Spring Cleaning

MANAGEMENT SMARTS

By Jacquelyn Lynn

Most businesses have an element of seasonality to them. When your business slows down, take advantage of that period to do things you can't do when you're busy.

"Do things that will make your business better when the slow time is over," says James Hahn, associate director of the Small Business Development Center at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. "Especially consider things that are typically disruptive of your normal operation."

Some of Hahn's suggestions:

Upgrade your computers and software.

Do necessary but noncritical repairs to your facility.

Conduct employee training sessions.

Spruce up your offices.

Schedule vacations.

Rearrange displays.

Clean out your desk.

Purge files.

Organize storage areas.

Prepare your next marketing campaign.

Keep in mind that some of these efforts may cost money during a time when revenues are down, so set aside the necessary funds in advance. That way, Hahn says, "you'll come out of the slow period at full speed."

Play It Safe

On-the-job safety is critical to every business. "The cost of even a minor on-the-job injury can be staggering," says Chip Curley of insurance agency Johnston & Associates in Winter Park, Florida. The good news: "Even though you may not be able to afford a full-time safety director, there are many low-budget ways to reduce the frequency of losses."

Curley advises beginning with pre-employment screening, including drug testing and background checks, to see if an individual has a history of filing workers' compensation claims. Once the person is on the job, address any issues that may increase the risk of accidents. Employees who are irritable, frustrated or dissatisfied may suffer from a lack of concentration that could cause an accident.

Identify the hazards specific to your business, and take steps to eliminate or reduce them. Conduct ongoing safety training and regular safety inspections; have a process in place to correct problems.

Finally, Curley says, recognize and reward employees for safety success. This doesn't have to cost a lot; T-shirts, a pizza party or award certificates can go a long way toward reinforcing your commitment to safety.