This is an entry for the Positive Attitude for the Weary Soul Group Contest! | Fun in the Sun While the Business Still Runs! Join in on the Challenge!
(The deadline has been extended 'til June 4, so you have an extra week to make those summer plans and tell us about them!)
Do you ever get nervous about taking a vacation, afraid that business will grind to a halt and you'll lose a transaction or a client? Many Realtors® and other self-employed people face this challenge, but with some advance planning, you'll find a solution that works for you. And let's face it, we all need to break away from work for some much needed R&R time, and spend time with family and loved ones. Whether it's a day, a 3-day weekend, or a "real" vacation, it's essential.
This summer my Fun in the Sun includes a 10-day trip to the East Coast, enjoying the activity that, as many of you know, gives me the renewal that is so important - hiking!
Flying from San Francisco, my husand and I head to Maplewood, New Jersey for 2 days with family, then with my brother-in-law we'll head to the Appalacian Mountain Club's Center in New Hampshire.
Three full days of hiking in the Presidential Range of the White Mountains with good companions, laughter, fresh air and good food is sure to refresh the spirit! Then it's on to Manhattan (taking in the musical version of Porgy & Bess) and relaxing in Maplewood.
For me to be able to enjoy the trip--and I surely will--I need to know all is well with my business.
Steps I take to ensure my business continues to sun smoothly include:
- making arrangements in advance with colleagues. I usually have one or two standing by for specific clients or transactions, plus another one on-call;
- arranging for my virtual assistant to monitor my email and phone, routing calls to the proper person for assistance;
- arranging with my on-site part-time assistant to be on alert for errands and tasks that might be needed;
- and--on a trip like this, I'll be checking email and phone messages once in the morning and once again in the evening. I've found this not to be disruptive, and it puts my mind at ease.
Finally, one of the most important steps is I talk with my clients, telling them when I'll be leaving, when I'll return, who will be taking care of their needs, that I'll be monitoring the situation, and assuring them they are in good hands!
Good communication and advance planning allows me to Have Fun in the Sun While the Business Still Runs!
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