What you can learn from May sweeps

It's that time of the year again. If you are a television fan, then you know what I am talking about- May sweeps. This is the period when advertising rates are set and programs are evaluated. Networks, desperate for the most viewers as possible, cart out the big guns- special guests, cliffhangers, crazy plot twists- whatever it takes to create a buzz for their show and increase viewership.

So, what does this have to do with your business?

A couple of things come to mind. First, advertisers reevaluate the value of time purchased on each of the networks. Same should go for your business. Is it time to raise your rates or change up your service packages?

Next, networks give viewers what they want during sweeps. They know the exact formula to increase viewership. Have you figured out what your clients want and/or need? How are you meeting those needs in order to increase sales?

Also, many television shows have crossover episodes where characters from one show end up on another show, like Addison being on Grey's Anatomy, then Sloan being on Private Practice with Addison in a continuation of the plot line from Grey's Anatomy. I guess the thinking is viewers from each show will watch the first show and continue with the second show, thereby increasing ratings for both shows. This technique could also benefit entrepreneurs. Find a few people you trust and love working with and see if you can work together to offer new products or services for your clients. You could even see about switching client lists in order to reach a new audience. Be creative and see what unique packages and partnerships you can come up with.

Finally, sweeps often determine if a show stays or goes. When was the last time you looked over your list of services to see what is working and what is not. It may be time to remove services from your menu or get new training in order to increase your offerings.

Just as networks take the time to reevaluate their entire television lineup, each business should do the same at least once a year in order to avoid being killed off in a shocking cliffhanger.