Why is it most folks attempt to change their life with a New Year Resolution, right after a glass (or two) of champagne? I believe if you really want to make a lasting change, you need to be in it for the long haul. I also believe your business is worth the investment of at least a few days of reflection before you decide to change the world. For the better part of two decades I've used a three step model to help my clients become the Master of Their Digital Domain. As you embark on a new year, let me share the process so you can be thinking about it for a few days, then get fired up about How lucky you are going to be in '13.

How to Make All Your Technology Work in 3 Steps

It's easy to be overwhelmed by too much technology (TMT) and stressed because the year has already started. Use the following steps to make technology work for your business.

Step 1 - Acquire

Start with a review of your business model and needs. Decide what you want to accomplish before you invest in any new technology. Defining what you need eliminates all the things you don't need. To pick the right digital communication channels, locate your clients and prospects. If they don't use Twitter, why should you? Create a list of tasks that would, if completed, help you connect with qualified prospects while building your relationship with loyal clients.

Step 2 - Configure

Many technology vendors think their job is done as soon as you write them a check. It's not enough to buy technology, you need to custom tailor your technology to meet the needs of your business. Everyone on the planet (including your competitors) can buy all the technology they need. To really make it work you need to leverage your investment while reducing your effort. MailChimp is a superior Email Marketing platform, but you have to personalize the templates if you hope to create a connection with prospects.

Step 3 - Master

You don't need to be a geek to make technology work. You simply need to take charge and manage the goals, processes and outcomes that will make your business successful. Do you have your newsletter publishing process memorized? I don't, but I do have a pre-publish checklist that keeps me on track while eliminating stuff from falling through the cracks. Sit down with a stack of blank 3x5 cards and document each step in your process. Rearrange the cards until you have them in the right order. Make sure you haven't missing a step. Turn your stack of cards into a written checklist. All done!

Insight

Hope is not a strategy. You can't whip out your credit card, purchase some software and expect superior results from your digital marketing. You need to focus on your goals, choose appropriate tools, make sure they are sharp, then point them in the right direction.

Resources

Sample Newsletter Publishing Checklist I invite you to download and check out a checklist my clients once used to publish their digital newsletter.