As the world continues to fight against the coronavirus pandemic and countries try to flatten the curve, businesses have started adapting to a “new normal.” But if there is one lesson many entrepreneurs are learning from our situation, it’s the importance of having a pandemic business plan.
What is a pandemic business plan?
A pandemic business plan is your company’s guide to responding to emergencies, particularly in a long-term crisis like the coronavirus spread. It contains policies for communicating among employees and clients. This plan also includes budget contingencies and other strategies to ensure your business stays in operation during any situation.
How do you create a pandemic business plan?
The first step to creating a pandemic business plan is to build a team of experienced and trusted individuals who truly understand how your company operates. When possible, try to include members from all departments, like your HR, operations, and your top management team. This way, you’re able to see the bigger picture and how each department would play a role in an emergency.
When you have your risk management team all set up, it’s time to do the work:
1. Set up guidelines
Lay the foundation of your pandemic business plan. Create the guiding principles that everyone must follow during a situation like a pandemic. Your guidelines should include how the company will continue providing and supporting your employees.
Will you be offering medical care for your staff? Who will be responsible for caring and communicating with your team? Additionally, this is the part where you may need to decide whether to temporarily pause any ongoing programs to ensure you have enough budget for your business essentials.
2. Develop a communications plan
Communication is vital in an emergency and especially during a pandemic. Set up a communications program or policy that ensures your staff receive important company updates and messages even when they’re not in the office. The same goes for your clients. How do you plan to reach out to them and let them know of significant company changes or updates?
3. Create a flexible workforce schedule
Understandably, you may want to continue providing services to your clients and maintaining business operations even during this time. However, you should make sure that your company can do this safely.
Think about setting up a flexible work schedule for your staff. When possible, give them the option to work from home.
The coronavirus pandemic is changing the way many entrepreneurs and companies do business. What changes have you implemented in your workplace? If you need help adapting to our current situation, Glance Consultants can assist you. We offer strategic business advice and planning, business performance management, and cashflow management.
Call us at 03 9885 9793 or fill out our contact form for your enquiries. We continue to commit ourselves as your trusted advisor in your ever-changing business journey.
