“Your December Marketing Checklist: Set Your Business Up for a Strong 2026”

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb

Most small business owners slow down in December — but that’s your chance to get ahead.A little focus now means more booked jobs, smoother marketing, and fewer slow weeks when January hits.

Here’s your December Marketing Checklist to finish strong and set yourself up for a record-breaking 2026.

1. Review What Worked in 2025

• Look back at your best leads: Did most come from Google, referrals, or repeat customers?

• Check your ROI: Which ads or promotions actually made you money?

• Cut the waste: Drop anything that didn’t perform — time and money are too valuable.

 2. Tune Up Your Website

• Update your homepage and photos. Make sure everything reflects your current services.

• Add strong calls-to-action: “Book a Quote,” “Schedule Service,” or “Call Now.”

• Check your mobile version. Over half your customers are finding you on their phones — make it fast and easy to contact you.

3. Reconnect With Past Clients

Your old customers are your best future customers.They already trust you — now remind them you’re still here to help.

• Send a thank-you or holiday email. Keep it warm and personal.

• Offer a simple deal: “Book in January and get 10% off.”

• Send a quick text blast:“Hey [Name], thanks for trusting us this year! We’re booking early for January — want to grab a spot?”

• Ask for reviews or referrals. A quick text can bring in new jobs fast.

• Use tools like Mailchimp or TextMagic to send messages and track who responds.

Quick Win: Text your top 10 repeat customers today — thank them, and ask if they need any year-end service.

4. Track and Measure Your Marketing

Don’t just guess where leads come from — write it down.

• Track every call or quote: Add a note — “referral,” “Google,” or “email.”

• Review monthly: By March, you’ll see exactly which marketing brings in the best jobs.

 5. Plan Your 2026 Marketing Calendar

• Set simple monthly goals: Calls, leads, and booked jobs.

• Plan your promotions: spring cleanings, pre-summer tune-ups, or fall maintenance specials.

• Choose your top 2–3 marketing channels (email, Google, referrals).

• Schedule a review each quarter to stay on track and adjust.

 Action Step:

Pull your customer list this week and send one short message to reconnect before the year ends.A few emails or texts now can fill your January schedule.

Want to Go Deeper?

Read “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller — it’ll help you clarify your message so customers listen, trust, and buy.