Week of December 4, 2006

Friday 12/08, 2006

If you have waited this long into the holidays to lay off people, it's not going to be pretty. Sadly, some major radio companies are trimming their upcoming 2007 budgets and asking you to making selective cuts. As a GM, this is the toughest part of the job. (in my opinion.) Press corporate for extra severance, extend COBRA payments, do the right thing for each targeted employee. Fight for them. It may be YOU some year.

Thursday 12/07, 2006

By now the 2007 budget should be locked in. Remember, any big un-budgeted expense that happens between now and the end of the year, will change the % increase/decrease in Q4 of 2007. If you are going to miss the year by a lot, now is the time to "load" the expenses in 2006. It will make your 2007 look better.

Wednesday 12/06, 2006

Usually this time of the year is "the attack of the unused vacation time." Make sure everyone is covered. This is especially important in the traffic department. The traffic director has been here for 20 years. He/she has 3 weeks coming before 12/31. Are you covered?

Tuesday 12/05, 2006

It is never too early to plan the week between Christmas and New Years. Remotes, specials, look for revenue ideas to fill an otherwise dead week.

Monday 12/04, 2006

Planning the company Christmas Party? Be careful! Hours of open bar can lead to trouble. You are responsible for everything that happens. Limit the "bar" hours. Make sure to arrange for transportation for the people who become "over served." Avoid the "day after" issues that may take you to "lawyerworld." Have I got stories! It's not pretty! play it safe.