As we head towards the festive season with some impending time off on the cards, it might be the time to think about preparing your business for the season.
Staffing
If you’re in an industry where it gets busier at this time of year, now is the time to get extra hands in place ready to tackle the extra workload. Whether it’s in the form of temp staff or seasonal team members, get it done ahead of time and you’ll be pleased you did when the Christmas rush begins.
If you’re in an industry where it gets quieter at this time of year, it’s worth thinking about your office hours. Reducing them, giving your team some time off and closing the doors for the festive period. You need to be clear in your messaging to customers and clients so they know exactly where they stand in terms of your opening days and hours.
Virtual Services
If you’re a one-man band or a small team, it might well be that you’re unable to juggle all of the tasks you have on your hands in the lead up to Christmas. Virtual services may well be the answer to the majority of your problems including a virtual receptionist to handle and divert calls or take a message, through to a virtual mailbox to manage your business admin and mail. We have a range of services that can help assist in your most busy periods, helping maintain a smooth and consistent service – your customers won’t even notice the difference.
Prepare for unpredictable events
Bad weather, COVID restrictions and other issues can crop up nearer to Christmas and the New Year meaning that it can sometimes disrupt business. As much as you can’t predict the future, you can be prepared for unpredictable events by safeguarding your business and making sure you keep up to date with all of the latest news and information available. When it comes to getting deliveries made in time – make sure you get things in the post as early as possible – as for restrictions and weather-related issues, just keep an eye on things and react as needed to changes that happen.
Remember to take a breather
We know that sometimes the Christmas rush can be all-consuming but don’t forget in between the madness to take some time for you. Check-in with your mental health, don’t burn yourself out and ask for help if you need it. It’s a tough time of year for all business owners, and you’re no different. Whether it’s extra support in terms of business service or you need to reevaluate your business plan over the festive period, take time to stop, think and then act to make sure you’re prepared for the season.