NEWS
■What should I do when the owner is tired? What you can do to maintain the company
The manager is in a position where he / she has a heavy responsibility and is easily tired. There are many people who can't leave it to others and carry everything on their own. What should I do when the owner gets tired? In this article, we will consider the reasons why managers get tired and the impact they will have on employees, and explain what to do when they get tired, giving examples.
1. The tiredness of the manager is accumulated without noticing
Many people think that they like the job itself because it is a rewarding job for business owners. However, no matter how much fun you work, if you have trouble with your business performance or relationships, you can easily feel stress. In particular, human relationships are one of the major causes of stress because there are cases where one's own efforts cannot solve the problem. In addition, the pusher that is applied when cash flow does not go well will be a heavy burden for the management. As management deteriorates and employees leave, it feels like they are being cornered. When the accumulation of hard work reaches the limit, not only the body but also the mind can be destroyed.
2. The fatigue of the manager is transmitted to the employees
Management fatigue is easier to convey to employees than you can imagine. Negative emotions are unknowingly exposed. The tired face of the manager often fuels the anxiety of the employees. Depending on the situation, the atmosphere of the entire company may deteriorate and the motivation of employees may be lowered. If the morale of the entire company declines, there will be various adverse effects such as a proportional decline in sales and an increase in the number of retirees. As a result, business owners become more and more tired, and the bad atmosphere becomes even stronger, leading to a negative spiral that cannot be escaped.
3. What you can do to avoid getting tired of management
In this paragraph, I will introduce two main points that can be done to prevent management fatigue.
3-1. Talk to someone you can trust
It is said that stress tends to accumulate in the management of a company because it is difficult to consult with others. However, it is often difficult to solve everything on your own. Talking to someone you can trust or share your worries will relieve stress and may come up with a solution. Think carefully about whether there are any people around you to talk to.
The safest thing to do is to talk to the same business associates. A manager is a difficult job that carries the lives of employees and is constantly forced to make important decisions. Because of such a lonely position with heavy responsibility, the same manager will understand each other's feelings. Not only does it give you a sense of security, but you can also expect business advice on what measures you should actually take. If possible, it's best to talk to fellow business owners in the same industry, but there are many things you can get from different industries.
The approach of consulting with the family is not bad either. Talking to your family may not solve your work problems, but just having someone you trust will help you feel a little lighter. If you feel you need more mental follow-up, consider relying on a counselor. In the dialogue, the counselor finds out the real worries that the other person is potentially having. A counselor may be able to talk about content that is difficult to consult with family members and acquaintances.
3-2. Secure your time
Occasionally, some business owners decide to deal with all of the company-related issues themselves. It's important to have a sense of responsibility, but sometimes rely on others. It's a good idea to have the right people in the right positions and leave the rest to them. And try to create your own time. It is important to objectively analyze your working hours and cut off wasted time if you feel that you are overworked. Use the cut time for other things to do and rest.
Let's calmly organize the situation so as not to accumulate fatigue
If you try to do everything on your own, you will easily get tired. If you outsource just the means of transportation and schedule management, the burden may be surprisingly reduced. If you want to concentrate on work that only you can do, consider outsourcing such as dispatching a driver or secretary. The Transact Group will provide highly qualified staff and an environment to follow the management.
【 TransACT Group 】
■Is there a limit on continuous driving time? An overview of rules for drivers!
Driving requires significant concentration and physical stamina. It is a job with great responsibility, as even a minor mistake or issue can lead to a major accident. Did you know that there are regulations governing how long drivers can drive continuously to ensure they can perform their jobs safely? In this article, we explain the reasons behind these regulations and the specific rules involved.
1. Why do these rules exist?
You may have seen or heard news reports about accidents involving long-distance truck or bus drivers. These incidents can sometimes escalate into major catastrophes involving other vehicles or passengers. Such accidents are often triggered by driving for extended periods without taking adequate breaks. This is because human beings cannot maintain concentration for very long—especially when fatigue or stress sets in. Since prolonged continuous driving can diminish concentration and lead to traffic accidents, various rules have been established regarding drivers' driving hours.
