Welcome to 2026. The holidays are over, the "Out of Office" auto-responders are turned off, and it is officially time to get back to business.
Before you dive headfirst into any big projects, take some time this week to handle the digital basics.

We see it all the time: businesses launch expensive new marketing campaigns in January, only to be dragged down by a website that still looks like it is stuck in the past. You don't want to lose a lead in the first week of the year because of a broken form or outdated info.

Here are 5 Simple Digital Tasks to Start 2026 Strong

1. The "Footer Check" (Update Your Copyright)

It is a tiny detail, but it speaks volumes. If a potential client scrolls to the bottom of your website on January 1st and sees "© 2025" (or worse, 2021), it signals neglect. It makes customers wonder if you are still in business or if you pay attention to details.

The Task: Go to your website footer.
The Fix: Ensure the copyright date is updated to 2026.
Why it matters: It builds instant trust that your business is active and current.

2. Test Your "Contact Us" Form

When was the last time you emailed yourself from your own website? In our experience, we often find businesses losing leads simply because a plugin was updated and broke their contact form without them knowing.

The Task: Visit your website as if you were a customer. Fill out the contact form and hit "Send."
The Fix: Check your inbox. Did the email arrive? Did it go to Spam? Did the customer get a "Thank You" confirmation message?
Why it matters: A broken form is a broken sales pipeline. Fix it before the January rush.

3. Update Your Google Business Hours

Nothing angers a customer faster than driving to your store or calling your office because Google said you were "Open," only to find a locked door.

The Task: Log in to your Google Business Profile.
The Fix: Remove any lingering holiday hours and confirm your standard operating hours are correct.
Why it matters: Accuracy prevents bad reviews. It shows you respect your customers' time.

4. Audit Your "Team" or "About" Page

Staff changes happen. However, keeping former employees on your website—or missing key new hires—can create confusion and look unprofessional.

The Task: Scan your "About Us" or "Meet the Team" page.
The Fix: Remove anyone who is no longer with the company. Make a list of new team members who need photos or bios added in the new year.
Why it matters: Your "About" page is often the second most-visited page on a site. It needs to reflect the reality of your business today.

5. The Security Sweep (Change One Password)

You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert, but you should practice basic security. If you have been using the same password for your website hosting, your social media, or your email marketing for the last three years, it is time for a change.

The Task: Pick your most critical account (usually your email or website admin login).
The Fix: Change the password. Use a strong, unique phrase that you haven't used elsewhere.
Why it matters: January is a common time for hacking attempts as automated bots scan for vulnerabilities. A fresh password is your first line of defense.

Now You Are Ready To Start 2026

These five tasks are small, but they set the tone for the rest of the year. You have cleared the cobwebs, secured your site, and signaled to your customers that you are on the ball.

If you found this information helpful and want your questions answered with out all the jargon and tech-talk, click here to send us a message.

5 Simple Digital Tasks to Start 2026 Strong