I HAVE been writing this column for a number of years and have covered a number of topics applicable to business - at times applying a personal/Whanganui emphasis.
This week is the first time that I have had a formal request to write about a particular topic - and I am happy to do so.
But first, a quick review of the new Air New Zealand service. Fantastic - any time the level of comfort and service increases and cost decreases it has to be good for our community and business in particular. And did I mention the flights are faster?
We must use this service, and it was great to see the Friday afternoon flight from Auckland pretty much full.
So, to this week's topic - "the financial and economic impact of Hallmark holidays" (and male readers, you know the one I am talking about ... Valentine's Day). I have a bit of an aversion to the Americanisation of our calendar - with Valentine's Day near the top of the list.
That is not because I am a "Valentine grinch" but my preference, when gifting to my significant other, is to surprise rather than deliver according to a manufactured custom.
I also am in the position that Mrs Bell's birthday immediately precedes the celebration of St Valentine.
As a result, this time of year is "double the fun".
Just like any business implements strategies to manage its environment, for me mid-February sees specific strategies employed to navigate the Valentine/birthday tightrope successfully.
Strategy 1: Expectation management
Always ensure that expectations at this time of year are well understood and communicated.
For example, "swinging for the fences" with expensive and expansive gifts will set you up for a challenge next year.
Strategy 2: Involve the team
Children have an uncanny ability to choose gifts which are slam dunks, and if they miss the mark they are more easily forgiven.
Strategy 3: Consult experts
We are blessed here in Whanganui with businesses who know what they are doing when it comes to navigating the Valentine gift pathway.
I'm talking about The Flower Room, Country Lane and Paige's Book Shop.
These businesses take the time to listen and provide you with a gift with 100 per cent potential to ensure your name is recorded appropriately in your significant other's good books.
In my case, I took a couple of risks which, fortunately, paid off. However, the truly successful family members were the kids who chose simple but fully effective gifts.
The assistance from the team at Country Lane was excellent and the gift wrapping saved us time and a job (which would have been difficult to execute given Mrs Bell was at home all day).
The seasonal holidays and Hallmark special days are also good for the local economy and the final strategy is a catch-cry of mine. Buy local.
-Balance Consulting is a Whanganui consultancy and also part of the Balance Group. It specialises in business strategy, process excellence and leadership mentoring - contact Russell on 021 2442421 or John Taylor on 027 4995872.