Where does each of you stand on the issue of loaning out equipment?
One of my suppliers allows people to use trucks on the weekend. One of my competitors allows it as well, but whatever happens to the truck, whether their fault or not, they have to pay for to repair (return in the same condition you found it).
Because I'm a small outfit, and because I'm a bit nervous about that stuff in general, I'm inclined to be a bit more conservative with trucks and equipment.
I rent out the stuff to the guys. I charge the same as the local rental yards. I tell them bring it back the same way you found it. Fuel on the full mark too. It cut down on stuff going out all the time. And, I got to make a little pocket money.
BTW: I only do this for the foreman. The higher up you are in the compnay the more privlages you have.
As long as I don't have to help I would lend a trusted employee a truck to move on the weekend or overnight. I would also let him do some work at his own house but NO SIDE JOBS with my stuff.
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Blair Deutekom Alfresco Landscape Group Ltd
Had considered it until about 2 months ago when my number 1 employee told me about what had happened to his brother in law. Evidently his brother in law got drunk and ran a red light and paralyzed a girl. Called my agent and asked if it was my employee in our business truck who's insurance would be on the line. The answer was mine..... Trucks will be parked and used for business purposes only. Other equipment is loaned out or rented to only to trusted individuals to work on their own or a relatives personal property. Only to the most trusted. Right now that's only one individual....he's got keys to the shop and the trucks and always asks...always. This guy is the best. I feel like I do not and can not afford to pay him enough. He's easily worth $40k and only is paid $26k...that's another topic all together.
It does not come up that often ... I've seen trucks being used for moving. There is no official company policy.
How about material? I am given material at cost.
For valued employees I have no problem giving material at cost.... Those are just the benefits of being a 'valuable' member of our organization. I firmly believe that those people should be treated above and beyond the respect that everyone deserves. Respect is the biggest attribute that an employer can and should show to everyone. I would contend that respect is one of the most undervalued characteristics and is quite often a characteristic that is lacking in many employers. If you expect respect, show respect, and give respect you will be respected in return.
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Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Beer in one hand - Nacho's in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming : Woo Hoo, what a ride!
I lend fairly liberally. They have to be able to drive it. They need to leave it at least as full on gas. Never for side jobs, unless it's at their own home. It costs me next to nothing, and means a lot to them. They know better than to abuse it.
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Facts just twist the truth around