"Europe's ash cloud has triggered a flurry of anguished calls for the EU to improve its crisis response"1
This morning's mountain bike ride in the dark (with lights) was characterised by discussion around the impact that the volcanic ash is having on local business - with some staff and sub-contractors being stranded on the wrong end of the world. (the wrong end being defined as the end other than the one you want to be on)
The ride ended with me ploughing head first into a ditch and spending the better part of the day recovering from the concussion and whiplash that resulted.
Unlike the volcanic eruption, my fall cannot be considered an Act of God. It does however present a similar risk to my business. If I had not had a helmet on, I most certainly would not be writing this article now...
The important question is do you have a helmet on - what is your disaster plan?
Understanding the risk is one of the first steps to dealing with it.
As a business owner, what impact does your forced absence have?
What steps can you take to mitigate these risks? This could be as simple as leaving a spare set of keys and alarm codes with someone you trust, or arranging alternative signing powers on your bank accounts. We are increasingly reliant on the internet in order to conduct business, how do we deal with this not working (in my case - go to the beach!)
What about the loss of income? I recently undertook a two week cycle trip from Howick to Cape Town - great experience, but the billing experience at the end of that month was quite the opposite.
Where is your helmet? The disaster plan is part of the protection, but what other protection does your business require, and is it adequate? This may include insuring your partner's lives, professional indemnity, or a procedures manual for staff to follow in your absence.
As a small business owner myself, I also use the argument that these are luxuries that I cannot afford. (I was one of those synical customers that never listen to the helmet saleman that asks me how much much head is worth)
Learn from my pain if you can - a decent helmet is worth it (that applies to your bicycle and your business).
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