Summer Lovin'...............Business?
Whilst most business owners and employees switch off during the summer (on a wednesday this year), is it the right time for you to take advantage?
Doesn't it make perfect sense to strike while the irons hot? To take advantage of your competitiors when they aren't active? Well if you agree, do it now! The summer is the time when many small business owners mentally shut off or use varying factors such as "my customers are on holiday" to not commit 100% of their efforts. They will be thinking of their summer holidays for the two weeks leading up, on their holidays for two weeks and then basking in the memories for two weeks after. That's six weeks to take advantage.
All of your customers can't shut down and if there is less options for them to turn to it instantly makes your proposition more attractive. You will be able to build more brand loyalty by offering services when your clients need them, not when you want to offer them. Everyone needs a holiday and if you are running your own business it is vital that you get a break to recharge your batteries however you can still remember your customer service throughout:
- Call or e-mail all of your clients to let them know when you will be away and who to contact during that period.
- Leave an automated response on your e-mail in case you are contacted while away.
- Leave the first two days of your return to solely catch up on what you have missed and to respond to all the enquiries you have had while away. The day you are back is the day you focus on work.
- Learn to place trust in others to carry on your good work in line with your values.
And if most of your clients are away then take the opportunity to look inside your business. Are you operating as efficiently as you could be? Are you talking to your staff and seeking their ideas and involvement? What about clearing that stock room? Or updating your website.
Don't rest on your laurels until you know you can.
The Team @ Acorn Business Performance
