With the holiday season behind us and 2018 well under way, there are multiple things you can do to prepare for the rest of the year.

Strategize. Start brainstorming. Put together your marketing game plan now. Start off with your goals. Think about what you want to achieve. Ask yourself what are you going to do differently, how you are going to stay relevant and what you need to do to ensure you get this done.

Go digital. Do you want to grow your presence on social media? You should. It is a quick, easy and inexpensive option to grow your audience, share company news and connect with customers and other stakeholders not only locally, but around the world. Consider adding steady e-newsletters to your digital marketing campaign.

Make connections. Besides digital marketing, you should look to make in-person connections as well. Attending more networking events is always an option, but consider public speaking opportunities. Whether in front of local community groups or on stage of a major conference, share your knowledge and let the world know you know your stuff. Every conference has a keynote speaker. Connect with the board of various events that will enhance your business, and inquire about becoming a presenter. Are there any future projects or industries you would like to venture into? Check out their events as well. Get your face time in front of key industry executives and make your presence known.

Think ahead. What trends are you seeing in your industry for 2018? Be a leader and start making moves before others do. Is there a new law being passed that will impact clients and their cases? Developers should consider amenities that appeal to buyers to include in projects, as well as popular destinations for vacationers retirees and families. Are there upcoming changes to insurance policies? Use this information to your advantage.

Set the date. While it's great to have ideas, all talk and no action won't get you anywhere. Set a date to check in on your progress to make sure you're on the right track.

Stay top of mind. Whether electronically or in-person, you'll want to make sure people remember you. While they are with family and friends over the holiday, the topic of discussion could be you and your business. Staying in the forefront can result in a referral.

Be inclusive. Inclusion will get you remembered, and people will appreciate that you put in the effort to personalize your message.

Start fresh. Follow up. Let people know what changes you have lined up. Collaboration sparks creative development. Offer to meet for coffee or lunch to discuss how 2018 can bring good things to all parties involved.

Now is the time to start. Keep up with the news. Read. Get involved. Most importantly, keep going. Even if you get off track, don't stop. Go full force through 2018 and take your business to the next level.

Julie Talenfeld is the president of BoardroomPR, an integrated marketing and PR firm based in South Florida. She can be reached at [email protected].