Q3 Business Check-In: Reset, Refocus, and Realign for a Strong Second Half of the year
Here we are, already halfway through another year and officially in Q3. Whether the past six months have felt like they've flown by or crawled by, now's the perfect time to pause, step back, and check in on your business. And I'm not talking about a "let's get rid of the whole plan we had and start over" kind of way, but more like giving your business a quick tune-up so it can run smoother for the rest of the year.
Each quarter of the year serves as a natural checkpoint, and Q3 is no exception. You've seen how things are working (or not). Summer's in full swing, and fall is just around the corner, which means it's a great time to realign your strategy, revisit your goals, and decide what you want the second half of the year to look like.
If you've never done a mid-year check-in before, don't worry. You don't need any fancy tools, applications, a whole staff, or hours of uninterrupted time (who has that anyway?). You just need a willingness to ask yourself some good mid-year questions and make a few shifts where it matters most.
In the following, I'll share a few steps for a practical and honest Q3 review in today's rapidly evolving marketing landscape, which is constantly changing with new tools, trends, and, yes, AI as well.
Step 1: Look at What's Actually Working
Before you dive into any new tools and fresh goals, start by asking what's already going well.
Which services or products are performing best?
Where are my best leads and customers coming from?
What's been bringing in the most visibility (Instagram reels, in-person networking, email newsletters, etc.)?
Take a few minutes to jot down what's working and where your momentum is coming from. It may be easy to overlook your wins when you're always chasing the next goal, so this step can help you focus on the good! And the things that are bringing you results.
Step 2: Revisit Your Goals (and Trim the Fluff)
The goals you set at the beginning of the year might not align with where your business stands today (mine certainly don't), and that's completely normal. Ask these questions (and answer them) about your goals:
Are my goals still aligned with where I want my business to go?
Are my priorities different from what they were last quarter?
Are there goals that just aren't worth my time anymore, or should I shift my focus?
You don't have to throw everything out. Just update what no longer fits and make room for what does. Trim the fluff, get honest about your capacity, and remember that growth isn't about doing more. It's about doing the right things at the right time.
Step 3: Audit Your Online Presence (Especially with Recent Google Search Updates)
If you haven't touched your website or content in a while, it's time for a quick refresh, especially with the recent Google search updates and how people are using search engines to find what they need. Here's what matters the most right now:
Fresh, original content. Search algorithms are prioritizing content written by real people that is useful and relevant. That means skipping the generic copy and including your personality, perspective, and experience.
Conversational, long-tail keywords. Think voice search phrases like "best online business coach for creatives" or "how to launch a small business email list."
Up-to-date (and Accurate) Info Across Your Platforms. Double-check that your offerings, pricing, and contact details are up-to-date across your website, social media profiles, and business listings.
Step 4: Use AI Wisely (But Don't Let It Run the Show)
As much as some of us may not want to admit, AI tools are everywhere now, and when used with intention, they can make your life easier. The key is to use them to enhance your work, not replace your voice.
Here are some easy ways to experiment:
Utilize tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to brainstorm blog outlines, draft captions, or revamp existing content into fresh new content. (And if you haven't used Gemini to transcribe your online meetings, I'm telling you now it is a GAME CHANGER).
Canva Magic Studio can help you quickly design or resize graphics and generate placeholder copy in seconds.
Try automation tools like Zapier or Notion templates to simplify your admin tasks or onboarding.
Find one task that regularly drains your time and test a tool that could help you get it done faster. No need to automate absolutely everything (we can write our own grocery lists, right?) Try to make space for what matters most to you and your business, especially with so many AI trends flying around everywhere.
Step 5: Refresh Your Marketing Approach
Marketing trends shift rapidly, but the desire for authentic connection remains constant. Here's what's working now:
Useful, relatable content. Whether it's a how-to reel, a behind-the-scenes look, or a valuable lesson learned, share content that reflects your experience and offers value.
Short-form videos. You don't need a big production. A quick "how-to", a personal tip, or a client win goes a long way.
Email that feels personal. You don't need to overthink it. A simple newsletter with a helpful resource, personal insight, or business update can be more impactful than a perfectly branded blast.
Moments of genuine connection. Replying to a DM, checking in with a past client, or leaving a thoughtful comment on someone's post creates momentum.
Step 6: Check in With Yourself, Too
Let's not forget the human behind the business...This check-in isn't just about data and technology, but it's also about you. Ask yourself:
What parts of my work are giving me energy? What is draining me?
What's starting to feel heavy or out of alignment? What feels really full and promising?
Do I feel supported in the ways I need to be? Is there something I can outsource or hand off?
You don't have to make massive changes, but noticing (and accepting) what feels off can help you correct and get back on track before burnout sets in. Even a slight shift in your schedule or boundaries can make a big difference in how you show up the rest of the year.
Step 7: Choose 1 to 3 Intentional Shifts for The End of the Year
It may be tempting to try to overhaul EVERYTHING, but instead, pick a few minor changes that feel realistic and aligned with your current goals. Here are a few ideas:
Restart (or just plain START) your email newsletter and send one every other week.
Update your service guide or pricing page to reflect your current offerings.
Film one short video a week and post it on your platform of choice (social media, anyone?)
Block off time for admin, creative planning, or CEO days each month (because working on your business is just as important as working in your business!)
Consistent, intentional action over the next 90 days will always go further than a scattered sprint.
Want Help Bringing These Ideas to Life?
If this Q3 check-in helped you uncover what's working (or what's not), and you're ready to refocus for the rest of the year, I'm here to help. Whether you need a strategy you can stick to or some hands-on support from a Fractional CMO to bring your marketing ideas to life, let's talk. Contact me today for your complimentary consultation.
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