Preparing for the Unexpected

With the pandemic troubling Malaysian once again, It’s time to storm-proof your business!

From financial instability to pandemics, and natural disasters, there will likely be some big storms that will literally rock your business!

While we are taught to expect the unexpected, it can be hard to fully grasp that and have a plan in place for when something impacts your business.

So, really… as a business owner, what can you do to best prepare yourself and your business?

First of all, perhaps you need a business continuity plan…

This plan should include items like communication plans and employee action plans.

Sure, you’ll also want to keep an eye on cash flow throughout the year, but when facing challenges, ensure that you also have enough cash on hand, and know the expenses you must pay if you are struggling with cash.

A communication plan for employees and clients also needs to be in place.

Communication is the key to success, and in unpredictable times, communication is even more important, which is why you need plans in place for your employees and clients.

If you’re prepping your business for a natural disaster like a hurricane or winter storm, you’ll likely have some heads up what to expect.

Daily updates between you and your team is a must and brief them properly about what you plan to do, especially since employees now work remotely!

With employees, you’ll need a system for getting the message out. Popular options include emails and group text messages.

You’ll also need a system for customers.

This may vary based on the type of business you own, but depending on how long you’ll be closed, you’ll want to consider communicating via phone, email, and social media.

Employers need to stay in touch frequently with employees as federal and state rules and regulations were always changing direction daily, or even hourly!

With customers, business owners needed to let them know about the measures being taken to keep customers safe, whether or not the business was open, or even arrangements on how the business will continue to operate remotely.

When transitioning to remote work, it’s best to reach out to your clients and ask how they would prefer to communicate.

For example, clients who normally have regular meetings with you might want to schedule video calls in their place.

For new clients, consider asking for their preferred method of communication during your onboarding process.

To make this smoother, you can offer customers a list of options based on the tools you already have available.

You don't want to take any chances when it comes to the safety of yourself, employees, and customers.

Even though setbacks don't always hit, it's best to be prepared just in case. You worked hard to start your own business, don't let that slip away because of the next storm that comes to town!