When the Busy Season Changes

As temperatures drop and leaves change across the Finger Lakes, many contractors face a similar challenge - the workload unpredictability of the cold seasons.  One week, you have emergency furnace failures, frozen pipes and power outages, while the next week the phones can go all day without ringing.

This unpredictability can make it tough to balance staffing, schedules, and income.  With the right planning and support, the seasonal changes don't have to throw your business off track.

1. Peaks and Pauses - Look over your service data from last year.  Any patterns to when the calls spiked, or certain services (furnace repairs, etc) where more in demand?  Use that as a starting point when forecasting for staffing and inventory.  Make sure your inventory is properly stocked, and cross train techs to handle plumbing, heating, and electrical calls if you offer multiple trades.  Having plans for busy and slow weeks helps avoid burnout when you get a surge and keeps you productive during quiet times.
2. Stay Social during the Slow Times - Take advantage of the time you have during slow weeks to keep in front of customers.  Share seasonal maintenance tips on social media, send reminders about tune-ups, generator checks, or winterizations.  Offer "Winter Readiness" specials or pre-scheduled maintenance packages.  Keeping your name top of mind ensures you're the first call when something goes wrong.
3. Use the Downtime Wisely - If you find yourself having a slower week or two, take it as an opportunity rather than a problem.  Train your team on new technology or safety procedures.  Update your systems, like scheduling software, accounting, or payroll.  Catch up on quotes, follow-ups, and marketing that fell through the cracks.  Downtime can be the perfect time to strengthen the foundation of your business before the next rush hits.
4. Balance the Books - Seasonal dips can create cash flow strain if you're not ready for them.  Think about setting aside a little of the summer profits in a reserve account to offset winter slowdowns.  If you haven't already, look at tools that automate invoicing and collections so you stay on top of payments.  This can keep your cash flow ready for unpredictable seasons.
5. Get Behind the Scenes Support -  Managing fluctuating workloads is easier when back of house operations run smoothly.  If yo find yourself juggling HR, IT and Marketing on top of service calls, outsourcing some of that can help make a big difference.

At Finger Lakes Work Place, we specialize in helping small businesses streamline their operations so you can focus on keeping customers comfortable through our often brutal winters.  The seasons are unpredictable, but your business doesn't have to be.  With a bit pf planning, and the right support, seasonal swings can become opportunities to grow, train and prepare for what's next.

Call us at 607-385-0416, email me at aaron@flworkplace.com, or if you'd like to schedule a FREE 1 HR no obligation chat to see what we can do to help you, follow the calendar link here.

Cheers!

Aaron