Disaster Planning, A Refresher Course

Many businesses don't have a viable Emergency Plan. But why not? People who were prepared are doing a lot better than those who ignored warnings and didn't plan. But, have you thought about your business? Below are my top three tips for business preparedness during a natural disaster.

# 1 - Make copies of your important records and store them in a secure place far enough away in case a widespread disaster hits, yet close enough to have quick access to those documents when needed. Don't rely on computer back-ups like cloud files or jump drives. Chances are if a natural disaster hits- there is no electricity!

#2 - Keep an up-to-date list of e-mail addresses, financial account numbers, and phone numbers for family members, employees, co-workers, and insurance company contacts. This list should be kept with the copies of important records (noted above) as well as within your wallet at all times.

#3 Put together an emergency kit that includes one gallon of water per person per day, a three-day supply of non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, solar-powered phone chargers, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit and a cooler to keep refrigerated food cold in case of a power outage.

Want to learn more? Subscribe to my blog! I will be discussing this issue, and more, in the coming days.

Twyla N. Garrett

Free Underwear!

For today’s Homeland Security blog, I want to share an article courtesy of the Houston Press. Today, the newspaper had this to say, “If you're in the underwear-selling business, you've got a customer in the Department of Homeland Security.

Homeland Security is looking to buy thousands of pairs of men's, from size medium to 6X-large. (Who knew such a size existed?)

A solicitation posted earlier this month by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement explains that the department is looking to buy 3,500 pairs of men's underwear. The order is to be sent to El Paso.

As seen on CBS' website, Breitbart reported ICE has recently had an influx of detained immigrants awaiting deportation.

In the event you've got a couple hundred pairs of medium tighty whiteys around that you think you could sell to Homeland Security, the solicitation says "no partial shipments are permitted unless specifically authorized at the time of award." Darn.”

While the story is entertaining, the issue itself is no joke. People often don’t realize how expensive it is to house (repeatedly) those who enter this country illegally. Everything from food and shelter to underwear and flip flops costs money, and we are sustaining these expenses. It is even more irritating when you consider the now thousands of veterans who are not receiving proper care of benefits. Where is the boundary line?

So, on the Wednesday, I encourage you to do more research on where you stand on the issue of illegal immigration and the true cost it has on our country. Do you agree with how much and how we spend these funds? Do you feel like speaking up at a Town Hall meeting? Think about how you can help change the many issues- on both sides of the argument- associated with spending money to sustain illegal immigrants.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

5 Ways To Boost Morale!

You walk in and the office is soggy. Yes, soggy! Everyone seems to be in a funky mood, the phones are silent and the weather outside is sunny and bright- making the workplace look dull and uninviting. As a business owner, how do you boost morale? Well, I have the best tips!

#1. Thank the under appreciated. Nothing tells people that they are appreciated like a free lunch. Those who deliver packages, messages, perform surveys, clean the copy machine, fix the copy machine, and so forth- deserve some recognition. If you suddenly surprise them with a catered lunch, even from a sub shop, they will know that they count and the other staff will become motivated- as well as taking notice of them, too.

#2. Ask everyone what they want to do but are waiting on? Yes you the boss can change things. If you have a clerk in the office waiting on a delivery man to pick up a package so she can produce, run out and pick it up for her. It will not hurt you to show your staff that you are capable of doing their jobs.... BTW- they often think upper management can't. If you can show your staff, on a gloomy day, that you can get your hands dirty- they will become motivated. Trust me on this!

#3. Hire a corporate fitness company for the day. If it is slow consider group stretching. It is great for the creative juices. Corporate fitness companies can be a little pricey but you can get them in the office the same day. Or, just take the team outside and do a half an hour of stretching. Fresh air is always good for the soul and productivity.

As people we tend to get stuck sometimes. We can all have off days in life and business. When the entire office is having an off day, it is up to you- the business owner- to re-inspire and motivate! I hope these tips have been helpful. I am looking forward to hearing your suggestions as to what has worked for your company in the past and present!

Twyla