Contractors of all stripes should be seeing increased business levels with essentially one month left in the 2024 federal fiscal year.  The next month will literally be a sprint to the finish, though one that could look more like the high hurdles for some contractors.  Here are three things to focus on now to finish the year strong:  1.  Communicate:  Make sure that you’re in consistent communication not only with potential federal buyers but industry partners as well.  Never assume that either of these important targets remember you or your solutions.  Don’t just communicate capabilities, either.  Make sure people know how easy it is to buy from you.  2.  Don’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew:  One frequent piece of feedback we hear from current and former feds is how disappointed they are when companies promise and then fail to deliver. Some believe that it should be a best practice to have a member of the delivery team on each critical sales call so that there is a clear connection between what’s promised and what can really be expected.  Remember that dropping the ball this year may mean that it is all that more difficult to pick it up in the future.      3. Don’t Get Distracted with What Could Happen Next Year:  Congress returns to work next week and has a full calendar of issues to take up.  Don’t worry about it.  Allen Federal is among those watching these developments so that your business can focus on what’s important now.  We will certainly let you know what to be concerned about and when.  Right now, though, all efforts should be focused on closing business.  With the late start to the fiscal year, business will certainly be conducted right up till midnight September 30^th on the international dateline.  Allen Federal is here to help with questions and crises, too.  Get the work done now so that you can relax in October.