MONTHLY HIGHLIGHT

                                       The Upside Of Downtime

 

Many of us think it can’t get much slower than it is now. We know business will be slow-going through January and into February no matter what the state of the economy. So why not consider what you can accomplish now—tasks that are impossible during busy times.

Here are a few suggestions:

 

Direct Mail

You have talked about connecting with your customers through direct mail. Have you done so? Simply print postcards and have your employees address them using your customer database. No database? Buy a list. You can target your geographic area and purchase a list of customers based on specific criteria. Go online and search ‘purchase customer list’ and you will find plenty of options ranging from $200- $700+. You may also contact any of the people who work with you on advertising for assistance.

 

Other Direct Marketing Techniques

How about making some old-fashioned phone calls? See how things are going with your customers. Perhaps you will head off a complaint. People do still appreciate one-on-one conversations.

You might also email your customer base. If you have not captured email addresses from your customers, now is the time. Print a card explaining why you want their email addresses (specials, coupons, events, etc.) and maybe offer an in-store credit for providing the information. Most customers are happy to give their email to business they already frequent.

 

Clean House

Call on orders that have been ready for over 10 days or more. This will generate some cash flow, free up rack space and keep your employees busy. Remember to give your customers a deadline for picking up. If not, they have no reason to come in quickly. Calling in the evening is best. Have your employees record the time they called, the date, if they left a message or who they talked to.

 

Maintenance

A leaking trap, air leak on a press, bad water sprayer – these are small maintenance items that get overlooked when the plant is busy. Take the time to make these and other repairs now while it doesn’t interrupt production.

 

Training

Wish you had a back up presser or another counter person when things get busy? Consider cross-training.  Most employees will welcome the opportunity to learn a new position. It means job security for them and a huge benefit for you.

This may be the time for you to get to know your employees better. Work beside each employee in her specific role – presser, counter person, spotter, cleaner, inspector, driver, etc. It will give you an opportunity to evaluate, make constructive criticism and get to know them better. You may even learn a few things.

 

We hope you are too busy to do any of these things.  If not, feel free to contact our office for help.