HOW TO SURVIVE THE BUSIEST CHRISTMAS EVER
Traditionally, December is an extremely busy and often stressful time of the year for salons and clinics, but add to that months of forced closures and a back log of clients, and we may very well be experiencing the busiest Christmas period we’ll see in our lifetimes. So how do we keep team members alert, motivated and energised during this period?
- Nourish them
Opening hours are extended, client appointments are booked back to back, and let’s face it, they’re occasionally even shortened in order to squeeze in that one extra person. Staff are often rushing off in their break to grab something to eat then rushing back to shovel it in and get back on the floor as quickly as possible. Consider having some healthy snacks or lunch catered for on the extra busy days so that team members can sit in the staff room and relax for the full duration of their break and get some proper rest. It’s certainly not expected by staff, but they will sincerely appreciate the gesture.
- A morning huddle
There’s a lot of power in a team setting the tone for a busy day by starting with a short catch up to make sure everyone is on the same page. It provides you all the opportunity to discuss any areas for improvement and give each other a pat on the back for any wins the day before. Discuss any updates, how the appointments look for the day, and how you all might be able to help each other out.
- Acknowledge the overtime
Often, salaried staff members are expected to do ‘reasonable additional overtime’, however it’s important that employers do not abuse this. If your staff are working overtime here and there during the pre-Christmas rush, consider allowing them to bank this up as time in lieu to be taken once things calm down in a little bit in January. Allowing them a day to finish early or start late to enjoy the summer sunshine is a great way to acknowledge them putting in that little extra in December.
- Appreciation
When employees are going above and beyond to ensure clients are happy, and money is being made for the business, the most important thing that their leadership team can do is sincerely let them know how much they are appreciated for their hard work. Not to say you need to get them a bunch of flowers and a thank you card; it can be as simple as occasionally pulling them aside to tell them they are doing a great job and that they are a valuable part of the team.