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By Deborah Keary
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Deborah Keary is the Director of the Information Center at The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Founded in 1948, SHRM currently represents more than 165,000 individual members in more than 120 countries. The Society is committed to advancing the human resource profession to ensure that HR is an essential and effective partner in developing and executing organizational strategy.
Q. As the owner of a small business, I'd really like a vacation, but I don't dare take the time off. How do other owners manage to do it?
A. It depends on the sort of small business you have. If you're a one-person shop, then the decision about vacation really depends on you, and the sort of service you provide to your clients. Is it something you have to do every day for every client? If so, you may have a hard time getting away. Perhaps you have a trusted friend or family member who could be trained well enough to take your place occasionally. If you know your clients' schedules, and when your product or service is most needed, arrange your vacation for their less-busy times. Your clients will appreciate your attention to their needs.
If you have a few employees, put someone whom you can trust in charge of operations in your absence. Try it out in small increments, perhaps a Friday here and there, to see how different employees come through for you. You may have to work at developing their skills, but it can be done. If you don't have anyone in your employ who can be trusted, that's a sure sign you need to take a new look at your hiring practices.
Don't be shy about using technology to stay in touch. If you'll only feel comfortable knowing you can still email or call the office, then bring your laptop and cell phone along. It's better to run your business from the beach than to stay home and never go to the beach at all. Ultimately, your business is sure to benefit from your taking a few days to relax and regroup. Make the effort to make the vacation happen; it's worth it.
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