Reflections on 2021

As 2021 draws to a close, I’ve taken time to reflect on the year that feels like it has gone by in a flash.

Once again whilst some clients have been dramatically affected by the ongoing pandemic, I’m thankful that I’ve been able to work with many organisations who are flourishing.

In terms of business development, this year has been all about being CONSISTENT

• I’ve posted a blog each month, this is my 12^th this year – progress from the 6 in 2020.  I’m still working on my content strategy for 2022 and blogs may take a break but I’m really pleased with the collection I’ve created.
• I aimed to post on LinkedIn at least once a week, I haven’t quite managed 52 but I’m not far off.   This will continue into 2022, I’m aiming for at least once a week posting again.
• Thanks to the wonderful Jessica Arnold, all my imagery across Twitter and LinkedIn now has the same look and feel. I’m loving using these new templates and feel proud when looking at my Twitter feed.
• Always late to the party, I embraced online networking this year – I’ve been a regular at my local FSB month event where I’ve met some amazing people and made some great connections.  I’ve also dropped into sessions from other groups, thank you to OBCN, OpenDoorz and NetworkingIn for making me feel so welcome.    I’m loving the emergence of walking based networking, I attended the first Walk and Talk from Bucks Business First in November and will definitely be making these a regular feature.   Thanks also to the splendid collaborative of Cat’s PJs – the Speakeasy events are a highlight of my month.
• I’ve also been making sure I follow up with 1-2-1s after networking events – I’ve had 31 of these this year. No idea how this relates to previous years because I didn’t keep track!

Alas I didn’t manage to keep to the “reading 1 book a month” target I set myself, so far the tally for this year is 5 and a half.   But that’s considerably better than 2020’s tally so I’m calling that a win.

It’s been a year filled with interesting work projects and a great network of business support.   As usual I’m taking a complete break over Christmas and will return refreshed and ready to tackle the New Year on Tuesday 4 January.

Wishing you a safe and well Christmas, with love and best wishes for 2022.