June 30, 2016

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

With the Fourth of July around the corner, your business may be considering closing early tomorrow and taking a four-day (or longer) weekend vacation. And, why shouldn’t you? After working hard to maintain growing your business, you deserve some time away to recharge before heading into Q3. But, before you leave for an extended period of time, make sure your business is safe and secure.

Consider holding a brief morning meeting with your employees before a holiday break, to cover all important tasks before closing.

Remember: Your customer(s) may not be taking a break.

Discuss how to handle incoming phone calls and emails. If all employees will be on vacation, make sure to set up each email account and voicemail system, including the main office line, with an “out of office” message. State which dates you will be absent, and when you will return. Based on your industry and the services you provide, you may want to designate an emergency contact should your customers need someone immediately. Make sure to include this person’s contact information in your email/voicemail automatic message.

Use the buddy system.

Check in with your neighboring businesses to inform them you’ll be away from the office. If they plan to remain open during the time your business is closed, kindly ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity. Consider leaving with them your emergency contact information in case an issue arises.

Secure your property while away.

Here’s a quick checklist for you to run through to secure your property and save electricity while your office is closed.

SHUT OFF

  • Computers and devices (printers, fax machines, televisions, etc.)
  • Breakroom appliances (coffeepots/Keurigs, microwaves, etc.)
  • Thermostat(s)
  • Office lights (You may have a timed one near the front of the office to remain on during normal business hours, to deter burglars from suspecting the office is vacant.)

SECURE & LOCK UP

  • Documents containing confidential information (credit card or personal employee information)
  • Money, checkbooks, credit cards (if leaving behind)
  • Windows
  • Doors