2. Specific rules
What exactly are the rules regarding driving hours? Here, we explain the specific details concerning continuous driving time, total duty time (time under the employer's control), and rest periods.
2-1. Maximum continuous driving time is 4 hours!
According to the "Standards for Improving Working Hours for Motor Vehicle Drivers" established by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the maximum time a driver can drive continuously is four hours. When driving for long periods, a break of at least 30 minutes must be taken either within that four-hour window or immediately after the four hours have elapsed. Breaks can be split up—for example, taking three 10-minute breaks or two 15-minute breaks. However, the conditions require that each break lasts at least 10 minutes and that the total break time within the four-hour period amounts to at least 30 minutes. Drivers should choose the approach that best helps them maintain concentration, taking into account factors such as driving distance, the time of day, and the nature of the work. Note that "break time" refers to time spent away from work duties; therefore, any work-related tasks performed—even if not actually driving—are counted as part of the driving time. In addition to limits on continuous driving time, regulations also specify total driving time per day and per week. Regarding daily driving, the average driving time over a two-day period must not exceed nine hours. For weekly driving, the limit is an average of 44 hours over a two-week period.
2-2. Daily Duty Time Limit: 13 Hours!
In principle, a driver's daily duty time (the period from the start of the workday to the end) is 13 hours. This includes break times. While it is possible to extend this to 16 hours depending on circumstances, duty periods exceeding 15 hours are limited to twice a week. There are also rules regarding monthly duty time, with a cap of 293 hours. However, if a written labor-management agreement is concluded, this limit can be raised to 320 hours, though such an extension is permitted for a maximum of six months. Furthermore, total annual duty time must be kept within 3,516 hours. Since a simple calculation of 293 hours multiplied by 12 months equals 3,516 hours, any temporary increase in duty time must be offset by adjustments in other months.
2-3. Daily Rest Period: At Least 8 Hours!
Regulations for drivers also establish standards for rest periods. A rest period refers to the time spent away from work between shifts (the time from clocking out to clocking in for the next shift). In principle, drivers must take a rest period of at least eight hours per day. Based on a simple 24-hour day calculation, it should be possible to secure an eight-hour rest period even if duty time is extended to the maximum of 16 hours. Note that, as a general rule, the rest period cannot be split up; it must be taken as a continuous block of at least eight hours. Additionally, a break longer than a standard rest period is classified as a "day off"; this is defined as the standard rest period plus 24 hours, meaning the total duration cannot fall below 30 hours. Work on a designated day off is permitted only once every two weeks.
3. Mandatory "Daily Driving Logs"
Continuous driving time is not the only factor requiring attention regarding drivers. Business locations that own company vehicles are required to have drivers maintain "daily driving logs." If a company owns vehicles, it must appoint a "Safety Driving Manager"; one of the legally mandated duties of this manager is to ensure that daily driving logs are kept and recorded. In other words, the Safety Driving Manager is obligated to have drivers record the details of their driving activities upon completing their shifts.
These logs record information such as the driver's name, driving duration, distance traveled, and vehicle inspection status. Beyond legal requirements, there are other compelling reasons to maintain these logs. Detailed records allow management to assess whether company vehicles are being used appropriately. Furthermore, analyzing recorded mileage and driving times can help identify inefficient routes; instructing drivers on more efficient driving methods can lead to cost reductions.
4. Measures to Prevent Fatigued Driving
It is the responsibility of management to prevent executive chauffeurs from driving while fatigued. Allowing a driver to operate a vehicle in an unfit state risks serious accidents, which could endanger the lives of executives and harm the company's interests. Thoroughly implementing measures to prevent fatigued driving is crucial to avoiding such situations.
A fundamental measure is to monitor the driver's health status regularly. If a driver is unwell, they should be given time off to mitigate the risk of accidents. Additionally, if a driver is likely to exceed the prescribed maximum duty hours, assigning a relief driver is an effective strategy.
Excessive overtime can cause stress, potentially leading to sleep disturbances at night. This can create a vicious cycle where the driver struggles to concentrate on their work, resulting in even more overtime; therefore, careful management is required.
