DEC NIBJ: Protecting your business during the holidays

The holiday season brings a welcome surge of activity for many businesses, but it also introduces unique challenges.

From increased foot traffic to seasonal staffing and tighter year-end schedules, it’s important to make sure your business is protected — physically, financially, and reputationally — during this busy time of year. A few proactive steps can go a long way toward keeping operations smooth and stress-free. 

1. Strengthen security measures
Shorter daylight hours and extended shopping times make the holidays a prime season for theft and fraud. Ensure exterior lighting is bright, cameras are functioning, and alarm systems are up to date. Inside your store or office, position staff can greet customers and maintain good visibility — something as simple as a warm greeting often discourages bad actors. For online businesses, double-check website security, update passwords, and monitor for unusual transactions.

2. Prepare your team
Seasonal employees are essential this time of year, but they may not be fully familiar with your practices. Clear training on customer service, cash handling, and safety procedures helps prevent mistakes and protects both staff and customers. Encourage your team to communicate issues early, whether it’s a suspicious incident, a technical problem, or a customer concern.

3. Safeguard inventory and supply chains
Holiday sales can quickly deplete stock, so keep a close count on inventory and consider increasing orders for top sellers. Work closely with suppliers to anticipate delays — winter weather and holiday shipping surges can affect delivery timelines. Maintain a consistent process for receiving, tracking, and storing goods to minimize shrinkage. 

4. Review policies and insurance coverage
As the year winds down, it’s a good time to review your liability, property, and cyber insurance. Confirm coverage for seasonal hires, increased inventory, and special events. Likewise, revisit store policies — returns, exchanges, layaways, gift cards — and make sure they’re posted clearly so your team can communicate them confidently.

5. Protect your online presence
More customers shop and browse online during the holidays, which makes cybersecurity essential. Use two-factor authentication, update software, and back up your systems regularly. Consider strengthening fraud detection procedures, especially for high-value or unusual transactions. 

6. Maintain customer trust
Customer expectations rise during the holidays. Clear communication, reliable service, and accessible information go a long way toward building trust. If shipping times change or supplies run low, let customers know promptly. A small courtesy — like offering alternatives or sending follow-up updates — can create goodwill long after the holidays end. 

7. Plan for the unexpected
Winter storms, power outages, and staffing gaps can happen at this time of year. Have a backup plan: updated contacts for your team, a communication strategy for customers, and emergency supplies or procedures to keep operations running safely. 

As the holiday season ramps up, taking thoughtful steps now to safeguard your business ensures you can fully enjoy the benefits of this busy time. 

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Joan D. Urbaniak is the executive director at the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at [email protected].