Knowledge Is Power - Dec. 22, 2003

Trade Secret:
*Knowledge Is Power

Downloads & Tools:
Crisis Manual Guide
USA Today Test & Answer Key
Trade Secrets Crisis Management System

Related Trade Secrets:
Who Turned Out the Lights?
Armed Robbery
Safety First

 

Trade Secrets Members Only


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© Bill Main & Associates

 

Typically the reality of a scary situation is less frightening than what we imagine the situation to be. Makes you appreciate just how creative our brains can be. Evidently making mountains out of mole hills comes naturally to us. A recent survey showed that only one in ten Americans had sufficient knowledge to help them survive a terrorist attack. Interesting when you consider that the topic has been headline news for over two years.

Sadly, in many cases our instinctual and/or physiological response can be the exact opposite of the correct thing to do in a crisis. So, I recommend facing the issues head on.

To ensure a safe and sane environment, take a moment to identify the most likely crises to effect your operation and get a plan together. You and your employees can benefit personally from this exercise as well. It never hurts to be prepared at home too.

We developed a Crisis Management System for our restaurant. I liked the format because it wasn't just one more management manual. We didn't "tell" our managers what to do in a crisis, we provided case studies and resources. Then we asked them to conduct a little research and make recommendations for our comprehensive manual.

I think we have a much better chance of retaining information when we actively take part in the learning process. And, in a crisis situation, the ability to act quickly could make a big difference.

So, get on it -- and don't let your imagination run away from you!

For Trade Secrets Members, we've included an interesting test, compliments of USA Today and the Luntz Research Company, to see how well prepared you'd be in the event of a terrorist attack. We've also given you the guide for our crisis management system. It contains an introduction to the protocol, a schedule, sample responses and a list of possible topics for you to start your own Crisis Manual.