As the holiday season approaches its peak, managing your company becomes first priority. Keeping track of employee vacations and making sure all bases are covered is vital.

"A small business is just that and they have many people doing many functions year-round; not just during the holidays," explained Rick Gibbs, senior human resources specialist of PEO (Professional Employer Organization) Administaff. "But it becomes more intense this time of year. You're trying to finish up projects; other businesses are closed and you have to juggle the demands of your employees who are asking for holiday vacation time."

However, this advice pertains to small businesses year-round. A small business is working with a limited number of people at all times. As a result, it is very important to have a policy in place and administer it year-round.

Here are some tips to avoid the headaches and conflicts that will probably occur:

• It helps to plan early. October is a good time to start planning for the holidays. Get your employees and managers together and plan for the season.
• If there is a need for one person or several people to work on a holiday, make that part of the discussion.
• Get your employees involved. They should let you know what their plans are in advance.
• Have employees work with each to plan their schedules; instead of having it dicticated.

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