■ Prioritizing Health Management
Even minor health issues or physical ailments can lead to major accidents, making proper health management essential for drivers. Adhering to regulations regarding driving hours is a key part of this. It is important to thoroughly understand and follow these rules—not merely to comply with the law, but to protect one's own life, as well as the lives of clients and others. Let us attend to our daily health management—such as taking proper breaks and rest, and paying attention to diet and exercise—so that we can work with peace of mind.
【 TransACT Group 】
■Difficult? Introducing the work of an executive driver!
■Difficult? Introducing the work of an executive driver!
When you are looking for a new job, you may come across an announcement for the recruitment of executive drivers. Many people may be interested in the job, but hesitate to apply because they do not know the specific work content or the level of difficulty. Therefore, in this article, we will explain the work content and the differences from other drivers to serve as a reference for those who are considering becoming an executive driver.
1. Work content of an executive driver
Unlike taxis, executive drivers do not carry an unspecified number of people. They work exclusively for a company and only executives belonging to that company are allowed to ride in the car. The executives here include the president, and their main job is to transport them to and from work. Of course, it is not enough to just take them from home to work, but you are required to drive throughout the day according to the requests of the executives. Therefore, the specific working hours will be determined by the convenience of the executives. It is important to note that you cannot start and finish work at the same time every day.
By the way, after taking the executive to their destination, there is a waiting period until the executives finish their business. However, since there are many cases where the errand is finished earlier than planned, you cannot use the waiting time to go somewhere.
2. Special features of executive drivers
In addition to the fact that the people who provide services are limited to the executives of the company where you are employed, there are some special features of executive drivers. If you are aiming to become an executive driver, it is important to fully understand them. We will explain the characteristics and points to note unique to executive drivers so that you do not regret your job after you start working.
2-1. Heavy responsibility
The most important thing for an executive driver is a sense of responsibility. This is because the person who drives the car plays an extremely important role in the company. In addition, it is important for an executive driver not to simply drive the car to the destination, but to deliver the executive safely and comfortably. Therefore, having high driving skills as a professional driver is a prerequisite for doing this job. By the way, since the travel of executives is widespread, there are often cases where they use the Shinkansen and airports. In such cases, it is not acceptable under any circumstances to be late for departure.
In addition, by giving a ride to important people in the company, you will have more opportunities to come into contact with various information within the company. For example, phone calls and conversations heard from the back seat. Needless to say, such information should not be leaked carelessly, so no matter what you hear in the car, you must maintain confidentiality. For these reasons, executive drivers are expected to have a high sense of responsibility.
2-2. Consideration is required
The people that executive drivers drive are important to the company. Therefore, they are required to be polite and considerate of the other person at all times. For example, when parking the car, you must choose a place where it is easy to get in and out of the back seat, and if it is raining, you must get out first and put an umbrella over the other person. There are many other points to be careful about, such as carrying luggage and opening the door immediately after parking the car.
If possible, it would be ideal if you could analyze the personality and behavioral patterns of the executives and presidents you usually drive and be able to provide the kind of detailed consideration that suits them. Of course, it is important not only to be considerate, but also to observe basic manners.
2-3. Secretarial duties
Needless to say, the main job of an executive driver is to drive the car to the destination. However, in fact, there are cases where they have to take on secretarial roles as well. A typical example is schedule management, but in addition to that, they are required to have a certain degree of secretarial skills, including various attentions to detail. Therefore, as a rough understanding, you can think of an executive driver as a secretary whose main job is driving.
【 TransACT Group 】
■Immediate force for sudden overseas transactions! What is the dispatch of executive secretaries?
Various transactions are carried out every day in the company. There will be many sudden business talks. What should I do if a transaction occurs suddenly overseas and no one is familiar with the language of that country? How about using the dispatch service in such a case?
■ A secretary who understands the situation is recommended
The quickest way to find an experienced interpreter is to contact a temporary staffing agency specializing in interpreting. Some of these temporary staffing companies also have experienced executive secretaries. In an urgent situation where you have to find the right person or have limited time, it is essential to have someone with a wealth of experience in business negotiations and conference interpretation. Furthermore, since it is an important transaction, we must be human resources who can immediately grasp the situation and respond flexibly. It is even better if you have experience as an executive secretary with a wealth of practical experience who can be one of the executives. By asking a temporary staffing company, it is possible to secure human resources suddenly.
