Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Not working enough?!

I like to use this blog as a way to connect with families and to share a little about my life, my family and the centre.

This post is just to clarify that I am still very much present at A Gym Tale, even though I may not run every program or work open to close every day. A client had made a suggestion that I do not want my business to suffer as a result of not being there. At the time, I did not know what to say, because they are right - I am not at the centre for all 66 hours that A Gym Tale is open to the public. This comment has stayed with me for a few weeks, and I have not been able to shake it. I know that I am not there every hour, but I do still run 30 hours of programming a week, plus work on admin tasks in the evenings, answer emails in the mornings and I am only ever a call away from being at the centre within minutes. In addition, I receive written summaries of the events that take place when I am not at the centre. In order to be able to continue running quality programs, I simply cannot manage to be working 7 days a week, open to close.

Now I am not looking for pity - I am in a very lucky position to be running my own small business right around the corner from my home and to have flexibility to spend more time with my son. However, I am still very much involved in the business.

I have also received emails from clients as well as comment cards giving feedback on the centre, birthday parties and programs. I very much appreciate all of the feedback - good and bad. It is essential for me to get this feedback if A Gym Tale to continue to survive as a small business in Barrhaven. I need to be able to know what families are looking for, expecting in a play centre and programming and the areas that we still need to improve on. At the centre you are the guests and you are the ones we are trying to impress, if you ever have any advice we are here to listen!

3 comments:

  1. Hi...am reading your blog from across the ocean ;) don't let a remark like that get to you! You are great but your staff is pretty awesome too! There is more to life than just work and Ewan needs his mommy too.
    And Ben says hi!
    Jeske

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  2. As a mother of 3 who sends her daughter to you preschool I would like to say GOOD FOR YOU...there is no need to be there open to close day in and out, you have a child, a LIFE, great staff and other obligations. This is the mistake small busness owners make they spend far to much time at work and they burn out!! You can trust your staff and spend a normal work week at the office that is what will keep your life well balanced....and they know you can pop in at anytime....lol
    I thank you and your staff for really helping Keira and preparing her for the school year ahead.
    Thanks Kaarina Dewan

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  3. Thank you so much, I very much appreciate the positive feedback. The staff at A Gym Tale really are all wonderful individuals, who are hard working and responsible and extremely fun - and I feel very confident that they also have A Gym Tale and the children's best interest's at heart.

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