An economic recession, the weather, natural disasters, seasonal trends, holidays, and lack of demand are some of the main things that affect the health of a business. No matter the size of your company, chances are it will still be affected by these events in some way or the other. If you're an entrepreneur the weight is usually heavier on you since not only are you responsible for your business and your financial obligations, but also the financials of your employees if you have any.
While business is slow, here are some things you can do in the meantime:
Market your Business
Even when things aren't moving at a normal rate, don't stop marketing. When business is slow so is your income but thankfully marketing in today's world is free for the most part. Create social media accounts for your business (if you haven't yet) and market away. As the world slows down, companies tend to forget about marketing. This creates opportunity and increases the chances of visibility for those companies who continue to advertise.
Sharpen your Skills
Since you'll have more free time, take this window of opportunity to get better at something or learn a new skill. Instead of spending your free time moping around and drowning in worries, turn the negatives into a positive by becoming a better individual and acquiring new knowledge.
Review your Business
Go over your brand and the logistics of your company. See if there's anything you'd like to change or something new you want to add. There's always room for improvement so take this down time to review your company from the inside out.
Take a Course
Check out online classes that can help you with your business or that might bring new ideas and knowledge. Many of these courses are free or offered at a very low cost. From these courses you can expand your creative thinking and innovate new methods and strategies that can catapult your company. If you're more of the social butterfly or prefer in-person interaction, certain courses are also offered in a traditional classroom setting.
Explore a Hobby
Keep yourself busy by taking on a new hobby you've always wanted to try. Hobbies are great to keep the mind working and refreshed. Don't limit yourself to only one thing, explore as many as you can and find the one that drives you.
Organize Finances
If you're behind on bookkeeping, this is the perfect time to get everything sorted out. Organize your financials and solve any issues you have pending. Make sure your taxes are up-to-date and that all your paperwork is in order.
Work on Yourself
Free time also means more opportunities to do something for yourself that you've been trying to commit to. Whether it's exercising, eating better, completing chores, losing weight, or catching up on doctor visits this is the time to get it all out of the way. Don't put self-improvement on hold, if you're not at your best then you can't perform at your maximum potential.
Check in With Others in the Business
If you know anyone else who also owns a business or is going through a slow time, reach out and see how they're handling the situation. Exchange advice and ask them questions in order to get a sense for what others are going through. Knowing that you're not in this alone is also gratifying because you'll have someone to speak about this with and work through it together.