With so much interest in reality TV these days, I have been expecting my phone to start ringing with offers for me to star in a show based on the operations of a relocation insurance agency. As much as I get excited about this business, the producers probably don’t agree that paperwork and customer service make for an exciting program.
As the weather gets warmer and we turn another calendar page, I am looking forward to another busy summer season. Unlike some seasonal businesses,our industry does not have the option to close during the slower months. As a small business owner, I must manage our cash flow to sustain the company during the slower months. It is a science to manage a business with large peaks and valleys; employees have to learn to be creative, as well as resourceful.
I just read an article from Entrepreneur’s online site about the different tactics other seasonal business owners use to not only sustain themselves during the slow times, but to prepare for when business is in full swing.
It was interesting to read how small businesses in different industries are able to manage their cash flows and get creative in order to bring in revenue during the off-peak seasons. A pool club is selling memberships in October for the next season to increase revenue and help plan their staffing needs. Other businesses have found complementary services or merchandise to offset seasonal losses.
This month and next are critical for decision-making staffing and operations. We use the slower months of February and March to determine how many people will be needed, to make sure we provide a superior level of customer service to our affiliates and customers. In which areas do we need to place extra employees? What channels can we use to find new talent?
In terms of operations, we must make sure we have the correct policies, procedures, and plans in place. Last year, we worked as a team to develop our company vision and strategy. It is imperative that our plans stay on track with where we want to be as company.
It is time for me to get back to preparations, as it is already the end of March and the summer sun will be shining down before we know it.
What preparations do you make to get ready for the busy season? How far in advance do you start preparing? What trends have you seen this year? Tell us about it.
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