We all set New Year’s resolutions for ourselves — so why wouldn’t we do the same for our businesses?
The start of a new year (and often a slower season) is one of the most valuable times for business owners to pause, reflect, and intentionally plan. Marketing too often becomes something we wing as the year unfolds. While spontaneity has its place, winging your marketing strategy almost always leads to inconsistent results, wasted effort, and missed opportunities.
Taking time now to review what worked, what didn’t, and where you want to go next gives you a clear roadmap for the year ahead. This slower period can be imperative for promotion planning, creative refinement, and getting ahead on advertising — before things get busy again.
Below is a step-by-step evaluation and checklist to help you tighten your brand and marketing strategy as you move into 2026.
Questions to Ask When Reviewing 2025
What promotions performed well — and where did they fall flat?
Example: Our audience responded strongly to giveaways, but our $5-off promotions didn’t drive sales the way we expected.
Did our social media gain the traction we wanted?
- Did we post enough? Too much?
- Was the content aligned with our goals?
Example: We invested a lot of time posting on social media, but didn’t see meaningful audience growth.
What partnerships or collaborations did we explore?
Example: Partnering with a local salon for an event boosted visibility and growth for both businesses.
Where did our sales actually come from?
- Website traffic
- Social media visibility
- Word of mouth
- In-person experiences
Understanding what truly drove revenue helps you double down on what works — and let go of what doesn’t.
Questions to Prompt Growth in 2026
Is there any housekeeping or updating needed across our website or social platforms?
Example: Are outdated events still listed? Are there new awards, press features, or milestones we can highlight?
Does the brand feel aligned everywhere someone interacts with us?
From your physical space to your website, business cards, packaging, and social media — the experience should feel cohesive.
Example: Someone walking into your space should feel the same energy and story they experience online.
Who do we want to partner with this year?
Are there businesses, creators, or organizations that align with your values and audience?
What ideas from other brands inspired us?
Promotions, campaigns, visuals, messaging — inspiration matters.
Remember: Jealousy is often a signal. It points you closer to what you want and reveals what excites you.
Do we need to refresh any branded assets?
- Logo refinements
- Business cards
- Packaging or swag
Are we clearly telling our story?
Do people understand why your business exists and what makes it different — and are you making that story visible in everything you do?
Moving Forward With Intention
This process is a starting point — a way to honor the past year while intentionally building toward the future. Thoughtful brand and marketing strategy doesn’t happen by accident; it’s built with clarity and purpose.
If you’re looking to strengthen your brand identity and create a clear strategy for 2026, I’d love to connect to see how I can support your business.
If there are questions you regularly ask yourself about your business that help guide your growth, please share them in the comments — they might inspire someone else too.
Colee and Co. 
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