■ During a busy business trip! Leave the detailed work that you can't handle
Among overseas transactions, there is a possibility that a sudden overseas business trip may occur, or a business trip other than this transaction may occur. Many executives are busy, so there is a high possibility that their daily detailed work cannot keep up. Even if you are absent from the company, it is indispensable for the operation of the company to be able to carry out the work properly. In such a case, requesting the dispatch of an executive secretary on a limited schedule will alleviate your anxiety. Temporary agencies can handle dispatch work for a week or even days. If detailed work is accumulated, it will be a huge amount, so it may be a good idea to take the initiative and have an officer secretary dispatched.
■ E-mail and phone support overseas is perfect!
Having an executive secretary gives you a sense of security. Personnel registered with temporary staffing companies who have experience as executive secretaries have a track record in various companies. Many people are accustomed to working at the company to which they are dispatched as an immediate force in a different environment. Therefore, you can rest assured that you will be able to take care of basic business etiquette and hospitality, and have the experience of being able to calmly deal with unexpected situations. It is possible to respond immediately to emails from overseas, and you can rest assured that you will be able to answer the phone. It also has great insight to instantly determine the situation on the spot. If you have a sudden overseas transaction and want someone who can make the most contribution in that limited period of time, it is a good idea to ask an executive secretary.
【 TransACT Group 】
■Business owners looking to buy a car should consider used vehicles for tax savings!
Tax planning is often a source of concern for business owners. As income rises with business ownership, tax liabilities tend to increase as well. Purchasing a used car can help mitigate this. If you are currently in the market for a vehicle, focusing on used options is highly recommended. This article explains how purchasing a used car can lead to tax savings for business owners and highlights the differences compared to buying a new car.
1. Can a car be recorded as a business expense?
If a business owner purchases a vehicle under the company's name (as a "company car"), it can be recorded as a business expense. In accounting terms, it is treated as a "depreciation expense." Since a car represents a significant purchase, it can contribute substantially to tax savings—in some cases, even drastically reducing the total tax bill.
1-1. Benefits of purchasing a car under the corporate name
One major benefit of purchasing a car under the corporate name is that not only the purchase price but also maintenance costs can be recorded as expenses. Essential costs associated with vehicle ownership include automobile tax, compulsory liability insurance premiums, fuel, and mandatory vehicle inspections. These maintenance costs often exceed 100,000 yen annually. However, by classifying the vehicle as a company car, these expenses can be deducted as necessary business costs, resulting in tangible tax savings.
Another benefit is the ability to purchase the vehicle personally at a low price once it is no longer needed for business operations. When a corporation sells a vehicle to an individual, the transaction can be executed at a price lower than the general market rate. This allows you to acquire a luxury vehicle at a bargain price without the hassle or brokerage fees associated with auctions or trade-in services. However, caution is required; setting the price too low could lead to an increased tax burden. When transferring ownership from the corporation to an individual, it is important to ensure the transaction takes place at a fair market value, typically determined through a professional appraisal.
2. Differences in Useful Life Between New and Used Cars
Many business owners purchase luxury vehicles in the company's name. However, this is rarely just because they "want to drive an expensive car"; in most cases, it is a tax-saving strategy to maximize deductible expenses. It is also common for them to choose used cars that are four years old. This is because a four-year-old used car has a statutory useful life of just two years, making it both affordable and tax-efficient. In other words, spending the same amount of money on a used car rather than a new one can yield greater tax savings, as the amount that can be claimed as an expense is determined by the vehicle's statutory useful life.
For example, a new car has a useful life of six years, with an annual expense limit of 1.67 million yen. If the car is one year old, the useful life is five years (limit: 2 million yen); if it is two years old, the useful life is four years (limit: 2.5 million yen)—meaning the deductible amount increases. If the car is four years old or older, the useful life is two years, allowing for an expense deduction of 5 million yen. If the purchase price is the same, buying a more expensive car results in a larger expense deduction, thereby serving as an effective tax-saving measure. Of course, this strategy assumes the company is generating sufficient profits.
