How to Handle A Crisis

Last year I wrote a blog on who handles different areas of government in direct relation to potential terrorist activity. It is always good to understand what will happen should a crisis occur. Well, in light of the blizzard that just passed by the USA, I thought it was important for me to restate this information. As you know the Department of Homeland Security oversees all types of disasters, like weather-related events. So, if you need to, print out this blog and keep it near your desk or in your wallet. That way, in a time of crisis, you know who is in charge of what and you can better navigate the services you need.

Mayor
The mayor is responsible at the administrative level for the smooth running of the response effort.

Fire service
The fire service is the linchpin in disaster response. The fire chief is charged with the operational management of the response effort. Everything that occurs in the disaster area falls under his/her authority.

Regional accident and disaster medical teams
Anyone injured in a disaster will require medical assistance as soon as possible.

Police
The police will ensure that the fire and ambulance services can do their job. They will cordon off the disaster area, manage the traffic, and sometimes set up a safety zone around the disaster area.

Army
The Ministry of Defence can deploy military personnel to respond to a disaster.

Municipal services
Behind the scenes, several municipal services play an important role in disaster response, especially when it comes to the after-effects.

Other services
Which services take part in the response effort will depend on the type of disaster. In the case of flooding caused by burst dykes or heavy rainfall, the water authorities will play a role. If a disaster occurs off the coast, the Coastguard will be involved. But other services will also often take part. The Red Cross cares for the injured in disasters.

Until tomorrow,
Twyla N. Garrett

Types of Customers- Know them!

Do you know your customer? Do you REALLY know your customer. Knowing who you are selling your services or products too is crucial! You have to be aware of their perspective and cater to it. I've listed the types of customers below to help you reassess your selling strategies.

A. The Unwilling. This is the customer who knows he or she needs your services or products but isn't willing to spend the cash. So, they give your company a call, shake when they hear the price and convince themselves that they can do it better and spend no additional money. Here's why they call you back. They can't- and they know it. They've tried, they tested, they cut every corner to be cut. And, when all is said and done, the results are less than desirable. Be creative when trying to attract their initial business because, even though they will not purchase at first, they will come full circle.

B. The cynic. These customers are hard to keep happy. They've been burnt before. Through no fault of yours, you will pay the price for their prior horrible experiences. Figure out a way to maintain trust. This is the best way to transition a cynical customer to a happy customer.

C. Simple, direct and educated. Ahhh.... if only all of our customers could be these customers! Simple, direct and educated customers get it. They understand there is risk in all aspects of business but they also know they need services and to form relationships with vendors. So, they do there research, request a proposal and buy. These customers are an easy sell and great for repeat business and referrals if you can keep them happy!

Twyla