Cold and flu season can be a bear to deal with, especially for a mobile tool distributor who sees hundreds of customers each week. There are some things to be mindful of before and after you catch the bug.
Be proactive
It goes without saying that getting enough rest and eating healthy can go a long way in helping to stave off sickness. Whether you sell it to customers or keep some stored on the truck for yourself, a general rule of thumb would be to keep plenty of hydrating liquids available on the truck (this means water and Gatorade -- soda doesn't count). Reach for a healthy snack when you can. While potato chips won't necessarily contribute to a cold, having fruits or veggies -- even a protein like almonds or beef jerky, can help.
As an extra precaution against the flu, the CDC recommends washing your hands more frequently. While this isn't always an option, consider stocking up on alcohol-based hand rub. Bob Fyler, an independent distributor out of Chico, Calif., makes sure to use hand sanitizer frequently. Coming into contact with many people can become a burden on your immune system -- especially if they're not operating at 100 percent.
The CDC also recommends using the proper cough etiquette and hand hygiene, and to encourage others on your truck to do so, too. This means coughing into your elbow, or covering your cough with a tissue. Use hand sanitizer afterward to kill any lingering germs.
Also consider getting a flu shot. Even if you don't make it into the doctor in the fall or early winter, consider heading to a local pharmacy like Walgreens or CVS, where you can get a flu shot at a minimal cost.
Have a back-up plan
Finally fall ill because everyone on your route has come down with something? It can be difficult to take a day off, especially when you're the sole runner of your route. But consider resting up, so you can be on top of your game later. Staying worn down won't help you or your business. Consider making a few stops at your big shops. Or, taking a day off and shorten your week. Call your big customers on that day's route and advise them you're under the weather. Your customers will also appreciate you keeping the virus at bay from them.
See the doctor
Know a distributor who was out for weeks on end due to an nagging ailment or long-term health issue? Sometimes, this is unavoidable. But there are also times where these things can be avoided just by giving yourself a bit of R&R. I've heard time and again that an issue came up only after weeks of a reoccuring health problem. I've talked with distributors who have come across thyroid issues or suffered from exhaustion. If you've felt miserable for more than five days in a row, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
It's commonplace for distributors to work themselves to the bone -- but don't put your health in jeopardy just to earn extra few dollars. You also need your health to sustain the longevity of your business.