High-end used cars also offer advantages regarding cash flow management. Since a company's financial situation can deteriorate unexpectedly, holding onto assets with resale value provides a useful buffer in times of need. Luxury cars retain their asset value even after passing the two-year useful life mark (applicable to cars four years or older). Even as the vehicle ages, it can often be sold for a high price to generate necessary funds. Consequently, many business owners prefer buying a high-end used car over a cheaper new one. Risk management is another key perspective for business owners to consider when selecting a vehicle.
2-1. Points to Consider When Purchasing a Car in the Company's Name
There are three main points to keep in mind when purchasing a car in the company's name. First, pay attention to the timing of the purchase. When settling accounts, vehicle depreciation is calculated on a monthly basis. If a vehicle is purchased during the month of the fiscal year-end, only one month's worth of depreciation applies. Since this limits the potential tax-saving benefits, it is recommended to purchase company vehicles in the month following the fiscal year-end. Doing so ensures that the entire period leading up to the next fiscal year-end qualifies for depreciation.
Next, it is important to be aware of ongoing monthly maintenance costs. Before deciding to purchase a vehicle, consider expenses such as monthly fuel costs—calculated based on driving distance—and automobile taxes. Understanding these maintenance costs allows you to estimate the amount that can be claimed as a business expense in advance. However, caution is required if you intend to use the company vehicle for personal purposes. In principle, maintenance costs associated with personal use cannot be claimed as business expenses. For instance, if total maintenance costs are 100,000 yen and the vehicle is used 70% for work and 30% for personal reasons, only 70,000 yen can be claimed as an expense.
Finally, since vehicles tend to depreciate quickly, it is important to choose a model that retains its value well. Models with high demand on the used car market can serve as valuable company assets should the need arise.
2.2 The Option of Car Leasing
When acquiring a company vehicle, you have the option of using a car lease instead of paying the full price upfront or taking out a loan. Car leasing is a service where you use a vehicle in exchange for a monthly fee. By making payments over a set period, you can eventually own the vehicle outright.
One advantage of car leasing is that expenses are easy to calculate because the monthly payment amount remains constant. This clarifies cash flow, making it easier to formulate business plans. Another major benefit is that you do not need a large lump sum of cash to acquire the vehicle, allowing you to preserve capital. Additionally, maintenance is handled by the leasing company, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, the monthly fee covers insurance premiums, taxes, and maintenance costs. Since all of these costs can be recorded as business expenses, you can expect significant tax-saving benefits.
However, car leasing does have some downsides. For instance, terminating the lease early incurs a hefty cancellation fee, and there are significant risks associated with accidents or theft. When considering a car lease, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
3. Using a Chauffeur Service for Luxury Vehicles
When business owners purchase luxury vehicles, they often hire professional drivers. Luxury cars entail high maintenance costs, so they require careful, skillful daily driving. Professional driving techniques can extend the vehicle's lifespan, and drivers can also handle some aspects of maintenance. Furthermore, having a driver allows the business owner to work or rest while in the vehicle. However, hiring a full-time driver involves high personnel costs—an expense the company cannot simply ignore. Moreover, since business owners do not necessarily use the car every day, paying a fixed salary can result in wasteful spending.
This is where chauffeur services prove efficient. Such services allow you to hire a driver and pay only for what you need, when you need it. Not only can you make productive use of your time in the vehicle, but you can also keep personnel costs down and reduce overall expenses. By exploring outsourcing options, you can find the perfect driver for your needs.
■ Chauffeur Services Are Also an Option for Tax Savings!
For business owners, purchasing a vehicle is a significant move that can contribute to company profits. However, acquiring a luxury car often creates a need for a suitable driver. By utilizing outsourcing, you can easily find chauffeur services. Hiring a driver only when necessary helps cut personnel costs, ensuring the expense does not place an undue burden on company finances.
【 TransACT Group 】
