Generally speaking, I love holidays. Can't get enough of them. Or at least I thought I did, until I suddenly realised just how many Bank Holidays we are trying to cram in to the next few weeks. Of course the situation has been compounded by the 'extra' holiday, courtesy of The Royal Wedding, and I would not want to seem churlish by appearing in any way scrooge-like or miserable at the prospect of such a happy occasion. But it is playing merry havoc with work.
Several staff at my own company have of course put in for 'annual leave' (or as we used to call it, 'holiday') over the coming weeks to maximise their time off. And who can blame them? Then of course we will always have the one or two who burn the candle at both ends and throw a sickie at the first hint of sunshine peeping through the clouds.
The Lawyer magazine last week reported that the bank holiday bonanza was reducing the amount of time available to bill clients at the most vital time of the year. One departmental head at a top 20 firm was reported to have said: "I wish the royal couple well, but to be honest it's been a massive pain the a**e." I sort of agree, although would perhaps not be so inclined towards the vernacular.
But there is a serious point to all this. Human nature often leans towards procrastination - putting off until tomorrow what should be done today. And with shorter weeks, this could have a genuine impact on cashflow. Whether it's making sure the monthly billing is executed on time, or chasing payments that are now due, this latest round of Spring-time jollity will no doubt test the mettle and the patience of credit managers for some time after the final crumbs of that ridiculously large chocolate egg have been consumed. Happy Easter!
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