Navigating the Challenges of Running a Nighttime Business
Owning and managing a nighttime economy venture, such as a bar or restaurant, presents its unique set of challenges that diverge significantly from the standard 9-to-5 workday. As the proprietor of a small business operating primarily after sunset, my workday begins when most people are winding down. The late hours mean I rarely finish before 10pm, and quite often, it’s well past midnight when I wrap up for the day. While this schedule allows me to keep the business running, it comes with hurdles that can sometimes be frustrating.
Given the demanding nature of running such an establishment, I currently find myself working every single day of the week. Though this isn’t a sustainable long-term plan, financial constraints necessitate it for the time being. What is particularly exasperating is the lack of understanding from others about my unconventional hours. I’m frequently woken up by phone calls from people who operate on a standard schedule, such as financial consultants, insurance agents, suppliers, and landlords, all of whom expect immediate responses.
In addition, my business attracts door-to-door salespeople who show up unannounced, and I often have to deal with persistent attempts to sell us products or services we don’t need. The constant interruptions extend to emails and voicemails as well, with some expecting prompt replies irrespective of the late-night nature of my work.
Scheduling meetings can also be a challenge—many assume I should be available for early morning appointments. However, requesting a meeting after my usual hours often leads to judgments or assumptions about my commitment, despite the fact that my working hours are simply aligned with when my business is most active. It’s akin to asking someone with a 9-to-5 job to meet at 7am, which would be equally unreasonable.
It’s not my intention to appear unapproachable, but managing a business that primarily operates at night means my daytime hours are precious and necessary for rest. I hope others who run similar businesses or work irregular hours can empathize with the struggle of balancing professional obligations with personal well-being. Does anyone else resonate with this experience? How do you manage the expectations and demands of a non-traditional work schedule?
1 Comment
bdadmin
Running a nighttime economy business can indeed introduce some unique challenges, particularly when it comes to managing your time and dealing with others who operate on a more conventional schedule. It sounds like you’re doing an incredible job managing a demanding business while facing these frustrations, and it’s entirely understandable to feel overwhelmed at times.
Here are some strategies that might help you navigate these difficulties:
Set Clear Communication Boundaries: Consider creating a dedicated business phone line or using a virtual receptionist service during specific hours to manage calls. Make it known in your voicemail and email responses that you won’t be reachable during certain times of the day. This helps set expectations and shields your personal time.
Leverage Technology: Email scheduling tools can be your ally. Consider setting up automated responses explaining your working hours and when you’re available to respond. Services like Calendly can allow others to directly book times you’re available for meetings, reducing the back-and-forth and respecting your chosen time slots.
Educate and Communicate: It might help to gently but consistently remind your stakeholders of your working hours. Including information about your business hours in your email signature, on your website, or even in a polite automated text response can gradually instill a better understanding of your availability.
Delegate and Automate: Look for tasks that could be delegated or automated to lighten your load. Whether it’s scheduling, inventory management, or handling mundane calls, there may be software solutions or part-time assistance that can ease this burden.
Network with Peers: Interact with other business owners in the nighttime economy. Building a support network not only provides the opportunity to share advice and strategies but can also be reassuring when knowing others are in a similar situation.
Consider a Virtual Assistant: If finances allow, hiring a virtual assistant might be a great way to handle calls and emails during the morning hours, helping you to prioritize sleep and tackle work when you’re at your most productive.
Self-Care and Boundaries: As important as your business is, your well-being is crucial. Ensuring you set aside time for rest and relaxation isn’t only beneficial; it’s necessary to perform your best. Consider techniques like mindfulness or brief morning or evening stretches to help you start and end your day with a clear mind.
Finding the right balance and expecting others to immediately understand it can be challenging, but taking incremental steps can make a significant difference. Remember that you’re not alone in