How do you handle team morale when cabinet orders dry up?

I own a small cabinet shop with three full-time workers. Last month, we had only two orders, and my team spent most days cleaning or doing busy work. I saw their energy drop, and one guy even started showing up late. What do other shop owners do to keep things lively when work is slow? I thought about starting training sessions on new joinery methods. But I worry it might feel like extra work without pay. Any tips from your experience would really help.

2 comments

2 Comments

coleman.derek1d ago

Maybe it's just me but idk if a few slow weeks are a total crisis. Most small shops hit dry spells sometimes, and guys cleaning up isn't the end of the world. That training idea could backfire if it feels like unpaid homework. Maybe just let the schedule breathe a bit if there's no work, instead of forcing busyness.

river18315h ago

Is this actually a big deal?