What Does Labor Day Mean for Your Small Business?

Holidays are tricky for small businesses. As the clock never stops for commerce, many business owners don’t get anything resembling a “day off.” Their phones never stop ringing, the laptop never shuts off and the business never sleeps.

Labor Day is especially tricky for SMBs. Some may see the holiday as honoring the worker over the employer; however, it may be more pertinent to look at Labor Day’s roots before making such a judgment. As small businesses represent over 99% of the country’s employing firms and nearly 50% of all private-sector jobs, Labor Day goes hand in hand with the mission of America’s small businesses. That is, to get the country working and move toward economic prosperity. Consider the following from the Department of Labor:

“The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker.”

For most of America’s businesses, Labor Day represents both a time of reflection and a time of transition.

Reflection

Think about all of those who are employed by small businesses, work alongside such SMBs and what their day to day lives mean to you. Labor Day is an opportune time to consider how we treat our workers beyond putting bread on the table. How do we keep ourselves and our employees motivated? Are you building loyalty towards your business, encouraging workers to stick around and want to get down to business?

Furthermore, consider the big picture of the American worker with these Labor Day numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• 63.4% of U.S. civilians are participating in the labor force.


• 6.8 million workers hold more than one job.


• There were 11.5 million unemployed workers as of July 2013, down to 7.4% nationally

Transition

Additionally, consider Labor Day as a time of transition. The party days of summer are quickly winding down. Most American children have gone or will being going back to school. As the leaves change color, so does the tone of the business world. During such a transitional period, how will your business move forward with a new year just around the corner? What will you do to finish the year strongly?

Motivation

It may be beneficial to take some time to reflect on how you’re motivating your employees. American workers are the cogs that keep the economy going. Building loyalty and rewarding your employees shouldn’t be a backbreaking or excruciating exercise. Just as workers have a responsibility toward their employers, those employers should take the time to provide a healthy and productive work environment. Listen diligently to employee concerns and give them a reason to come into work beyond the paycheck. Motivated, loyal workers are the foundation of a worthwhile business.

Appreciation

Likewise, your customers might use a reward as well. Times are tough and money is tight. Maybe a blockbuster Labor Day sale isn’t in the cards, but consider giving something back to your customers. In this time of transition, budgets are not immune. Whether through a small sale or “thank you” email, consider ways to give a bit back to your followers. Everyone could use a helping hand and a reminder that someone’s looking out for them.

Celebration

Above all, take some time out for yourself. While your business never truly “sleeps,” everyone deserves an opportunity to celebrate. You may not have the time for a backyard barbecue, but at least give yourself a pat on the back.

The Bottom Line

The country, its economy and businesses are constantly evolving. While the ride is oftentimes turbulent, it’s days like Labor Day which give us an opportunity to reflect on what being a small business really means. How will you celebrate?



On behalf of ChamberofCommerce.com, we wish you and your business a Happy Labor Day!

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