Shut down your business diligently over the festive period.
Preparing your office before you close for the holidays requires careful preparation. Proper communication will ensure that your customers, vendors, and employees can plan around the shutdown, and that means you won’t have to deal with complaints before and after the break. You may be thinking that you have enough to think about with the holidays, but these tips can help you to streamline closing your business for a couple of days or weeks effectively.
Notify Employees, Customers, and Vendors
Make sure that you communicate the dates in which your offices will be closed over the holiday period. Employees can be notified and reminded through emails, in-office calendar systems, and signs around the office. You can notify customers through your website and newsletters, and vendors should be notified via email, phone, or postal mail.
Back Up Servers
You must make sure you have your disaster recovery plan in place (and that it has been tested) before shutting your doors for the holidays. Imagine there is a power cut, flood or another natural disaster during this time – could your business easily recover? It’s best to be prepared for the unexpected.
Protect Data and Devices
Store all portable devices in a locked drawer or store cupboard, as this will be one of the first items thieves go for. Another way to ensure your data is safe is to encrypt it on the device so that only those with an encryption key can access it.
Follow Up Invoice Payments
Lots of businesses find themselves tight with cash flow in the New Year, so it pays to be on top of your accounts and follow up on any due payments ahead of the holiday shutdown.
Record a New Voicemail
This task is often overlooked when closing up shop for the year. Be sure that you record a new voicemail with specific dates about when your business will be closed and emergency contact information.
Unplug Appliances (Where Possible)
As well as turning off appliances, you should also unplug the unnecessary devices. This reduces the risk of fire, reduces the risk of devices being damaged in a power surge, and helps to cut down electricity costs!
Plan for 2018
Finally, it’s a good idea to do some prep work before the New Year about your business’s goals and plans. Writing down key aspirations will help you return to work in the New Year with more focus and purpose.
Is your business ready for the New Year ahead? Find the right business insurance that will protect your company throughout the festive season and beyond! Contact Chambers & Company Insurance Brokers to get started.