My Fall Marketing Checklist

As summer winds down and the kids head back to school, I find myself reflecting on this time of year and what it means for us as small business owners. For many of us, summer was a time to step back, enjoy our families, and indulge in some self-care. But now, as the school bells ring, it’s time to dive back into our businesses and make the most of the final months of the year.

Think of fall as a blank canvas, inviting us to set new goals and achieve the milestones we’ve been aiming for. It’s a chance to harness the energy of a fresh start and channel it into our work.

My Fall Marketing Checklist 

Based on my own needs and experiences, I’ve created a marketing checklist that I find invaluable as I prepare for the busy months ahead. Here’s what I’m focusing on:

Website Updates: My website is my digital storefront, and it’s essential to keep it up to date. As I head into fall, I make it a priority to:

• Review product listings and pricing: I check to see if there have been changes that need to be reflected.

• Create new landing pages: I consider whether some upcoming events or promotions deserve their own space.

• Optimize for SEO: I conduct a quick audit to ensure potential customers can find me easily.

• Refresh my content: I make sure my messaging aligns with my current offerings.

 A website should be a lead-generating machine, and regular updates ensure it stays relevant and engaging.

 Create a New Lead Magnet

Something is exciting about launching a new lead magnet! Engagement typically dips in the summer so it’s nice to think about offering something fresh and attract new leads.  I think about what I can create that provides real value to my audience and showcase my expertise, helping me build trust with my audience. You can learn more about lead magnets here.

Get Back to Content Creation

We are all guilty of putting content creation on the back burner during the summer months, right? Now is the time to reestablish those content creation routines. Consistent content is crucial for keeping our audiences engaged and informed – so I am getting back to it. Here’s the quick plan I am using:

• Develop a content calendar: I plan out what I want to share for the rest of the year.

• Batch create content: This helps me stay ahead and reduces last-minute stress.

• Repurpose existing content: I find ways to share my previous work across different platforms.

• Incorporate seasonal themes: I use the fall season to inspire my content.

If you haven’t set up a content creation process yet, now is a great time to start. A structured approach will help you stay consistent and relevant long term.

Nurture Email Contacts

Email marketing is a powerful tool for maintaining relationships with my audience so I try hard to communicate regularly. I know it’s key to staying top-of-mind when my contacts need my products or services. Here are some tips and tricks that have helped me:

• Segment my list: I tailor my messages to different groups for a more personalized touch.

• Create a consistent schedule: Regular emails help keep my audience engaged.

• Offer exclusive content: I give my subscribers something special to encourage loyalty.

Every email is an opportunity to connect and provide value so I make sure my communications are thoughtful and engaging.

Embrace In-Person Connections

While digital communication is essential, there’s something irreplaceable about face-to-face interactions. With the fall comes a wave of networking events and gatherings, and I’m excited to take advantage of these opportunities. Here are some specific ways I am going about this:

- Attend industry events: I am looking at conferences where I can connect with others in my field.

- Host my own gatherings: I am considering organizing workshops or masterminds to share my expertise.

- Joining local business groups: These can be great for networking and support.

- Reconnect with old contacts: I am making it a point to reach out to those who inspire me and make me feel valued.

 What’s Your Plan for Fall?

I hope that my plan has encouraged you to take a moment to reflect on your goals for the rest of the year. What steps will you take to revitalize your business? Here are a few questions to guide your planning:

1. What is one major goal you want to achieve before the year ends?

2. How can you leverage the changing season in your marketing efforts?

3. What new skill or tool will you learn to enhance your business?

4. How will you reconnect with clients or customers who may have been less active over the summer?

5. What self-care practices will you maintain to ensure you’re at your best?

The key is not just in planning but in taking consistent, meaningful action.  

As we say goodbye to summer and welcome the energy of fall, I invite you to join me in recommitting to marketing your business. Let’s use these last four months of the year to propel our female-owned small businesses forward.

What steps are you planning to take to make this fall your busiest season yet?