Episode 121 - Just One Thing - Advice For Business Leaders
The latest SME Growth Podcast episode features something different - real business advice from real...
4 min read
In this episode, we explore why September is one of the most powerful points in the business year to reset momentum. Unlike January, which often feels sluggish and weighed down by dark mornings and holiday excess, September brings with it a natural energy. People return from summer breaks refreshed, school terms start, and businesses have a clear run through to Christmas. We discuss how to harness this “back to school” feeling to sharpen focus, re-engage teams, and put plans in place for a strong year-end.
We reflect on how leaders can use September to review pipelines, refresh sales strategies, and revisit budgets or forecasts. It’s also the ideal moment to align teams, re-energise internal projects, and ensure personal and business goals are still on track. Rather than drifting into the final quarter, we explore practical ways to use this period as a launchpad for growth and momentum.
We reflect on how leaders can use September to review pipelines, refresh sales strategies, and revisit budgets or forecasts. It’s also the ideal moment to align teams, re-energise internal projects, and ensure personal and business goals are still on track. Rather than drifting into the final quarter, we explore practical ways to use this period as a launchpad for growth and momentum.
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Key Topics Discussed:
- Why September is often more effective for resetting than January
- Using downtime in August to prepare for a strong autumn push
- Reviewing sales pipelines, referral opportunities, and client follow-ups
- Budget planning, forecasting, and preparing for Q4 activity
- Aligning and energising teams for the sprint to Christmas
- The importance of strategy reviews and leadership reflection
- Turning noise into signal: focusing on what really matters
- Seizing September trade shows, exhibitions, and deal opportunities
Who Is This Episode For:
This conversation is aimed at business owners, leaders, and senior managers looking to make the most of the final quarter. It’s especially relevant for those in sales, marketing, and leadership roles who want to turn September into a catalyst for renewed energy and focus across their organisations.
Quotes to Remember
“September is the shiny new pencil case month, the perfect time to reset.”
“Don’t waste September. Treat it as a campaign period, not just a continuation.”
“Focus on the signal, not the noise, channel energy into what you can control.”
Actionable Takeaways:
- Review your sales pipeline and actively re-engage stalled conversations.
- Revisit budgets and forecasts to ensure you’re on track for Q4.
- Use September to run a strategy review or leadership reset session.
- Re-energise your team: clarify priorities, reinforce values, and plan for year-end.
- Choose one or two internal projects to carry forward with real focus.
- Treat September to December as a campaign sprint, setting clear short-term goals.
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