Taking a Holiday as a Small Business Owner

The Christmas break is on the horizon and a lot of small business owners are worying about how (or even if) they can get away.

Running a small business is no small feat, and taking a holiday might seem like an impossible dream. But with planning and a few strategic measures, you can enjoy a well-deserved break while ensuring your business continues to thrive.

Here are some practical tips and things to set up before you take your holiday.

1. Plan Ahead and Communicate

Set Your Dates Early: Plan your holiday well in advance and mark the dates on your calendar. This gives you ample time to prepare and ensures your team is aware of your absence.

Communicate with Your Team: Inform your employees, clients, and partners about your holiday plans. Clear communication helps everyone understand their roles and responsibilities in your absence.

2. Delegate Responsibilities

Identify Key Tasks: Make a list of critical tasks that need to be handled while you’re away. This could include customer service, order fulfilment, and daily operations.

Assign Roles: Delegate these tasks to trusted team members. Ensure they are well-briefed and equipped to handle their new responsibilities.

But I work by myself: If you are a sole trader it’s even more important that your clients know that you are away and when and for how long. You might also need to set up some arrangement where a client can make contact in an emergency.

Perhaps someone in your industry who can cover for you (they cover for you on your holiday. You cover for them on their holiday). Or maybe a friend or family member that can respond and (if absolutely necessary) contact you.

3. Set Up Systems and Processes

Automate Where Possible: Utilise automation tools to handle routine tasks. For example, set up automated email responses to inform clients of your absence and provide alternative contact details.

Document Procedures: Create detailed guides and checklists for essential tasks. This helps your team follow the correct procedures and minimises disruptions. Even just setting up a clear “must be done now – can be done later” checklist can be a lifesaver.

4. Use Technology to Stay Connected

Cloud-Based Solutions: Use cloud-based tools for project management, file sharing, and communication. This allows you to stay connected and monitor your business from anywhere.

BUT don’t destroy the benefits of having a holiday by letting yourself fret and worry. For your well being and sanity – set a per day (or per week) time when you have a (very) quick peek to check everything is OK.

Emergency Contact: Provide your team (not clients) with an emergency contact number or email for urgent matters. Set clear very guidelines on what constitutes an emergency to avoid unnecessary interruptions.

5. Manage Client Expectations

Inform Clients: Let your clients know about your holiday plans and how it might affect their orders or services. Provide them with alternative contacts if you can or ensure a point of contact is available to handle their queries.

Set Realistic Deadlines: Manage deadlines and schedules to ensure critical tasks are completed before you leave. This helps avoid any last-minute rush and keeps your clients satisfied. You do not want to start your holiday frazzled, over worked and stressing because you haven’t gotten everything done.

6. Test Your Plan

Trial Run: Consider taking a shorter break before your main holiday to test your plan. This helps identify any gaps or issues that need addressing. (Plus, it’s and extra holiday!)

Feedback Loop: Encourage your team to provide feedback on the processes and systems in place before you leave and when you come back. This helps improve and refine your plan for future holidays.

7. Relax and Recharge

Trust Your Team and your planning. Once you’ve set everything up, trust your people to handle the business. Constantly checking in defeats the whole purpose of a holiday.

Enjoy Your Break: Focus on relaxing and recharging. Resting is just as important as working.

Additional Resources

  • Trello: A project management tool to help organise and delegate tasks. Trello
  • Slack: A communication platform for staying in touch with your team. Slack
  • Hootsuite: For scheduling social media posts while you’re away. Hootsuite
  • Google Workspace: For cloud-based collaboration, business tools, apps and file sharing. Google Workspace

Taking a holiday is essential for your well-being and long-term success. With proper planning and the right tools, you can enjoy your time off, knowing your business is in good hands.

So go ahead, plan that holiday, and come back refreshed and ready to take on new challenges!

If you would like some advice on all of this, please call us on 1300 268 800