5 Things You Should Do This Month

Each month this year, we will feature an article on five things business leaders should do during the month, whether it’s reminding you to show your appreciation to your administrative assistant in April or letting you know about the don’t-miss leadership conference of the year. So keep on the lookout for these business must-do’s each month starting now with January’s five things you should definitely do.

1. Tie Up Last Year’s Loose Ends
For most of us, the new year was ushered in at warp speed, and it’s been go, go, go ever since. Before the month is out, find some time in your busy schedule to tie up some of 2010’s loose ends. File unnecessary papers and close old projects to start the year fresh. Organize your computer files and email inbox. If you haven’t already, make sure you finalize your 2011 budget and establish your goals for the year. You don’t want to carry the weight of 2010 long into the new year, so do what you can now to shut the door on last year’s workload for a more efficient and productive tomorrow.

2. Make Work Fun
With workplace stress impacting employees in a big way, for some, employee morale is dangerously low. Build your team up and boost your employee engagement by making fun a priority at work. While some sources vary on whether or not National Fun at Work Day is officially observed on Jan. 29 or April 1, don’t wait for either date to celebrate. Make every day at the office engaging by making fun a part of your company culture. Whether it’s a team-building game or an office outing, a little bit of fun will go along way to lowering occupational stress and increasing productivity for your entire team.

3. Read a Business Book
Company leaders often focus on the growth and development of employees. But it’s also important to make your own professional development a priority. If you aren’t continually expanding your knowledge and understanding, how can you expect to lead your team with the passion, innovation, and direction they need? So starting this month, commit to reading at least one business book every month this year to expand your knowledge and help you grow your business. Check out Fast Company’s 2010 list of the best books for business owners to get started.

4. Develop Retention and Recruiting Plans
If Right Management’s recent survey results which found that 84% of employees plan to change jobs in 2011 are any indication, businesses are going to need to ramp up their retention efforts and make plans to recruit top-talent in 2011. Avoid expensive turnover by developing an employee retention plan that you can put into action now. And, don’t forget to think about your recruiting needs for the future. Some of the action steps you take for retaining your employees will also go a long way to helping you recruit qualified workers as well.

5. Follow Inc’s 31 Day’s to Better Business
If you’re feeling ambitious and ready for more leader must-do’s in January, check out Inc’s 31 Days to Better Business. Every day in January, the site is sharing a new tip to help you improve your business. Inc’s better business advice includes a variety of ideas from blocking off time for interruptions and surprises to information on recruiting from today’s business leaders. After you’ve read the information, stop and take the time to try it out.