Check Your KPIs, Reach Out to 200 Top Customers, and More To-Dos for Print Managers in May-June

May 5-11

MANAGEMENT 
When did you last audit your list of key performance indicators (KPIs)? Are you tracking all that you should? Or more than you should? Do a deep dive to see what stats still make sense to see and use those metrics to adapt your business and achieve success. If you don’t have the proper software, get it!

May 12-18

OPERATION 

Let’s get organized. Discard one item for every year you’ve worked at your store — pieces of paper you know you’re never going to read or need, items gathering dust, old plastic goods. Been in business 17 years? That means 17 items.

May 19-25

MARKETING
 
Your best customers are your current customers. Identify your 200 top customers. Draft a plan to market to them in the second half of 2024.

ISSUES
 
There’s simply no escaping politicians this year. They are likely to come knocking on your door, showing up at the local Chamber of Commerce and dropping by your favorite drinking spot. Pay attention to the issues and introduce yourself. If they want to get or stay elected, they’ll make time to meet you: a local independent business owner.

May 26-June 1

EVENTS 

Local neighborhoods tend to come alive at this time of year. If you’re in a lifestyle center, strip mall or downtown location, take the lead in organizing a community block party.


MANAGEMENT 

The sun is out, the pace of work eases, it’s the perfect time for a staff-appreciation event. Consider something physical with an air of fear — like paintball or rappelling — to promote bond-building.


June 2-8

OPERATIONS 

Write a letter to someone you admire. Somewhere down the track, it could result in a valuable new relationship. Or it might just be a way of making a person who inspires you feel good. Either way, you win.



June 9-15

FURNISHINGS 

Need any new office furniture? Now is the time to pick some up; showrooms are making room for new lines that come out in August.

IN-STORE
 
Check your air-conditioning so that people coming in from outside are comfortable, not just the people working inside. This is also a good time to check and replace the air filters in your building’s ventilation.

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June 16-22

SAFETY 

Stage an advanced fire drill. Simulate a blocked exit and unconscious staff member. Critique staff performance. Include security considerations.

 
 

June 23-29

TECHNOLOGY 
 
Take advantage of any slower periods to familiarize yourself with any new equipment or software you may have purchased. Become a master, not a slave of your technology.