But even before we jump head first into the holiday season, we still have a few more weeks to end the year strong.
But if you’re anything like me, you’re likely fighting a strong urge to keep on saying, “I’ll get to it next week!”
But, as I remind myself, if you’re constantly “next-weeking” crucial aspects of your business, you’re potentially leaving money on the table and losing clients to competitors who move faster.
Running a business isn’t just about having a great idea or talent—it’s about execution.
So for this Founders’ Letter, let’s break down some of the ways to prevent “next-weeking” yourself out of your next big opportunity.
For example, when I recently decided to switch banks, I reached out to several options.
One bank followed up the very next day with a phone call and a DocuSign link. Another bank? It took them three weeks just to respond. Guess who got my business?
I’ve invested in tools and processes that allow me to respond quickly and professionally to potential clients.
Whether it’s setting up a streamlined intake system or having email templates ready to go, I’ve made it a priority to ensure I can move at the speed of opportunity.
Walking into a client meeting prepared can be the difference between closing a deal and losing it.
Researching your client’s industry, understanding their goals, and tailoring your pitch shows professionalism and builds trust.
A cookie-cutter approach might save time, but a customized strategy leaves a lasting impression.
For instance, when I meet with potential clients, I make it a point to research their business beforehand—reviewing their product offerings, understanding their challenges, and aligning my services to their needs.
This preparation allows me to articulate how Firm for the Culture can help them achieve their goals.
Having contracts ready ensures that when a client says “yes,” you can finalize the agreement quickly.
It’s a simple yet crucial step that demonstrates your professionalism and makes it easier for clients to commit.
When I was seeking legal services for my own business, I encountered firms that made the process unnecessarily complicated.
One required a wire transfer, another asked me to print and sign a Word document, and one firm couldn’t even locate their contract template during our meeting.
In contrast, the firm that sent me a DocuSign within minutes of our call won my business. Why? Because they made it simple.
Whether it’s your brand name, course materials, or innovative processes, securing your IP ensures that no one else can profit from your hard work.
At Firm for the Culture, we’ve seen how failing to protect IP can cost founders dearly.
From unregistered trademarks to unauthorized use of creative content, the risks are real. By securing your IP, you not only protect your work but also position yourself as a serious and credible business owner.
I regularly review the assets in my business that need protection—whether it’s trademarks, copyrights, or contracts.
I’ve worked with other IP attorneys and colleagues to secure those protections, ensuring that the systems and content I’ve worked hard to create remain mine.
By implementing systems, preparing for client conversations, having contracts ready, and protecting your intellectual property, you can position your business to thrive.
So, what’s one step you can take today to prepare for your next big opportunity?
Every small action builds momentum. Let’s stop “next-weeking” and start seizing those opportunities—because your business (and your future clients) deserve it.
