Now is the time to gear up for fall. As the lazy days of summer give way to September hustle, Ontario small business owners face a seasonal shift. Whether you’re winding down from a busy summer or amping up for a bustling winter, now’s the time to regroup, refocus, and make the most of Q4. Here’s how.
Reflect on Third-Quarter Performance
Before diving into fall planning, take stock of what worked (and what didn’t) over the past few months:
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Review sales trends and customer behaviour
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Evaluate your cash flow and expenses
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Check if you’re on track with your annual goals
This insight will help you finish the year strong—or adjust course if needed.
Prepare for Seasonal Transitions
Your peak season may be ending—or just beginning. Either way, it’s smart to:
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Adjust staffing needs accordingly
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Review and update inventory
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Plan seasonal promotions early (think Thanksgiving and holiday campaigns)
If you’re in retail or hospitality, this is a great time to map out fall and winter marketing efforts.
Get Back Into Routine
With kids back in school and clients returning from vacation, routines are resetting. This is the perfect opportunity to:
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Reconnect with existing clients and suppliers
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Set fresh priorities with your team
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Schedule any lingering tasks you put off during the summer
Consider booking check-ins with your accountant or bookkeeper to stay financially on track.
Don’t Let Tax Deadlines Sneak Up
The final quarter of the year often brings tax filings, HST remittances, and other compliance tasks. Staying proactive now means fewer headaches later. Talk to your accountant about:
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Year-end tax planning
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Deduction opportunities
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Final quarter budget alignment
A Fresh Season, A Fresh Start
September brings renewed energy. Use it to your advantage and gear up for fall—revisit your goals, re-engage your customers, and realign your strategy.
Need help reviewing your Q3 numbers or planning for year-end? Contact Compass CPA—we’re here to guide your business every step of the way.
