Labor Day Potential Cost & Benefit

Labor Day is far more than a day off from work for American workers. In fact, a strike organized to protest a 58 hour workweek in Toronto, Canada is the origin of the national holiday. American traditions include barbecues, parties, and just plain relaxation.

For small business owners and entrepreneurs, opening their doors on this holiday would depend on the amount of resources and cost necessary to operate versus the probability of profit. 

Businesses that operate in factories, warehouses, and other large spaces ultimately all have to make the decision about whether the cost of keeping their doors open on a certain day are worth the benefit they receive. 

Holidays like 4th of July and Christmas make this an easy decision. Sales increase and consumers are usually out shopping. But Labor Day may cost some professionals more money to stay open that to just take the day off. Others may not see any cost increase, but also no productivity or sales increase, giving them more of a reason to spend the day with family or friends.

What about real estate agents, business consultants, writers, or other professions that are not as likely to see increase in sales on Labor Day? What should they consider before heading to the office?

• Cost of travel to office for the day
• Projected customer volume as predicted from previous years or research
• Customer service policy; if customers are used to 24/7 support, don't disappoint.
• Cost of operations (use of equipment, electricity and utility payments)
• Whether or not the extra day will increase sales by performing administrative or "housekeeping duties"
• Workload