How To Use Quarterly Planning To Grow Your Business

Quarterly planning today has emerged not just as a strategy but as a necessity. It acts as a compass, steering businesses through the challenges and opportunities each quarter. An intentional approach to quarterly planning can also provide a roadmap for growth and a resilient framework for your entire team to work within. By committing to this practice, you not only set your business on a trajectory of continuous improvement but also empower yourself to respond effectively to the ebb and flow of your entrepreneurial journey.

The Marketing Concierge has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of quarterly planning, and we're here to guide you through its implementation for your business should you need it. Here’s our CEO and Founder, Ciri Fenzel’s story of how quarterly planning helped The Marketing Concierge double it’s business in 12 months.

As we entered 2023 The Marketing Concierge was only 9 months old. We had been in a build phase for those first months but I knew we were ready to GROW. Our systems were down, and our products had been refined. So, I started at the beginning of this year, setting aside time for quarterly planning. At first, I would block off a few hours to do this work, but I have since learned that this requires a full day, a whole lot of concentration, my favorite comfy clothes, and lots of calendars. (I love the Full Focus planner + my computer calendar.)

During this time, I worked on my ‘Flight Plan’ (from Donald Miller’s book How To Grow Your Small Business) for the months ahead. You can create your own Business Growth Flight Plan for FREE here. I check in on my guiding principles and ensure that my mission statement is crystal clear. And, I review my 3 critical actions for the quarter and my current offerings (services, products, and online courses) to be sure ALL is aligning. I also block off the calendar for the launches and promotions for these offerings — because, if I’m not promoting and talking about them then they won’t go anywhere. And, last I cast a long-range vision for The Marketing Concierge and any ways that I want to continue to GROW and scale the business.

This planning has helped me not only set BIG goals for the business but also helps me consistently measure my progress. I always want to be sure I am meeting certain metrics to keep the business on track and scaling. We use an incredible KPI spreadsheet to track our growth on our website, social media platforms and email marketing. (This alone has been hugely helpful to monitor!)

These Quarterly Planning sessions have been THE reason my business has more than doubled this year. They’ve also helped me to realize that I don’t just have a “little business” anymore.

Do you do quarterly planning? If not are you open to trying it? Here are 5 easy steps to help you get started for the new year!

Step 1: Block Off Time NOW for Quarterly Planning Sessions Every 3 Months

The first step lies in being intentional about your strategic planning. Block off dedicated time on your calendar every three months, to delve into the heart of your business and set the course for the upcoming quarter. I recommend one whole day for this planning session. Don’t cancel on yourself or book something else during these time blocks.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Successful quarterly planning requires the right tools. Ensure you have everything you need for a productive session, before you get started. Consider tools such as:

• The Full Focus Planner: A comprehensive planner designed for effective goal setting and productivity.

• Donald Miller's How to Build a Small Business: A valuable resource providing insights into growing your small business.

Additionally, have your computer calendar ready, and gather any other materials that contribute to your planning process. Perhaps your vision board, or that file folder with ideas you’ve been meaning to get to. In the past, I’ve even used a large dry-erase board to lay out my way ahead.

Step 3: Dive into Quarterly Planning and Do the Work

Be sure that you still have a full day allocated for your quarterly planning session. Find a comfortable space, put on your favorite comfy clothes, and surround yourself with all of the calendars and tools you organized ahead of time. Have your lunch delivered so you stay on track with your schedule and even consider putting the phone on airplane mode.

During this session:

•  Review your mission statement.

• Write out your guiding principles and be sure they are crystal clear.

• Define your 3 critical actions for the quarter

• Determine what your offerings will be. (i.e. new products, new trainings, new services, etc.)

• Block off the calendar for launches and promotions leading up to their offerings to ensure visibility.

• Cast a long-range vision for your business's growth and scalability.

 This planning approach not only helps set ambitious goals but also provides a consistent way to measure progress.

Step 4: Involve Your Team

Quarterly planning isn't a solo endeavor. Involve your team in the process to gather diverse insights and foster collaboration. Share your findings, goals, and strategies weekly to ensure everyone is aligned and working towards common objectives.

Step 5: Execute as Planned

With a well-thought-out plan in hand, it's time to execute. Stay focused on your 3 critical actions for the quarter and work backward to ensure your daily efforts allow you to stay on track with your launches and promotions. And, ensure your team understands those 3 critical actions and is on board with the strategy. Consistent execution is the key to turning your plans into tangible results.

By incorporating these five steps for successful quarterly planning into your business routine, you'll not only experience transformative growth but you’ll be establishing systems that are repetitive quarter after quarter, year after year. This is what helps your “little” business become a full-scale operation that provides indispensable services and products.

Ready to experience the power of quarterly planning? If you haven't tried it yet, we're here to guide you through the same model that has propelled The Marketing Concierge to new heights.

Let's make the next quarter your most successful one yet!