From what I’ve seen myself (through social media and in person) small businesses have been booming, especially ever since the COVID Pandemic. I think with the lock down in place, time slowed down for some, and with that time some tried new hobbies, some discovered new talents, and some started businesses. Small businesses have opened doors for new jobs, more diversity in employment, and an increase in entrepreneurship.
But what defines a small business? According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, “To be a small business, vendors must adhere to industry size standards established by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) . When small firms register as a government contractor in the System for Award Management (SAM) , they also self-certify their business as small.”
With limited employees, there are benefits and challenges. Working in a small business myself, I like the bond that we have built in our team. We work closely together, there’s constant communication, and we know each other a little bit more than just a name and job title. I think it’s important to have that connection and bond with each other, not just to have a smooth-running business but it makes work feel a little less like work. You can create this bond by celebrating anniversaries and birthdays, showing interest in one another by having conversations about life outside of work, and/ or regular check ins.
Some challenges with limited employees are juggling multiple tasks, taking on extra tasks on top of their own, or needing extra hands on a project. This can feel overwhelming and/ or stressful so don’t be afraid to ask for help and work on time management. If you know one project needs more attention and detail, save that for a whole day when you have more time, and combine smaller tasks for another day.
It’s important to help one another but also important to know your limits – burn out is a real thing. Take a break when you need to, your body and mind will thank you. Know when to step away from your desk, clear your mind for a moment. If you’ve had a long stressful week, maybe take the next week off if possible.
Running a small business has its ups and downs, what I believe is most important is taking care of your team. Always check in on them, allow time for mental health days, celebrate each other for all different types of milestones/ accomplishments. Each role is just as important as the other, I like to think of roles like organs in the body. If one organ shuts down, it affects the others, then affects the body. Create a strong bond, work together, and understand each other’s limits to ensure your success in the long-term.
U.S. Department of State. (2019, August 20). What Is A Small Business?. U.S. Department of State. https://www.state.gov/2019/08/what-is-a-small-business
Written by: Rhea Baesa, Administrative Assistant at RIVA