7 Essential 'must do’s' for a Business before Christmas

Tis the season to be jolly and solution-oriented. Busy times require specific planning for businesses to thrive. By mid December we all want to pack up and go, but a lapse now can set you back in the new year. Anticipation can save you time, money and headaches.

We have put together a checklist with crucial elements to tackle, to ensure your business runs smoothly during the Christmas period:

1. Seasonal Business Opportunities

Many businesses experience a higher customer demand during Christmas, if that is the case for you, then you will need to adopt certain marketing and increased staff measures. You need to note when your staff will be taking their holidays. Will you be understaffed? If yes, arrangements will be needed to help with the work load.

2. Your Money Flow

It’s normal for people and businesses to be short on money in the New Year, so it is wise to politely encourage payment prior to the festivities. This will make an immense difference to your cash flow, especially if you shut down over Christmas and New Year.

3. Christmas cards, bonuses and corporate gifts

This is something to consider way ahead. Will you be sending gifts/card to top clients? Or will you be focusing on presents/bonuses for your staff? You will also need to keep in mind the rules around Christmas parties and what can and can’t be claimed for festive entertainments.

4. Festive Networking

You never know when networking opportunities can emerge during the Christmas holiday. Keep a fresh batch of business cards handy for the chance meeting at an industry party. Aside from business cards, there are other means to attract customers, such as a seasonal email campaign.

5. Everyone is Out of Office!

Most offices shut down for a minimum of two weeks during Christmas, so if you need guidance from your lawyer or other business advisors, you will need to engage with them way before the holidays. Also keep in mind that this is most likely a busy season for them as well, so the sooner you contact them, the better for your business.

6. Have you backed up?

It’s important to update your virus software, and that you also have a final pre-holiday back-up of your files. Planning this ahead will keep your systems running properly and quickly as they should, and no hard work will be lost.

7. Voicemail and website messages

If your business is shutting down during the holiday, ensure your voicemail message and website mention the specific closing date info and emergency contact details. You also need to establish who will be responding to work related emergencies.

Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful! Keep ahead of your business and you’ll keep your mind with your family by the turkey this holiday season. Merry Christmas!