New Year's Day is a day many people set aside for making annual goals, but the middle of the year is also a good time to take stock of a lot of things. How did you do the first half of the year? What marketing tactics did you use and how did they perform? Are your marketing materials up-to-date as you head into the crucial fourth quarter?

The best retailers and wholesalers know running a business isn’t a solo affair. Inviting feedback from friends, colleagues and customers is a great way to learn what might do well and what to invest in (or not). Ready for input? Invite some of your customers to be part of an advisory board event to share their thoughts on products you’re considering. It engages them in a way that helps them feel ownership, be supportive, and feel more committed to your success.