The end of the year is the perfect time to reflect, refresh, and prepare for the year ahead. A little organization now can set you up for success in 2025. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning up your business and starting the new year strong.

1. Clean Up Your CRM and Client Files

Start by tidying up your client management system. A clean CRM helps you work more efficiently and keeps everything organized.

• Add Tags: Use helpful tags like “2024,” “Lead – Follow Up,” “Lead – Ghosted,” or “Archived Project.”
• Archive Completed Projects: Move completed sessions out of active lists.
• Follow Up with Leads: Make a list of people you need to reconnect with before the year ends.

If this feels overwhelming, 17hats can help you get your CRM in top shape! With automation tools and easy organization features, you’ll feel more in control than ever.

2. Send a Year-End Thank You

Reach out to your clients with a warm, festive message.

• Thank Them: Express gratitude for their support in 2024.
• Wish Them Well: Send a heartfelt Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays.
• Build Excitement: Let them know you’re looking forward to working together in 2025.

Need help? We’ve created a free email template you can copy and paste to save time.

3. Organize Your Photos

Your photos are your marketing goldmine. Make them easy to access in the new year.

• Create a Favorites Folder: Save your favorite images from each session in 2024.
• Use Reliable Platforms: Dropbox, Google Drive, or your photo gallery delivery system work well.

These photos will be ready for blog posts, social media, or marketing campaigns.

4. Refresh Your Social Media Content

Social media thrives on consistency. Set yourself up for a stress-free 2025 with these steps:

• Grab Our Caption Bundle: A Google Doc with a full year of social media captions.
• Add Favorite Photos: Pair your captions with your best 2024 images.
• Schedule Ahead: Use tools like Meta Business Suite or Plan to batch your content.

5. Create a Marketing Calendar

Even a simple plan can make a big difference.

• Start Quarterly: Outline your calendar for the first three months of 2025.
• Highlight Key Dates: Include holidays, seasonal promotions, and client anniversaries.
• Plan Campaigns: Map out January, February, and March to hit the ground running.

6. Clean Up Old Client Galleries

Free up space and stay organized.

• Archive Completed Galleries: Store them securely but out of your active workspace.
• Delete Unneeded Galleries: Clear out anything that no longer serves you.
• Verify Deliverables: Ensure all clients have received their final products.

7. Reflect on Your Year

Take time to evaluate what worked, what didn’t, and where you want to go.

Reflection Prompts:

• What were your biggest wins of 2024?
• What did you learn from your challenges?
• Which sessions brought you the most joy?
• What are your goals for 2025?

8. Finalize Your Numbers

Gather your year-end data so you’re ready for tax season and future planning.

• Total income and expenses.
• Mileage.
• Social media followers and email subscribers.
• Number of sessions completed.

9. Prepare for Growth in 2025

Set the stage for a successful year.

• Update Your Website: Refresh your portfolio and ensure your site reflects your best work.
• Review Pricing and Contracts: Make sure they align with your goals.
• Invest in Growth: Consider professional development courses or workshops.

Ready to Get Organized?

We’ve got you covered!

• Free Email Template: Copy and paste your year-end thank-you message.
• Caption Bundle: A full year of captions ready to use with your photos.
• Reflection Guide: Download prompts to review your year and set goals.
• Marketing Calendar Template: Plan out your campaigns for Q1 2025.

Stay ahead of the game and start 2025 feeling confident and prepared. Would you like us to help with your cleanup or planning? Let’s make 2025 your best year yet!