Monday, 29 July 2013

Sixth Sense Tuning

We’ve all heard the old cliché - it is more important to work on your business than in it. Over time and especially with the introduction of new business, I have fallen in to the trap of working as a driver rather than a business developer.

In some ways, I expect (and allow) this to happen because new accounts always need drivers. I also find it is beneficial to stabilise our operation before returning to the hunt for more customers.

When I talk to passengers, I am increasingly convinced we need to be developing our ‘culture’ and making it tangible. Until now, we have simply accepted our way of doing things is different.

Maybe it is time to step back from the coal face, get things in perspective and recognise our future is reliant on our brand. What is more the brand is dependent on our culture being embedded in to the very heart of it.

Saturday, 20 July 2013

Breathing Space

Look at our historical data and it reveals trends. The last three to four years are erratic but previous to this, there was a clear pattern of seasonal activity. It shows when passengers used to travel with us. I believe we are currently moving back to predictability again.

Typically the next six to eight weeks should be quieter for us. This is a combination of schools closing for summer and factory shut-downs for maintenance. They inadvertently reduce the demand for business travel but increases the holiday traffic through airports.

Typically, holiday-makers don’t rush. They travel with baggage and wait at luggage carousels with lots of other people. Strangely, many companies compete for this work which is usually high-maintenance and low profit.

This time of year it is better to step back, take a deep breath, analyse where we are, discuss improvements and implement changes. Thinking long-term and waiting for the rush of business travel in September is the best option right now.

Saturday, 6 July 2013

The Best Man Isn't Always The Most Expensive

Last week I missed a blog. Was this because I had nothing to write about or because I wanted a break? No. It was because I was organising a wedding – my wedding!

Arranging a venue, photographer, wedding car, wedding cake, entertainment, catering, accommodation, suits, rings and lots of other things takes time and effort.

One thing I really wanted from every supplier I approached was availability, certainty they could deliver and the reassurance that everything would be its best.

For a change I was the customer looking at suppliers and it gave me a different perspective on the importance of ‘understanding and friendly’ service.

At DrivenByQ we enjoy assisting people, its just something we do naturally. Unexpectedly, I now understand why so many people like our service so much!