond? Is there anything holding you back that could be mitigated? Read More Barb Barb Schwarz The Creator of Home Staging® CEO StagedHomes.com Founder/Chairwoman, The International Association of Home Staging Professionals