Supportive Solutions Business Blog

The media and the Internet abound with information about H1N1. But do we know if the abundant warnings are actually being heeded?

In the crisis world it’s common for warnings and plans to be ignored until the disaster actually strikes. Then the scramble for information usually generates a chaotic environment that prevents a thoughtful response. The only predictable aspect of a crisis is its unpredictability. So let’s take on this new challenge and see how we can actually take steps to make prevention for H1N1 or any virus a norm, rather than a reaction.

In order to meet this goal, we’re are going to have several podcasts that focus on ways to convey the message in a population-specific and relevant fashion.

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Tip #5:  Have you practiced your plan this year or ever?   Have you done a gap analysis? If your team is still intact after all of the downsizings  when was the last time your plan was reviewed or even mentioned.  It’s surprising how many times we rely on unrehearsed “paper plans” to get us through  unforeseen crises.  The way most companies find gaps in their plan is when something doesn’t work when needed most.  Don’t let your plan catch you by surprise – there will be enough other things that will do that in a crisis!

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Tip #4:  Do you think “outside of the box” when preparing a crisis plan?  Do you prepare for how the crisis might impact contractors or clients who are onsite when the unforeseen occurs?  We tend to get a bit of tunnel vision when developing plans.  Although you may feel  you have your hands full just putting together a solid plan for the company and its employees, have you thought of the others who might be impacted and how it will affect your business?  Think outside of the box – a crisis does.

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Tip #3:  Does the plan reflect the diverse population of your workforce?  Are your employees able to fully understand instructions (written or verbal) in English?  Crisis plans are not always created with diversity in mind.  Even basic evacuation directions aren’t usually posted in the languages of those in the workplace.  Do employees know your crisis plan procedures?  Has it been translated and reviewed for them?  Do a survey of your employees, find out how much they know or don’t know now!

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