With August marking Tradies National Health Month, a discussion about the importance of the health of tradies has never been more important, writes Elise Balsillie, Head of Thryv Australia.

Tradies National Health Month, an initiative spearheaded by the Australian Physiotherapy Association, aims to shine a light on the physical and mental health of tradies across the nation.

A recent study found that tradies don’t feel comfortable speaking to co-workers about the state of their mental health, even though 69 per cent find it difficult to keep on task when they’re impacted for the worse. It isn’t hard to see why this is the case. Trade-based small business owners in particular are no stranger to finding themselves bogged down in business-related admin. In fact, we know that more than half (59 per cent) agree that business admin tasks take too long.

As a business leader and at Thryv, the importance of the health and wellbeing of our employees is paramount. It is common practice for businesses to invest in various initiatives that will aid the health and wellbeing of our greatest assets. But the majority of our customers (many of whom are tradies) run businesses on their own, which can be stressful, demanding and isolating.

This made me think about the ways in which any small business owner can make small changes to alleviate admin-related stress and avoid mental ill-health. After all, you can’t pour from an empty glass!

1. Automate your invoices and quotes

Writing up or printing out invoices and quotes is an unavoidable task for a small business owner. But what if I told you that it doesn’t have to be a manual process?

A reliable business software is worth its weight in gold. It’s an investment that can help to generate quotes and invoices quickly as well as follow up on overdue payments automatically. In turn, you’ll reap the benefits with more hours in the day to do what you love.

2. Digitise your booking system

You’re on a job site and the phone rings. It’s a customer who wants to make an appointment… and “ask a quick question while they have you”. Not only do you need to note down their preferred date and time, but you have to remember what you were doing before you received the call in the first place. Not to mention you’re behind schedule and late for your next appointment.

 Having an online booking system is critical. It eliminates the distraction that comes with an impromptu phone call. The time adds up!

3. Commit to rest

More and more small business owners are starting to experience burnout. It’s often difficult to put boundaries in place when your family’s livelihood depends on the success of your business.

Resist the temptation to “get a head start” on your task list or being available to customers 24/7 by turning off your phone’s notifications at night. When your work life and home life intertwine, it can jeopardise happy relationships and good health.

The reality is, you can’t grow your business if you have nothing to give.

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