I am sure many of you have been hearing the same refrains I have these past few weeks, “Can you believe another year has flown?”  “Feels like we just rang in 2011 and now it’s almost 2012.”  “I am happy/sad to see 2011 go.”  However you feel about it, 2012 is on its way.  Many are hopeful that business will improve. I spoke with a few small business owners in the area to find out what they have planned for the New Year.

Over in Rockland County, Third Eye Technologies (http://thirdeyetech.com) is growing.  CEO, Stephen Alexander was happy to report that the company recently moved to a larger office space due to increased business. They now have enough space to provide each employee with twice the room they had in their prior office. 

Alexander said, “Our goal is to build space more conducive for employees who spend much of their day at their desks.” In addition, they plan on building a meeting room with a living room feel. The room will be used for client meetings and as a break room for employees.      

On the Westchester side of the Hudson, Bruce Schoenberg, CEO of Oasis Day Spa in Dobbs Ferry told me, “Every day is New Years. We are always looking for better ways to run our business.” Along the same vein, Schoenberg stressed that business owners need to remember to thank their staff all year, not just during the holidays. In 2012 the goal is to continue to build their client base by providing exemplary customer service. 

What about those who do not own a business? The goals are varied. Several people resolve to be more organized. Some said they will network more while some are looking to cut back on how many business events they attend. One person shared that she will be paring down her business newsletter and magazine subscriptions. 

“I am on information overload, I am going to pick the sources that are most valuable and stick with those,” she said. 

A few people told me they will arrange their work schedules to accommodate a better work-life balance.  It was good to hear that their employers were actively working with them to accomplish this goal. And yes, some will be looking for a new job.   

One simple thing you can do to improve next year is to review 2011. What worked well? What did not? What can you change or improve upon?       

Things here at LJS HR Services have been busy. Several of you have contacted me regarding HR consulting services resulting in new clients. Thank you for your business.

Remember, if you have employees, you have HR issues. Keep those calls and emails coming in!  I would like continue to grow and hopefully add employees. Hey, that sounds like a goal for me - add jobs to the Hudson Valley region. Wishing all of us a prosperous New Year.