extinguishers on hand, especially in the kitchen, and know what to do if a fire takes place there; formulate an evacuation plan for every room and be sure it is posted prominently. Be sure to train your staff for what to do in an emergency and conduct drills at least once a year. Have emergency phone numbers on hand and offer a clear way for your staff and clients to contact emergency responders in your area.
What if you have to evacuate your business for an extended period of time? My business did after 9-11 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. In this technological age your books and records should be backed up offsite, however, have you ever tested the backup and retrieval process? Today is a good day to do that.
Part of knowing what to do in an emergency is an important element of any contingency plan, but it's not everything. You also need to have options for when the unexpected occurs. For example, if you’re an innkeeper, what if there is construction-taking place in your neighborhood and your electricity goes out? You will need an alternative place for your guests to stay. That's why it's important to build relationships with fellow innkeepers in your area from the first day you open - and get to know the calibre of their inns. If you have to send guests to another B&B, the place you recommend (for better or worse) will ultimately reflect on you and your inn. One great resource for preparedness and contingency planning is www.ready.gov. It offers insights on how to make a plan as well as tips on preparing for everything from flash flooding and hurricane season to the Zika virus. I cover these tips and many others in my book, Running a Bed and Breakfast For Dummies in Chapter 12 Mary White, Author.
The most important thing to remember when preparing for a crisis is to plan for it and then continually review that plan so it can be updated as needed and your staff will automatically know what to do. If it’s an issue or situation that is in the news communication with your clients is crucial, especially if you sense they may panic due to news coverage that creates unfounded or exaggerated fears. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on issues that might be impacting your city and your country at large. Brainstorming different scenarios you may not have thought of before will help keep you and your staff on your toes in the face of any challenge you may encounter. Ultimately your success (or failure) does not have to be part of the crisis.
Knowledge Sharing Summit & Marketplace | February 26-March 1, 2018
A conference that focuses on the essential building blocks of your business. A conference that offers compelling content. A conference where new ideas are born and strategies are honed. A conference that helps you create a roadmap for success. A conference that celebrates the innkeeping industry like no other.
Summit 2018 is being held in Norfolk’s newest upscale hotel and meeting destination, Hilton Norfolk The Main. Walking to restaurants, waterfront attractions and trendy shopping is nearby and easy. Your conference room rate of $149 per night plus tax includes free parking in the attached garage and WIFI in your room. Book your room now!
Registration is now open! Your fee includes 21 Monday Spotlight Sessions, Welcome Reception Monday evening, Breakfasts (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday), Lunches (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday), and nearly 50 general and workshop sessions! Shindig is our Wednesday evening bash with Virginia victuals and kick-up-your-heels mountain music (just $25 for dinner, dancing and our not-to-be-missed auction!). For registration details and our cancellation policy, click here.
SUMMIT 2018
…the connection of passion and knowledge