Small Business Crisis Checklist
Will you be prepared when a crisis hits your business? A crisis can devastate a small business. A crisis can result from either a positive or a negative event - but either way, planning ahead is the best way to make sure your business survives the unexpected.
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Before A Crisis
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Identify Types of Potential Crises: What types of crises is your business likely to encounter? What crises have your competitors encountered?
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Designate A Crisis Management Response Team: Who on your team will be involved in a crisis response? Do you need to hire a PR firm?
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Provide Media Training: Many crises
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During A Crisis
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Identify a Spokesperson: Who will update employees, customers, stakeholders or the media about the crisis?
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Get The Facts: While a quick response is important to provide information and reassurance, make sure you have the correct information before making an internal or public response.
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Be Honest: Never lie to the public or the media about what happened. Take responsibility as needed,
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Use Social Media Strategically: A public response to a crisis may be required. Review previously scheduled social media posts and listen to
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After A Crisis
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Evaluate Your Crisis Team Response: What worked, and what didn't work?
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Update Your Crisis Plan: What lessons have been learned, and what should be done differently?
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Annual Review: Each year review and update your crisis plan and train your team on what to do if a crisis occurs.