Musings on Managing Pipeline and Clients During the Slower Summer Months

Does it seem like just about everyone we know is traveling and on multi-week vacations this summer!  Will business grind to a halt for a chunk of the summer?  Do we leave clients and prospects alone during the summer -- or keep a cadence of communications? 

The consensus opinions from what I've read seem to lean toward maintaining a channel of communication with clients during the summer rather than leaving them alone. I wonder about that though. When you know your clients and prospects, you also should know how to calibrate your communications. If you don't, just ask them!

But it is important to strike a balance and be mindful of your clients' preferences. While some may appreciate regular updates and communication, others may prefer a quieter approach during the summer. It's important to respect individual client preferences and tailor your communication frequency and content accordingly.

Here's some ideas to consider:

---Relationship building: By staying in touch with your clients/prospects during the summer, you have an opportunity to strengthen your relationship with them. Regular communication shows that you value their business and care about their needs. This can help foster trust and loyalty, leading to long-term partnerships.

---Maintain regular communication: Although summer may be a quieter period, it's good to maintain regular communication with your prospects. Keep them updated on relevant industry news, insights, or developments that could be of interest to them. Consider sending out personalized newsletters, or sharing informative content through your social media channels. By staying engaged, you demonstrate your commitment to their success and keep your brand top of mind.

---Potential business opportunities: While summer may be slower for some industries, it doesn't mean that there are no business opportunities. Some clients may still be actively seeking solutions or looking to make purchasing decisions. By maintaining communication, you increase the chances of being considered when these opportunities arise. Leaving clients alone during this time may result in missed opportunities.

---Competitive advantage: Not all businesses may adopt a proactive approach during the summer months. By staying in touch with clients while others are less active, you have an opportunity to stand out from the competition. Regular communication can differentiate you as a dedicated and reliable partner, potentially strengthening your position in the market.

---Customer service and support: Even during the summer, clients may require assistance or have questions regarding your products or services. By keeping communication channels open, you provide them with a means to reach out and seek support when needed. Prompt and responsive customer service can leave a positive impression and contribute to customer satisfaction.

While the summer months may be slower for many businesses, they can also be a prime time to focus on managing prospective clients effectively.  Embrace the slower season as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, showcase expertise, be responsive, and position your business for success right after Labor Day.