With Independence Day behind us and the start of school just a few weeks away, it's time to plan your next move. What can you do this month to strengthen your future business?

Upcoming Holidays

Looking ahead to September, there are several ways you can reach out to former and prospective clients. Send out tips for Labor Day travelers (September 5) with ideas on keeping their home safe when they're out of town, or nearby cities they can visit over a long weekend. There are other fun holidays next month that you can take advantage of with pop bys or special notes. Consider Grandparents' Day (September 11) or National Good Neighbor Day (September 28). See more at www.NationalDayCalendar.com

Life Changes

With kids heading back to school or off to college next month, families are going through a transitional period. Use this as an opportunity to pass along information on social media, emails, and newsletters about transitioning. Focus on tips about organization, home office space, keeping school mess at bay, etc.

School Connections

Show your local school spirit by sponsoring a sports' team or a PTA night. These are great opportunities to post to social media as well. Take a selfie at a game or festival and let your followers know you're active and supportive of your neighborhood schools.

Embrace The Slump

If September starts to slow down, look at it as a blessing and not a curse. Slow business means you've got more time to pour into your marketing plans. Don't lose the chance to get some serious work done, so that once the back-to-school season has calmed down, your network knows who to call!