Lots of changes happen over the course of a year. Make sure that your Web site, brochures, business cards and other representations of your business reflect the changes you've experienced. This is a good time to make sure that the information you put out to customers is accurate.

Is your contact information correct? Or, do you have a new address, phone number or area code, e mail address, Web site, or other contact method?

Did you meet any milestones? If you have been in business for 10 years, or achieved over $1 million in revenues, or signed your 100th (or 1000th) client, or hit another major goal you might want to mention it in your sales materials.

Did you receive any awards or professional designations? Add them to your bio. Show awards on your web site and in brochures. Add professional designations to your business card.

Did you join any professional associations? You may be able to display a logo at your Web site or on your business cards.

Are the descriptions of your products and services still accurate? Have you dropped or added any? Do you have new testimonials to add (or some to remove)?

Has your Web site been updated recently? Add new information, list upcoming events, offer new content. And, be sure to then update the copyright date.

Get ready for a successful new year by putting your best face forward to clients now!

Cathy Stucker

As the Idea Lady, Cathy Stucker, IdeaLady.com, has helped thousands of people discover creative paths to success on their own terms. She is a frequent speaker and consultant who shows clients creative ways to attract customers and make themselves famous.

Cathy has appeared on many radio and television programs, and she has been featured in The Houston Chronicle, The New York Times, Black Enterprise, Woman's Day, and many other publications.